1. Introduction

Not sure if you should practice to prepare for Microsoft online assessments? 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 do you prepare for the Microsoft hiring process to secure a job?

1. Complete Your Online Microsoft Application Form

• Fill in your Microsoft application with your details
• Answer all motivational questions honestly. Include keywords from the job post 
• Align your application and motivational responses with Microsoft’s culture and values

2. Practice for the Microsoft Assessment Test

Microsoft is known to use three particular aptitude assessment tests, and they are:

• Logical Reasoning Tests
• Situational Judgement Tests
• Technical Tests 

You may be rejected after your Microsoft online assessments. These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates. The only proven way to advance to the next round is to practice.

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

Prepare for your Microsoft recruitment and Microsoft graduate program application by practising recording video interviews and answering common technology interview questions that the Microsoft recruitment team often asks. Ensure your communication is fluent and your responses clear and concise.

To prepare for your Microsoft recruitment interview, practice using the following:

• A smartphone
• Zoom
• Our easily accessible video interview platform

Our practice video interview platform includes competency-based questions specific to the technology industry that will help you in your role at Microsoft when you conduct a mock video interview with yourself in preparation for the assessment test set by your employer (HireVue, Sonru, Pymetrics).

During the interview for Microsoft’s hiring process, answer the test questions using STAR+R (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Reflection).

4. Prepare for the Microsoft Careers Assessment Centre

Microsoft uses various engaging exercises in assessment centres to find suitable candidates. While you can practice for most tests, the following centres are highly recommended:

• Presentation exercise
• Group exercise
• Final Interview

For your Microsoft final interview, maintain excellent composure, stay calm, and communicate effectively. The recruiters will assess your body language while evaluating your responses.

Before we proceed, it is crucial to know a little bit about Microsoft before you apply to the tech firm.

What is Microsoft?

Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded Microsoft in 1975. The technology company has grown to meet the demands of nearly all computing devices, providing every gadget with the software it currently operates with. 

This American-owned multinational company employs 228,000 people worldwide and actively participates in various forms of technology and software required in the business world.

What job roles can I apply for at Microsoft?

Microsoft has subsidiaries across 120 countries, so you can apply for multiple roles when creating your Microsoft application form. Three grades of job roles can be used at Microsoft: early in career and early in the profession.

Below are the roles that you can apply for at Microsoft:

Administration	Analytics	Business Development and Ventures
Business Operations	Communications	Consulting Services
Corporate Technology Support	Customer Success	Data Center
Design and Creative	Digital Sales and Solutions	Finance
General Management	Governance, Risk, and Compliance	Hardware Engineering
Human Resources	Learning	Legal and Corporate Affairs
Manufacturing	Marketing	Product Management
Program Management	Quantum Computing	Real Estate, Facilities, and Construction
Research, Applied, and Data Sciences	Retail	Sales
Sales Enablement	Security Engineering	Software Engineering
Supply Chain	Technical Support	Technology Sales

To apply for any of these areas and help ace your upcoming Microsoft assessment tests, it is key to understand their values. 

Continue scrolling to learn more about Microsoft values.

What are Microsoft’s Values?

Before applying to Microsoft, it is essential that you research their values to understand if they are in line with yours. Microsoft’s values are:

Having understood Microsoft’s values and what they look for in their applicants, let’s move on to completing your Microsoft application form. Keep reading!

2. Microsoft Application Form

What is the Microsoft application form?

When applying for a role at Microsoft, you start by completing the Microsoft application form. First, create a Microsoft account and complete the form with your details. Then, submit your credentials, including your CV, cover letter, and university information.

Microsoft Application Form

Source: Microsoft Careers

When you fill out your Microsoft application form, include all your skills and ensure they match those listed in the job application. Since you are applying to a technology company, demonstrating your technical or coding skills will enhance your application before the Microsoft online assessments.

When should you apply to Microsoft?

