BDO Assessment Tests & Interviews 2026 Practice Guide.

1. Introduction

Not sure if you should practise to prepare for the BDO online assessments? Research shows 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

In a Nutshell:

How to prepare for the BDO hiring process and get the job?

1. Complete Your BDO Online Application

• Fill in your BDO application online.
• Match your application to BDO values.
• Use keywords from the job post in your resume.
• Ensure you apply early to increase your chances of getting to the next stage of the application process.

2. Practice For BDO Interactive Assessments

BDO uses a variety of aptitude assessment tests. These may include:

• Numerical Intellect Tests
• Verbal Intellect Tests
• Behavioural Intellect Assessment

These BDO assessment tests sift out 50-80% of candidates at this stage. BDO may send a report on your performance and areas where you need to improve.

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

Prepare for your BDO interviews by running mock interviews and answering typical interview questions for the role you are applying for. For BDO interview practice, use the following:

• A smartphone to record yourself
• Zoom or
• Our reliable video interview platform

Use the STAR+R method for your answers and practice each answer several times. Review your responses and enhance your interview skills.

4. Prepare for the BDO Assessment Centre Exercises

BDO makes use of a variety of competitive exercises during the assessment centre to find the right candidates. Ensure that you practice a variety of exercises, including:

• Group Exercises
• Written Exercises
• Presentation Exercises
• Final Interview

Are you looking for assessments similar to BDO aptitude tests? Click the links below for our practice assessments relevant to your application process.

Practice Numerical Reasoning Tests

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Practice Verbal Reasoning Tests

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Practice Situational Judgement Tests

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Practice Video Interviews

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Prepare for your Assessment Centre

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The BDO selection process includes several stages, which we will break down in this guide. But first, let’s find out more about BDO!

Who is BDO?

BDO, or Binder Dijker Otte, is a multinational public accounting, tax, consulting and business advisory firm. BDO operates in all sectors of the economy, specialising in tax, audit and assurance, and advisory and business outsourcing.

As of the financial year ending 30 September 2024, BDO’s global network comprised approximately 119,600 employees, spread across around 1,800 offices in 166 countries and territories. This reflects a workforce increase of about 3–3.4% year-on-year.

What roles can you apply for at BDO?

BDO is the fifth largest accounting firm in the world and offers many positions, branching off from tax, audit, and advisory. BDO operates in the following areas:

Now, let’s go into further detail about all the stages of the BDO assessment process, starting with the BDO online application.

2. BDO Online Application

How to apply to BDO?

The BDO application process will take about 15 minutes to complete. It is the first step of the BDO application process. You will need to complete an online application for the role of your choice and provide the following information: 

• Personal information
• CV/Resume
• Education
• Work history and authorisation
• Additional information (e.g. voluntary disclosures, etc.)

BDO Application Form

Source: BDO Careers

What are these values? Let’s find out.

What are BDO Values?

The BDO core values, which dictate the firm’s identity and culture, are:

If your BDO application process is successful, you may be invited to complete the BDO interactive assessment.

3. BDO Interactive Assessment

What is the BDO interactive assessment?

The BDO interactive assessment is a blended assessment that consists of numerical, verbal, and situational judgement questions as part of the second round of the BDO assessment process. The questions in this BDO assessment test are usually provided by either Amberjack or SHL.

What to expect in the BDO interactive assessment?

The BDO exam will include the following assessments:

1. Numerical Intellect Test
2. Verbal Intellect Test
3. Behavioural Intellect Assessment

Let’s find out what each of the BDO interactive assessments is all about below.

BDO Numerical Intellect Test

What is the BDO numerical reasoning test?

The BDO numerical intellect test is a numerical reasoning test that assesses whether you can work with numerical data using questions with graphs, percentages, and ratios. It consists of about 5 to 10 multiple-choice questions.

Watch our short video below to understand more about this BDO online assessment!

What does the BDO numerical test measure?

This BDO exam measures your ability to interpret, analyse, and understand numerical data, focusing on basic mathematical concepts. 

BDO-style Numerical Reasoning Test Example

Read on for quality tips on how to ace the BDO numerical test questions.

