AstraZeneca Hiring Process 2024/25. Interview, Assessment Centre Practice Guide.

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SUMMARY

Are you applying for the AstraZeneca internship or graduate programs or exploring professional opportunities? Look no further than this comprehensive guide.

The text below provides a full candidate recruitment, assessment, and preparation guide and practice for those applying to jobs, internships, apprenticeships, and other graduate programs at AstraZeneca across the globe, including the UK and US.

Our website provides scientifically validated practice assessment tests, interviews, and assessment center exercises that can be used to practice and prepare for the recruitment and assessment process.

Not sure if you should practice preparing for the AstraZeneca Interview process? According to research, 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 AstraZeneca assessment tests and get the job?

1. Complete your AstraZeneca Job Application

• Fill in your AstraZeneca application online
• Match your application to AstraZeneca company values
• Use their language/keywords from the job post in your resume
• Answer any motivational questions you may find

2. Practice for AstraZeneca Online Assessment Tests

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

• Numerical Reasoning tests
• Verbal Reasoning tests
• Logical Reasoning tests

3. Record mock interviews of yourself

Prepare for a telephone interview by practicing answering questions that typically come up in interviews for pharmaceutical jobs. Your answers need to flow and be timely. Avoid filler words. Your verbal communication should be convincing, and filled with content that presents you in the best way for the job. 

For AstraZeneca interview practice, use:

• a smartphone
• Zoom or
• our video interview practice platform

Our video interview practice platform offers predefined competency and industry questions, mimicking the experience of interviews including HireVue. Record answers, watch them, and repeat recordings until satisfied with your interview technique.

Use the STAR+R method for your answers and practice each answer several times.

4. Prepare for the AstraZeneca Assessment Centre Exercises

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

• Group exercise
• Presentation exercises
• Final interview

Hone your written and spoken communication techniques. Research online, prepare and practice presentation of as many business case studies as possible.

Be aware that not many get to this stage. The competition is very fierce.

Continue reading to get answers to these critical questions:

1. What is the hiring process at AstraZeneca?
2. What is the AstraZeneca online assessment?
3. How do I prepare for an AstraZeneca interview?
4. What are the early career programs offered by AstraZeneca?

For your AstraZeneca assessment practice, click on the links below to get started now with our practice assessments!

Let’s take a look at what’s to come in this in-depth guide:

Contents

1. What is AstraZeneca?
2. AstraZeneca Online Job Application
3. AstraZeneca Telephone Interview
4. AstraZeneca Online Aptitude Tests
5. AstraZeneca Assessment Centre

Good to know Bonuses:

6. AstraZeneca Early Career Roles/Graduates Programs
7. AstraZeneca Recruitment FAQs

Before we dive in, let’s take a closer look at AstraZeneca and explore its wide range of career options.

What is AstraZeneca?

AstraZeneca is a multinational, research-driven biopharmaceutical company that specializes in the creation and marketing of cutting-edge medications for a variety of therapeutic indications, such as oncology, cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases, respiratory, and neuroscience. 

AstraZeneca, which has operations in more than 100 nations, employs more than 75,000 people globally and the corporation has its headquarters in Cambridge, UK.

What career opportunities does AstraZeneca offer?

For career opportunities, AstraZeneca offers a wide range of roles, from entry-level positions to senior management positions. These roles include:

Let us find out in the next section.

AstraZeneca Values

What are the core values of AstraZeneca?

• Patient centricity: AstraZeneca puts patients first in everything they do and they are driven by a deep-seated commitment to understanding and addressing patients’ needs. 

• Scientific rigor: They are committed to rigorous scientific research and development. AstraZeneca upholds the highest standards of scientific excellence in its research and development endeavors.

• Collaboration: AstraZeneca believes in the power of collaboration to achieve great things. AstraZeneca fosters a spirit of teamwork and partnership, recognizing that collective ingenuity is key to breakthrough discoveries.

• Innovation: They are constantly striving to innovate and improve. AstraZeneca relentlessly pursues new ideas and approaches, constantly seeking ways to improve healthcare for patients worldwide.

• Integrity: AstraZeneca is committed to acting with integrity and transparency.

Now that we know more about AstraZeneca, let’s dive into the recruitment process with the first step: the AstraZeneca online application process!

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AstraZeneca Online Application

How to get a job at AstraZeneca?

For your AstraZeneca job application, you must create an account on their website to apply for a position. Once you have found a role that interests you, you can apply by filling out your: 

• Personal information
• Work experience
• Education
• Skills

You will also be required to upload documents such as your resume and a cover letter at this stage.