Start and complete your Microsoft application form as early as possible. Since the company receives thousands of applications annually, applying early will help you secure a spot in the Microsoft selection process.

5 Tips to Pass the Microsoft Application Process

The following are helpful tips that will aid you in passing your Microsoft application process.

1. Understand their core values: Microsoft prioritises values such as innovation, diversity, inclusion, and a growth mindset. Explore and align these values with your replies to demonstrate your compatibility with the company’s culture.
2. Match resume to application role: Tailor your resume to be ATS-friendly by using clear formatting and standard headings to showcase the skills and achievements that best suit the job you’re applying for.
3. Demonstrate a growth mindset: Highlight examples where you learned from failures or sought personal and professional development opportunities.
4. Proofread your application form: Ensure your answers are free from errors. A well-written application shows attention to detail and professionalism. 
5. Leverage referrals: Attend Microsoft events, webinars, or networking sessions for an opportunity to meet recruiters. 
6. Honesty: Ensure that you are honest about your capabilities in your resume.

Who is eligible to apply for Microsoft?

Microsoft applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements depending on the Microsoft graduate program they apply for. The company has various departments, each with its own requirements.

For more tips on how to apply to Microsoft, check out our short video:

Once you have completed your application form, you will be required to undertake some Microsoft assessment tests.

3. Microsoft Assessment Tests

What is the Microsoft assessment test?

The Microsoft assessment tests are crucial to the hiring process, especially for technical or engineering roles. These tests help Microsoft evaluate your technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit within the company. 

Below are the common types of Microsoft online assessment tests:

1. Microsoft Situational Judgement Test
2. Microsoft Logical Reasoning Test
3. Microsoft Technical Test

How long is the Microsoft assessment test?

The Microsoft assessment test is estimated to take only 30 minutes to complete the test questions.

Let’s explore what each part of the Microsoft online test entails, starting with the Microsoft situational judgment test.

Microsoft Situational Judgement Test

What is the Microsoft situational judgment test?

The Microsoft situational judgment test is a non-technical assessment with fictional scenarios. It evaluates your fit within the company culture, teamwork, problem-solving, and handling ambiguity. Choose carefully, as all responses may seem appealing.

For more information on how to pass your Microsoft test, you can check out our one-minute YouTube video below.

What does the Microsoft situational judgment test measure?

The Microsoft situational judgment test (SJT) measures your decision-making skills, problem-solving abilities, and behavioural tendencies in workplace scenarios. The SJT Microsoft online assessment assesses how well you handle challenging situations that might arise in a professional environment.

Check out our sneak peek into an example Microsoft-style situational test question below!

Microsoft-style Situational Judgement Test Question Example

5 Tips to Pass Your Microsoft Situational Judgement Test

Follow these five tips to help pass the Microsoft situational judgment test.

1. Understand Microsoft’s culture and values: Microsoft prioritises collaboration, a growth mindset, customer satisfaction, and integrity. When taking this Microsoft test, align your responses with these values.
2. Prioritise teamwork: Microsoft values a collaborative work environment. Choose responses that show you can work well with others, seek feedback, and communicate effectively.
3. Be a problem solver: Many Microsoft test questions will present challenges or conflicts. Focus on practical, fair solutions that align with business goals and avoid escalating conflicts unnecessarily.
4. Always remain professional: Microsoft expects high ethical standards. During the Microsoft online test, do not choose answers that involve dishonesty, ignoring problems, or blaming others.
5. Stay calm under pressure: You might face scenarios with tight deadlines or difficult colleagues. Show resilience, adaptability, and a focus on problem resolution.

Looking to begin your Microsoft recruitment assessment test practice?

The Microsoft logical reasoning test is the following section of the Microsoft online assessment test to be completed. 

Are you curious to know what that is about? Keep reading to find out!

Microsoft Logical Reasoning Test

What is the Microsoft logical reasoning test?

The Microsoft logical reasoning test evaluates candidates’ logical reasoning skills as part of the company’s recruitment process. It can be completed in 30 minutes and consists of questions designed to examine candidates’ abilities to understand patterns and sequences.

