1. Introduction

Should you practice assessments to prepare for the EY assessment process? 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 pass the EY recruitment process and get the job?

1. Complete your EY Application Form
   • Fill in your EY application form.
   • Match your application to EY values.
   • Use keywords from the job post in your resume.
   • Tailor the information you provide with the role’s competency needs.
2. Practice for the EY Online Assessments

EY uses a variety of assessments at this stage to assess candidates. Sometimes, collectively called the EY one assessment, these tests may include:

• Written Assessments
• Situational Judgement Tests
• Numerical Reasoning Tests

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

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

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

Our video interview practice platform contains predefined competency and industry questions and emulates your experience in platforms used for employers’ interviews (HireVue, Pymetrics, Sonru).

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

4. Prepare for the EY Experience Day

EY Experience Day will use different exercises to find the right candidates for the role. Ensure that you practice a variety of exercises including:

• Group Exercises
• Case Study Exercises
• Final Interviews

Simply click on the table below to begin your EY assessment practice!

Practice Situational Judgement Tests

Start practicing

Practice Numerical Reasoning Tests

Start practicing

Practice Video Interviews

Start practicing

Prepare for your Assessment Centre

Start practicing

Before we go on and break down the EY selection process, let’s find out more about the company you are applying to first.

Who is Ernst & Young?

Ernst & Young, commonly called EY, is a multinational firm headquartered in London that offers professional services such as accounting, consulting, tax, etc through various career areas and departments. 

What roles can I apply to in Ernst & Young careers?

Employing 350,000+ people globally in more than 150 countries, EY operates in various business areas of the professional sector.  Some areas you can apply to in EY are:

What are EY Core Values?

The EY core values are characterised by the following:

1. People who demonstrate integrity, respect, teaming and inclusiveness
2. People with energy, enthusiasm and the courage to lead
3. People who build relationships based on doing the right thing

Now that we know more about EY, let’s jump right into the EY assessment process, starting with the EY online application.

2. EY Application Form

How to get a job at Ernst and Young?

The EY job application process starts with you completing an EY application form for your desired role. After finding your desired EY role, you will be required to submit details about yourself and your experience.

You will need to provide the following details on your EY application form:

• Personal information 
• Resume
• Work experience
• Education
• Some job-specific information, etc.

EY Application Form

Source: EY Careers

Once you’ve completed the EY application form, your recruiters will review it. If you get shortlisted, you will be invited to complete some EY online assessments. 

3. EY Online Assessments

What are the EY assessment tests?

The EY online assessments are aptitude tests used by EY to assess your potential for the role you have applied to. Recently, Cappfinity provided the EY psychometric tests. Before, EY has also used AON/Cut-E, HireVue, and Pymetrics in their hiring tests.

What to expect in the EY online assessment stage?

Depending on the role, your EY assessment test stage may include the following tests:

1. Written Test
2. Job Simulation Test
3. Numerical Reasoning Test

Understand the EY selection process in a nutshell with our video below:

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

EY Written Test

What is the EY written assessment?

The EY written assessment is a test based on specialised knowledge, general knowledge, and language. Some EY roles may be online with multiple-choice questions; for others, it would be a paper-based test that includes an essay.

How long is the EY written test?

The EY written test may last anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes depending on the role and the level of the position you have applied for.

Top 7 Tips to Pass the EY Written Assessment

1. Research Ernst & Young, including their services, recent projects, and strategic priorities. Knowing about the company can help you understand the context of some questions.
2. Brush up on technical skills relevant to the role you applied for at EY. For finance positions, review accounting principles, financial analysis, and relevant regulations.
3. Practice writing essays on some EY-related topics such as financial services, business practices and data analytics. Ensure your essays have a clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
4. Practice completing questions under timed conditions to improve your ability to manage time during the actual EY written test.
5. Ensure you conclude your essay in your EY written test well. A good conclusion for your essay may include pros and cons and quality recommendations regarding what you have written about.
6. Carefully read and understand the instructions of the EY written assessment. Be clear on what is expected of you as you answer the questions.
7. Review your test if time permits. Check through for any grammatical errors or typos, and ensure that your points flow well in the essay part of this EY test.