What do I need to apply to AstraZeneca?

This marks your first chance to set a good impression and stand out from the competition. 

1. Attach your CV: Make sure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to the job description. 

2. Educational Qualifications: Requirements range from high school diplomas for entry-level roles to bachelor’s or advanced degrees for technical positions.

3. Work Experience: To attributes and skills that resemble the candidate AstraZeneca is looking for. Experience levels vary, with management roles typically requiring more years of expertise.

4. Skills and Competencies: AstraZeneca values specific job-related skills, including technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities.

You can do this quite easily by making sure you refer to the key competencies sought after by AstraZeneca, throughout your application. These are as follows:

As well as the job description, you’ll need to do your research on AstraZeneca itself to get a headstart in your preparation. 

Check out our video below to get started on crucial research tips you can use to boost your AstraZeneca application:

For entry-level positions, after completing your online application, you may be invited to complete some assessments or first complete an AstraZeneca telephone interview. 

Let’s explore this initial AstraZeneca interview in detail. 

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AstraZeneca Telephone Interview

What happens in the AstraZeneca telephone interview?

The AstraZeneca telephone interview is the next step for many roles after your online application. This interview will be predominantly competency-based but is also very likely to include some motivational and technical questions. The interview should last up to 30 minutes.

Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Your AstraZeneca Telephone Interview

1. Review Job Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific role’s requirements, aligning your skills and experiences with the job description.

2. Practice Using the STAR+R method: For competency questions, remember to describe the particular situation, the task you were faced with, and the action you took to resolve it, concluding with the result of your work.

3. Understand Industry Trends: Stay informed about the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry, showing awareness of current trends and challenges.

4. Find a Quiet Place: Take this AstraZeneca phone interview in a place where you will not be distracted or disturbed. Avoiding background noise can help demonstrate professionalism and clear communication.

5. Understand AstraZeneca’s Values: Check the values and the goals of the company. Align your responses with AstraZeneca’s culture, demonstrating genuine interest and culture.

After you’ve aced the initial round of the AstraZeneca telephone interview, you will level up to the next crucial round, the AstraZeneca online assessment test.

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AstraZeneca Online Aptitude Test

What are the AstraZeneca online aptitude tests?

The AstraZeneca online aptitude tests are designed by SHL and may be a single blended assessment. The time limit for the test varies depending on the specific sections used; however, typically each section has a limit of between 15 and 30 minutes.

What does the AstraZeneca Online Aptitude Tests include?

The AstraZeneca online test can consist of the following sections:

1. AstraZeneca Numerical Reasoning Test
2. AstraZeneca Verbal Reasoning Test
3. AstraZeneca Logical Reasoning Test
4. AstraZeneca Game-Based Assessment

We’ve got you covered for all things assessment in this section! Keep reading to discover the best tricks and tips to ace your AstraZeneca online aptitude tests.

1. AstraZeneca Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the AstraZeneca numerical reasoning test?

The AstraZeneca numerical reasoning test will examine your ability to use numerical skills and ability to interpret data from tables and charts. You will be expected to use the information presented in tables, graphs, and charts to select one of the 5 responses provided.

Discover more about numerical reasoning test questions and how AstraZeneca uses these to hire with this short video: 

HOW TO PASS THE ASTRAZENECA NUMERICAL REASONING TEST?

Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Your AstraZeneca Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Revise the fundamental math: Many of the fundamental skills required in the AstraZeneca assessments you will have covered at GCSE level, so it pays to re-familiarise yourself with these topics.

2. Practice with us to practice numerical reasoning tests to help you improve your technique and track your progress ahead of the real AstraZeneca SHL assessment.

3. Pay attention to the detail: The AstraZeneca numerical test will often include questions that require you to pay close attention to the detail. Make sure you read each question carefully before answering.

4. Practice mental math: While you’ll have a calculator available during the test, it’s still beneficial to practice mental math to develop your speed and accuracy for basic operations. 

5. Stay calm and focused: The AstraZeneca numerical test can be challenging, but it is important to stay calm and focused. If you get stuck on a question, take a deep breath and move on to the next one.

AstraZeneca-Style Numerical Reasoning Test Example

Think you nailed it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer!

The numerical test is just the start of your application process, let’s now discover more about how to ace your AstraZeneca verbal reasoning test.

2. AstraZeneca Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the AstraZeneca verbal reasoning test?

 The AstraZeneca verbal reasoning test measures your ability to understand and interpret written information. The test typically consists of a series of short passages followed by multiple-choice questions. 

