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Applying to PwC graduate programs? Or preparing for a PwC interview? Look no further than this guide to accelerate your PwC assessment practice.
This article includes comprehensive candidate recruitment, assessment, and practice materials for anyone applying to internships, graduate programmes, and jobs at PwC in the UK, US, or globally.
Our website provides scientifically validated practice assessments, assessment tests, interviews, and assessment centre exercises. These practice assessments will enhance your performance in your upcoming PwC process.
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Unsure about whether to prepare for the PwC online assessment tests? 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 study found that candidates who do not practice 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:
PwC uses a variety of assessment tests to assess you at this stage. The various PwC assessment tests that you may face at this stage include:
You may get rejected after completing these PwC aptitude tests. These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates. The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.
Prepare for your PwC interviews by running mock interviews and answering typical PwC interview questions for the role you are applying for. Practice for PwC interviews using:
Use the STAR+R method to answer questions in PwC video interviews and practice each answer several times.
Our video interview practice platform has predefined competency and industry questions. It mimics the experience you will have in the platforms employers use for interviews. These include HireVue, Pymetrics, and Sonru.
The PwC assessment centre will use different exercises to find the right candidates for the role. Ensure that you practice a variety of exercises, including:
Continue reading to get answers to these critical questions:
Simply click on the table below to practice assessments relevant to the PwC assessment process!
Practice Numerical Reasoning Tests
Practice Verbal Reasoning Tests
Practice Logical Reasoning Tests
Practice Work Personality Questionnaire
Practice Video Interviews
Prepare for your Assessment Centre
Go Premium to get lifetime access to all our practice assessments listed above and ace your PwC assessment tests, first time.
Before we dive into the PwC hiring process, let’s go over the basics of what you’ll need to know about the company.
PricewaterhouseCoopers, popularly known as PwC, is a multinational professional services organisation with its headquarters in London. It’s one of the “Big Four” accounting firms globally, offering services in accounting, assurance, advisory, and tax.
PwC operates offices in 140 countries and employs 340,000 people globally. The company operates in all major aspects of the professional services sector, making it possible for you to apply to various roles and business functions in PwC.
PwC offers various roles in several business functions. Some job areas you can apply to at PwC include the following:
Good to Know: To ace your application for any of the roles at PwC, understanding the company’s values and desired behaviours is essential.
The PwC values define how PwC employees behave and set the expectations for how to interact with clients and colleagues. The PwC core values are:
Act with integrity:
Expect and provide high-quality service. Even when it feels difficult, speak up for what’s right.
Make a difference:
The actions should have an impact on our co-workers, clients, the environment and society.
Care:
Encourage others to develop and work in ways that bring out their best qualities.
Work together:
Overcome barriers to cooperate and share relationships, concepts, and knowledge.
Reimagine the possible:
Be open to the possibilities in every concept. Innovation and learning to try new ideas.
Beyond the PwC values, PwC also has specific behaviours that the PwC hiring process looks for in you. These behaviours are known as the PwC professional and they are:
Inspire
Understand your impact and know that people want to work with you.
Empower
Coach and work side by side with others.
Evolve
Grow as a person and aim to guide others into the future.
Champion
Commit to quality, integrity and inclusive behaviour.
Build
Apply a business mindset to your work to increase PwC’s success.
Deliver
Collaborate across PwC to deliver quality and distinctive client experiences.
Now that you know all about PwC, let’s jump right into the PwC recruitment process, starting with the PwC online application.
The PwC online application is the registration phase, where you complete an online application for your desired role. To complete your PwC job application form, you will be required to fill in the following:
Below is a glimpse of how the PwC online application looks.
PwC Online Application
Source: PwC Careers
PwC Application Tip: When applying to PwC, you’ll be asked to submit your CV or resume. Make sure your CV is well-structured and tailored to the role. Ensure all additional documents are up to date and professionally presented too.
If your application gets selected, you will be invited to the next stage of the PwC assessment process, the PwC online assessment tests.
The PwC online assessments are a series of psychometric tests which allow PwC to assess your cognitive abilities and personality traits. The PwC assessment tests are administered by SHL, and they include:
Good to Know: The specific PwC online test you will be required to complete will depend on the role you applied for and the skills required for the role.
Let us discuss each of these assessments one by one, starting with the PwC numerical reasoning test.