How to Pass the BDO Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Revise fundamental maths. Revising basic maths covered at the GCSE or equivalent level will prepare you to take the BDO numerical reasoning test.
2. Practice! Using the GF platform to practice numerical reasoning tests is proven to help you improve your technique and improve your score in this BDO online test.
3. Check the worked solutions from your practice sessions to know what areas you need to improve on before taking your BDO assessment exam.
4. Familiarise yourself with different formats of this BDO aptitude test question, particularly questions involving data tables and charts, as these are more commonly used.
5. Ensure your environment is quiet, comfortable, and distraction-free before taking the test. The BDO assessment test questions require focus for you to achieve optimal performance.
6. Read the questions carefully. When answering questions in this BDO online assessment test, be sure to read the questions and data carefully to avoid any errors in your answers.

Want to practice more numerical questions for your BDO numerical reasoning test? 

You will also be required to complete the BDO verbal reasoning test as part of the BDO assessment process. Let’s find out more about this test below!

BDO Verbal Intellect Test

What is the BDO verbal reasoning test?

The BDO verbal intellect test is a verbal reasoning test that will involve you reading passages or paragraphs and ask you to answer a set of multiple-choice questions based on the information provided within the text.

Our short video below explains more about this BDO online assessment test.

What does the BDO verbal reasoning test measure?

The BDO verbal reasoning test measures your ability to interpret written information, language understanding, and reading comprehension skills.

BDO-style Verbal Reasoning Test Example

Did you get the right answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.

Check out the helpful tips we have curated to help you ace your BDO verbal reasoning test below.

How to Pass the BDO Verbal Reasoning Test

1. Practice verbal reasoning questions similar to this BDO aptitude test to familiarise yourself with the format and question types.
2. Practice speed reading techniques to boost reading speed while maintaining comprehension, as the BDO online test is timed.
3. Focus on passage details by identifying key points to build a solid foundation for your answers. By focusing on key points, you can ensure your answers for this BDO assessment address the core aspects of the passage.
4. Dedicate time to reading the passage carefully, as understanding the context is crucial for accurate answers while taking this BDO online assessment test.
5. Avoid using external knowledge. Base your answers solely on the information provided in the passages by BDO. This prevents you from introducing ideas that are not supported by the given text.
6. Consider the context of passages in the BDO verbal reasoning test to interpret accurately and answer in context.
7. Analyse information critically by assessing arguments, assumptions, and biases to draw accurate conclusions for the BDO verbal test.

Want to practice more verbal reasoning questions for this BDO online test? 

After completing your verbal reasoning test, you may also be required to complete the BDO situational judgement test.

BDO Behavioural Intellect Assessment

What is the BDO behavioural intellect assessment?

The BDO behavioural intellect assessment, or BDO situational judgement test, presents you with questions based on potential work scenarios you may likely face on the job with BDO, and you will be tasked with choosing the best decision from the provided options.

Watch our short video below to understand the BDO situational judgement test more.

What does the BDO situational judgement test measure?

The BDO situational judgement test measures your behaviours and suitability for the role. This BDO test is used to determine if you align well with the BDO values and culture.

How do you pass the BDO situational judgement test? Consider the following unique BDO behavioural test tips we have curated to help you pass.

Top 7 Tips to Pass the BDO Situational Judgement Test

1. Remember BDO’s core values to help guide your answers and approach while taking this BDO test.
2. Read the BDO job description thoroughly. Focus on the listed requirements to identify key competencies BDO is seeking for the role.
3. Practice situational judgement tests to become familiar with the format and style of questions in this BDO online test. This helps reduce your anxiety about the test.
4. Read all instructions carefully to ensure you understand what is required in this BDO online assessment test.
5. Think like a BDO employee. Choose responses that align with BDO’s collaborative and bold approach to work.
6. Use your time wisely by knowing when to be efficient and when to take your time because this BDO assessment is timed.
7. Be authentic and self-reflective. Answer the questions honestly by considering how you align with BDO’s core values and ethics.

Practice for the BDO situational questions by practicing similar situational judgement questions with GF!

Once you have aced the BDO interactive assessment, you will be invited to the next stage of the BDO hiring process; the BDO video interview.

4. BDO Video Interview

What is the BDO video interview?