What makes the Microsoft logical reasoning test difficult?

This Microsoft logical reasoning test is designed uniquely; each pattern can differ, making understanding challenging. The patterns involve the sizes and colors of two-dimensional and three-dimensional shapes and their movements.

Watch this short video to learn more about logical reasoning tests to help prepare you for the Microsoft recruitment process.

Microsoft-style Logical Reasoning Test Question Example

Check the bottom of the page for the correct answer to this logical reasoning test question example!

5 Tips on How to Pass the Microsoft Logical Reasoning Test 

Effectively prepare for your Microsoft online assessment test in these five steps:

1. Understand the test format: The Microsoft logical reasoning test often includes verbal reasoning, number sequences, pattern recognition, and abstract reasoning. It is best to familiarise yourself with these types of questions.
2. Practice with sample questions: Sign up for a free full-length practice test to simulate actual test conditions. This will help you get a feel for the pacing and the variety of question types.
3. Develop a strategy: Identify the type of logic needed, recognise symmetry, repetition, or numerical relationships, and use the process of elimination to rule out incorrect answers quickly.
4. Stay calm and focused: Microsoft online assessment tests can be challenging, especially when time is limited. Practice staying calm and focused as you solve the problems.
5. Review your mistakes: After practising, review your incorrect answers to understand why you got them wrong. Learning from your mistakes helps improve your reasoning skills.

Looking for more Microsoft logical reasoning test practice?

After the logical reasoning test, the next Microsoft assessment is the technical assessment. Read on to find out more.

Microsoft Technical Test

What is the Microsoft technical test?

The Microsoft technical test evaluates your ability to solve coding and problem-solving tasks and understand key computer science concepts. It assesses your technical knowledge, programming skills, and approach to problem-solving.

How long is the Microsoft technical test?

The Microsoft technical test can be completed in 45 to 60 minutes. This important assessment evaluates your technical and coding skills, especially if you are applying to Microsoft, a tech company.

Interested in knowing what it takes to pass the Microsoft Technical Test? Here are 5 tips to help you pass the excursion.

5 Tips to Help You Pass the Microsoft Technical Test

Prepare for your Microsoft technical test with our following top 5 tips:

1. Learn data structures and algorithms: Microsoft’s technical tests focus heavily on data structures and algorithms, which are the majority of coding challenges.
2. Problem-solving skills: Your problem-solving approach is the key to your Microsoft technical test success. To succeed, you must understand the problem, plan your approach, write and test your code, and optimise it.
3. System design interviews: Microsoft often includes system design interviews, the goal is to assess how you approach designing complex systems.
4. Review common interview patterns: Study the frequently asked questions in Microsoft online assessment interviews. Focus on techniques such as the sliding window, two-pointer technique, backtracking, divide-and-conquer, topological sorting, and dynamic programming optimization.
5. Improve your coding speed: Microsoft tests are often timed, so you’ll need to balance solving problems efficiently with coding speed.

Looking to test your coding knowledge ahead of the Microsoft technical test?

After passing the three Microsoft recruitment assessment tests, you will be directed to the video interview, which is the next step in the hiring process.

4. Microsoft Video Interview

What is the Microsoft video interview?

The Microsoft video interview is a recorded online assessment used after initial screenings. Candidates respond to pre-set questions within a time limit, allowing Microsoft to evaluate skills, experience, and role fit without live interaction.

Uncover more insights into the Microsoft video interview with our short video below:

What can you expect from the Microsoft video interview?

Microsoft’s video interview includes about 15 competency-based questions, each with a 3-minute limit. Expect questions on your resume and motivations, so review your CV and prepare examples showcasing key skills.

5 Tips to Pass the Microsoft Video Interview Questions

Follow these tips below to pass the Microsoft video interview questions, which will advance you further in the Microsoft recruitment process.

