Deloitte Discovery Internship: How to Land the Offer Step by Step

The Deloitte Discovery Internship is a unique opportunity for first- and second-year undergraduates to explore a career in professional services early on. Whether you're aiming for consulting, audit, tax, or advisory, this internship gives you access to real client work, mentorship, and networking across Deloitte. If you’re wondering how to get selected and ultimately convert the internship into a full-time offer, you’re in the right place.

In this article, we will explore what the internship offers, how to apply, and what you can do to stand out during the selection process.

What is the Deloitte Discovery Internship and who is it for?

The Deloitte Discovery Internship is an 8- to 10-week summer program for freshman and sophomore college students interested in exploring careers in consulting, audit, tax, or advisory. The program is designed to expose participants to real client projects, mentorship, and professional development within Deloitte's core service lines.

Students accepted into the program participate in hands-on client work while attending firm-led trainings and networking events. The program is open to candidates from all backgrounds, but especially encourages applications from underrepresented groups in professional services.

Interns are paired with mentors, attend events at Deloitte University, and often receive coaching from professionals across the firm. The experience is structured to give a taste of life at Deloitte while also building foundational skills in business communication, teamwork, and analysis.

The internship is especially relevant for students who are undecided about which service line to pursue. Based on performance, some interns may be invited to return for future internships or offered pathways to full-time roles after graduation.

What does the internship experience at Deloitte include?

The Deloitte Discovery Internship experience includes client project work, mentorship, professional development training, and networking events designed to introduce students to careers in professional services. Interns also participate in workshops, community service activities, and may attend sessions at Deloitte University to strengthen both technical and soft skills.

During the internship, you’ll receive an onboarding advisor and a coach to support your learning and adjustment to the firm. These mentors guide you through your assigned tasks and help you understand what different roles across Deloitte look like day to day.

You’ll work on real projects with your assigned team, which may involve research, client deliverables, or internal initiatives. Even if you don’t join the consulting track, all interns gain exposure to how Deloitte professionals tackle business problems.

Additional highlights of the internship include:

• Training sessions focused on communication, collaboration, and professional presence
• Lunch and learns with leaders from audit, tax, advisory, and consulting
• Networking events to connect with peers and professionals across offices
• Community outreach initiatives that promote leadership and firm culture
• Firmwide events such as intern socials and speaker panels

Many interns also get the chance to visit Deloitte University, a dedicated learning and development facility, which plays a major role in building intern engagement and skills.

How competitive is the Deloitte Discovery Internship?

The Deloitte Discovery Internship is highly competitive, with many more applicants than available spots, especially for the consulting service line. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership experience, communication skills, and demonstrated interest in professional services.

Deloitte receives thousands of applications for this program each year, and spots are limited. Consulting internships, in particular, are among the most selective because they offer early access to one of the firm’s most sought-after career paths.

To give yourself an edge, it’s important to understand what makes a candidate stand out. Beyond GPA, Deloitte looks for candidates who show initiative, work well on teams, and demonstrate leadership both inside and outside the classroom.

If you're applying to the consulting track, note that only a small subset of interns are offered this route - and only those who apply specifically for it. Your application must reflect a strong alignment with the skills needed for consulting.

Factors that make the internship highly competitive:

• High volume of applications from top universities
• Limited slots available, especially for consulting
• Emphasis on well-rounded candidates with both analytical and interpersonal skills
• Preference for candidates who express strong interest in Deloitte and its service lines
• Selective return offer process based on internship performance

Who is eligible to apply for the Deloitte Discovery Internship?

To be eligible for the Deloitte Discovery Internship, you must be a first-year or second-year student enrolled in a four-year undergraduate program. Deloitte looks for students pursuing business, accounting, economics, STEM, or related majors, with strong academic performance and leadership potential.

The internship is open to all qualified candidates, but Deloitte particularly encourages applications from individuals who identify with underrepresented minority groups. This aligns with the firm’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across its hiring pipeline.