After completing your EY written assessment, the next EY test you may be required to complete is the EY job simulation test.

EY Job Simulation Test

What is the EY job simulation test?

The EY job simulation test is an assessment used by EY to evaluate your strengths and ability to perform on-the-job responsibilities. It will consist of 14 questions and will take about an hour for you to complete.

What to expect with the EY job simulation test?

The EY job simulation test is typically a type of situational judgement test as it will assess you with real workplace scenarios that you are likely to face in your day-to-day activities if you get the job.

Watch our video below to find out what a situational judgement test is and understand the EY situational judgement test better.

How do you pass the EY job simulation test? Consider the following unique EY online assessment tips we have curated to help you pass.

Top 7 Tips to Pass the EY Job Simulation Test

1. Remember the EY core values. This helps guide your answers and the approach you take to arrive at your responses during the test.
2. Read the EY job description properly. Pay attention to the requirements listed as this will help you determine the competencies required by EY for the role and what the scenarios may potentially be about.
3. Practice situational judgement tests to familiarise yourself with example scenarios similar to the format of these EY online test questions.
4. Read all instructions carefully. Ensure to read the instructions of the EY job simulation thoroughly, especially during the test as the questions will have different formats.
5. Think like an employee of the company. For each scenario, consider the most effective response that aligns with EY’s way of working which involves demonstrating integrity and building relationships.
6. Use your time appropriately. Know what questions to be time efficient with and what questions you can take your time with since the EY job simulation has both timed and untimed questions.
7. Be authentic and self-reflective with your answers. Think of how you align with the EY core values and choose your answers based on authenticity and honesty.

Practice for the EY job simulation questions by practising similar situational judgement questions with GF!

After getting through the EY job simulation test, you may move on to take the EY numerical reasoning test which we cover in the next section below!

EY Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the EY numerical reasoning test?

The EY numerical reasoning test evaluates your ability to work with numerical data using questions with graphs, percentages, and statistical data. It consists of 24 questions which you will have to complete in about 20 minutes.

What does the EY numerical assessment measure?

The EY numerical assessment measures your ability to interpret numerical information, draw accurate conclusions, and make properly informed decisions.

Watch our video below to learn more about the EY numerical reasoning test.

Below we have curated helpful EY online assessment tips to help you pass the EY numerical reasoning test.

Top 6 Tips to Pass the EY Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Revise the basics. This EY aptitude test will demand a clear understanding of basic mathematical concepts like fractions, percentages, graphs, etc.
2. Practice consistently with similar timed tests to help you understand the questions that are likely to come in EY numerical assessments.
3. Check the worked solutions for your practice sessions to gain a thorough understanding of how to approach the different types of EY test questions used.
4. Strengthen your ability to do mental maths. This will enable you to make some calculations in your head while taking this EY cognitive test with proper accuracy, saving time.
5. Pay attention to the details of each EY numerical assessment question to avoid making errors. Understand what each question is asking before attempting to answer.
6. Recheck your calculations if time allows. Particularly, for complex questions. This will minimise the probability of errors in this EY aptitude test.

Take the opportunity to try an example EY numerical reasoning test question provided by our experts below!

EY Numerical Reasoning Test Example

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

Being able to interpret numerical data with accuracy and ease is crucial to passing this test. Ensure to read through the questions and understand them thoroughly to avoid mistakes.

Looking for more EY online assessment practice?

Once you’ve aced your online assessments and you qualify for the next stage, you may be invited to the next and final stage of the recruitment process which is the EY Experience Day. 

4. EY Experience Day

What is the EY Experience Day?

The EY Experience Day is an assessment centre and is the last stage of the job application process. It is designed to see if you have the strengths needed for the role but it is also a chance to see if EY is right for you.

What to expect during the EY Experience Day?

The EY Experience Day may take place virtually or in person at an EY branch office and it will include a variety of exercises, such as:

1. Group Exercise
2. Case Study Exercise
3. Final Interviews

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

EY Group Exercise

What is the EY group exercise?

The EY group exercise will see you get split into small groups of 4-6 with other shortlisted candidates with around 45 minutes in hand to discuss a given topic or complete a task.

