HMRC Online Tests & Interviews 2024 Practice. A Full Guide.

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SUMMARY

Are you applying to the HMRC internships or graduate schemes? Are you exploring a professional job opportunity at HMRC? This comprehensive guide is for you.

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

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 HMRC recruitment process?

IN A NUTSHELL

How to prepare for HMRC aptitude tests and get the job?

1. Fill in Your HMRC Online Application
   • Fill in your HMRC online application.
   • Match your application to the HMRC values and success profile framework.
   • Use keywords from the job post in your resume.
   • Tailor the information you provide with the role’s competency needs.
2. Practice For HMRC Online Tests

HMRC uses a variety of aptitude assessment tests and may also include mechanical reasoning tests for some roles. These may include:

• Situational Judgement Tests
• Numerical Reasoning Tests
• Verbal Reasoning Tests

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

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

4. Prepare for the HMRC Assessment Centre Exercises

HMRC makes use of various competitive exercises during the assessment centre to find the right candidates. Ensure that you practice a variety of exercises including;

• Written Exercises
• Presentation Exercises
• Role-play Exercises
• Final Interview

Continue reading to get answers to the following important questions:

1. How do I apply for HMRC jobs?
2. What are the HMRC online tests?
3. What is the HMRC video interview?
4. How to pass the HMRC assessment centre?
5. How to prepare for the HMRC interview process?

To prepare for your HMRC online tests, simply click on the table below to practice tests relevant to the HMRC application process!

Let’s find out what’s to come in this complete guide:

Contents

1. Who is HMRC?
2. HMRC Online Application
3. HMRC Online Tests
4. HMRC Video Interview
5. HMRC Assessment Centre
6. HMRC Graduate Schemes
7. HMRC Online Tests FAQs

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

Who is HMRC?

His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, commonly known as HMRC, is the tax authority in the United Kingdom responsible for collecting taxes, enforcing tax laws, and administering various social and economic policies. HMRC is a non-ministerial department of the UK Government.

HMRC is one of the largest employers in the UK with over 63,000 employees. There is high competition for HMRC jobs, due to this, HMRC screens thousands of applicants every year to find and hire the best talents.

Discover the various areas you can apply to at the HMRC below.

Business Areas in the HMRC

What roles can I apply to in the HMRC?

As one of the UK’s largest employers, the HMRC offers a wide variety of roles you could apply to. Some of these roles are involved in areas such as:

How do you get a job at HMRC? The HMRC application process has different stages, which we cover in the following sections below. Read on to find out more!

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HMRC Online Application

How to get a job at HMRC?

The HMRC application process starts with an online application. Visit the UK’s civil service official job site and browse the current HMRC openings. When you find a role of your choice, you select it and click on apply.

While filling out the online application, you will be required to provide some or all the following information below:

• Eligibility
• Personal information 
• Contact information 
• CV
• Diversity e.g. race, ethnicity, etc.
• Additional information, e.g. disability information, right to work in the UK, etc.

What are HMRC Values?

HMRC has four key values that dictate its work environment. These values are;

1. Being your true self at work: Wants everyone to feel valued, supported and comfortable being their true self at work.
2. Diversity and inclusivity: Being open to everyone to learn more about and celebrate others.
3. Health and well-being: Taking care of physical and mental well-being to help increase creativity and job satisfaction.
4. Accommodating: Committed to creating a great place to work for all colleagues. 

Along with its four key values, HMRC also has five elements that it uses as its recruitment criteria known as the success profile framework. These elements are;

1. Behaviours: Activities and actions that show you are the best person for the role.
2. Strengths: Things you do well, regularly, and motivate you to help build a more rounded picture of yourself.
3. Experience: Display of knowledge and mastery of a specific work area.
4. Ability: Your current or future potential to carry out the skills needed for the role.
5. Technical: A key professional skill, knowledge or qualification relevant to the role.

For most HMRC roles, if your application is successful, you will move on to take some HMRC online tests. Read on to find out what it is about!

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HMRC Online Tests

What are the HMRC online tests?

The HMRC online assessments are psychometric tests that the civil service body may want to use to assess your fit, suitability and compatibility with the role you applied for. HMRC uses online tests to assess people fairly, consistently and transparently.

What do the HMRC tests measure?

The HMRC online tests are designed to evaluate your skills, knowledge, and abilities relevant to the positions you are applying for.

At this stage of the HMRC application process, you may be asked to complete one or more of the following online tests;

1. HMRC Situational Judgement Test
2. HMRC Numerical Reasoning Test
3. HMRC Verbal Reasoning Test

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

1. HMRC Situational Judgement Test

What is the HMRC situational judgement test?