The BDO video interview is used to know what you do well and enjoy doing. It will involve you answering pre-recorded questions in videos. These questions will inquire about several areas, including your strengths, skills, and competencies.

Watch our short video below to understand what the BDO interview process involves.

What will the BDO video interview measure?

The BDO video interview will look to get to know you more while also measuring if you are a good fit for the firm. It will assess your skills, strengths, and competencies, as well as your alignment with BDO’s values.

Below are 7 important tips to consider and practice to pass the BDO interview process.

7 Top Tips to Pass the BDO Video Interview

1. Research BDO and the role beforehand. Understand what the role entails and tailor your answers to show how your skills and experiences align with the company’s objectives.
2. Understand the BDO values. This helps you to be able to practice and give answers that reflect BDO’s culture, as your alignment with it is crucial for your success.
3. Practice with video interview tools. Use video interview tools online to practice with similar BDO interview questions. This will help build your confidence and reduce anxiety.
4. Practice your answers. Prepare good examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills and experience. Use the STAR+R method to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
5. Manage your time well. You may have a limited time to respond to each BDO video interview question. Keep your answers concise and to the point.
6. Dress professionally. Dress as you would for an in-person interview in BDO-accepted attire. This helps to give a good impression to the BDO recruiter who may review it.
7. Use appropriate body language when recording your answers, like maintaining eye contact with the camera to show confidence. Pay attention to your posture and gestures to ensure they project professionalism and enthusiasm.

Let’s use the tips above to practice the following BDO video interview questions.

BDO Interview Questions and Answers

Some BDO video interview questions at this stage include:

• What are you most proud of?
• How do you work with a deadline coming up?
• What value would you bring to the role?
• Give an example of when you were challenged.
• One strength and one weakness

Read on as we give example answers to some of these BDO video interview questions below.

Question 1: What are you most proud of?

Good Answer: 

When faced with a deadline, I prioritise by breaking the project into manageable tasks and setting mini-deadlines for each. I start with the most critical aspects and allocate time accordingly. For example, during a recent project at my previous job, we had a tight deadline to prepare a financial report for a client. 

To ensure we met the deadline, I created a detailed timeline, divided the work into sections and communicated regularly with my team to ensure we stayed on track. To manage any unforeseen issues, I built in some buffer time before the final deadline.

Question 2: Give an example of when you were challenged.

Good Answer: 

Want to practice more interview questions for the BDO video interview? 

The final stage of the BDO hiring process is the assessment centre. Congrats if you’ve made it this far, you’re almost there! 

Keep reading to discover what to expect at the BDO assessment centre to get your dream job.

5.  BDO Assessment Centre

What is the BDO virtual assessment centre?

The BDO virtual assessment centre is an all-day final recruiting exercise. It will involve you participating in some activities to find out more about the role and to know if it is right for you. At the BDO assessment centre, you will be required to complete one or all of the following exercises:

1. Group Exercise
2. Written Exercise
3. Presentation
4. Final Interview

Let’s find out what each of these assessment centre exercises is all about, starting with the BDO group exercise.

BDO Group Exercise

What is the BDO group exercise?

The BDO group exercise will require you to collaborate with other shortlisted candidates to analyse a given case study. You will be asked to analyse the situation of a potential client and proffer suitable solutions within 1 hour.

Watch our video below to learn more about what to expect in your BDO group exercise!

What does the BDO group exercise measure?

The BDO group exercise will measure your ability to work in a team. It will also measure your problem-solving and communication skills, and your capability to work efficiently under pressure.

Let’s see some tips that may help you perform better at this BDO group exercise. 

6 Top Tips to Pass Your BDO Group Exercise

1. Understand BDO’s core values to demonstrate that you align with the role and the company culture.
2. Understand the task thoroughly. If anything needs to be clarified, ask questions. BDO values boldness, and this would demonstrate you in that capacity.
3. Communicate effectively and listen actively by expressing ideas clearly and building on others’ contributions. This helps to nurture communication and collaboration within a team.
4. Show leadership qualities by leading when needed and encouraging others to share their ideas. This helps you display leadership expectations that BDO looks for.
5. Contribute constructively by sharing your ideas without dominating the discussion. This helps you align with BDO’s values of respect and collaboration.
6. Respect diverse viewpoints and approaches. Differing perspectives can lead to innovative solutions, which is an attribute BDO will be assessing you for.

