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Looking for practice tests to practice for the KPMG recruitment process? Or looking for tips to pass the KPMG assessment centre? Read on for the ultimate guide to accelerate your KPMG online assessment practice.
In this in-depth guide, we will provide you with a full candidate recruitment, assessment, and preparation guide and practice for those applying to jobs, internships, and graduate programs available in the UK, US, and around the globe at KPMG.
Our website provides scientifically validated practice game-based assessments, assessment tests, interview simulations, and assessment centre exercises that can be used to practice and prepare for the recruitment and assessment process.
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Wondering if you should practice for the KPMG assessment process? According to research, 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.
A recent study found that candidates who do not practise assessments, tend to fail at the first hurdle of psychometric assessments (54%-84%). This study looked at the Top 100 global employers. Bradley et al (2019)
A recent study found that candidates who do not practise assessments, tend to fail at the first hurdle of psychometric assessments (54%-84%). This study looked at the Top 100 global employers.
Bradley et al (2019)
In a nutshell:
KPMG uses a variety of aptitude tests for its recruitment which are divided into two stages, i.e., the KPMG Transforming Small Business assessment and the KPMG Delivering Outcome assessment. These may include:
Practice for video responses for the KPMG Delivering Outcomes assessment. To practice for this KPMG assessment, use:
You may get rejected already after your KPMG psychometric tests. These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates. The only proven way to get to the next round is practice.
You may also have to sit through the KPMG Virtual Launch Pad, which also takes the place of the KPMG assessment centre and is generally a virtual stage of assessment. KPMG uses a range of exercises in its assessment centre such as:
Hone your written and spoken communication techniques. Research online, prepare and practice presentation of as many business case studies as possible for these KPMG assessments.
For your final interview, use the video interview platform and record yourself answering the consultancy questions.
Looking into assessments with KPMG, simply click on the table below to practice assessments relevant to your assessment process!
Save and practice all the above assessments for your KPMG application with our Go Premium package.
These are the steps to landing a job at KPMG in a nutshell. Now let’s dive into the details properly as we uncover everything you need to know about the KPMG recruitment process.
But before that, let’s know more about KPMG.
KPMG is ranked among the Big Four accounting firms in the world. The finance giant boasts a network of firms across 146 countries around the world. KPMG mainly offers financial audit, tax, and advisory services and generates an aggregated revenue of USD 35 billion.
Good to know: According to some sources, KPMG received around 50,000 internship applications in the United States alone for 3900 roles. This means out of the total applicants only 8% were selected.
But what job applications are available at KPMG where applicants such as yourself apply? Let’s see some of these KPMG job areas.
The various job functions that KPMG has to offer are:
To apply to these KPMG jobs and ace your KPMG assessment process, you must most importantly be familiar with the company’s values. Let’s take a look at KPMG values below.
The core values of KPMG are:
Integrity:
KPMG values doing the right thing and expects its employees to value the same.
Excellence:
KPMG believes in continuous growth and learning to achieve excellent results.
Courage:
KPMG values taking bold action towards achieving the set goals and that’s why they value employees who are courageous enough to do the same.
Together:
KPMG values teamwork and hence lays focus on removing differences to achieve togetherness.
For Better:
KPMG believes in doing what matters.
You need much more information than this to ace your KPMG hiring process. Here are some pointers to research KPMG.
Here are a few tips that will help you research all about KPMG and go to your KPMG interview and assessments fully prepared.
Now that you know all about KPMG, let’s discuss the KPMG recruitment process in detail starting with the KPMG application.
The KPMG online application requires you to fill in basic information about yourself, such as your background, your education, and your experience. Before you begin your application, consider whether you align with the key KPMG competencies.
The important KPMG competencies for which their recruiters are on the lookout for in each candidate include:
It will be crucial to consider these in your KPMG application, as well as throughout the hiring process.
KPMG Application FormSource: KPMG Careers
Good To Know: Make sure to provide any relevant work experience or past professional qualifications that might help your application. Your application form will be assessed against the entry requirements, and you can only apply to work at KPMG once every application cycle.
