Nomura Recruitment Process, Online Assessment Tests, and Interview Full Guide 2024/25

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SUMMARY

Are you applying for a Nomura internship or preparing for your upcoming Nomura talent assessment? Find everything you need for your Nomura assessment practice applicable across the globe including the UK and the US in this guide.

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 the Nomura talent 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 Nomura recruitment process and tests to get the job?

1. Complete your Nomura Online Job Application

• Fill in your Nomura application online.
• Match your application to Nomura’s culture and values.
• Use keywords from the job post in your resume and application.

2. Practice for Nomura Online Assessments

Nomura aptitude tests include the following assessments:

• Numerical Reasoning Test
• Logical Reasoning Test

You may get rejected already after your aptitude tests. These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates. The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself 

Nomura generally conducts video interviews through HireVue. Therefore, you must familiarise yourself with recording answers to questions that typically come up in Nomura interviews. Improve your Nomura interview technique using:

• 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 Nomura Final Interviews 

Once you get through all the assessment stages effectively and pass them, you will be called for the Nomura interview process to find the right candidates. Therefore, we recommend you keep in mind the following tips: 

• Hone your communication skills as best as you can before the Nomura interview. 
• Research online, prepare, and practice the answers for the expected Nomura interview questions.
• Practice with our video interview platform and record yourself answering the interview questions using the STAR+R method.

Continue reading to get answers to these critical questions:

1. What is Nomura talent assessment? 
2. How to pass Nomura online assessments?
3. How to answer Nomura test questions?
4. How to answer Nomura HireVue questions?

Looking into assessments with Nomura, click on the table below to practice assessments relevant to your assessment process!

Before we dive into the assessments, let’s discover more about the company first.

Who are the Nomura Group?

Headquartered in Tokyo, Nomura Group is a global financial services group comprising Nomura Group and its subsidiaries in Japan. It is one of Japan’s largest and oldest financial institutions, with a history dating back to 1925. Nomura provides a wide range of financial services, including investment banking, securities, asset management, and retail and wholesale banking. 

It’s called Nomura Securities International in the US. Nomura employs 26,000 employees globally and has regional headquarters in Hong Kong, London, and New York globally. 

To apply to these Nomura’s roles and prove to be a great fit, make sure you keep in mind Nomura’s values, mission and vision. What are they? Let’s find out. 

Nomura Values

What are Nomura’s core values? 

Before applying to Nomura jobs, take in consideration the core values of the company and understand the work culture through these Nomura values. 

1. Entrepreneurial Leadership: With passion and courage, Nomura believes in continually innovating to meet the needs of our stakeholders.

2. Teamwork: To build Nomura values and ‘Deliver Together’, they promote diversity and collaboration across divisions and regions.

3. Integrity: Personal integrity is paramount at Nomura. We act honestly, fairly and openly.

Nomura’s Mission and Vision Statements

You would need much more research than this to pass your Nomura talent assessment. Therefore, here are a few tips to help you ace your Nomura assessment process. 

Nomura Group: How to Research

1. Familiarise yourself with Nomura’s services: Make sure you know what services are provided by Nomura and understand how the administration of the different departments work. 

2. Read newsletters and recent articles: In order to understand the plans and strategies used by Nomura to work smoothly, make sure you follow them regularly through newsletters, articles, and social media handles. 

3. Find places where your expertise can weigh in: Find recent areas where they are facing difficulty and think about how your expertise can be of any use. 

4. Look for their contributions to the community: Research how the Nomura is helping the environment and the wider community. Take a look at their website and social media handles to find out  info such as the Sakura Project.

5. Find a reason that aligns with your personal interests: Find a reason that connects you with Nomura on a personal level. The reason may be their values, or initiative taken through their relief efforts during the Earthquake in Turkey and Syria, Typhoon Hagibis, etc. 

Now that you know all about Nomura, let’s jump right into the Nomura recruitment process.

Nomura Recruitment Process

What is the Nomura application process?

The Nomura hiring process is divided into 4 stages of assessment which aim to evaluate you on the basis of your personality, cognitive skills, behavioural traits, and technical skills to bring out your best qualities and find the best fit for the job.

What is the Nomura recruitment process? 

The 4 stages of Nomura assessment process are:

1. Nomura Online Application
2. Nomura Online Assessments
3. Nomura Video Interview
4. Nomura Final Interviews 

Get your pad and paper ready as we dive in! 

Nomura Online Application

How to apply for a job at Nomura?