Next, let’s look at another key BDO virtual assessment centre exercise, i.e., the BDO written exercise. 

BDO Written Exercise

What is the BDO written exam?

The BDO written exercise provides you with a case study and will require you to analyse and prepare a response. Your response will be a written report of your analysis and recommendations for the case study.

What does the BDO written exam measure?

This BDO test will measure your analytical thinking, critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills.

Looking for some tips to ace this BDO test? Get expert tips to pass this stage of your BDO recruitment process below.

6 Top Tips to Pass Your BDO Written Exercise

1. Thoroughly understand the brief provided by BDO. Identify key details and instructions, and be clear about what is expected of your analysis and report.
2. Structure your response properly. Organise your answer using headings and bullet points for a well-structured and readable response in the BDO written exam.
3. Align your approach and response with BDO’s values. Show how you align with BDO’s values in your response and approach to solving the case.
4. Balance details with conciseness. Provide enough detail to support your points without unnecessary complexity. Be concise and impactful in your written expression.
5. Manage your time well. Take time to carefully read the brief and plan your report’s structure, but also be aware to leave enough time to write and review your work. 
6. Ensure you conclude your report properly. A good conclusion for your report may include pros and cons and quality recommendations for the case you were given to analyse.

Next up is the BDO presentation exercise. Let’s get into the details of this. 

BDO Presentation Exercise

What is the BDO individual presentation?

The BDO presentation exercise will require you to prepare and deliver a 20-minute presentation based on a given topic. You will be sent a brief that contains details of the topic ahead of time.

What does the BDO presentation measure?

The BDO individual presentation will measure your communication and problem-solving skills. It will also measure how you process, interpret, organise, and present information for proper understanding.

Wondering how to prepare for your upcoming BDO presentation exercise? Here are some tips curated for your success. 

6 Top Tips to Pass Your BDO Presentation Exercise

1. Carefully read the brief to grasp the topic and the key points you need to address. Clarify any uncertainties before you begin preparing.
2. Organise your presentation with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Start by outlining the problem, followed by your analysis, and end with well-reasoned recommendations or solutions.
3. Focus on the most relevant information that aligns with the brief. Avoid overloading your presentation with unnecessary details, and make sure your points are concise and impactful.
4. Incorporate slides, charts, or graphs to visually represent data and enhance understanding. Ensure your visual aids are clear, not cluttered, and directly support your key points.
5. Rehearse your presentation multiple times to ensure smooth delivery. Work on your pacing, audibility, and eye contact to engage your audience effectively.
6. Prepare for potential questions that may arise after your presentation. Be ready to defend your conclusions and explain your thought process with confidence.

Want to practice for all your BDO virtual assessment centre exercises? 

The final stage of the BDO assessment centre is the BDO final interview. Let’s check out what to expect in the following section.

BDO Final Interview

What is the BDO interview process?

The BDO final interview is competency-based. You will be asked questions that probe for role-specific skills and your expertise. This BDO interview will also explore your motivations and strengths, and give you the chance to ask any questions.

What are some BDO interview questions at this stage?

Some BDO interview questions you may be asked at your BDO final interview are:

• What were your reasons for choosing audit?
• Describe a time when you had to collaborate.
• Why do you want to work at BDO?
• Tell me about a time you were given a challenge without enough information.
• Name a time you experienced difficulty with team members.
• What do you know about the company?

Want to find more such BDO interview questions?

So how do we answer these BDO interview questions? Consider the following 6 tips below to answer questions during this last stage of your BDO selection process.

6 Top Tips to Pass Your BDO Final Interview

1. Practice beforehand. Always practice your answers to some typical BDO interview questions. This will help ensure your preparedness.
2. Tailor your answers to BDO’s values and showcase how your motivations align with the company and its culture.
3. Leverage your experience when giving your answers to BDO interview questions. Use the STAR+R model to properly use your experience in your answers.
4. Keep your answers simple. BDO simply wants to know your competencies and experience and to assess how well you would fit in with the firm.
5. Demonstrate good body language as your tone, responsiveness, and attitude are being taken into consideration. Sit up straight, use proper gestures, and speak audibly.
6. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the role and BDO. This final interview is your chance to ask any questions you may have.