Check out our video below to discover our top tips to prepare for your KPMG application:
Ensure you give accurate details and try to demonstrate your suitability for the role during your KPMG application process to make it to the next stage of the recruitment process: the KPMG online tests.
The KPMG online assessments are provided by Cappfinity and are unique compared to more standard aptitude tests that are used by other employers. These KPMG aptitude tests have a time limit of 60-90 minutes and can be completed remotely online within 5 days of receiving such an invite.
You will be assessed in 2 rounds, which are given as follows:
Good To Know: Depending on the job role, you will be required to sit for another KPMG online test, i.e., the KPMG Critical Thinker Test. The details of this test are provided further in this text.
Let’s discuss each of these KPMG assessment stages in detail below, starting with the KPMG Transforming Small Business assessment.
The KPMG Transforming Small Business online assessment is a key stage of your KPMG online assessment which aims to assess you on the basis of your cognitive abilities through a series of aptitude tests. Depending on the job role you will be required to take the following types of questions:
Let’s discuss what you should expect during your KPMG Transforming Small Business assessment.
The KPMG situational judgement test questions form a part of both the KPMG Transforming Small Businesses assessment as well as the KPMG Delivering Outcomes Online Assessment. During this, you will be provided scenarios related to your role and you have to respond to scenarios with the information you have been given.
Good to know: At the KPMG small business assessment you will be provided with information in the form of videos, articles, emails, podcasts, and voicemails, which you are expected to use to help you answer a range of questions.
Watch the following video to find out more about what your KPMG situational judgement test entails:
The Recruiters suggest that the KPMG small business assessment including the delivering outcome assessment would take around 90 minutes to finish, and it is advisable to complete it in one sitting. You must complete the test within five calendar days.
To help you start your preparation for the KPMG situational judgement test, we have listed the following tips.
In addition to the above KPMG psychometric assessment, you will also be assessed based on your numerical reasoning skills, for which you will be required to take the KPMG numerical test questions .
The KPMG numerical reasoning test generally forms part of both the rounds of KPMG aptitude test rounds. During this KPMG assessment, you will be asked to solve mathematical problems and make logical deductions from the information provided.
The various qualities assessed by the KPMG numerical reasoning test are:
Check out this short video for more insight on your KPMG numerical reasoning test questions.
To help you prepare for the KPMG numerical reasoning test, we have listed the following tips.
KPMG Numerical Reasoning Question Example
Got it right? Check the bottom of the page for the correct answer!
After completing the assessment, KPMG will provide a strength report that will highlight your top strengths and areas where you need improvement, along with tips to help you.
Want to practice more such numerical reasoning tests? We have got you covered with our numerical reasoning test questions to help you practice for the real KPMG test.
Another important KPMG assessment is the KPMG Delivering Outcomes online assessment. Read on to find out more
The KPMG Delivering Outcomes online assessment requires you to give video responses to various questions related to a series of KPMG aptitude tests. These aptitude tests may consist of questions related to numerical reasoning or situational judgement questions similar to KPMG Transforming Small Business assessment.
Good To Know: You will be required to answer 40 questions during the KPMG Delivering Outcomes assessment. These questions shall be related to numerical reasoning, situational judgement tests and can include video response questions.
To help you prepare for your upcoming KPMG Delivering Outcomes assessment video responses, we have listed the following tips.
Prepare for your video questions commonly used by KPMG by practicing your spoken communication skills using our Practice Video Interviewing Platform.
In some cases, depending on the program you have applied for, KPMG will invite you to sit its “Critical Thinker Test” to conclude the online assessment stage.
The KPMG Critical Thinker Test stage does have a time limit of 30 minutes. This assessment will be an online meeting on Microsoft Teams along with other applicants. With your audio muted, you will be required to answer 10 numerical reasoning questions from two sections.
Next, let us discuss another key assessment stage of the KPMG recruitment process, i.e., the KPMG Virtual Launchpad.
The KPMG Virtual Launch Pad or KPMG assessment centre is the final assessment stage and another opportunity for you to stand out. Depending on the scheme you’ve applied for, you may be assessed through:
Let’s check out what to expect in each of these activities below.