The Nomura application process is a typical and simple process through which the Nomura aims to get the first impression of you and understand where you come from. You will be required to fill the following details in your application:

1. Personal details
2. Work history 
3. Educational history 
4. Job-specific preferences 
5. Upload documents (Resume, CV, Cover letter, additional documents, etc.) 

If you want more tips to prepare for your Nomura online application process, watch the following short video by GF: 

Once your resume gets selected for the Nomura talent assessment, you will be required to attend the second round of assessment at Nomura, i.e., the Nomura online assessments. 

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Nomura Online Assessments

What are Nomura online assessments? 

The Nomura online tests measure various skills and personality traits in you and select the right person for the job depending on your report. These Nomura aptitude tests will present MCQ-based questions by AON/Cut-e. However, the test provider may vary depending upon the location. 

What Nomura online assessments will I face?

The Nomura online assessments you face will depend on the position you apply to and the location of the job. These include: 

1. Nomura Numerical Reasoning Test
2. Nomura Logical Reasoning Test

Let’s discuss each of these Nomura aptitude tests in detail below. 

1. Nomura Numerical Reasoning Test

What is Nomura numerical reasoning test? 

The Nomura numerical reasoning test aims at measuring your capability to perform mathematical problems and interpret numerical data and comprises various questions related to graphs, percentages, and tables. 

What does the Nomura numerical reasoning test measure?

The Nomura numerical reasoning test aims to gauge your: 

1. Problem-solving abilities
2. Logical thinking 
3. Attention to detail 
4. Overall numerical proficiency.

Gain key insights in this under 1 minute video about the Nomura numerical reasoning test:

How many questions are there in the Nomura numerical reasoning test? 

The Nomura numerical reasoning test will require you to solve 37 questions in a time duration of 12 minutes. 

These questions will be very basic. What’s tricky is the time pressure involved, and to tackle that you must go fully prepared. Here are a few tips to help you with the Nomura numerical reasoning test. 

HOW TO PASS THE NOMURA NUMERICAL REASONING TEST?

Below, we have provided 7 top tips which will help you ace your Nomura numerical test:

Top 7 Tips to Pass the Nomura Numerical Test

1. Revise basic mathematics concepts such as percentage, average, currency conversion, interest calculation, etc. as these will appear on these tests.

2. Practice numerical reasoning questions in a similar environment beforehand to understand the format and experience of these tests. 

3. Manage your time: as these tests are timed, so practice solving problems within the allocated time. Regular practice will help you develop a sense of how much time to allocate to each question.

4. Improve mental calculation: work on your mental math skills by practicing calculations without relying heavily on a calculator to develop your speed and accuracy.

5. Review mistakes: After practicing, review any mistakes you’ve made. Understand where you went wrong and learn from those errors using the worked solutions and feedback reports.

6. Be properly organised before your test, i.e., find a quiet place, keep all the equipment such as a calculator, pencil, paper, etc. with you to help with your workings.

7. Strike a balance between speed and accuracy. Avoid only aiming to attempt as many questions as possible, but make sure that you are answering correctly. 

Nomura-style Numerical Reasoning Test Question Example

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

Or practice solving Nomura numerical reasoning test questions with these 5 example questions with worked solutions in our video below:

The next Nomura online assessment test is the Nomura logical reasoning test. Let’s get into the details of this Nomura assessment test. 

2. Nomura Logical Reasoning Test

What is the Nomura logical reasoning test? 

Nomura’s logical reasoning test measures your problem-solving skills and assesses your ability to come to conclusions based on logic. The Nomura logical reasoning questions will be MCQ-based where you will be required to analyse, evaluate, and draw conclusions from data.

Discover more about Nomura logical reasoning tests with this under 1 minute video:

How many questions are there in the Nomura logical reasoning test? 

The Nomura logical reasoning test requires you to answer 12 logical reasoning questions in a time duration of 12 minutes.

HOW TO PASS THE NOMURA LOGICAL REASONING TEST? 

To pass the Nomura logical reasoning test, we have come up with some expert tips to help you ace your Nomura test. 

Top 7 Tips to Pass the Nomura Logical Reasoning Test

1. Familiarise yourself with practice to get used to the commonly used formats and questions used to help develop pattern recognition skills.

2. Manage your time: With a short time limit, time management is essential. Practice under timed conditions to improve your abstract reasoning ability under time pressure. 

3. Learn from mistakes: Review your incorrect answers and understand where you went wrong. Analyse the patterns you missed and identify the strategies you could have used to find these.

