Standard quantitative and verbal reasoning assessments followed a competency-heavy application. First round interviews are held at the office one applies to, and are on a one-to-one basis. There is very little discussion beyond the regimented competency questions, which closely match the stated company values on the website and in application materials. In each case, two detailed examples were required from the last three years, to demonstrate the competency. This was strictly adhered to, and while it's possible to stretch the truth, you have got to go in with your evidence prepared. I was quite thrown by the need for two in each case, and couldn't offer a decent example on at least one occasion. Not getting through this round, I can only comment on culture from contact with my interviewer and hearsay from peers now with the firm. People are perhaps more severe than at other Big Four firms, and expect the strongest results. Those who do not pass their exams on first attempt can find themselves hard up, or may be let go. This was the hardest of my accountancy interviews.