The PwC numerical reasoning test assesses your ability to understand statistical and numerical data as well as your ability to make logical deductions. Your accuracy and speed will be evaluated by this numerical test.
Watch our short video below to understand more about this PwC online assessment test!
The PwC numerical reasoning test will have between 12 to 18 questions, and you’ll have 17 to 25 minutes to answer.
Practice a FREE numerical reasoning test with us, or try out an example numerical reasoning question below to help you prepare for the PwC numerical test.
PwC-style Numerical Reasoning Test Example
Did you get the correct answer? Check the bottom of the page to find out.
Read on for quality tips on how to ace the PwC numerical test questions.
Looking for more assessment test practice for this PwC test?
Another psychometric test that you may also face at this stage of the PwC application process is the PwC verbal reasoning test.
The PwC verbal reasoning test assesses your ability to accurately extract key information from written texts to determine whether the given statements are true, false, or impossible to say based on the information contained in the passage.
Learn more about the PwC verbal reasoning test with our short video guide below.
The PwC verbal reasoning test measures your comprehension, attention to detail, and deduction skills.
Practice a FREE verbal reasoning test with us, or try out an example verbal reasoning question below to help you prepare for the PwC verbal test.
PwC-style Verbal Reasoning Test Example
To ace your upcoming PwC verbal reasoning test, look at our following expert practice tips.
Looking to further develop your verbal reasoning skills? Practice more verbal reasoning questions with us!
Another PwC assessment that you may face at this test stage is the PwC logical reasoning test.
The PwC logical reasoning test is also referred to as an abstract reasoning test. In this test, you will be presented with a series of abstract shapes and be required to identify which diagram would come next in the sequence.
Check out our short video below for key details on a PwC logical reasoning test.
The PwC logical reasoning test is designed to assess your ability to identify underlying patterns in information and predict outcomes using that information. It also measures your ability to think logically, analyse information, and problem solve.
Practice a FREE logical reasoning test with us, or try out an example logical reasoning question below to help you prepare for the PwC logical test.
PwC-style Logical Reasoning Test Example
Let’s go ahead and cover tips that will help you pass this PwC job test.
Practice more logical reasoning test questions with us to improve your logical skills before you take this PwC job test.
Another PwC online test you may be required to take is the PwC behavioural assessment.
The PwC behavioural assessment is typically a personality test. This PwC psychometric test presents you with options that contain behavioural statements and requires you to select which one best describes you.
Good to Know: The PwC personality test won’t have a major impact on the outcome of the PwC hiring process, as PwC simply uses the test to better understand your behavioural preferences and working style.
The PwC behavioural assessment measures the extent to which you engage in certain work behaviours. This PwC online test typically looks to understand your work preferences.
Watch our short video below to further understand what the PwC behavioural test measures.
So, how do you pass the PwC behavioural test? Find out with our top tips below!
Prepare for your PwC personality test by understanding your workplace preferences with our personality test.
Once you have completed the PwC online assessments, you may be invited to complete the PwC video interview.
Check out the following section for more details on this step of your PwC application.
The PwC video interview is a pre-recorded interview. The questions are pre-set with a time limit to record your answers. The platform will record your answers, which will then be reviewed internally by PwC.
Good to Know: It is important to note that the PwC video interview may be replaced by a PwC telephone interview depending on the role you apply for and internal recruiting decisions at PwC.
The PwC video interview typically assesses you against the PwC values and professional behaviours. This PwC interview will also look to evaluate your knowledge of PwC, its businesses, and the role you are applying for.
Watch our short video below to understand more about the PwC video interview:
Use our practice video interviews to record yourself, practice your answers, observe your behaviour and improve as you go – prepare yourself to make the best impression during your PwC video interview.
Now, let’s use the above tips to answer some of the questions asked in PwC video interviews.
Some PwC interview questions at this stage may include:
Read on as we give example answers to some of these PwC interview questions below.
How to Answer: Focus on showing your problem-solving mindset and structured approach. PwC looks for candidates who stay calm under pressure, think critically, and act responsibly.
Good Answer:
When confronted with a problem, my initial step is to calmly assess the situation. I break down the issue into manageable components, seeking to understand its root cause. Next, I gather relevant information through research or consultation with colleagues, aiming to make well-informed decisions.