1. Technical setup: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a stable internet connection. Test your camera and microphone beforehand, and position the camera at eye level—Minimise distractions like noise or movement.
2. Review your CV: Revisit your CV and be prepared to discuss the experiences and skills you’ve listed. The video interview will ask questions about these experiences.
3. Use the STAR method: The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) provides an excellent framework for answering competency-based questions. It enables you to structure your responses clearly and deliver detailed answers.
4. Speak confidently: Your answers should be concise but detailed enough to demonstrate your thought process, actions, and the impact of your work.
5. Be passionate about Microsoft: Present a clear and compelling motivation. Align your personal values with Microsoft’s core values.

Having covered the Microsoft video interview and its key aspects, let’s move on to the Microsoft assessment centre.

5.  Microsoft Assessment Centre

What is the Microsoft assessment centre?

The Microsoft assessment centre is part of the process. It offers the Microsoft recruitment processes, giving applicants a chance to connect and network with Microsoft professionals and to understand the company’s culture through the perspectives of its employees. 

The Microsoft assessment centre contains three exercises: 

1. Group exercise
2. Presentation exercise
3. Final interview

Stick around and uncover what types of Microsoft assessment centre exercises you will likely participate in during your Microsoft selection process.

Microsoft Group Exercise

What is the Microsoft group exercise?

The Microsoft group exercise is an assessment used during the hiring process. The assessment centre is designed so Microsoft employees can evaluate how you work in a team setting and approach problem-solving, collaboration, and communication in a group context.

What does the Microsoft group exercise measure?

The Microsoft group exercise tests your soft skills, leadership potential, and ability to collaborate effectively with others.

5 Tips to Pass Microsoft Group Exercise

Succeeding in the Microsoft group exercise at an assessment centre requires strong teamwork, strategic thinking, and effective communication. 

Here are 5 key tips to help you make a lasting impression.

1. Purpose of the exercise: The Microsoft test is not only focused on intelligence but also on candidates who can collaborate effectively, articulate their ideas clearly, and make meaningful contributions to the team.
2. Balance speaking and listening: In a Microsoft group exercise, balance speaking and listening. While leadership is key, you don’t need to take charge every time.
3. Be solution-focused: If the group is stuck, suggest moving forward as Microsoft values problem-solving, so focus on practical, logical solutions.
4. Be diplomatic: Always strive to be diplomatic when dealing with issues in your group. Listen to all parties and ensure that everyone gets a fair judgment. Your ability to solve conflicts will be noticed during your Microsoft group exercise.
5. Stay professional: Always make eye contact and use confident body language. When communicating, speak clearly and enthusiastically and show genuine interest in others’ ideas.

Now that you have covered all you need to know to ace your Microsoft group exercise, you are one step closer. Next up is the Microsoft presentation exercise.

Microsoft Presentation Exercise

What is the Microsoft presentation exercise?

The Microsoft presentation exercise is part of the recruitment interview process. It assesses your communication skills, ability to present complex ideas clearly, and ability to engage an audience.

What does the Microsoft presentation exercise measure?

The Microsoft presentation exercise involves preparing a presentation on a specific topic or problem and presenting it to interviewers in a group or one-on-one setting.

5 Tips to Pass the Microsoft Presentation Exercise

The Microsoft presentation exercise requires clarity, confidence, structure, and engagement. Here are 5 tips to help you excel:

1. Understand the assessment: During your Microsoft online test, you will be tested on how clearly you communicate, how you handle questions, and how well-structured your presentation is.
2. Make it concise: Stick to the time limit, use bullet points, visuals, or data to support your points, and avoid overly technical jargon unless necessary.
3. Prepare for the Q&A: Consider potential weaknesses in your argument and prepare for the questions following your presentation.
4. Keep your presentation engaging: You should learn to adjust your tone, maintain eye contact and use natural gestures when presenting.
5. Keep practising: Rehearse your Microsoft online test presentation multiple times until you are sure you are ready to go.