You will be asked to identify the main point of the passage, draw inferences from the information provided, and evaluate the arguments presented.

Don’t miss our short video below for an overview of verbal reasoning tests used by employers such as AstraZeneca:

HOW TO PASS THE ASTRAZENECA VERBAL REASONING TEST?

Top 5 Tips to Ace Your AstraZeneca Verbal Reasoning Test

1. Expand your vocabulary: A strong vocabulary will help you understand the nuances of the passages and answer the questions more accurately. Read widely and use a dictionary to learn new words.

2. Improve your reading comprehension: Practice reading different types of texts, such as news articles, scientific papers, and novels. This will help you develop your ability to grasp the main ideas and extract relevant information.

3. Understand the answer options: Ensure you are aware of what ‘True’, ‘False’, and ‘Cannot say’ means. To make accurate choices, it is critical to have a clear understanding of the answer options.

4. Focus on the passage details: Prioritize identifying and highlighting essential details within the passage before attempting the questions. This ensures you have a solid foundation for your answers.

5. Use only the information provided: Avoid using any external knowledge or information for these tests. Instead, base your answers solely on the information provided in the passage.

AstraZeneca-Style Verbal Reasoning Question Example

Got the answer? Check the bottom of the page to see if you got it right!

After completing this AstraZeneca online test, the following assessment you will likely be headed for is the AstraZeneca logical reasoning test.

3. AstraZeneca Logical Reasoning Test

What is the AstraZeneca logical reasoning test?

AstraZeneca’s logical reasoning test, often referred to as a diagrammatic or inductive test, will expose you to 5 diagrams with varying shapes and ask you to identify the right pattern and indicate what comes next in the sequence.

Check out this short video below which covers the basics you’ll need to know about the AstraZeneca logical reasoning tests:

HOW TO PASS THE ASTRAZENECA LOGICAL REASONING TEST?

Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Your AstraZeneca Logical Reasoning Test

1. Learn how to break down complex problems into smaller steps: This will help you approach the test questions in a systematic and organized way.

2. Practice consistently: Take various logical reasoning tests to get familiar with the SHL test format and different questions. This will help you develop your ability to identify patterns and solve problems.

3. Focus on building your speed: Develop confidence in your ability to solve logical reasoning questions first, and then practice under timed conditions.

4. Utilize feedback and score reports: to pinpoint areas for improvement and check your answers to ensure you didn’t make any mistakes.

5. Move on If you get stuck on a question: Take an educated guess or leave the question until the end of the AstraZeneca SHL assessment if you are unsure.

AstraZeneca-Style Logical Reasoning Question Example

For this test example question, you will be required to observe the diagrams in the sequence carefully to uncover a shared pattern to determine which of the options would be the next diagram in the sequence.

In the pattern above, you will only have around 45 seconds to notice that:

• The arrow rotates clockwise around the diagram
• The sequence of shapes is triangle-circle-square
• The long line alternates between horizontal and vertical
• …and to identify the correct answer!

Think you’ve cracked it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer!

For some roles, you may also be required to complete the AstraZeneca game-based assessment. Find out more about this test below. 

4. AstraZeneca Game-Based Assessment

What is the AstraZeneca game-based assessment?

The AstraZeneca game-based assessment uses a series of short, interactive games to measure a variety of skills and abilities, including cognitive abilities, problem-solving skills, and behavioral traits.

The AstraZeneca game assessments are designed to be engaging and realistic, and they simulate real-world situations that you may encounter in the company. 

HOW TO PASS THE ASTRAZENECA GAME-BASED ASSESSMENT

Top 5 Tips to Ace the AstraZeneca Game-based Assessment

1. Practice with Similar Games: Familiarize yourself with the format of AstraZeneca game-based assessments by playing similar games online. This will help you get a feel for the types of activities used and the speed at which you need to complete them.

2. Read the Instructions Carefully: Before you start each game, make sure you understand the rules and objectives. This will help you avoid making mistakes that could cost you points.

3. Work Quickly and Accurately: Time is of the essence in AstraZeneca game assessments as your time taken to complete the games may be recorded.

4. Use the Recommended Device: Check which device suits best for your Astra online assessment. Your reaction speed may be better on a desktop than a phone.

5. Show Adaptability and Learning: Be adaptable and ready to learn quickly. AstraZeneca Game-based assessments often introduce new elements, so be open to adjusting your strategy based on the evolving scenarios.

Once you’ve aced your AstraZeneca online tests, you will shortly be invited to the next stage of your application journey: the AstraZeneca assessment center.