The HMRC situational judgement test assesses decision-making and judgement in realistic work situations, evaluating typical work behaviour and preferences. It consists of two parts: the first assesses typical behaviour and preferences at work, and the second presents workplace scenario questions.

How long is the HMRC situational judgement test?

The HMRC situational judgement test is not timed but HMRC recommends taking about an hour to complete the test.Want to understand more about the

HMRC situational judgement test? Watch our short video below.

Below is an HMRC-style situational judgement test example question provided by our experts.

HMRC-style Situational Judgement Test Example

Below, we have curated a few handy tips to help you prepare adequately to pass your HMRC situational judgement test.

HOW TO PASS THE HMRC SITUATIONAL JUDGEMENT TEST

Top 6 Tips to Pass the HMRC Situational Judgement Test

1. Understand HMRC values and success profile framework. Align your responses with these values during the situational judgement test to demonstrate compatibility with the organisation’s culture.

2. Review the job description to identify key competencies and behaviours sought by HMRC. Tailor your responses to reflect these qualities, emphasising your suitability for the role.

3. Practice situational judgement tests that simulate HMRC’s test format to enhance your ability to respond effectively to the scenarios presented. HMRC also has a practice test available for applicants.

4. Pay close attention to the details of each scenario presented. Ensure you understand the context, the people involved, and the situation before making your judgement.

5. Evaluate the outcomes for each scenario. Consider the potential consequences and effectiveness of each choice. HMRC values individuals who can make sound and effective judgements.

6. Maintain consistency in your responses throughout the test by relating each question to HMRC values and expectations. This will help paint a better picture of your work behaviour and avoid contradictions in answers.

For more tips to help you nail your HMRC situational judgement test watch our short video below.

After the HMRC situational judgement test, another HMRC test you may be required to take is the HMRC numerical reasoning test.

2. HMRC Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the HMRC numerical reasoning test?

The HMRC numerical reasoning test assesses your ability to perform calculations and interpret numerical information to solve problems. This HMRC test will present you with questions relating to graphs, tables and other numerical information, followed by five possible answers.

How long is the HMRC numerical reasoning test?

The HMRC numerical test is not timed. However, most people take between 15 and 45 minutes to complete the test.

Check out the video to discover even more about how the HMRC numerical reasoning test works!

HOW TO PASS THE HMRC NUMERICAL REASONING TEST

Top 6 Tips to Pass the HMRC Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Familiarise yourself with the type of numerical data relevant to HMRC operations. This includes financial data and statistical information. Understanding the context will help enhance your problem-solving abilities.

2. Practice analysing and interpreting data from graphs and tables to extract key information efficiently as HMRC’s numerical reasoning test often involves. This will help you prepare for similar questions.

3. Practice numerical reasoning tests online for adequate preparation. HMRC also has a practice test available for applicants.

4. Review common tax calculations and ensure you’re comfortable with basic arithmetic, percentages, and currency conversions. HMRC is a tax body so expect calculations related to taxes.

5. Read the questions carefully. HMRC may include details that are crucial for interpreting the numerical data correctly. Ensure you understand what is being asked before attempting calculations.

6. Review all answer choices to ensure you haven’t overlooked any details before selecting your final answer. Careful consideration can help you make the most accurate choice.

For more hints on how to pass the HMRC numerical reasoning test, watch our short video below.

Using the tips we provided above and in the video, take the opportunity to try this HMRC-style numerical reasoning test question provided by our experts below!

HMRC-style Numerical Reasoning Question Example

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

After getting through the HMRC numerical reasoning test, you may also be asked to complete the HMRC verbal reasoning test.

3. HMRC Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the HMRC verbal reasoning test?

The HMRC verbal reasoning test measures your ability to identify relevant information and draw logical conclusions from written information. This HMRC test presents a passage, followed by a statement that you will decide if it’s ‘true,’ ‘false,’ or ‘cannot say’.

How long is the HMRC numerical reasoning test?

The HMRC verbal reasoning test is not timed. However, just like the numerical test, the estimated time for most people is between 15 and 45 minutes to complete the test.

In our short video below, we explain more about the HMRC verbal reasoning test.

HOW TO PASS THE HMRC VERBAL REASONING TEST

Top 6 Tips to Pass the HMRC Verbal Reasoning Test

Here are 6 important tips to help you pass the HMRC verbal reasoning test in one go.