4. Remember the key logical rules that are most commonly used. Consider how the colours, numbers and letters change across the different objects.

5. Use diagrams: Creating diagrams or sketches can help you visualize and track patterns more effectively. Use pen and paper or digital tools to draw out the sequences and patterns.

6. Focus on one question at a time. Don’t panic if you get stuck, move onto the next question and answer any remaining questions before the time limit ends.

7. Maintain test conditions: When you take the real test, ensure you’re in a quiet environment where you won’t be easily distracted. 

Nomura-style Logical Reasoning Question Example

Got the answer? Check it out at the bottom of the page.

Gain more experience on solving Nomura-style logical reasoning questions, practice along with this in-depth video with 5 logical reasoning practice questions and worked solutions: 

With this, we have discussed all the essential information about your upcoming Nomura online test. Next, we move on to the Nomura video interview. 

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Nomura Video Interview  

What is Nomura’s video interview? 

In the Nomura video interview, also called the Nomura HireVue interview, you will be required to answer pre-recorded interview questions by your employer and record yourself while answering them. 

How much time does the Nomura HireVue interview take? 

The Nomura HireVue interview or the Nomura video interview takes around 20 minutes with 6-7 questions in total. This means you will have around 3 minutes to answer each question with a preparation time of 30 seconds per question. 

Discover more about video interviews such as the Nomura interview with our quick video below!  

You will be required to answer both behavioural and competency-based questions. Therefore, make sure you organize your answer well. How do we do this?

How to pass a Nomura video interview?

Check out our top 7 tips to organize and structure your answers to the Nomura interview questions below:

Top 7 Tips to Pass Nomura Video Interviews

1. Practice and Timing: Practice delivering your responses in a concise and confident manner. Do not deliver answers that are too long, instead tailor your responses to the time allocated to you. 

2. Note down the Key Points: Identify 2-3 main points or examples that directly address the question. Talk about each main point in chronological order and attach a supporting example to each. 

3. Practice Good Body Language: Sit up straight, make eye contact with the camera, and maintain positive and engaged behaviour throughout the interview. Avoid slouching, fidgeting, or looking away from the camera.

4. Structure and Flow: Maintain a logical flow throughout your response using the STAR+R method to ensure that your points connect and build upon each other. Avoid ending your answer abruptly by leading back to the question. 

5. Read the Instructions: Pay close attention to the instructions to understand what is expected of you and for any last-minute tips. Check the question carefully before answering to ensure you answer the question accurately.

6. Address Weaknesses Carefully: If the interviewer asks about weaknesses or challenges you’ve faced, be honest but frame your answer in a way that emphasizes what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown from those experiences.

7. Use Clear and Concise Language: Speak clearly and calmly at a moderate pace to help ensure your recording is clear. Avoid using overly technical language or jargon unless otherwise instructed.

Let’s put these tips to use and try to answer the following Nomura video interview questions.

Nomura Video Interview Question and Answers

Good Answer: 

Of course, one example that comes to mind is from my previous role as a Finance manager at XYZ. 

• Situation: We were in the middle of a major project, and our team had invested significant time and resources into a particular approach.

• Task: However, midway through the project, we encountered an unexpected change in the regulatory landscape that forced us to pivot our strategy entirely. This change was substantial and had the potential to disrupt our timeline and budget significantly.

• Action: In response, I immediately initiated a team meeting to discuss the situation and brainstorm potential solutions. We conducted a thorough analysis of the new regulations and their implications for our project. Within a short timeframe, we developed a revised strategy and timeline that allowed us to adapt to the new requirements effectively.

• Result: The key to our success in this situation was our team’s ability to stay agile, collaborate closely, and maintain open communication. Despite the unexpected challenge, we not only managed to complete the project on time but also identified opportunities for improvement in our processes.

• Reflect: This experience reinforced the importance of adaptability, quick decision-making, and teamwork, and it’s a quality I’m committed to bringing to any role I undertake.

Good Answer:

 I applied to this division at Nomura for these three main reasons:

1. Passion and Expertise: My genuine interest in Finance aligns perfectly with the work of this division. I have a strong educational background and relevant experience, making it a natural fit for me.

2. Nomura’s Prestige: Nomura’s esteemed reputation in the industry and its commitment to excellence make it an ideal place for career growth and development. I’m eager to learn from industry leaders and contribute to the division’s continued success.

3. Impactful Work: This division plays a pivotal role in shaping market trends and providing innovative solutions, which resonates with my career goals of making a meaningful difference. I believe my skills can have a direct and positive impact here.