The KPMG group assessment consists of 50 to 80 people. You will be assigned briefs and assignments to perform in small groups of 5-8 people. You will have about 3-5 minutes to jot down your points and later present them in front of the group.
For this KPMG assessment test try to demonstrate both teamwork and leadership skills in your responses and interactions with your teammates. For more tips on how to pass the KPMG group exercise, see the list of expert tips and tricks below.
Want more tips on how to pass the KPMG group assessment? Watch the following short video to understand everything.
Some topics in the KPMG Group Exercise that some candidates have encountered in the past include:
Get ahead in your KPMG group exercise by practicing with our group study exercises to uncover how top employers such as KPMG assess you through group exercises and written exercises and gain professional tips to improve your performance against competencies.
Another key assessment that you may face during the KPMG Launch Pad, is the KPMG analytical exercise. Read on to find out more.
The KPMG Analytical Exercise seeks to evaluate your analytical skills. You will be given a brief and asked to write an analytical report providing detailed recommendations on profitability with specific actions and also highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
Good To Know: At this KPMG assessment you may also be asked to respond to a previously unseen case study or to write emails. It could be you emailing a client regarding the delay in project delivery or your manager about the challenges in a project.
Wondering how to pass the KPMG analytical exercise? Read on to find our expert tips that can help you prepare for your upcoming KPMG analytical exercise better.
Next, let’s discuss another important KPMG assessment centre exercise, i.e., the KPMG case study exercise.
The KPMG case study or written exercise typically refers to an assessment given to candidates, that will be based on a business scenario or a problem to analyze. This exercise assesses candidates’ ability to think critically, analyze information, make decisions, and communicate effectively.
To help you prepare and practice for your upcoming KPMG case study, we have listed the following tips below.
The last stage of your KPMG recruitment process is the KPMG partner interview. Read on to find more details about this.
The KPMG partner interview segment allows you to meet with a member of the KPMG recruitment team who will ask you a range of questions in line with important KPMG values. These questions may be behavioural, motivational, or strength-based.
Refine your interview skills to showcase your:
The style of this interview is generally conversational and aims to know your work behaviours, knowledge and if you fit to the culture of KPMG. However, some key tips you must remember are given below.
As you keep the above tips in mind, here are some questions you may be asked, along with some example good responses.
Tip to Answer: For this question, you need to focus your reply on KPMG’s reputation and values, and how these are essential for your career aspirations.
Good Answer:
One reason I choose KPMG is because I find its reputation as one of the world’s leading global professional services firms truly impressive. KPMG has demonstrated its commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, which resonates with my principles and career aspirations.
Check out this short video for more tips on how to answer questions like this.
Tip to Answer: For your answer, you should cover the main areas of research you have taken and provide examples to help provide evidence, such as recent news articles or journals in the area of your job interest.
I consistently follow reputable financial news platforms like The Wall Street Journal and the Financial Times to stay in touch with global business trends. For example, the FT’s recent article about the effects of inflation on small businesses in Europe was interesting to apply my own knowledge too. I also attend industry conferences, webinars, and seminars to stay informed about emerging business trends and developments.
Tip to Answer: You can use the STAR+R technique to answer this question. Focus on a scenario from your experience that included a positive result from your approach to the challenge.
Situation:
In my former role, I was overseeing a team on a tight deadline to complete a challenging project.
Task:
However, we also encountered technical problems that threatened to stall the project.
Action:
To fix the issue, I quickly set up a meeting with the team to brainstorm solutions to resolve the problem. We were able to gather feasible solutions, delegated responsibilities across the team for the next steps and managed to resolve the technical issues we were facing.
Result:
Due to our quick meeting, we were able to complete and deliver the project before the deadline.
Reflect:
Looking back, I would say teamwork is a valuable skill for projects with tight deadlines, and it is important to have a good rapport with your colleagues. This allows us to work effectively and efficiently through strong communication and team working.
Want to practice for your upcoming KPMG partner interviews? GF has got you covered.
This is also a great opportunity for you to further demonstrate interest in the role by asking the interviewer your own questions about the job to find out more about the company’s expectations.