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AstraZeneca Assessment Center

What happens at the AstraZeneca assessment center?

The AstraZeneca assessment center will be a chance for you to network with professionals working at AstraZeneca, and learn more about the company. It is the perfect time for you to get a better insight into what it is like to work at AstraZeneca.

The AstraZeneca assessment center typically consists of 3 parts:

1. AstraZeneca Group Exercise
2. AstraZeneca Presentation Exercise
3. AstraZeneca Final Interview

Keep on reading below to discover more about each of the final stages of the AstraZeneca assessment test process.

1. AstraZeneca Group Exercise

What is the AstraZeneca group exercise?

The AstraZeneca group exercise assesses your teamwork skills, and problem-solving under time pressure. It’s an opportunity to showcase your ideas confidently and demonstrate your ability to appreciate and incorporate others’ input effectively.

Pause for a moment and check out our expert video for more details on how to ace your AstraZeneca group exercise below:

Top 5 Tips to Ace the AstraZeneca Group Exercise

1. Do your research on AstraZeneca: Check AstraZeneca’s values, culture and the job description. Consider how you can demonstrate these skills during the group exercise.

2. Practice: Practice discussion exercises with your friends or family members and gain feedback on your performance. Use the feedback to understand key strengths and development areas.

3. Speak with clarity: Maintain a clear and calm tone to convey confidence. This also helps you stand out from the rest of the group and demonstrate your communication skills.

4. Contribute ideas during the discussion: share and argue your ideas, but don’t speak over others. Develop existing points to build on others’ ideas.

5. Show active listening: Be open to other people’s thoughts and suggestions while engaging in your AstraZeneca exercise. Ask questions and communicate with your fellow team members.

Alongside your group exercise, you’ll be tasked with an AstraZeneca presentation exercise.

2. AstraZeneca Presentation Exercise

What is the AstraZeneca presentation exercise?

The AstraZeneca presentation exercise will mainly test you on your communication skills. Your assessors will be looking at your body language and tone to see how you would cope with delivering professional presentations, taking part in group discussions, or explaining your opinions.

Top 5 Tips to Prepare for your AstraZeneca Presentation Exercise

1. Know your facts: Once you are allotted a topic, make sure that you use all the provided information such as any reports and data to ensure that your presentation is accurate.

2. Improve your delivery: Practice and improve your delivery to boost your confidence in your AstraZeneca presentation. Gain feedback from your friends or family to improve how you communicate ideas.

3. Practice with visual aids: Try to work with your slides by making them simple and unique with pictures and flowcharts. This helps to make your presentation more relatable and memorable.

4. Ask questions: Before the presentation, ask questions to gain further understanding of the task and any particular topics or skills that they may be looking for in your AstraZeneca presentation exercise.

5. Seek feedback: At the end of your presentation, proactively ask your audience if they have any questions. This helps in highlighting your openness to feedback and your willingness to address any uncertainties.

You’ve made it to the final step! Follow us through to the finish line with the final AstraZeneca interview. 

3. AstraZeneca Final Interview

What are the AstraZeneca final interviews?

In the AstraZeneca final interviews, you’ll likely participate in various rounds of individual interviews with multiple interviewers, each representing different aspects of the role and the organization. 

This final stage of the AstraZeneca interview process will delve into your experience, skills, and motivations, allowing the interviewers to assess your suitability for the specific role.

Tips 5 for Preparing for the AstraZeneca Final Interview:

1. Research the company and the role: Ensure you have thoroughly researched AstraZeneca’s history, mission, values, and current initiatives. Understand the specific requirements and expectations for the role you’re applying for.

2. Practice answering interview questions: Prepare responses to frequently asked AstraZeneca interview questions. Practice will help you to explain your experiences, skills, and motivations in a clear and concise manner.

3. Use the STAR+R method: to structure your answers to competency-based questions. Consider a few examples that support the skills you have demonstrated previously.

4. Align your goals with AstraZeneca’s objectives: Emphasize your enthusiasm for making a positive impact in the pharmaceutical industry. Also, underscore your commitment to professional growth within the organization.

5. Show confidence: While responding speak clearly and with a calm tone of voice. Use subtle hand gestures and keep an upright posture to demonstrate confident body language.

Check out the video below for even more body language tips and tricks you can use in your AstraZeneca interview:

Check out our example questions and how to answer them below!

EXAMPLE ASTRAZENECA INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question: Describe a time when you had to work independently to complete a project under tight deadlines.

