BAE Systems Online Assessments & Interviews. 2023/24 Practice Guide.

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SUMMARY

Are you applying to BAE Systems’ 2023/24 internships or graduate programs? Are you exploring a professional job opportunity at BAE Systems? This comprehensive guide is for you.

The text below provides a full candidate recruitment, assessment and preparation guide and practice for those applying to jobs, internships and graduate programs at BAE.

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

Should you practice assessments to prepare for the BAE Systems recruitment process?

It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

IN A NUTSHELL

How do you prepare for the BAE assessment process and tests to get the job?

1. Complete your BAE Online Application

• Fill in your BAE Systems online application.
• Match your application to BAE Systems’ core values.
• Use keywords from the job post in your resume.
• Tailor the information you provide with the role’s competency needs.

2. Practice for BAE Online Assessment Tests

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

• Gamified Assessments
• Numerical Reasoning Tests
• Verbal Reasoning Tests

3. Record mock video interviews of yourself

Prepare for your BAE Systems video interview and final interview by running mock interviews and answering typical bae interview questions for the role you are applying for. For BAE Systems 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.

Continue reading to get answers to these critical questions:

1. What is the BAE Systems hiring process?
2. What is the BAE test?
3. How do I ace the BAE assessment tests?
4. How do I prepare for a BAE video interview?
5. How do I pass my BAE interview?

Looking into assessments with BAE, simply click on the table below to practice assessments relevant to your assessment process!

Let’s find out what’s to come in this complete guide and what the BAE application process involves:

Contents

1. Who are BAE Systems?
2. BAE Systems Online Application
3. BAE Systems Online Assessments
4. BAE Systems Final Interview
5. BAE Systems Graduate Schemes
6. BAE Aptitude Test FAQs

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Who are BAE Systems?

BAE Systems is a British multinational arms, security and aerospace company, based in London, England. It is the biggest manufacturer in Britain as of 2017, the largest defence contractor in Europe, and the seventh-largest in the world.

BAE Systems is a large employer and as of 2022, the company employs 93,000+ people. Due to the high competition for its positions, BAE Systems screens thousands of applications annually to select the best candidates for its roles.

Discover the range of roles available in BAE Systems below.

Business Areas in BAE Systems

Where can I apply to BAE Systems?

BAE Systems operates in several key business areas, each offering various roles and functions. Some of these business areas are;

What are the BAE Systems Values?

BAE Systems’s core values steer and influence everything its employees do. These values are amongst the things BAE systems will be on the lookout for throughout your application. BAE Systems’ core values are:

1. Trusted: Being committed by giving your best every day, doing what we say we will, and doing the right thing.

2. Innovative: Being curious by seeking out new ways to make things better, learning constantly from successes and failures, and turning ideas into actions.

3. Bold: Being courageous, speaking up, stepping forward, seizing opportunities, and realizing big ambitions.

Beyond its core values, BAE Systems also has core behaviours that you will be assessed for.

What are the BAE Systems Behaviours?

The BAE Systems core behaviours include:

• Creativity: balancing imagination and information to develop solutions

• Collaboration: driving a high standard of performance through cooperation and teamwork

• Develop people: creating an inclusive workplace in which all individuals thrive and give their best

• Inspiration: inspiring others to be their best

• Strategic vision: anticipating and plans for future business landscape

• Courage: taking appropriate risks and leading with humility

• Integrity: demonstrating commitment to the BAE Systems values

• Adaptability: responding to change with positive action

So how do you get a job at BAE Systems? BAE Systems’ recruitment process has different stages, which we cover in the following sections below. Read on to find out!

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BAE Systems Online Application

How do I apply to BAE Systems?

The BAE Systems online application is the first stage to landing your desired role with the company. To start your BAE application process, visit the company’s official careers website and complete an online application for your preferred role.

While filling out the online application, you will be required to provide information that covers the following areas:

• Personal information 
• Education and qualifications 
• Contact information 
• Resume upload/Experience
• Diversity e.g. race, ethnicity, nationality etc.
• Additional information, e.g. need for sponsorship, etc.

Once your online application is submitted, BAE Systems’ talent acquisition team will review the applications. If your application is successful, you will likely be invited to take the BAE Systems online assessments.

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BAE Systems Online Assessments

What are the BAE Systems Online Assessments?

The second stage of the BAE Systems recruitment process involves completing some online assessments. These assessments typically evaluate your skills, cognitive abilities, and fit for the role you applied for.

Depending on your role and business area, you may complete one or more assessments. Assessments you may be required to complete during the BAE aptitude test stage include:

1. BAE Systems Gamified Assessment
2. BAE Systems Numerical Reasoning Test
3. BAE Systems Verbal Reasoning Test
4. BAE Systems Video Interview

Let’s find out what each of these tests are, what they entail and what they assess.