Collaboration is integral; I value diverse perspectives and actively engage with team members to brainstorm solutions. Throughout the process, communication is key; I keep stakeholders informed and seek feedback to ensure transparency and alignment.
After resolving the problem, I reflect on the experience to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement. This iterative approach not only leads to effective solutions but also fosters continuous growth and improvement in both myself and the team.
How to Answer: Focus on aligning your personal interests and career goals with what the role offers and what PwC stands for. Show that you understand the responsibilities and the value you can bring, and what excites you about growing at PwC.
I’m motivated by the opportunity to join PwC because of its reputation for excellence and innovation in the professional services industry. I’m excited about the chance to work with a diverse team of talented professionals who are dedicated to delivering exceptional client service and making a positive impact.
The dynamic and challenging nature of the role aligns perfectly with my passion for continuous learning and development. I’m eager to contribute my skills and expertise to help solve complex problems and drive meaningful change for PwC’s clients and the broader community.
Overall, I’m inspired by the prospect of being part of a forward-thinking organisation that values collaboration, creativity, and making a difference in the world.
Once you’ve aced your PwC video interview, you are likely to be invited to the PwC assessment centre. So, what does this involve?
Read on to find out more!
The PwC assessment centre involves you being evaluated virtually with various individual and group exercises. The exercises you’ll take depend on the role you applied for, but you can typically expect the following exercises:
Good to Know: Depending on the role you applied for, the PwC assessment centre may be the final stage of the hiring process. For some other roles, PwC may hold a senior interview after the assessment centre.
Let’s find out more about each of the PwC assessment day exercises below!
The PwC case study exercise will involve analysing a given scenario or case, and you will be required to provide recommendations based on your analysis. The content of the case study will be directly relevant to the role you’ve applied for.
The PwC case study exercise will measure your analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Good to Know: The PwC case study exercise may also be referred to as the PwC written exercise.
Get ahead in your PwC case study exercise by practising with assessment centre exercises to gain professional tips to improve your performance.
The next assessment centre exercise you can anticipate is the PwC in-tray exercise.
The PwC in-tray exercise involves being presented with a number of pieces of information, of which you would be asked to sort, prioritise, and take action on.
The PwC in-tray exercise measures your ability to organise, prioritise, and manage several tasks and workload. It also measures your ability to plan and coordinate.
Below are the top tips for you to consider to help you pass the PwC in-tray exercise.
Practice the PwC assessment centre exercises with us using our Assessment Centre Package to get familiar with all the exercises and learn how to pass them.
Another key assessment centre exercise that you might be required to go through is the PwC group exercise.
The PwC group exercise will involve you getting paired with other shortlisted and present candidates to complete a task or discuss a scenario.
Watch our video below to learn more about what to expect in your PwC group exercise!
The PwC group exercise measures your ability to collaborate, communicate, and work effectively in a team.
Let’s check out our top tips that can help you pass your PwC group exercise.
Practice the PwC assessment centre exercises with us to improve your skills and performance.
The last exercise of the PwC assessment centre will be your PwC final interview.
The PwC final interview stage is an interview with members or executives from the business area you want to join. These conversations are mainly to check how you will fit with the company culture and the team. They may be held virtually or in person.
The PwC final interview rounds consist of questions that are competency-based, behavioural, technical, and motivational.
Good to Know: Depending on the role, this PwC interview process will involve a 20-minute live interview with a member of the student recruitment team and will be followed by an interview with a senior leader from the area that you have applied to.
Below are some example PwC interview questions you may face at this stage.
Some PwC interview questions you may be asked in the PwC final interview are:
Below is an example answer for one of these questions above.
How to Answer: Use the STAR+R method to structure your response. PwC is looking for professionalism, emotional intelligence, and your ability to resolve conflict. Show that you stayed calm, listened actively, and focused on finding a solution.
Situation
In my previous role as a project manager, I encountered a challenging situation when collaborating with a team member who consistently resisted change initiatives.
Task
The project required a significant shift in our workflow processes to improve efficiency and meet tight deadlines.
Action
I approached the member with empathy, listened to their concerns, addressed key objections by highlighting benefits, and provided extra support and training to help them adapt smoothly to the proposed changes.
Result
Through open communication and collaboration, the team members became more receptive and actively supported the changes. Their improved engagement helped us implement the project successfully and contributed to the overall success of the team.