Good Answer:

• Situation: In my previous role, I was working on a research project that required me to analyze a large dataset of clinical trial results. The project was due in two weeks, and I was given a lot of responsibility for collecting and analyzing the data.

• Task: I needed to manage my time effectively, prioritize my tasks, and work independently to meet the tight deadlines.

• Action: I created a detailed schedule for myself and broke down the project into smaller, more manageable tasks. I also communicated regularly with my supervisor to keep them updated on my progress. In addition, I took advantage of available resources, such as online tutorials and software packages, to enhance my data analysis skills.

• Result: I was able to successfully complete the research project within the 2 weeks and within budget. My presentation to experts impressed them, and my findings became a valuable part of the overall project, making a significant impact towards meeting our goals for the quarter.

• Reflection: In this situation, I demonstrated my ability to work independently, manage my time effectively, and meet deadlines under pressure. I also showed that I am a resourceful and capable individual who can learn new skills quickly.

Question: Share an experience where you had to think creatively to solve a problem.

Good Answer:

• Situation: I was working as a team leader on a marketing campaign for a new product launch. We were having trouble generating enough leads, and we were running out of time before the launch.

• Task: I needed to come up with a creative and effective solution to increase our lead generation.

• Action: I took initiative by conducting market research to identify potential target audiences and their interests. I also brainstormed with my team to come up with new and innovative ideas for generating leads. We decided to create a series of short videos that would be shared on social media to tailor to our target audience and generate engagement across a variety of social platforms. These videos featured a variety of testimonials from satisfied customers who had used the product.

• Result: The video campaign was a huge success. We were able to generate a significant number of leads in a short period of time. The product launch was a success, and we were able to meet our initial sales targets for the first few months.

• Reflection: In this situation, I demonstrated my ability to think creatively, solve problems, and work effectively as a team leader. I also showed that I am adaptable and able to think outside the box to find innovative solutions. I believe that creative thinking is important to find effective and groundbreaking solutions to problems to stay unique and constantly improve.

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

But wait, before you go!

Keep reading below to discover the range of AstraZeneca career opportunities currently offered for freshers and students.

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AstraZeneca Early Career Roles/Graduates Programs

What are the AstraZeneca Graduate Programs?

AstraZeneca graduate programs are designed to attract and develop the brightest talent from around the world. These programs provide early-career professionals with the opportunity to gain valuable experience and skills in a variety of areas.

Here are some of the key opportunity areas you can apply for at AstraZeneca:

AstraZeneca also provides various apprenticeship and internship opportunities for students and graduates. Let’s check out these below!

AstraZeneca Apprenticeship Programs

What are the AstraZeneca Apprenticeship Programs? 

AstraZeneca’s Apprenticeship Programs provide a distinctive chance to learn and collaborate within a global corporation alongside industry leaders. Enjoy the perks of earning a degree, receiving a salary, and acquiring hands-on experience for a promising future.

AstraZeneca Apprenticeship Areas

• Manufacturing
• Maintenance
• Transportation
• Healthcare
• IT
• Business
• Finance
• Customer service

 AstraZeneca Apprenticeship Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an apprenticeship program, you must typically meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be able to pass a drug test and background check
• Be physically able to perform the essential duties of the apprenticeship
• Be willing to commit to the length of the apprenticeship program

AstraZeneca Apprenticeship Application Deadlines

1. UK: Applications are open from February to April. The program starts in September.
2. USA: Applications are open on a rolling basis. The program start dates vary depending on the program.
3. Rest of Europe: Applications are open on a rolling basis. The program start dates vary depending on the program.

AstraZeneca Internship Programs

What are the AstraZeneca Internship Programs?

AstraZeneca internship programs are designed to give students hands-on experience in the pharmaceutical industry. These programs are available to students from all over the world who are pursuing a degree in a relevant field, such as science, engineering or business and administration.

• AstraZeneca Summer Internships (10-12 weeks):  for second and third-year undergraduates, focusing on projects in research, development, clinical trials, and marketing. 
• AstraZeneca Winter Internships (6-8 weeks): cater to first and second-year undergraduates, with projects in quality control, manufacturing, and supply chain.

AstraZeneca Internship Eligibility Criteria

To apply to the AstraZeneca internship program, you must:

• Be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited university
• Be pursuing a degree in a relevant field, such as science, engineering, or business
• Have a strong academic record
• Be fluent in English

AstraZeneca Internship Application Deadlines

The application deadlines for AstraZeneca internship programs vary depending on the program.

Check out more answers to some of the most commonly asked questions below about the AstraZeneca recruitment process! 

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AstraZeneca Job Assessment FAQs