If I want to apply to the graduate program of big 4 middle east and I will graduate in April 2026, with a master's degree, I can no longer be considered a recent graduate after 6 months? What is a recent graduate for a master's degree graduate?

Hi there,

For Big 4 Middle East graduate programs, a recent graduate is typically defined as someone who has graduated within the last 18–24 months (applies equally for bachelor’s and master’s). Since you’ll graduate in April 2026, applying in September 2027 would put you about 17 months post-graduation, which usually still counts as “recent.”

That said, you’d be at the later edge of eligibility. Some offices may strictly cap at 18 months, while others allow up to 24. If you wait until September 2027, there’s a chance you might instead be considered for experienced hire roles.

To maximize your chances, it’s best to apply in the recruitment cycle right after graduation (late 2025 through mid-2026), but September 2027 should still be possible in most cases.

Best,

Evelina

Hey there :)

In the Middle East, the Big 4 usually treat master’s graduates as “recent” for roughly a year and a half to two years after finishing their degree. If you graduate in April 2026, then by September 2027 you would still fall inside that window, although towards the upper limit. Some offices lean closer to 18 months, others accept up to 24.

If you want to be on the safe side, it’s always better to target the application rounds right after finishing your studies. But even in September 2027 you should still be eligible in most countries, unless the specific office has a very strict 18-month rule. In the worst case, you could still be considered for junior/experienced hire roles.

best,
Alessa :)

I dont' think there's a final rule for this.

I would assume that up to 12 months you are on the safe zone, after that you may be considered an experienced hire.