1. Practice with tests similar to HMRC’s verbal reasoning test. HMRC also has a practice test available for applicants.

2. Familiarise yourself with HMRC’s values and success profiles. This context is crucial for interpreting written information effectively, ensuring that your responses align with the organisation’s ethics.

3. Pay close attention to the wording of passages and statements. HMRC requires precise interpretation given the nature of tax-related work, so be attentive in your analysis.

4. Analyse each statement objectively. Ignore biases and focus on the information presented. HMRC values individuals who can analyse information impartially and draw logical conclusions.

5. Familiarise yourself with tax-related terminology. This knowledge can aid in quicker comprehension of passages and increase your overall accuracy in evaluating statements related to tax matters.

6. Identify and prioritise relevant information within passages. HMRC verbal reasoning tests may include irrelevant details to test your ability to identify what is relevant.

For more tips on how to pass the HMRC verbal reasoning test, watch this short video:

Or, practice a free sample question similar to the HMRC verbal reasoning test questions below using the tips we provided above and in the video!

HMRC-style Verbal Reasoning Question Example

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

For some roles, if you are successful with the HMRC online tests, you will move on to take an HMRC video interview. Read more about this in the next section!

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HMRC Video Interview

What is the HMRC video interview?

The HMRC video interview is an online interview. The HMRC video interview can happen in two formats; it could be a face-to-face live video feed with an interviewer or a pre-recorded interview where you record answers to some pre-recorded questions.

What does the HMRC video interview measure?

The HMRC pre-recorded interview questions are used to get to know you, your skills, and your capabilities better. They will consist mainly of competency-based and behavioural questions.Our short video below explains further what the HMRC video interview is all about and how it is used.

HOW TO PASS THE HMRC VIDEO INTERVIEW?

7 Top Tips to Pass the HMRC Video Interview

1. Research HMRC and the role you applied for. Stay informed about recent developments and initiatives at HMRC. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and preparation.

2. Familiarise yourself with the HMRC key values. Align your responses with these values to demonstrate your compatibility with the agency.

3. Research potential questions and tailor your answers to reflect your suitability for the specific role you are applying for within the HMRC.

4. Structure your answers using the STAR+R method to give clear examples of your skills and achievements. This helps HMRC understand your capabilities.

5. Manage your time effectively if you are to take the pre-recorded interview. Aim to close your answers well without rushing them within the time limit.

6. Pay attention to your body language. Maintain eye contact with the camera and sit up straight. These non-verbal cues contribute to a positive impression.

7. Clearly articulate your thoughts and responses. Effective communication is crucial for roles at HMRC, where conveying information accurately is essential.

8. Dress professionally and maintain a formal demeanour. Treat the virtual interview with the same level of seriousness as an in-person meeting.

Watch our short video below for more body language tips you can learn and use during your HMRC video interview.

Use the tips above to practice the following HMRC video interview questions.

HMRC Interview Questions and Answers

Check out some commonly asked HMRC interview questions below:

1. Describe a situation where you managed a quality service.
2. Tell us about a time you achieved something you’re proud of.
3. Tell us about a time when you had to deliver something under a time restraint.
4. Explain a situation in which you had to make a difficult decision.
5. How do you tailor messages to a different audience?

Read on as we give example answers to a few of these HMRC video interview questions below including our top tips on how to answer them.

DESCRIBE A SITUATION WHERE YOU MANAGED A QUALITY SERVICE

Good Answer:

• Situation: In my previous role as a Tax Compliance Specialist at XYZ Corp, I improved our tax filing process to meet updated laws and standards. The historical process was time-consuming, error-prone, and lacked structure.

• Task: I led a cross-functional team to redesign the tax filing process, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. This included creating a checklist, implementing a review process, and providing comprehensive training.

• Action: I initiated a series of collaborative workshops to gather insights from team members, ensuring everyone’s expertise was considered. We implemented a new checklist that incorporated HMRC’s latest requirements and introduced a peer-review system to catch any discrepancies. Additionally, I organised training sessions to enhance our team’s understanding of the updated regulations and the importance of accurate submissions.

• Result: Through these initiatives, we reduced tax filing errors, improved efficiency, and met HMRC’s standards for seamless annual submissions. This strengthened compliance, enhancing our relationship as a reliable partner.

• Reflection: This experience underscored the need for proactive adaptation to regulatory changes and emphasised the value of team collaboration for robust solutions. It also highlighted the critical role of continuous training in maintaining compliance awareness, shaping my approach to ensure high-quality services and staying ahead in industry developments.

TELL US ABOUT A TIME YOU ACHIEVED SOMETHING YOU’RE PROUD OF.

