If you're applying to graduate roles in finance — whether that's Big 4, investment banking, consulting, or the wider financial services sector — you'll almost certainly face an online aptitude assessment. These tests are the first real filter in the recruitment process, and most candidates are eliminated here.
What do these tests actually measure?
The most common assessments test five areas: Numerical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Situational Judgement. The questions are timed, and you typically have around 60 seconds per question. The providers most commonly used by UK finance employers are SHL, Aon, Korn Ferry, and Cappfinity.
Why do candidates fail?
It's rarely about intelligence. Most candidates fail because they've never been taught how these tests work. They practise random questions, get a score, and have no idea what they're getting wrong or how to fix it. Without a clear method, practice just reinforces bad habits.
What should you actually do?
- Start with a diagnostic. Take a timed assessment and see your score broken down by category. This tells you where you're strong and where you need work.
- Study the method, not just the answers. For each question type, learn the step-by-step approach. Worked examples are far more useful than just checking whether you got it right.
- Track your improvement. Retake assessments over time and watch your percentile. If it's not going up, change your approach.
- Practise under timed conditions. Speed matters. If you can't answer accurately in 60 seconds, you need more practice on that specific skill.
The bottom line
Preparing for finance aptitude tests isn't complicated, but it does require structure. Diagnose your weaknesses, learn the methods, and prove you've improved. That's the approach that works.