Watch our short video below to discover questions you can ask in your BDO interview process.

And with this, your BDO application process comes to a close! Once you’ve impressed in your final interview and you’re successful, you will shortly receive an offer from BDO.

But wait, before you go!

Keep reading below to discover the range of BDO graduate schemes currently offered for students and graduates.

6. BDO Early Career Programs

What are the BDO early career programmes?

BDO early career programmes are opportunities for graduates and students who are looking to kickstart their professional journey with a multinational firm. Some of these opportunities are:

1. Graduate Programme
2. Industrial Placements
3. Summer Internship
4. School Leavers Programme

Let’s check out each of these BDO graduate schemes below!

BDO Graduate Programme

What is the BDO graduate programme?

The BDO graduate programme makes it possible for you to combine a job and pursue a higher industry-recognised qualification. You will have the opportunity to grow your skills and build a platform to develop your career.

What job functions are available under BDO graduate programmes?

The BDO graduate programmes are available under the following job functions:

What are the eligibility criteria for the BDO graduate programme? Let’s find out. 

Eligibility Criteria for the BDO Graduate Programme

• Education: A minimum of 2.2 in any degree subject. 3 A-Levels (or equivalent) at A*. 9-4 (or equivalent) in Maths and English GCSE.
• Experience: Any specific experience required will be stated in the job description.
• Duration: Three years
• Application Process: The BDO graduate application process follows the recruitment process we have highlighted above.

Beyond the graduate programs, BDO also has the BDO industrial placement opportunities.

BDO Industrial Placements

What are the BDO industrial placements?

The BDO industrial placements will give you the chance to contribute to a range of client projects as part of an efficient team. This will allow you to expand your skills and experience.

Furthermore, let’s now look at the teams that you can join at the BDO industrial placements and their locations. 

What teams can you join at BDO industrial placements? 

The BDO industrial placements are available at the following locations:

• Advisory: Birmingham, Leeds, London & Manchester 
• Audit: Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Ipswich, Leeds, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Reading & Southampton.  
• Tax: Bristol, London, and Manchester 

Eligibility Criteria for the BDO Industrial Placements

• Education: On track to achieve a 2.2 or above in any degree subject. 3 A-Levels (or equivalent) at A*. 9-4 (or equivalent) in Maths and English GCSE.
• Experience: Any specific experience required will be stated in the job description.
• Duration: 12 months
• Application: The BDO industrial placements application opens early in the year and starts in September.

BDO also offers opportunities for enrolled students to complete the BDO summer internship roles that will help them gain quality experience.

BDO Summer Internship

What is the BDO summer internship?

The BDO internship is a chance for you to experience life and work at BDO while adding value to your CV. You’ll get a real insight into BDO’s business and culture and a taste of life at the firm.

What job functions are available under the BDO summer internships?

The BDO summer internships are available under the following job areas:

1. Audit
2. Advisory
3. Tax
4. Shared service centres

Eligibility Criteria for the BDO Internship

• Education: On track to achieve a 2.2 or above in any degree subject. 3 A-Levels (or equivalent) at A*. 9-4 (or equivalent) in Maths and English GCSE.
• Experience: Any specific experience required will be stated in the job description.
• Duration: 6 weeks
• Location: United Kingdom

Another BDO early career programme that offers you the opportunity to study and work simultaneously towards a qualification is the BDO school leavers programme.

BDO School Leavers Programme

What is the BDO school leavers programme?

The BDO school leavers programme allows you to combine work experience with professional qualifications. BDO helps you with training in relevant skills and behaviours and provides the professional knowledge you need to succeed in your role.

Eligibility Criteria for the BDO School Leavers Programme

• Education: 3 A-Levels (or equivalent) at A*. 9-4 (or equivalent) in Maths and English GCSE.
• Experience: No specific professional experience is required.
• Duration: 4 years

With that, we have covered all you’ll need to know about the BDO recruitment process, online assessments, and early career opportunities you could potentially apply to.

But wait!

Before you start your BDO application, explore our FAQ section below for more answers about the BDO assessment process.

7. BDO Assessment Tests FAQs