Reflection
This experience reinforced the importance of empathetic leadership and active listening for me. Sometimes resistance comes from uncertainty, but by building trust and providing support, reluctant partners can become key contributors to success.
Prepare for your PwC interview questions with some interview question and answer sets to improve your technique!
Once you have impressed in your PwC assessment centre and interviews, you will shortly receive an offer from PwC. Congratulations!
But wait! Are you a recent graduate and want to kickstart your career with PwC? You have come to the right place. Let us walk you through the opportunities that PwC has for students and graduates.
Several PwC early careers programmes will pave your way to a brighter future. The PwC early careers programmes include the following:
Let us discuss each of these PwC graduate programmes briefly.
The PwC graduate programmes provide recent graduates and undergraduates with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, professional qualifications, and exposure to a diverse range of clients and projects.
The PwC graduate programmes are:
Diversity Programmes
3-Day discovery programmes for undergraduates students in the first year of a 3-year degree or second year of a 4-year degree.
Legal Vacation Scheme
A 2-week paid scheme for penultimate Law students or final year non-Law students which enables them to secure a training contract with PwC.
Undergraduate Work Placements
A paid 11-month opportunity for penultimate year students who need to complete a placement as part of their undergraduate degree.
Trainee Program
a 2-year paid full time programme for Australian/New Zealand high school or undergrad students to gain experience while they study.
Summer Internship/Vacation programmes
A paid internship for penultimate year students. lasting between 4-8 weeks.
Graduate Program
An 18-month opportunity for graduates and postgrads to grow and develop their career and reach their full potential.
The PwC graduate scheme offers roles in various job functions, such as:
Good to Know: For some locations such as Australia, you can also apply to business areas such as Actuarial, Deals and Risk.
Now, to apply to these PwC graduate programmes, make sure you fulfil the basic eligibility criteria, which are as follows.
Here are the basic eligibility criteria to apply for the PwC graduate programmes
Let’s go ahead and cover the PwC school and college leavers programmes.
The PwC school and college leavers programmes are opportunities designed to help you develop your business skills through real client work, while also completing formal training and studying towards qualifications to give you a head start in your career.
These programmes are:
School and College Leaver Roles
For Years 13 in England and Wales, Year 14 in Northern Ireland, and S6 in Scotland.
Virtual Insight Programme
For Years 11 and 12 in England and Wales, Year 12 and 13 in Northern Ireland or S4 and S5 in Scotland.
Flying Start Degrees
Fast track your career. For Year 13 in England and Wales, Year 14 in Northern Ireland, and S6 in Scotland.
PwC’s New World
New Skills Work Experience programme: For Year 12 in England and Wales, Year 13 in Northern Ireland or S5 in Scotland, this programme is targeted at students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Elite Athlete
Unique to Australia, this 12-week programme provides paid work experience around your training schedule and competitions.
The PwC school leavers programme offers roles in various business areas, such as consulting, tax, technology, accounting, etc.
Good to Know: The PwC school and college leavers programmes differ greatly from one another. Hence, their eligibility criteria are quite different, and you will need to visit PwC’s official site for more information or read the job description thoroughly.
Keep reading to discover answers to frequently asked questions about the PwC application process.
Absolutely. However, PwC screens one application for an open position at a time. If your first choice is not available, they might still take you into consideration for your second choice. This will be subject to the business needs and requirements.
If you are a graduate, experienced professional, or intern and are unable to discover a position that matches your qualifications, search for the term “talent pool.” A talent pool is a repository of applicant profiles interested in working with PwC.
Although PwC online assessment tests might be challenging, they are also tremendously rewarding. The PwC online assessment questions are made to assess your cognitive abilities, but also your behaviours and workplace personality.
Although it differs from business area to business area, each has a standard format and lasts 6 to 8 weeks. Most likely, the first week will be a residential training session to familiarise you with your clients and colleagues.
Do you want to pass your PwC assessment tests, first time? Take numerical, logical, verbal reasoning, and behavioural practice tests today with us, 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 Verbal Reasoning Test: B Logical Reasoning Test: C
Do you want to pass your PwC assessment tests, first time? Take numerical, logical, verbal reasoning, and behavioural practice tests today with us, 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 Verbal Reasoning Test: B Logical Reasoning Test: C
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