Good Answer:

• Situation: In a prior role at ABC Consultancy, I faced a challenge as the client’s tax audit was at risk due to disorganised and incomplete documentation, posing penalty threats.

• Task: My task was to streamline the documentation process, identify missing information, and liaise with various departments to gather the required details within a tight timeframe.

• Action: I implemented a systematic approach, creating a checklist to track missing documents and collaborating with department heads to expedite the retrieval of necessary information. Additionally, I provided training sessions to relevant staff members on maintaining organised records to prevent future issues.

• Result: We successfully compiled audit documentation, identified process improvements, and ensured the client passed the tax audit without penalties. This showcased my ability to navigate challenges and foster compliance.

• Reflection: This achievement underscored the need for proactive compliance measures, emphasised cross-departmental collaboration, and showcased the positive impact of knowledge-sharing. Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, I’ve integrated these insights, ensuring a steadfast commitment to excellence in tax compliance and record-keeping.

If you are successful with your HMRC video interview, the next stage of the HMRC recruitment process you are likely to be invited for is the HMRC assessment centre.

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HMRC Assessment Centre

What is the HMRC assessment centre?

The HMRC assessment centre is the final stage of the HMRC hiring process. It typically involves you going through a full day of screening activities. The HMRC may take place at a physical branch office or virtually depending on the role.

What should I expect at the HMRC assessment centre?

At the HMRC assessment centre, you will complete a combination or all of the following exercises:

1. Written Exercise
2. Presentation
3. Role-play Exercise
4. Final Interview

Read on to understand what each of these activities entails, what they assess, and tips on how to pass them.

1. HMRC Written Exercise

What is the HMRC written exercise?

The HMRC written exercise will require you to create and write a detailed analysis, report, or recommendation of a situation, a case study or a typical work scenario that will be given to you in a brief with necessary information.

What does the HMRC written exercise measure?

The HMRC written exercise will assess your analytical skills, decision-making, written communication skills, attention to detail, planning and organisation skills.

Top 7 Tips to Pass the HMRC Written Exercise

1. Carefully read and understand the instructions provided in the brief. Be clear on the objectives of the written exercise and the specific requirements outlined.

2. Take time to thoroughly analyse the information given. Identify key details and any relevant patterns that can guide your analysis and recommendations.

3. Ensure that your analysis aligns with HMRC’s values. Demonstrate an understanding of HMRC’s ethics and culture.

4. Create a clear structure for your response before you start writing. Outline the main points to cover, ensuring a logical flow in your analysis and recommendations.

5. Focus on addressing the key issues presented in the scenario. Prioritise your analysis based on the significance of each issue to the overall situation.

6. Support your analysis with evidence from the information provided. Use examples to illustrate your points and demonstrate the practical application of your recommendations.

7. Review and edit your written response before submitting it. Check for clarity and any errors that may impact the effectiveness of your communication.

2. HMRC Presentation

What is the HMRC presentation?

The HMRC presentation exercise will require you to deliver a presentation on a given topic. The topic given to you may be relevant to HMRC and tax matters or may simply be based on the written exercise you have taken.

What does the HMRC presentation exercise measure?

This exercise will help the recruiters evaluate your understanding of HMRC and its operations as well as how well you process and relay new information. It will also allow the recruiters to assess your composure when explaining and analysing data to others.

Top 6 Tips to Pass the HMRC Presentation Exercise

1. Understand the purpose and objectives of the presentation. Clarify whether it’s about demonstrating your knowledge of the issue, and your problem-solving or communication skills.

2. Create a clear and logical structure for your presentation. Using a well-defined outline with an introduction, main points, and a conclusion ensures a smooth flow.

3. Consider the interests and knowledge level of your audience, which may include HMRC representatives or assessors. Tailor your content to engage and inform them effectively.

4. Make sure that you use all the provided information such as any reports and data to ensure that your presentation is accurate and informative. Be sure to use the necessary information in your written exercise if it is based on it.

5. Prepare for potential questions or discussions that may follow your presentation. Think about how to respond confidently and succinctly.

6. Convey confidence and professionalism. To get your message across effectively, make relaxed eye contact and display confident body language.

3. HMRC Role-play Exercise

What is the HMRC role-play exercise?

During the HMRC role-playing exercise you will be paired up with a member of the HMRC recruitment team to act out a typical scenario you could experience in the role. This exercise is mostly used by HMRC for customer service roles.

What does the HMRC role-play exercise measure?

The HMRC role-play exercise will measure your communication, interpersonal, negotiation, customer service, and team-playing skills.