1. BAE Systems Gamified Assessments

What is the BAE Systems gamified assessment?

The BAE Systems gamified assessments are traditional psychometric tests with game elements. These gamified tests make it easy to assess candidates for their suitability by collecting thousands of data points about you as they play.

BAE Systems use gamified assessments to assess applicants for graduate and cyber roles.

What does the BAE Systems game based assessments measure?

The BAE Systems gamified assessments are interactive tests designed to evaluate your cognitive and problem-solving abilities.

How to Pass BAE Systems Gamified Assessments?

Below are 6 top tips that we found can be super useful in preparing for your upcoming Bae systems game-based assessments.

1. Play practice gamified challenges to get accustomed to the mechanics commonly used in these assessments. Gamified test practice will help improve your performance for the real test.

2. Uncover the key insights from your practice to identify areas for improvement and adjust your approach accordingly. This helps you develop the best approach.

3. Pay attention to the scoring system and objectives of the games to better understand what is expected of you during the assessment.

4. Identify the competencies and skills the game assessments aim to measure and focus on honing those skills through practice or self-study. Research the role you are applying for.

5. Develop your adaptability and flexibility to handle unexpected challenges effectively because gamified assessments often feature dynamic scenarios.

6. Read the instructions carefully. The BAE systems game-based assessments may have dynamic instructions and objectives throughout the test.

For even more gamified assessment tips on how to ace your upcoming BAE Systems game based assessments, watch our short video below.

After getting through the BAE Systems game based assessments, you may move on to take the BAE Systems numerical reasoning test. What is the BAE Systems numerical test about? 

Find out in the next section!

2. BAE Systems Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the BAE Systems numerical reasoning test?

The BAE Systems numerical reasoning test measures your proficiency with numbers and your level of numerical literacy. This test will require your basic mathematical knowledge to analyze problems involving the interpretation and analysis of data.

BAE systems numerical aptitude test will include questions that cover graphs, percentages, and identifying information in sets of data.  

Check out our video below to discover 5 things you must do before taking the BAE Systems numerical aptitude test!

How to Pass the BAE Systems Numerical Reasoning Test

Here are 5 important tips to help you ace the BAE systems numerical reasoning test in one go.

1. Revise basic maths covered at the GCSE or equivalent level including percentages, averages, ratios, currency conversion and interest calculations.

2. Practice! Practicing numerical reasoning tests helps familiarise yourself with the format and is proven to help you improve your speed and accuracy.

3. Work on your ability to interpret graphs, charts, and tables effectively. Enhance your problem-solving skills by practicing these areas.

4. Read each question carefully to identify the key data and figures. This can help you focus on what information is essential for solving the problem quickly.

5. Develop a balance between speed and accuracy. Don’t be in a rush to answer your questions, but avoid spending too long on each question.

Using the tips we provided above, take the opportunity to try a sample question similar to the BAE Systems numerical reasoning test below!

BAE Systems-Style Numerical Reasoning Question Example

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

After assessing your numerical proficiency with the numerical reasoning test, BAE Systems may also assess your verbal skills with a verbal reasoning test.

3. BAE Systems Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the BAE Systems verbal reasoning test?

The BAE Systems verbal reasoning test evaluates your language and communication competencies. This test is not a basic literacy test because it also evaluates your ability to manage lengthy texts, recognize crucial information, interpret written information, and work under pressure.

This test has multiple-choice questions, including true or false statement questions, comprehension passages, etc.

In our short video below, we cover how to adequately prepare for your BAE Systems verbal aptitude test.

How to Pass the BAE Systems Verbal Reasoning Test

Here are 5 more important tips to help you ace the BAE Systems verbal aptitude test in one go.

1. Expand your vocabulary through extensive reading to refine your ability to comprehend written statements and the language used.

2. Practice! Using the GF platform to practice verbal reasoning tests is proven to help you improve your speed and accuracy and overall, your score.

3. Read actively and pay close attention to the text. Highlighting key information helps you concentrate on what matters most when answering questions.

4. Consider the context of the text when answering questions. This enables you to interpret the text accurately and answer questions in context.

5. Do not get stuck on one question. If unsure, take an educated guess and move onto the next question or come back to it later if you have time.

Using the tips we provided above, take the opportunity to try a sample question similar to the BAE Systems verbal reasoning test below!

BAE Systems-Style Verbal Reasoning Question Example

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

As part of the BAE aptitude tests stage, you may also be required to answer some video interview questions. Keep reading as we cover these in the next section.

4. BAE Systems Video Interview

What is the BAE Systems video interview?

The BAE Systems video interview, also known as the BAE Systems on-demand video interview, requires you to record video answers to a set of pre-recorded questions. These questions cover areas such as personal inquiries and motivations for application. 