Other preferred qualifications include:

• Demonstrated interest in professional services, business, or consulting
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Leadership experience in academic, extracurricular, or volunteer settings
• Willingness to travel for internship-related activities (such as training or events)
• Ability to work in the United States without sponsorship

While prior work experience is not required, showing involvement in campus organizations, community service, or relevant coursework can help strengthen your application.

When is the Deloitte Discovery Internship application deadline?

The Deloitte Discovery Internship application deadline typically falls around May 1 each year, but exact dates may vary by university and service line. Deloitte uses a rolling admissions process, so it’s recommended that you apply as early as possible for the best chance of securing an interview.

Because some schools may have earlier campus-specific deadlines, check your university's career portal or Deloitte’s official job postings for precise dates. Applying early not only shows initiative but also ensures your application is reviewed while more spots are available.

Key points to remember:

• Applications open in early spring and are reviewed on a rolling basis
• May 1 is the general deadline, but it can vary by school or region
• Students applying to the consulting track should pay attention to separate, track-specific listings
• Early applicants are more likely to be selected for interviews due to availability of spots

Set reminders to track key dates, and don’t wait until the final week - Deloitte’s campus teams often begin interviews well before the official deadline.

How do you apply for the Deloitte Discovery Internship?

To apply for the Deloitte Discovery Internship, you’ll need to submit an online application that includes your background information, resume, and responses to specific questions about your office preferences and service line interests. While a cover letter is optional, it’s recommended for candidates applying to the consulting track.

The process begins on Deloitte’s careers portal or through your university's job board. Once the application opens, you’ll be asked to create a profile, upload your documents, and indicate your top office and service line preferences.

Here’s what the application typically requires:

• Personal and academic information: including your name, university, major, GPA, and test scores
• Resume: formatted clearly and tailored to highlight relevant leadership and analytical experiences
• Office preferences: select up to three Deloitte offices and assign weights that total 100 percent
• Service line interest: choose your primary interest (e.g., Consulting, Audit, Tax, Advisory)
• Optional cover letter: particularly valuable for borderline consulting candidates

It’s important to double-check your application for accuracy and submit it well ahead of the deadline. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by Deloitte’s campus recruiting team and professionals from your selected office.

How should you tailor your resume for the Deloitte Discovery Internship?

Your resume is the most important part of the Deloitte Discovery Internship application, especially for the competitive consulting track. A strong resume should clearly demonstrate leadership, problem-solving ability, and quantifiable impact - all within a single, concise page.

To stand out, focus on showcasing experiences that align with Deloitte’s core competencies: analytical thinking, collaboration, initiative, and communication. This applies whether your background is in business, STEM, or another field.

Key tips for a standout Deloitte internship resume:

• Keep it to one page: concise formatting signals professionalism and respect for the reviewer’s time
• Start each bullet point with a strong verb: show action and results clearly (e.g., “Led,” “Analyzed,” “Improved”)
• Quantify impact wherever possible: include numbers, percentages, or outcomes that demonstrate effectiveness
• Balance technical and interpersonal skills: show you can work with data and with people
• Prioritize relevance: emphasize leadership roles, team projects, research, internships, and on-campus involvement
• Include a final section for interests: unique hobbies help humanize your resume and serve as interview conversation starters

Before submitting, seek feedback from your career center, trusted peers, or professionals. Even one round of revision can significantly improve your odds of landing an interview.

Is a cover letter necessary for the Deloitte Discovery Internship?

A cover letter is not required for the Deloitte Discovery Internship, but it can be helpful - especially for candidates applying to the consulting track or those with less traditional backgrounds. If written well, a cover letter can add context to your application and strengthen your case for an interview.

Deloitte’s recruiters tend to focus most on your resume and academic background. However, if your profile is on the borderline or if you're targeting consulting specifically, a personalized cover letter can set you apart.

When should you include a cover letter?

• If you're applying to the consulting service line: use the letter to show your interest and alignment with consulting skills
• If you have a non-business background: explain how your experiences prepare you for Deloitte
• If you need to clarify something: such as a gap in experience or a unique academic path
• If you want to stand out: when all else is equal, a tailored letter may tip the balance in your favor

Keep it brief - one page max - and focus on why Deloitte, why the internship, and what you bring to the table.

