Grant Thornton Candidate Assessments Tests, Digital Interviews, Assessment Centre. Full 2024 Guide.

Reading time: 22 minutes

SUMMARY

Looking to apply to a Grant Thornton trainee scheme or a more experienced jobseeker aiming for a new career? Discover our top tips to get ahead in your Grant Thornton application and ace your assessments, interviews and more. 

The text below provides a full candidate recruitment, assessment and preparation guide and practice for those applying to Grant Thornton in the US and UK.

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

 Not sure if you should practice to prepare for Grant Thornton assessments? According to research, 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude tests results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

IN A NUTSHELL

How to prepare for the Grant Thornton assessment process and tests to get the job?

1. Complete your Grant Thornton Online Application

• Fill in your Grant Thornton application online
• Answer each of the questions honestly and apply as early as possible
• Match your application to Grant Thornton’s core values
• Use language from the job post in your resume and application.

2. Practice for the Grant Thornton Online Assessment Test

The Grant Thornton test uses a variety of aptitude assessment questions. These include:

• Numerical Reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning
• Situational Judgement
• Critical Reasoning

You may get rejected already after this assessment. These tests sift out 50-80% candidates at this stage. The only proven way to get to the next round is practice.

3. Record mock video interviews of yourself

Practice answering questions that typically come up in interviews for accounting and consulting jobs. Your answers should flow and be timely. Avoid filler words. Your verbal communication should be convincing, with content that presents you in the best way for the job. For Grant Thornton HireVue interview practice, use:

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

Our video interview practice platform contains predefined competency and industry questions for accountancy and consulting. Always record your answers and watch them to develop your interview technique, timekeeping and words used. Repeat recordings until you feel satisfied.

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

4. Prepare for the Grant Thornton Assessment Centre exercises

Grant Thornton 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:

• Written Case Studies
• Group Exercises

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

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

5. Final Interview

Prepare for your one-on-one final interview(s) with a senior manager(s) from Grant Thornton. Keep up the good work, as they are looking for the best talent. They likely will have interviewed dozens or hundreds of candidates at this final stage.

Hone your technique for your final Grant Thornton interview to showcase your:

• deep knowledge 
• understanding of the role
• business acumen
• passion
• critical thinking and ability to think on your feet

For this final interview, use the video interview platform and record yourself answering the accountancy and consulting questions using the STAR+R technique.

Continue reading to get answers to critical questions:

1. What is the Grant Thornton interview process?
2. What are the values of Grant Thornton?
3. How to prepare for Grant Thornton assessments?
4. How to prepare for a Grant Thornton interview?

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

Before we dive in, let’s check out what’s to come in the guide.

Contents

1. Who is Grant Thornton?
2. Grant Thornton Online Application
3. Grant Thornton Online Assessments
4. Grant Thornton Digital Interview
5. Grant Thornton Assessment Centre
6. Grant Thornton Final Interview
7. Grant Thornton Trainee Careers
8. Grant Thornton FAQs

Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Who is Grant Thornton?

Grant Thornton is a leading global company offering auditing, tax services, and business advice. Established in 1924, they have become one of the world’s largest accounting networks. They work with diverse clients, including private businesses and nonprofits, building strong relationships and providing innovative solutions. 

Grant Thornton prioritises diversity, teamwork, and employee satisfaction, earning trust as trusted experts in accounting and business consulting.

Understanding these skills and the company values is crucial for you to ace the application and interview rounds. Let’s check out these values below.

Grant Thornton Values

What are Grant Thornton’s values?

Grant Thornton is a values-driven organisation where its people are deeply committed to upholding these principles. The company embraces six core values, known as CLEARR values. These are:

1. Collaboration: Grant Thornton believes in teamwork, where people help and support each other to achieve shared goals.

2. Leadership: The company values brave leaders who motivate others, creating an environment where everyone can reach their full potential.

3. Excellence: Grant Thornton always looks for ways to get better, challenging the norm and finding superior solutions to exceed client expectations.

4. Agility: The company embraces change, encouraging employees to think broadly and act quickly when faced with new situations.

5. Respect: Grant Thornton promotes listening, understanding, and honesty, valuing different perspectives and building sincere relationships.

6. Responsibility: Employees are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and use their influence wisely.

Without further ado, let’s dive right into the Grant Thornton application process, starting with the online application.