BAE Systems uses the HireVue platform for its video interviews.

7 Top Tips to Pass BAE Systems Video Interview

1. Research the job description and BAE Systems beforehand. This helps to develop an understanding of the role requirements and about the company for the interview questions.

2. Understand BAE Systems’ core values and behaviours. You can use these to reflect the BAE Systems’ values and culture in your responses.

3. Practice and review your answers before you answer the questions. This helps you remain relaxed and calm while giving your answers.

4. Dress Smart: The outfit you choose to wear is just as important as it would be in an in-person interview. Ensure to keep it professional!

5. Ensure your device meets the required standards and your internet connection is stable. Make sure that the space behind you is clear.

6. Watch the Time: Be mindful of the time limit for your answers and make sure you close your answers well. It should be smooth and does not end abruptly.

7. Use Body Language Effectively: Remember that your body language and voice say a lot about you and help set the first impression. Speak clearly, look directly into the camera and practice to sound both relaxed and confident.

Watch our short video below to be cautious of video interview mistakes to avoid in your BAE Systems HireVue video interview.

Use the tips above to practice the following BAE Systems video interview questions.

BAE SYSTEMS VIDEO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Some BAE Systems hirevue video interview questions include:

• Introduce yourself.
• What motivates you in your work?
• Why do you want to work for BAE Systems?
• How would you contribute to a company that protects lives and makes the world a safer place?
• Why are you leaving your current employer?
• Where would you like a career with BAE Systems to take you?

Check out our answer to one of these BAE Systems HireVue interview questions below with an added tip on how you can answer it.

Question: Why do you want to work for BAE Systems?

Good Answer:

I want to work for BAE Systems because I’m deeply impressed by the company’s commitment to advancing technology and innovation in the defence and aerospace industry. 

Your reputation for cutting-edge solutions, strong ethical values, and dedication to national security resonate with my own professional goals and values. I have been following BAE Systems’ recent developments, including your continued support to the RBL Poppy Appeal, and I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to such an impactful organisation. 

The potential to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry and to be part of a team that makes a significant difference in ensuring the safety and security of nations is truly motivating.

After submitting the BAE Systems video interview, you are about 80% done with the BAE Systems recruitment process. At this point, you will be heading for the BAE Systems final interview.

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BAE Systems Final Interview

What is the BAE Systems final interview?

The BAE Systems final interview round is the final stage of the BAE application process. This interview is a competency based interview comprising predefined questions that assess real-life examples of situations where you have used relevant skills.

This final interview is a chance for BAE Systems to better assess your fit for the role, get to know you better than before, and also a chance for you to ask some questions about the role and company.

What questions are asked in the BAE final interview?

Some examples of BAE Systems competency based interview questions you could be asked in this final interview are;

• What was a challenge you faced in your previous role and how did you overcome it?

• Tell us about a time you made a difficult decision when it was easier to do otherwise.

• Talk about a time you set a goal for yourself.

• What happened when you made a mistake that affected other people?

• Tell me about a time you utilized lean business practices.

• Tell us about a time when you have come across a cyber security concern which could have had a big impact.

• Tell us about a time when you were working with a team and a problem came up. What did you do to solve that problem/conflict?

We provide an example answer to one of these BAE Systems interview questions further down below.

How to Answer the Final BAE Systems Interview Questions

Consider the following 8 tips to answer questions during your BAE Systems final interview.

1. Personalise your answers. Ensure that your answers are about you and how you align with BAE Systems and the role. This helps you give concrete and well-curated answers.

2. Practice beforehand. Always practice your answers before your interview. practice your answers in front of a mirror or with friends until your flow and delivery are naturally clear.

3. Leverage your experience when giving your answers. Your answers are more effective when they are backed up with evidence from your work or academic experiences.

4. Align your motivations with BAE Systems’ vision, mission, and core values. Consider what interests you about the company from recent news and projects.

5. Use the STAR+R model to answer competency-based questions. This technique helps you structure your answers properly.

6. Keep your answers simple. Overall, the assessors are trying to get to know you better and assess how well you would fit into BAE Systems.

7. Use proper body language and appropriate hand gestures. This can help display confidence when speaking, but also be mindful to not use them in an excessive or distracting way.

8. Prepare questions of your own. This final interview is also a chance for you to get to know more about the role and internal structures or procedures at BAE Systems.

Below are some questions you might want to consider asking your interviewer in your BAE Systems final interview:

1. What are some of the role’s challenges?
2. How do you measure success and what are your expectations for the first 6-12 months?
3. What do you enjoy about your job?
4. Are there opportunities for professional development?
5. Is there anything about my resume that concerns you?