What interview formats are used in the Deloitte Discovery Internship process?

The Deloitte Discovery Internship interview process typically includes two 30-minute virtual or on-campus interviews. These consist of behavioral and motivational questions - and for consulting applicants, a case interview may be added to assess problem-solving and communication skills.

Each interview is conducted by Deloitte professionals, often from your chosen office or service line. The process is designed to evaluate how well you align with Deloitte’s culture, values, and the internship’s expectations.

What to expect from the interview process:

• Interview 1: Behavioral/Motivational Focus
   You’ll be asked about past experiences that show teamwork, leadership, communication, or resilience. Expect questions like:
  • Tell me about a time you led a team
  • Describe a time you solved a problem with limited information
  • Why are you interested in Deloitte?
• Interview 2: Behavioral or Case (Consulting applicants only)
  
  • For audit/tax/advisory applicants: another behavioral-style interview
  • For consulting applicants: a case interview, which tests structured thinking, business judgment, and basic quantitative ability

These interviews are conversational but structured. Your ability to reflect on past experiences, articulate your motivation, and work through unfamiliar challenges will be closely evaluated.

What behavioral questions does Deloitte typically ask interns?

Deloitte commonly asks behavioral questions to evaluate how you’ve handled real-life situations that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. These questions help assess whether you exhibit the values and soft skills the firm looks for in future consultants and professionals.

You’ll be expected to draw from academic, extracurricular, volunteer, or work-related experiences. Answers should be structured, clear, and outcome-oriented - typically following the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Examples of Deloitte behavioral interview questions:

• Tell me about a time you worked on a challenging team project
• Describe a situation where you had to overcome a setback
• Give an example of a time you led others toward a common goal
• Talk about a time you solved a problem using data
• Tell me about a time you resolved a conflict in a group setting

Tips to answer effectively:

• Prepare 6 to 8 stories that highlight different skills: leadership, collaboration, resilience, critical thinking, and integrity
• Use the STAR format to stay structured and avoid rambling
• Focus on results: explain what impact you had and what you learned
• Tailor your stories to reflect Deloitte’s values and the service line you’re applying to

Practicing these stories aloud will help you deliver them with clarity and confidence during your interviews.

What does Deloitte look for in the “Why Deloitte?” response?

When Deloitte asks why you want to join the firm, they’re assessing your genuine interest, cultural fit, and understanding of what makes Deloitte different. A strong “Why Deloitte?” answer demonstrates that you've done your research, understand the firm’s values, and can articulate why it's the right place for you to grow professionally.

Your response should be personal, specific, and focused on how Deloitte aligns with your goals - not just general prestige or benefits.

What makes a strong “Why Deloitte?” answer:

• Firm-specific insights: Mention Deloitte’s commitment to innovation, mentorship, learning (e.g., Deloitte University), or diversity and inclusion
• Personal fit: Explain how your interests or experiences align with Deloitte’s mission or service lines
• Career alignment: Show how the internship will help you explore professional services and build skills for a long-term career
• Avoid generic reasons: Stay away from vague mentions of “big firm,” “great culture,” or “resume booster”

Example approach:
  “I’m drawn to Deloitte because of its strong focus on developing early-career professionals through structured learning and mentorship. I also admire how the firm blends innovation with social impact, which aligns with both my business interests and values.”

Do Deloitte Discovery applicants face case interviews?

Case interviews are only used for Deloitte Discovery applicants who apply to the consulting service line. If you’re applying to audit, tax, or advisory, you’ll likely only face behavioral and motivational questions. Consulting applicants, however, can expect at least one case interview as part of the selection process.

These interviews are designed to simulate real consulting work. You’ll be given a hypothetical business problem and asked to walk through your thinking, structure your approach, and recommend a solution.