Back to Contents

Grant Thornton Online Application

The Grant Thornton online application is your first chance to set a good impression and stand out from your competition. Apply as early as possible, as applications are often reviewed on a rolling basis. This can increase your chances of progression to the next stage.

During your online application, you will be required to provide the following information: 

• Personal Information
• Work Experience
• Education and Qualifications
• Resume/CV and Cover Letter
• Motivational Questions
• Skills and Competencies
• References

Once you’ve impressed in your online application, you will be invited to take the online assessment. Keep reading to find out more!

Back to Contents

Grant Thornton Online Assessment

What is the Grant Thornton assessment?

The Grant Thornton online test was developed with Cappfinity. The test records and evaluates strengths through your reactions, feelings, and behaviours with scenario-based questions. Additionally, you will answer technical questions based on a case study to assess your verbal and numerical skills.

The test typically lasts for 30 minutes, and can include up to 30 questions. During this assessment, you will be assessed using:

• Grant Thornton Situational Judgement Test Questions
• Grant Thornton Numerical Reasoning Test Questions
• Grant Thornton Verbal Reasoning Test Questions
• Grant Thornton Critical Reasoning Test Questions

Let’s dive into each of these question types below, starting with the situational judgement questions.

Grant Thornton Situational Judgement Test Questions

What is the Grant Thornton situational assessment?

The Grant Thornton situational judgement test questions evaluate how you handle work-related scenarios. It consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your decision-making skills and judgement in various situations. 

Gain key insights about Grant Thornton Situational Judgment Tests with our quick video: 

How to Pass Grant Thornton Situational Judgement Test Questions

Here are our top five tips to pass the situational-based questions in your Grant Thornton strengths assessment:

1. Practice situational judgement tests to get familiar with the format of the tests and the various situations that are most commonly used. 

2. Read books and articles on competencies and behaviours. Consider what makes one behaviour more effective than another for a competency.

3. Consider Grant Thornton’s values and culture to gain an understanding of how they may approach the practice scenarios. 

4. Research the role through the job description to further help understand the requirements and Grant Thornton’s preferred competencies taken on the job. 

5. Ask experienced professionals how they would approach a practice situation. Challenge their thinking to improve your own understanding.

Take a sneak peak with our example of how a Grant Thornton situational judgement test may look like: 

Grant Thornton-style Situational Strengths Test Question Example

Keep reading as we cover another key question type in the Grant Thornton test: the numerical questions.

Grant Thornton Numerical Reasoning Test Questions

What is the Grant Thornton numerical reasoning test?

The Grant Thornton numerical reasoning test questions measure your ability to work with numbers accurately and efficiently. It includes questions that assess your understanding of numerical concepts, data interpretation, financial analysis, ratios, percentages, and more. 

Discover more about numerical tests and how employers such as Grant Thornton use these to assess you in this short video:

How to Pass the Grant Thornton Numerical Reasoning Test Questions

Here are our five top tips to pass the Grant Thornton numerical test questions:

1. Practice numerical reasoning tests to get familiar with the types of questions used and the skills assessed.

2. Refresh basic maths such as arithmetic, percentages, ratios, and currency conversion.

3. Time yourself during practice tests to help develop your speed and accuracy when answering Grant Thornton aptitude test questions.

4. Ensure you are organised before the test. Bring a calculator, a pen and a notepad to make calculations during the assessment questions.

5. Find a balance between speed and accuracy. Avoid rushing through the questions as you may lose out on accuracy.

Grant Thornton-style Numerical Reasoning Question Example

Solved it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer.

For even more Grant Thornton numerical practice, check out the following video for in-depth numerical question practice with 5 worked solutions:

Now, let us move ahead with another key test question type in the Grant Thornton test, the verbal reasoning questions.

Grant Thornton Verbal Reasoning Test Questions

What is the Grant Thornton verbal reasoning test?

The Grant Thornton verbal reasoning questions assess your ability to comprehend written information and draw logical conclusions. It includes passages or statements followed by questions to test your understanding, reasoning, and language skills.

Discover more about your Grant Thornton verbal test and what to expect with our quick verbal reasoning test overview video:

Top 5 Tips to Pass the Grant Thornton Verbal Reasoning Test Questions

Here are our five top tips to pass the verbal reasoning questions in the Grant Thornton assessment:

1. Practice reading different types of texts such as broadsheet newspapers and scientific magazines to improve your reading speed and comprehension by.