After your Nomura video interview, you will be invited to the next stage, which is the Nomura final interview, which will be the last stage of your Nomura hiring process. 

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Nomura Final Interviews

What are the Nomura final interviews?

The Nomura final interviews will require you to sit for a panel interview and several one-on-one interviews with any one of the senior members of the department you are applying to or any senior managers. 

Nomura final interviews generally involve a lot of questions about your resume, specific skills and other behavioural questions.

How much time do the Nomura final interviews take? 

Each interview at Nomura takes around 30-45 minutes. You will be required to sit for several such interviews throughout the day. Here, you will also be required to take several tasks given by your interviewers related to the skills you possess. 

Nomura Final Interview Example Questions

1. Walk me through the process of a typical buy-side M&A deal. 
2. What are bonds and options?
3. How does interest rate change affect bond price?
4. What is the difference between Hashtable and Hashmap?
5. Pitch me a trade idea.

We also recommend asking your own intriguing and thought-provoking questions at the end of your Nomura interview process. Here are some questions you may ask your employer: 

After this last stage of your Nomura assessment process, you will receive an offer letter after a week or two, once the employment checks and other formalities are done. 

If everything gets approved, you will be joining your dream job at Nomura. Congratulations!

But wait, before you go!

Are you a student looking for opportunities to kickstart your career with Nomura? We have got you covered! Below are some of the entry level career opportunities available at Nomura. Read on to find out.

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Nomura Early Careers

What graduate schemes does Nomura offer?

Nomura offers various career options for recent graduates and graduation students who are at the beginning stages of their professional careers, particularly in the financial industry. The various early career schemes offered by Nomura are as follows: 

1. Nomura Internships
2. Nomura Graduate Programs

Let’s discuss these in detail. 

1. Nomura Internships

What are Nomura Internships? 

Nomura offers internship programs for students and recent graduates interested in gaining hands-on experience in the financial industry. These internships are typically available in various locations and across different business areas within the company.

The job functions under which Nomura offers internship programs are as follows: 

1. Investment banking 
2. Sales and trading 
3. Research 
4. Technology

Nomura offers various kinds of internships. Read on to find out more.

1. What is Nomura summer internship?

Nomura’s summer internships are usually held during the summer months, typically lasting for several weeks. The exact duration can vary by location and division. The recruitment process may include an online application, interviews, and assessment centers.

2. What is Nomura’s Spring Week?

Nomura’s Spring Week, often referred to as Nomura’s Spring Insight Week, is a short-term internship program designed for undergraduate students who are typically in their first or second year of studies to gain insights into investment banking and financial services.  

Moving on, let’s discuss the specific eligibility criteria for the Nomura internships. 

NOMURA INTERNSHIPS: ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

What is the eligibility criteria for Nomura Internships? 

1. Educational Status: Internships at Nomura are typically designed for students who are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
2. Academic Performance: Nomura may have minimum academic performance criteria. Applicants are often expected to have a strong academic record, which may be assessed through your GPA or equivalent academic metrics.
3. Relevant Major or Field of Study: Nomura may prefer candidates with majors or fields of study related to the specific internship track.
4. Language Skills: Proficiency in English is often required, and additional language skills may be an advantage, particularly for international internships.

Now, let us discuss another relevant early opportunity offered by Nomura, i.e., the Nomura Graduate Programs. 

2. Nomura Graduate Programs

What are Nomura’s graduate programs? 

Nomura Group typically offers various graduate programs designed for recent university graduates who are interested in starting their careers in the financial industry. These programs often serve as a pathway for entry-level positions within the company and provide structured training and development opportunities.

The eligibility criteria for the Nomura Graduate Programs are as follows. 

NOMURA GRADUATE PROGRAMS: ELIGIBILITY

What are the eligibility criteria for Nomura graduate programs?

1. Educational Background: Graduate programs at Nomura are typically designed for individuals who have recently completed their undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. The specific degree requirements may vary by program, but common areas of study include finance, economics, business, engineering, and related fields.

2. Academic Performance: Nomura may have minimum academic performance criteria, such as a minimum GPA or equivalent academic metrics.

3. Interview and Assessment: Applicants are typically required to go through an interview and assessment process, which may include interviews, group exercises, and other evaluation methods.

With this, we have provided you all the information to help you get into your dream company. Check out the following FAQs section to gain more insights into the Nomura recruitment process. 

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Nomura Recruitment FAQs