Discover our top 5 best questions to ask in your KPMG interview from this short video below:
The KPMG Virtual Launch Pad is the last stage of assessment. If you are successful, you will be hired at KPMG and may receive a job offer within two days. Congratulations!
Working at KPMG will very likely advance your professional career. Here are other schemes offered by KPMG for graduate and undergraduate students.
KPMG continually offers graduates and undergraduates the opportunity to join its workforce in various departments, including audit, tax, and advisory services, among others. Entry-level graduates would typically be subjected to all KPMG stages of assessment in the course of recruitment.
Among many other early career opportunities offered by KPMG, three of them are listed and explained below:
Let’s discuss these various job areas one by one.
The KPMG graduate schemes are tailored to different career paths and interests. These programs are designed to develop graduates into professionals capable of contributing effectively to KPMG’s diverse service offerings.
The various job functions available within the KPMG graduate programs are as follows:
To be eligible to apply to the KPMG graduate programs, you must fulfil the eligibility criteria.
Good To Know: If you think you fulfil all these criteria, you can apply to the KPMG graduate schemes and go through the KPMG graduate online assessments to get the job which is very similar to the KPMG hiring process for an experienced hire.
Next, let’s discuss another opportunity offered by KPMG, i.e., the KPMG undergraduate programmes.
The KPMG Undergraduate Programmes are designed for undergraduate students who are in the second or third year of college. During these programmes students are exposed to unique experiences and perspectives. You may be able to fast-track your career through a graduate programme at the end of the undergraduate scheme.
The various undergraduate programmes include:
Now, you may be wondering what qualifications are needed to get into the KPMG undergraduate programme. Read on to find that out.
Now, let’s discuss the KPMG apprenticeships.
The KPMG Apprenticeships offer students the opportunity to gain professional experience and develop the necessary skills to advance their careers. The available programmes include:
KPMG offers apprenticeships in various locations across the UK, and availability may vary depending on the office and the specific apprenticeship scheme.
Good To Know: The KPMG apprenticeship application process typically involves submitting an online application, followed by assessments which may include aptitude tests, interviews, and assessment centers.
Lastly, let us take a look at the KPMG internships, what they include, job functions, and eligibility criteria.
The KPMG internship aims to afford bright undergraduate and graduate students from local and international institutions the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the operational environment of KPMG.
Interns are assigned to different divisions based on their preferred areas of interest and availability and are allowed to work with seasoned, experienced professionals across various units and divisions.
The various job functions available within the KPMG internships are as follows:
Application deadlines for these programmes may vary each year and by country. It is therefore important to visit KPMG’s official website for up-to-date information regarding application deadlines and specific department or area options.
If you still have more questions about the KPMG recruitment process, below are our answers to top questions about your upcoming KPMG assessments.
KPMG’s recruitment process is fairly quick. Depending on the company’s needs, the period from application to job offer might take as little as one month. KPMG’s recruitment also varies by country or region.
You can only submit one application per intake year. If your application doesn’t go through, you will have to wait for the next application season to apply, and you can only apply for one role per season.
KPMG is interested in candidates who thrive working in a team and enjoy sharing brilliant ideas. Some other qualities KPMG looks for include integrity, critical thinking, drive, and communication skills.
No, KPMG does not send rejection letters. If you do not get feedback from the recruiters after a month or two, then your KPMG application may have been unsuccessful.
Do you want to pass your KPMG assessment tests, first time? Take numerical, logical, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment practice tests today with GF, the only aptitude practice test experts providing practice test solutions to over 150 UK universities and their students, and also across Asia and continental Europe. Practice with peace of mind without commitment to a full 100% money-back guarantee if you do not pass your job tests. Correct answers to example questions: Numerical Reasoning Test: C
Do you want to pass your KPMG assessment tests, first time? Take numerical, logical, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment practice tests today with GF, the only aptitude practice test experts providing practice test solutions to over 150 UK universities and their students, and also across Asia and continental Europe.
Practice with peace of mind without commitment to a full 100% money-back guarantee if you do not pass your job tests.
Correct answers to example questions:
Numerical Reasoning Test: C
Start Preparing Today