Discover 5 more top questions you could ask in your BAE Systems final interview with our short video below:

BAE Systems Interview Question and Answer

QUESTION: TALK ABOUT A TIME YOU SET A GOAL FOR YOURSELF

Good Answer:

• Situation: In my previous role as a Cybersecurity Analyst at Company Y, the organization had identified a critical need to enhance its network security and protect sensitive customer data.

• Task: To ensure I met this new company goal, I set my own personal goal to actively contribute to achieving this objective. 

• Action: To achieve this, I began by conducting a comprehensive assessment of our current cybersecurity infrastructure, identifying vulnerabilities and potential attack vectors. I collaborated with the IT team to ensure that all systems and applications were up to date with security patches and standards.

• Result: Over the course of the year, the number of cybersecurity incidents was reduced by 55%. We also received positive feedback from our clients who noted the increased focus on cybersecurity, enhancing our reputation as a trusted partner.

• Reflection: This experience reinforced the importance of setting and achieving measurable goals. It also highlighted the significance of proactive risk management, continuous training, and a collaborative approach to security. 

And….that’s a wrap on the BAE Systems application process!

If you are successful in the process, BAE Systems’s talent acquisition team will contact you with their decision and if you are offered the role, you will be subject to appropriate medical, security and qualification clearance checks.

While you’re still here…

Don’t miss the captivating range of entry roles and graduate programs that await you at BAE Systems.

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BAE Systems Graduate Schemes and Internships

What are BAE Systems graduate schemes and internships?

BAE Systems graduate schemes and internships are early career opportunities offered by BAE Systems. They serve as a good way to launch your career in a business that’s ever-evolving.

Through BAE Systems graduate schemes and internships, you get the chance to play your part in creating pioneering security products and services that can change the world.

Below is the range of opportunities BAE Systems has made available for you to kickstart your career:

1. BAE Systems Graduate Schemes
2. BAE Systems Undergraduate Schemes
3. BAE Systems Apprenticeships

With these BAE graduate programs, you will discover the perfect launching pad for your career, where boundless opportunities, growth, and learning await. Let’s dive into them!

1. BAE Systems Graduate Schemes

What is the BAE Systems graduate scheme?

The BAE Systems graduate scheme is a program that helps you develop skills in engineering, technology or business. The BAE Systems graduate program offers entry into several business areas of the company including; technology, engineering, etc.

Eligibility Criteria for BAE Systems Graduate Program

• Education: You’ll need a minimum 2:2 Bachelor’s degree in a subject related to your chosen area.
• Experience: No specific experience is required for students.
• Duration: 18-30 months
• Locations: UK
• Applications: This program follows a preceding year timeline for its application with applications typically opening in the fall.

2. BAE Systems Undergraduate Schemes

What is the BAE Systems undergraduate scheme?

The BAE Systems undergraduate programs help students get a head-start and gain valuable skills and experience to take back to their studies and get one step ahead for the future. BAE Systems undergraduate schemes include industrial placements, summer internships, and insight experiences.

This program offers openings in various business areas including engineering, business and finance, consultancy and project management.

Eligibility Criteria for BAE Systems Undergraduate Schemes

• Education: For most undergraduate roles, you must be on track to receive a minimum 2:2 Bachelor’s degree in any subject. For cyber security roles, you’ll also need 128 UCAS points or equivalent and for finance placements, you should be expecting at least a 2:1 Bachelor’s degree and have 120 UCAS points or equivalent.
• Experience: No specific professional experience required.
• Duration: 1 year for industrial placements and 12 weeks for summer placements.
• Locations: UK
• Application Deadline: This program follows a preceding year timeline for its application with applications typically opening in September.

3. BAE Systems Apprenticeship

What is the BAE Systems apprenticeship?

BAE Systems apprenticeship is a career opportunity that allows you to earn a salary while you gain job-specific training and hands-on experience that will help your career path grow exponentially. BAE Systems apprenticeships include intermediate, advanced, higher, and degree apprenticeships.

Eligibility Criteria for BAE Systems Apprenticeships

• Education: varies depending on which of our apprenticeships but you’ll need a minimum of five GCSEs grade A*- E/3-9 including Maths and English, as well as a Science subject to apply for an engineering or technical role, or 2 National 4s including Maths and English (or equivalent).
• Experience: No specific professional experience required.
• Duration: varies from one to three years. 
• Locations: UK
• Application Deadline: This program follows a preceding year timeline for its application. Applications typically open in September.

And with that, we’ve covered all you’ll need to know about BAE Systems Assessments, the recruitment process, and roles/programs you could potentially apply to.

But wait!

Before you start your BAE Systems application process and assessments, explore our FAQ section below for even more answers about the BAE Systems hiring process.

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BAE Recruitment Process FAQs