2. Expand your vocabulary each day and strengthen your understanding of grammar and sentence structure by reading.

3. Practice timed tests to familiarise yourself with the format and the answer options provided.

4. Get plenty of rest the night before to ensure your brain is running at its best so that you can concentrate.

5. Pay attention to the details provided in the passages. Answer only using this provided information, and avoid using any external knowledge.

Grant Thornton-style Verbal Reasoning Test Question Example

Solved it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer.

You may also be required to complete some critical reasoning questions as part of your Grant Thornton online test.

Grant Thornton Critical Reasoning Test Questions

What is the Grant Thornton critical test?

The Grant Thornton critical reasoning questions evaluate your ability to analyse information and make objective decisions. It measures your problem-solving and critical thinking skills through a series of questions.

What will the Grant Thornton critical reasoning test involve?

During this section of the Grant Thornton online assessment, you may be required to complete the following tasks:

• Does/Doesn’t Follow: Decide whether each of 4 conclusions follows or does not follow the statement

• Reasonable Doubt: Determine whether 4 conclusions logically follow a statement beyond a reasonable doubt

• Strong/Weak Points: Work out whether each of the following 4 arguments have weak or strong points related to a question 

• Truth Statements: Determine whether the 4 conclusions are True, Probably True, Can’t Say, Probably False, False based on the provided statement

• Assumptions: Figure out whether the 4 statements are assumptions or not based on the provided text passage

How to Pass the Grant Thornton Critical Reasoning Test Questions

Here are our top five tips to pass the Grant Thornton critical reasoning test questions:

1. Use only the provided information: avoid using any external knowledge or attitudes during this test unless you are otherwise instructed to do so.

2. Approach each argument individually: for your Grant Thornton critical thinking test, consider each of the conclusions or argument separately.

3. Read Carefully: ensure to read through the statements and each of the conclusions carefully before attempting each question.

4. Manage your time: to ensure you have enough time to reason with each question, spread the time limit evenly across each question.

5. Approach each question in the Truth Statements section with the assumption that the passage provided is true.

Once you’ve aced your tests, you’ll be invited to an interview. Want to know what Grant Thornton digital interviews are like? Let us head together to the next section to learn more!

Back to Contents

Grant Thornton Digital Interview

What is the Grant Thornton digital interview?

The Grant Thornton digital interviews are provided by HireVue and require you to answer pre-recorded questions within a 2-3 minute time limit. You will also have 1 minute of preparation time. Depending on the role you have applied to, you may be answering competency or strength based questions.

Discover more about digital or video interviews with our 1-minute video guide:

How to Ace the Grant Thornton Video Interview

Increase your chances of success in the Grant Thornton video interview with our top 7 tips: 

1. Familiarise yourself with the technology: Ensure you have the necessary software or platform installed and test your audio and video settings in advance. Familiarise yourself with the platform’s features to navigate smoothly during the interview.

2. Dress professionally: Treat the video interview as you would an in-person one. Dress in professional attire to make a positive impression and show your seriousness about the opportunity.

3. Prepare your environment: Find a quiet, well-lit space for the interview. Remove any potential distractions, ensure a neutral background, and test the lighting to ensure you are clearly visible.

4. Practice common interview questions: Research common interview questions and practice your responses. Prepare examples that demonstrate your skills, experiences, and achievements relevant to the role. Use the STAR+R method to structure your answers effectively.

5. Research the company: Gain a solid understanding of Grant Thornton’s values, culture, and services. This will enable you to tailor your answers and showcase your alignment with their objectives and aims.

6. Be mindful of non-verbal communication: Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera, sitting up straight, and speaking clearly. Use positive body language such as subtle hand gestures to show engagement and enthusiasm.

7. Close your answers properly: You’ll only have up to 3 minutes to answer each question, so make it count. Return back to the question at the end of your response to avoid finishing your answer abruptly. 

EXAMPLE GRANT THORNTON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

For answering this super common Grant Thornton interview question, we recommend using the SEAT format:

• Skills – Discuss the skills you have which are relevant to the role 
• Experience – Briefly cover the experiences you’ve had in the field you are applying for
• Achievements – Here you can summarise your relevant academic and professional achievements
• Type of person – Discuss your hobbies and interests. Consider how these can relate back to the job.