When you have passed these steps, you will arrive at the Microsoft final interview, determining your success in the Microsoft selection process.

Final Interview

What is Microsoft’s final interview?

The Microsoft final interview is the last hiring stage, evaluating your technical, behavioural, and cultural fit. Having passed all assessments, this is your chance to showcase your skills, motivation, and passion in person or virtually.

What to expect during the final Microsoft interview?

When you begin the Microsoft final interview, you can expect the following:

1. Interviewers: The interview will involve several interviewers from different areas of the company, and each interviewer will assess a different aspect of your fit for the role.
2. Cultural fit: Microsoft places a significant focus on cultural fit during the final interview. They want to ensure that candidates align with their company values.
3. Questions: The interviewers may choose to ask you questions based on several topics like technical, situational judgement, logic, and more.

What skills do I need to pass the final Microsoft interview?

The Microsoft one-on-one final interview will test your ability to pass the Microsoft selection process, so ensure that you are prepared to display the following skills: 

• Team management
• Collaboration skills
• Verbal and written communication skills 
• Advanced evaluation
• Self-analysis
• Problem-solving 
• Critical analysis

Check out some examples of Microsoft interview questions and answers below!

Microsoft Final Interview Questions and Answers 

Question: Why do you want to work at Microsoft? 

Good Answer: 

I’ve always admired Microsoft’s commitment to innovation and its global impact on millions of users. I’m particularly drawn to the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies and contribute to products that improve people’s lives.

Question: Imagine you’re working on a project with a tight deadline, and a team member isn’t delivering their part. How would you handle it?

Good Answer: 

I would approach the team members with empathy, understanding any potential roadblocks they may face. I’d offer help or reallocate resources if necessary. If the issue persists, I will escalate it to the project manager.

Now that you know what to expect during the Microsoft final interview, here are the tips to help you pass the final interview.

4 Tips to Assist You in Passing the Microsoft Final Interview

1. Be confident: You will be interviewed by more than one interviewer, and the interviewers will note how you showcase your confidence through your actions and speech.
2. Personal growth and feedback: Be prepared to discuss how you approach personal growth. Microsoft values curious people who take on new challenges and are open to feedback.
3. Teamwork: Microsoft places a strong emphasis on working well in teams. Prepare examples where you’ve worked effectively in diverse teams or facilitated collaboration among different groups.
4. Ask questions: At the end of the final interview, you can ask your interviewers questions. Prepare insightful questions that show you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role and Microsoft.

Looking for more practice ahead of your Microsoft interview? 

Microsoft recruiters should reach out to you after successfully completing all the Microsoft online assessments you have been assigned. Congratulations on your new job!  

Before you close the page, wouldn’t you like to know about the Microsoft graduate programs’ requirements and eligibility? Keep reading to learn more!

6. Microsoft Career Schemes

What are Microsoft’s career schemes?

The Microsoft career schemes provide applicants with an opportunity to enter the tech world and pursue a career at Microsoft. While Microsoft’s headquarters are located in the United States of America, it has career scheme programs available in over 100 countries.

Discover the various career programs and opportunities available through Microsoft’s student and graduate schemes:

1. Microsoft Aspire program
2. Intern Program
3. Graduate Engineering
4. Microsoft Graduate Digital Sales
5. Microsoft Discovery program
6. Explore Microsoft program

Let’s examine the benefits that each of these has to offer!

Microsoft Aspire Program

What is the Microsoft aspire program?

The Microsoft aspire program is specifically for top-ranking graduates in any field of study. It provides these recent graduates with experience by assigning them projects that will yield a rewarding impact.

Who is eligible for Microsoft aspire program?

The Microsoft aspire program supports recent graduates and early-career professionals. Eligibility varies by region and year but is generally available in the USA, Canada, France, India, China, the UK, Australia, and Germany.

When is the Microsoft aspire program application?

The Microsoft aspire program application is usually open in September annually.