What does the EY group exercise measure?

The EY group exercise will typically measure how you work as part of a team. One of EY’s core values centres around working as a team and you will be assessed according to this.

6 Top Tips to Pass Your EY Group Exercise

1. Understand the EY core values. Embodying them will show that you not only fit the role but also EY’s company culture.
2. Understand the task. Make sure you clearly understand the task at hand. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask questions as EY appreciates courage.
3. Communicate effectively and listen actively. Communicate your ideas clearly and be an active listener. Acknowledge others’ contributions and build on them. These are important teamwork skills that EY recruiters will note.
4. Show leadership qualities. Demonstrate your ability to lead as EY requires but remember that leadership also involves encouraging and facilitating others to contribute their ideas.
5. Contribute constructively. Contribute your ideas, but don’t dominate the discussion. Being respectful and inclusive is part of EY’s core values.
6. Respect diverse viewpoints and approaches. Differing perspectives can lead to innovative solutions and further reflect EY’s ideals of inclusion.

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

EY Case Study Exercise  

What is the EY case study exercise?

The EY case study exercise will involve analysing a fictional company that needs to make some difficult business decisions and you will be asked questions about your findings. This task will typically take about 30 minutes to complete.

What does the EY case study measure?

The EY case study exercise will measure your analytical skills, critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

6 Top Tips to Pass the EY Case Study

1. Understand the scenario: Take your time to thoroughly understand the case study scenario, including the background, challenges, and objectives.
2. Structure your approach: Use a structured approach to analyse the case. Consider frameworks or models relevant to the problem-solving process.
3. Prioritise key issues: Identify and prioritise the most critical issues or factors in the case. Focus on the ones that will have the most significant impact on EY.
4. Use visual aids: If allowed, use visual aids (e.g., charts, graphs, slides) in your EY final interview presentation to enhance clarity and engagement.
5. Engage with the assessors: During the Q&A segment, engage with the assessors by maintaining eye contact, speaking clearly, and answering questions appropriately.
6. Anticipate questions: Prepare for potential questions or further challenges from the EY assessors and be ready to defend your analysis.

Looking to practice for your EY assessment day? Use GF’s practice assessment centre exercises today!

EY Final Interview

What is the EY final interview?

The EY final interview is the last hurdle of the experience day. This EY interview will look to further get to know you better by assessing your strengths, motivations, and experiences. This may be conducted by a senior team member.

Check out our carefully curated tips below to help you pass your final EY video interview.

7 Top Tips to Pass Your EY Final Interview

1. Practice beforehand. Always practice your answers to some typical EY interview questions. This will help ensure your preparedness.
2. Tailor your answers to EY’s core values and showcase how your motivations align with the company and its culture.
3. Leverage your experience when giving your answers to the EY interview questions. Use the STAR+R model to properly incorporate your experience into your answers.
4. Keep your answers simple. The EY interviewers just want to get to know you better, regarding your strengths and experience and to assess how well you would fit in EY.
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 EY. This final interview is also your chance to ask any questions you may have.

Watch our short video below to discover questions you can ask in your EY final interview.

What are some common EY interview questions you can be asked at this stage? Let’s find out below.

EY Interview Questions and Answers

Some common EY interview questions you may be asked in your EY final interview are:

• Why would you like to work at EY?
• Tell me something about yourself.
• What do you hope to get out of a career at EY?
• Tell me a time when you worked in a team to achieve a common goal.
• Is there any situation wherein you had any conflict within the team or client and what happened?

Read on for an example answer to some of these EY interview questions below and a tip on how to answer.

Question 1: Why would you like to work at EY?

Good Answer: 

I would like to work at EY because it aligns perfectly with my career aspirations and personal values. EY’s commitment to integrity and respect resonates deeply with me, as I believe ethical practices and a collaborative work environment are crucial for success. 

I am particularly impressed by EY’s emphasis on continuous learning and professional development. Additionally, EY’s global presence and diverse range of clients excite me. The opportunity to work on international projects and learn from various industries aligns with my goal of gaining a broad and global perspective in my career.