7 Top Tips to Pass the HMRC Role-play Exercise

1. Remember the HMRC values. This will help you determine the best approach and decisions to make during the role-play exercise.

2. Understand the purpose of the role-play by reading the candidate brief carefully. By knowing the purpose and what is being assessed, you can approach the task appropriately.

3. Thoroughly review the scenario provided. Pay attention to your role, the context, and any specific instructions or constraints to help you align your actions and responses accurately.

4. Pay close attention to what your partner is saying and give clear responses. Demonstrate active listening and empathy for their views. This will greatly highlight your communication skills.

5. Consider the perspective and needs of your partner, as this is crucial to succeeding in this exercise. Think about their aims and how you can achieve these with them.

6. Address conflicts diplomatically and professionally if they arise, regardless of how aggressive your partner may appear. Your partner may simply be doing this to see how you respond.

7. Show initiative in driving the scenario forward. Be proactive in achieving your character’s goals.

4. HMRC Final Interview

What is the HMRC final interview?

The HMRC final interview will typically be the final activity of the HMRC assessment centre after candidates have been shortlisted through the other exercises. This HMRC final interview will be a face-to-face interview whether virtually or in person.

How long is the HMRC final interview?

The HMRC final interview may last between 45-60 minutes.

What does the HMRC final interview measure?

The HMRC final interview assesses your suitability for the job with competency-based and behavioural questions. You will also be asked some personal questions to assess your strengths and preferred style of working.

Some examples of HMRC interview questions you could be asked in your HMRC final interview are;

• Tell me about yourself.
• Tell us about your ability to work under pressure.
• Why do you want to work for HMRC?
• Can you give me an example of when you have delivered at pace?
• Describe a scenario where you have demonstrated the ‘working together’ competency.
• Have you had to prioritise your work, how did you do it?

Watch our short video below to get tips on how to answer the ‘Tell us about yourself’ HMRC interview question in your final interview.

7 Top Tips to Pass the Final HMRC Interview 

Consider the following 7 tips to answer questions effectively during your HMRC final interview.

1. Personalise your answers. Ensure that your answers are about you and how you align with HMRC 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 HMRC’s values. Consider what interests you about HMRC, its operations, guidelines, laws and standards.

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 your suitability for the role and fit for HMRC.

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

Below are some questions you might want to consider asking your interviewer in your HMRC 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 HMRC final interview with our short video below:

And….that’s a wrap on the HMRC recruitment process! If you are successful in the process, HMRC will contact you with their decision.

While you’re still here…Don’t miss the captivating range of entry roles and graduate programs that await you at HMRC.

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HMRC Graduate Schemes

HMRC offers early career opportunities that can help you effectively hone your skills and start building your career as a tax expert and professional. Below is the range of opportunities HMRC has made available for you to kickstart your career;

1. HMRC Graduate Program (Tax Professional)
2. HMRC Apprenticeships

With these programs, you can discover the perfect launching pad for your career in the tax climate. Let’s dive into them!

1. HMRC Graduate Programme (Tax Professional)

What is the HMRC Graduate Programme (Tax Professional)?

The HMRC tax specialist programme (TSP) pairs you with highly skilled tax professionals who tackle the most challenging aspects of tax work. You’ll gain valuable experience in resolving disputes, leading teams, engaging with senior business figures, and tackling complex tax issues. 

HMRC Graduate Programme (Tax Professional) Eligibility Criteria 

1. Education: This programme is open to recent graduates with a 2:2 degree or equivalent (level 6) or you expect to achieve one before the start of the program.
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required.
3. Duration: This programme lasts between 3 to 4 years.
4. Locations: UK
5. Application Deadline: Applications for the HMRC Tax Specialist Programme close in January.

2. HMRC Apprenticeships

What are the HMRC apprenticeships?

The HMRC apprenticeships are a fantastic way to learn while you earn, build valuable skills and gain a recognised qualification. The apprenticeships involve completing Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.

Apprentices also complete a work-based project, portfolio and final presentation.HMRC has two types of apprenticeships available for interested candidates and they are; fast-track apprenticeships and digital apprenticeships.

HMRC Apprenticeships Eligibility Criteria

1. Education: eligible candidates of any age but subject to the school leaving age.
2. Experience: No specific professional experience is required.
3. Duration: Takes up to 16 months to complete.
4. Locations: UK

And with that, we’ve covered all you’ll need to know about the HMRC online assessments, HMRC hiring process, and graduate schemes you could potentially apply to.

But wait!Before you start your HMRC application and assessments, explore our FAQ section below for even more answers about the HMRC recruitment process.

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HMRC Online Tests FAQs