Online Application
EY did not require a cover letter or a CV. Therefore, this stage involved entering personal details, your education history and work experience. You also have to complete a motivational question at this stage.
How to respond for success
As there is no CV or cover letter, it is important to include all your relevant information on the application form that is usually found in your CV. For example, any relevant work experience/societies, your university grades, etc. Make sure to be honest.
You will be immediately processed to the next stage.
Cover Letter Questions
Expect a motivational question based on your reasons for applying to your chosen service line and EY as a whole. To prepare, be clear on your reason for applying to your chosen service line and why you are interested in this area. Also think about how your current skills suit this service line. Finally, know your motivations for applying to EY and why you would like to take part in this programme.
Example
Motivational questions around applying for your given programme at EY and your chosen service line.
How to respond for success
Being clear on why this service line is right for you and showing a basic understanding of the work the line does. Also, do some background research on EY and know your reasons for wanting to take part in their programme.
You will be immediately processed to the next stage.
Numerical Reasoning
After receiving the online tests, you have around 7 days to complete them. The tests are split into two parts:
- Ranking and multiple choice questions
The ranking questions are not timed but don't spend too long on these as it can lead to overthinking responses and confusion.
- Numerical Reasoning Test
This test is timed and involves reading and interpreting data from graphs, tables and other sources of data. You then have to complete calculations based on this data. Many questions were multiple choice, therefore you can choose from a range of answers.
Example
You will be reading data from graphs, charts and tables, then answering questions on these such as % increases/decreases.
How to respond for success
Make sure to practice online tests before starting to ensure you're used to how they work and can answer questions quickly and accurately. Make use of free practice online tests, to get used to the format and understand the areas in which you need to work on. Also make sure your basic maths is of a high standard such as percentage calculations, ratios, etc. During the Numerical test, make sure to keep an eye on time and read the question properly to avoid the chance on misinterpretation.
Expect a 2 week wait before advancing to the next stage.
Job Simulation
The aim of the job simulation is to give the candidate an idea of what a role at EY would be like and certain scenarios that they may have to deal with in their role. It involves answering video questions, ranking questions and written questions. The job simulation takes around an hour to complete, so ensure that you leave yourself plenty of time so you are not rushed.
Example
This stage involved 14 questions with a mix of video questions, ranking questions and written questions. Written questions included writing business emails and video questions were scenario-based around how you would respond to a range of scenarios that may occur on the job.
How to respond for success
Make sure to practice for the video questions. Record yourself answering practice questions to ensure you keep eye contact, don't fidget and look natural as it is often very strange at first. You are also given a practice question at the start to ensure your computer, lighting and sound work okay so make sure to answer this - plus it helps you get used to the format. Finally, dress smartly and ensure your background is appropriate.