Discover more tips on how to answer this commonly used Grant Thornton digital interview question with our quick video below: 

Example Answer: 

• Situation: In my previous role as a marketing intern, our team had to deliver a comprehensive marketing campaign within two weeks, which involved creating content, designing visuals, and executing various promotional activities.

• Task: Therefore I had to effectively manage our time and resources to ensure the project was completed on schedule while maintaining the high quality expected by our clients.

• Action: I first conducted a thorough assessment of the project requirements and created a detailed project plan outlining all the necessary tasks and their dependencies. Next, I prioritised the team’s tasks based on their urgency and importance and then broke down the larger tasks into smaller ones. To manage the workload efficiently, I delegated each of these tasks to the team based on their skills and expertise.

• Result: As a result, despite the tight deadline, we were able to produce a high-quality marketing campaign that exceeded our client’s expectations. The success of the project was due to meticulous planning, effective work distribution, and open communication among the team.

• Reflection: I recognise the importance of assessing task urgency and importance, breaking down tasks, and effective time management. I will continue refining these skills to enhance productivity and meet deadlines consistently.

Example Answer:

• Situation: During my previous role working with a team of retail assistants, there was a situation where the team leader and a few members of the team had a disagreement over the schedule list for next week.

• Task: We needed to resolve the conflict and find a solution that would be beneficial for all parties and the schedule as quickly as possible.

• Action: I approached the team leader and discussed the key concerns for each team member and why the schedule didn’t work for them. We worked together to find a compromise for the schedule that worked for each team member and let the team know.

• Result: As a result, the schedule was quickly organised and each team member was satisfied with the new rotations. 

• Reflect: I found this experience useful to prevent similar conflicts in the future by implementing better communication and collaboration strategies within the team.

After you’ve impressed in your online interview, you will shortly be invited to the Grant Thornton assessment centre. Keep on reading to discover more! 

Back to Contents

Grant Thornton Assessment Centre

What to expect in the Grant Thornton Assessment Centre?

The Grant Thornton Assessment Centre is a comprehensive evaluation process that assesses you through various exercises and activities. It provides an opportunity for you to demonstrate your skills, knowledge, and suitability for the role, while showcasing compatibility with Grant Thornton’s values and culture. 

What will the Grant Thornton Assessment Centre involve?

The Grant Thornton assessment centre typically includes a:

• Grant Thornton Written Case Study Round
• Grant Thornton Group Exercise

Grant Thornton Written Case Study Round

What is the Grant Thornton written case study?

The Grant Thornton case study assessment evaluates your written communication, analytical skills, critical reasoning, and written language. The stage takes 22 minutes and requires a computer or laptop to review data and write a mini report.

Keep reading to discover our top tips to pass the Grant Thornton case study exercise:

7 Quick Tips to Pass the Grant Thornton Case Study Exercise

1. Read the provided information carefully before you begin the exercise to understand what is required of you.

2. Allocate sufficient time across each task to ensure you complete the case study within the given time limit.

3. Use a notepad and pen during the written exercise to write down notes on the key information from the provided data.

4. Minimise distractions. Turn off or put your mobile phone on silent and take the exercise in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed.

5. Manage time effectively to cover all elements of the task, including reviewing, note-taking, writing, and final review.

6. Address the question(s) directly at the end of the report with clear explanations for any decisions  you have made.

7. Tailor your approach to the intended audience in the case study, considering the most appropriate language and structure for the stakeholders.

Grant Thornton Group Exercise

What is the Grant Thornton group exercise?

The Grant Thornton virtual group exercise is the second-to-last stage of the application process. This exercise helps evaluate work style, teamwork, collaboration, and idea-sharing skills. It’s important to listen actively, understand requirements, and support teammates. 

• Maintain professionalism even in a virtual setting; your behaviour should align with a professional environment.
• Choose a suitable location for the exercise to minimise potential distractions.
• Value active listening and considerate interaction with others; we assess not only individual performance but also collaboration skills.

Uncover more about group exercises and how Grant Thornton use these during assessment centres to hire the right candidates with our video below:

Once you have aced your assessment centre exercises, you will be invited to the final interview round of Grant Thornton.

Back to Contents

Grant Thornton Final Interview

What is the final Grant Thornton interview?

The final Grant Thornton interview is online and involves a more informal environment. Typically, a senior team member or company representative will conduct the interview, asking more in-depth questions about your experiences, skills, motivations and fit within the organisation.

