As someone that graduated from one of the local uni (
Nus,
Ntu &
Smu), i have to agree that the big 4s have no standard anymore. In the first 2 years of audit, everyone is able to do the mindless work. However, once you give the private degree associates real work, they make a mess of it and drag everyone else down.
My advice to local U undergrads, don't fall for the "prestige" of the big 4. Think about it, if people from SIM or non-accounting students can get in, is it even prestigious anymore? Also, the exit opps isn't magical once you work in the big 4. Literally 1000s of auditors are trying to leave, nothing will help you stand out. The only reason i managed to snag a good job in industry is the fact that i had a first class from a local uni. P.s. don't listen to seniors that tell you your grades don't matter after your first job, it does.