Key details about Deloitte case interviews:

• Format: Typically 20 to 40 minutes with a mix of qualitative and quantitative components
• Common questions: How can we increase profitability? Should we enter a new market?
• Focus areas: Problem structuring, logical reasoning, business judgment, and communication
• No prior knowledge required: Success depends on how you think, not what you know

If you’re selected for a case interview, expect it to be highly interactive. The interviewer may challenge your assumptions or ask follow-up questions to test your adaptability and confidence under pressure.

How can you prepare for the case interview portion of the internship process?

To prepare for the case interview in the Deloitte Discovery Internship, start by learning how to break down business problems, structure your approach, and communicate your thinking clearly. Practice is essential - most successful candidates complete 5 to 20+ mock cases before their actual interview.

Deloitte uses case interviews to evaluate your ability to think like a consultant, so your preparation should reflect real-world business challenges and emphasize both logic and clarity.

Steps to prepare effectively:

• Understand the format: Research common case types (e.g., profitability, market entry, growth strategy)
• Learn core frameworks: Use them flexibly to guide your thinking (e.g., MECE, 4Ps, value chain)
• Practice with peers or solo: Use mock cases, consulting prep materials, or casebooks
• Refine your mental math: Accuracy and speed matter when interpreting charts or crunching numbers
• Work on structured communication: Practice summarizing your thinking clearly and confidently
• Debrief each case: Review what went well and what you could improve

You don’t need a business background to succeed - just structured preparation, consistent practice, and a willingness to learn from feedback.

What are proven strategies to increase your chances of getting an offer?

To increase your chances of receiving an offer from the Deloitte Discovery Internship, focus on crafting a standout resume, preparing thoughtful interview answers, and demonstrating genuine interest in Deloitte. Early preparation and attention to detail can make the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked.

Because the program is highly selective, especially for consulting, success depends on how well you present yourself across every stage of the process - from application to final interview.

Key strategies to maximize your chances:

• Perfect your resume: Quantify achievements, highlight leadership, and tailor it to Deloitte’s values
• Practice behavioral questions: Prepare 6 to 8 diverse stories and use the STAR method to structure responses
  Prepare for case interviews (if applicable): Practice solving 5 to 20 mock cases with a focus on structure and communication
• Craft a strong “Why Deloitte” answer: Show you’ve done your research and understand the firm’s culture and mission
• Apply early: Submitting your application early increases visibility and interview chances
• Demonstrate professionalism throughout: From your emails to your Zoom background, show you're internship-ready

Interns who take initiative, show curiosity, and consistently engage with their mentors often receive return offers or future opportunities within the firm.

This article provides a comprehensive roadmap for first- and second-year undergraduates aiming to secure a spot in Deloitte’s highly competitive Discovery Internship program. It guides readers through every stage of the process - from understanding the program and meeting eligibility requirements to crafting a strong application and preparing for interviews. The content balances strategic insight with actionable steps, especially for those targeting the consulting service line.

By following the guidance in this article, candidates can approach the application process with greater clarity and confidence, ultimately increasing their chances of receiving an offer. Whether you're exploring professional services for the first time or targeting a future career in consulting, this internship can be a powerful early step toward that goal.   

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much do Discovery interns make at Deloitte?
A: Discovery interns at Deloitte typically earn a competitive hourly rate comparable to other Big 4 firms, with pay varying by location and role. This consulting internship also often includes benefits like training and mentorship.

Q: Do Deloitte interns get a signing bonus?
A: Some Deloitte interns, including Discovery interns, may receive a signing bonus, especially if they convert to a full-time offer. Bonus eligibility depends on role, office, and offer terms.

Q: Do Deloitte interns get full-time offers?
A: Many Deloitte interns receive full-time offers after successfully completing the program. Strong performance, leadership potential, and fit with Deloitte’s values are key factors in securing an offer.

Q: How many hours a week do Deloitte interns work?
A: Deloitte interns typically work 40 hours a week during the internship. Hours may vary slightly depending on project demands and deadlines.

Q: Is it prestigious to work for Deloitte?
A: Yes, working for Deloitte is considered prestigious due to its reputation as a top consulting firm, global reach, and strong career development opportunities. This can be a valuable credential for future roles.