Our Top 3 Tips to Ace Your Grant Thornton Final Interview

1. Show enthusiasm and passion: Demonstrate genuine interest in the role and company. Share your excitement and highlight why you are particularly drawn to the opportunity.

2. Showcase your cultural fit: Emphasise how your values, work style, and personality align with the company’s culture. Highlight examples of how you have successfully integrated into similar environments in the past.

3. Prepare thoughtful questions: Take the opportunity to ask insightful questions about the role, team dynamics, company culture, or any other relevant topics. It showcases your engagement and helps you gather essential information to make an informed decision.

Want to know the probable questions that may be asked in your final interview? With our Question Identifier Tool, learn A-Z about what recruiters ask on a final interview and how to prepare for them. 

Once the interview is passed and you have aced the Grant Thornton application process, you will receive an offer shortly after. 

But wait, before you go!

Check out the current and upcoming early careers programmes that are available in Grant Thornton below.

Back to Contents

Grant Thornton Trainee Careers

Grant Thornton offers a range of comprehensive programmes, including apprenticeships, internships, and graduate schemes. These programmes provide valuable opportunities for individuals to develop their skills, gain practical experience, and embark on rewarding careers in various fields within the organisation.

The key Grant Thornton trainee areas you can apply to include:

• Grant Thornton Graduate Programmes
• Grant Thornton Apprenticeship Programmes
• Grant Thornton Internship Programmes
• Other Opportunities

Grant Thornton Graduate Programmes

Grant Thornton’s graduate scheme empower recent university graduates to kickstart their professional services careers. These programs deliver structured training, professional growth and hands-on experience in diverse departments and locations, laying the groundwork for a successful career. 

As a Grant Thornton graduate, you’ll acquire valuable skills, study for exams, engage with a variety of organisations, and receive qualification support, paid study leave, and ongoing development check-ins to become a well-rounded business advisor.

Graduate Program key areas: Audit Scheme, Tax Scheme, and Advisory Scheme.

Graduate Programme Eligibility Criteria:

• Duration: 4-5 Years 
• Locations: Various locations across the UK (27 offices), and US (59 offices).
• Eligibility: Flexible academic entry requirements (minimum degree classification)

Grant Thornton Apprenticeship Programmes

Grant Thornton’s apprenticeship programs offer practical work experience while pursuing a professional qualification. Over five years, you’ll combine studying and skill development with real-world exposure to diverse organisations. Grant Thornton supports your growth as a versatile business advisor with exam coverage, paid study leave, and regular check-ins.

Apprenticeship key areas: Audit Scheme, Tax Scheme, and Advisory Scheme.

Apprenticeship Programme Eligibility Criteria

• Duration: 4-5 Years 
• Locations: Various locations across the UK (27 offices), and US (59 offices).
• Eligibility: Completion of secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent qualification).

Grant Thornton Internship Programmes

The Grant Thornton internships offer valuable professional services experience with hands-on learning and exposure to real projects. As an intern, you’ll work with clients, refine your skills, and engage with organisations across a variety of sectors. Many interns secure a fast-track to a full-time trainee role during the programme.

Internship key areas: Audit Scheme, Tax Scheme, and Advisory Scheme.

Internship Programme Eligibility Criteria:

• Locations: Various locations across the UK (27 offices), and US (59 offices).
• Eligibility: Typically open to students pursuing a relevant degree or qualification in accounting, finance, economics, business or related field.

Other Opportunities at Grant Thornton

Grant Thornton also offers other opportunities, including 12-month placements and work experience programs. Here is a brief overview of these options:

12-Month Placements:

• These placements provide students with the opportunity to work with Grant Thornton on a full-time basis for a duration of 12 months.
• The placements are available in various departments and locations, allowing students to gain valuable work experience in their chosen field.

Work Experience Opportunities:

• Grant Thornton offers work experience programs designed to provide students with insights into the professional services industry and the firm’s operations.
• These programs are typically shorter in duration compared to internships or placements and may range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
• Work experience opportunities may be available in different departments and locations, allowing participants to explore their interests and gain exposure to real-world work scenarios.

If you still have more questions about the Grant Thornton recruitment process, below are our answers to top questions about your upcoming Grant Thornton assessments.

Grant Thornton Assessment FAQs