Watch our short video below for tips on how to answer the ‘Tell me something about yourself’ EY interview question.

Question 2: Tell me a time when you worked in a team to achieve a common goal.

Good Answer:

And that is all you need to know about the EY recruitment process! Big thumbs up for sticking around till the end. If you pass the job application process, you will be contacted and given an offer letter.

However, before you go!

Check out some more bonus information about EY’s current student and graduate career opportunities!

5. EY Student and Graduate Schemes

What are the EY student and graduate schemes?

The EY student and graduate programs are career opportunities curated by EY for students and recent graduates to help them gain quality experience and kickstart their careers with the multinational company. These various opportunities are:

1. Graduate Programs
2. Undergraduate Programs
3. School Leaver Programs

Let’s find out what each of these EY opportunities offers.

EY Graduate Programs

What are the EY graduate programs?

The EY graduate programs aim to help you unleash your potential as a future leader. You will receive structured training and access to support and resources that will help develop you further. The EY graduate programs are:

• Assurance: In this EY graduate scheme, you will problem-solve your day job and develop solutions to put clients at ease. The roles in this program cut across financial Auditing and Advisory services.
• Consulting: This EY graduate program will allow you to realise business transformation through the power of people, technology and innovation. Roles here cut across business consulting, cyber security, actuarial, etc.
• Strategy and Transactions: This EY graduate scheme will see you advise clients on how to innovate and stay competitive through buying, selling or merging parts of their business. Roles in this program cuts across corporate finance and data analytics.
• Tax: In this program, you will get the chance to combine EY’s tax experience with innovative technology to help transform clients’ tax for the future. It includes roles such as tax technology and transformation, people advisory services, etc.

EY Graduate Programs Eligibility Criteria 

1. Education: Graduate or on track to earn an honours degree in any subject. A minimum of grade 4/C GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Maths, and, for some roles, three A-levels/Five Highers.
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required as applications are welcomed from recent graduates and final-year students with or without work experience.
3. Duration: EY graduate programs typically last between 2 to 5 years.
4. EY Graduate Application Process: The EY graduate application process follows the EY selection process we have covered in the text above, including the EY graduate assessments.

EY Undergraduate Programs

What are the EY undergraduate programs?

The EY undergraduate programs are flexible opportunities that will help prepare you for the world of work and invest in your future from day one. The EY undergraduate programs are:

• Discover EY: This two-day program will immerse you in exciting virtual and in-person events across the UK. You will meet business leaders and get the chance to explore career opportunities.
• EY Summer Internships: This EY undergraduate program offers a paid work experience to students where they will work on client projects, gain new skills and explore their interests. It lasts for four weeks.
• EY Industrial Placement: This EY undergraduate program offers a one-year paid experience to help you apply your knowledge and strengths to the working world and develop future skills. It is your opportunity to show us your passion, intuition and adaptability. 

EY Undergraduate Programs Eligibility Criteria 

1. Education: An undergraduate working towards an honours degree in any subject, a minimum of grade 4/C GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Maths and three A-levels/Five Highers (or equivalent).
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required as applications are welcomed from recent students with or without work experience.
3. EY Undergraduate Application Process: The EY undergraduate application process follows the EY hiring process we have covered in the text above.

EY School Leaver Programs

What are the EY school leaver programs?

The EY school leaver programs are for those thinking about their options after school. These programs include:

• EY Work Experience: This EY program will help you gain on-the-job experience that will help you decide if you’d prefer your career to start with a job position or at university.
• EY Apprenticeships: The EY apprenticeships allow you to earn as you work towards earning a professional qualification, and use your insights and skills to solve complex business challenges.

EY School Leaver Programs Eligibility Criteria 

1. Education: A minimum of grade 4/C GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Maths, and for some roles, must have completed three A-levels.
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required.
3. Duration: EY school leaver programs typically last between a few days to a few years with some programs lasting as long as 4 to 5 years.
4. EY Application Process: The EY application process for the school leavers program follows the EY recruitment process we have covered in the text above.

With that, we have covered all you’ll need to know about the EY selection process, online assessments, and graduate programs you could potentially apply to.

But wait!

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

6. EY Assessment Tests FAQs