Another early career program you can apply to is the Microsoft internship program. Let’s find out more about this scheme below.

Microsoft Internship Program

What is the Microsoft intern program?

The Microsoft intern program is built to help kickstart the careers of interns looking to work at Microsoft. The interns can learn by being placed in an environment where let’s go. There are two types of internships, namely, commercial internships and engineering internships.

Who is eligible for the Microsoft intern program?

The Microsoft intern program is open to any full-time university student who has been enrolled for at least one term (semester). It is open to students from Japan, the USA, Canada, France, India, China, the UK, Australia, and Germany.

When is the Microsoft intern program application open?

The Microsoft intern program application includes various departments to which applicants can apply. Each department has its own application deadline.

As well as the internships, Microsoft also offers an opportunity for you to start your career with the Microsoft graduate engineering scheme. Read on to find out more! 

Microsoft Graduate Engineering Program

What is the Microsoft graduate engineering program?

The Microsoft graduate engineering program is aimed at graduates who are passionate about using technology to create a meaningful impact and drive positive change in the world. There are two types of graduate engineering: software engineering and program management.

Who is eligible for the Microsoft graduate engineering program?

The Microsoft graduate engineering scheme is open to anyone interested in building technology to impact millions of lives. Such people must be knowledgeable in C#, TypeScript, or JavaScript. 

Brazil, Singapore, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, China, India, Japan, Germany, Canada, and Australia are eligible countries.

When is the Microsoft graduate engineering application open?

The Microsoft graduate engineering program also has several vacancies, each with its own application deadline.

Another graduate role you can apply to at the company is the Microsoft graduate digital sales program. Keep reading to discover more about this opportunity.

Microsoft Graduate Digital Sales Program

What is the Microsoft graduate digital sales scheme?

The Microsoft graduate digital sales program is open to exceptionally brilliant graduates with problem-solving skills interested in the digital sales department. As graduates, you will work with sales development specialists, technical solution professionals, and account executives to supervise opportunities through the sales cycle.

Who is eligible for the Microsoft graduate digital sales program?

Microsoft’s graduate digital sales scheme is available to every graduate passionate about assisting and guiding customers in their transition to using innovative technologies. The program is generally open to candidates in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Latin America.

When is the Microsoft graduate digital sales application date?

The Microsoft graduate digital sales application date often takes place around September each year.

Microsoft offers a shorter internship program for those looking to expand their experiences through their discovery program.  

Microsoft Discovery Program

What is the Microsoft discovery program?

The Microsoft Discovery Program is a 4-week internship where you gain hands-on project experience, develop professional skills, and receive mentorship. Explore how to turn your interests into a successful career in technology at Microsoft and the broader industry.

Who is eligible for the Microsoft discovery program?

Microsoft’s discovery program is available to incoming first-year college students (graduating high school seniors) who reside near Redmond, Washington, or Atlanta, Georgia and are interested in technology.

When is the application date for the Microsoft discovery program?

The application window for the Microsoft discovery program is open only in February of every year.

Another similar program you can apply to to discover more about the company is the Explore Microsoft program. Let’s check out the details below!

Explore Microsoft Program

What is the Explore Microsoft program?

Explore Microsoft is a summer internship program that lasts 8 weeks in India and 12 weeks in the US. It is designed for first and second-year college students. During the program, you will actively engage in the key phases of the product development cycle: Design, Build, and Quality.

Who is eligible for the Explore Microsoft program?

The Explore Microsoft program is for students early in their academic journey who are interested in software development. It offers hands-on experience for those pursuing Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related fields like IT, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, and Cybersecurity. The program is available to students in India or the USA.

When is the application window for the Explore Microsoft program?

Microsoft regularly updates its website with application deadlines. Check for the latest information and submit your application as early as possible!

And with that, we’ve covered all you’ll need to know about the Microsoft recruitment process. Before you go and ace your tests, don’t miss answers to further questions other candidates are asking.

7. Microsoft Recruitment Process FAQs