Author – Shir Enzer
JobTestPrep
Banking summer internships are an exciting opportunity for penultimate-year students to dive into the finance world at top banks like J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and UBS. These programs, which usually run 8-10 weeks over the summer, offer a blend of hands-on experience and networking that’s invaluable for launching a career in finance. Whether rotating through different divisions or focusing on one, as an intern, you gain real insights into banking—and if all goes well, a summer internship can often open doors to a full-time offer down the road!
Banking Summer Internship Assessment Tests
To identify the top candidates from a large number of applications for summer internship programmes, the banks administer assessment tests that evaluate cognitive abilities and behavioural traits. Thus, achieving a high score on these tests is crucial for moving to the next step of the application process.
Each bank uses a specific test provider for their assessment, that includes SHL (Deutsche Bank), Aon (cut-e) (Morgan Stanley, Nomura), Pymetrics (JP Morgan), Cappfinity (HSBC), and Pymetrics (J.P. Morgan).
Summer Internship Assessment Questions
These assessments usually include questions tailored to measure different skill areas, such as numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, logical reasoning, and situational judgement tests. However, as each administer different assessments, the sections of the test and types of questions vary from one bank to another.
Numerical Reasoning
Since banking relies heavily on numerical analysis, banks usually include Numerical Reasoning tests in their assessments. These tests focus on interpreting charts, tables, and data, emphasising quick and accurate data analysis skills.
Try a numerical reasoning question taken from JobTestPrep’s HSBC practice pack –
Which of the following NGOs had the second-highest percentage increase in subscribers to updates from Mont Percentage 3?
- (A) Green Zoo
- (B) Elephants Project
- (C) Repairing Ocean
- (D) Bats World
- (E) Horses House
The correct answer is (A) – Green Zoo
Logical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning tests assess how well you can solve problems and spot patterns in data. These tests need quick thinking to figure out sequences, shapes, and puzzles logically. They help show that you can handle complex problems carefully and with attention to detail.
Here is an example of a logical reasoning question taken from JobTestPrep’s UBS practice pack –
Verbal Reasoning
Because good communication is crucial in banking, Verbal Reasoning tests are often used to assess how well you can comprehend and interpret written information. These tests concentrate on reading comprehension, critical thinking, and logical interpretation, where you need to analyse passages, draw conclusions, and answer questions precisely and promptly.
Try a verbal reasoning question taken from JobTestPrep’s Barclays practice pack –
In many traditions, the phoenix is seen as a symbol of renewal, transformation, and resilience. Often portrayed in mythological tales, the phoenix is a legendary bird that rises from its ashes, symbolising rebirth and the strength to overcome adversity. This powerful image serves as a reminder that growth and renewal are possible, even after great challenges.
What is the phoenix commonly used as a symbol for?
- (A) Wealth and prosperity
- (B) Rebirth and resilience
- (C) Love and compassion
- (D) Peace and tranquillity
The correct answer is (B) – Rebirth and resilience
Situational Judgment Test
Situational Judgment Tests (SJTs) evaluate your approach to practical workplace situations. These assessments present hypothetical scenarios, typically centred around teamwork or issue resolution, to gauge your decision-making abilities, interpersonal aptitude, and alignment with the bank’s fundamental principles. Succeeding in these tests involves demonstrating sound judgement, professionalism, and adept collaboration within a high-pressure setting.
Here is an example of a logical reasoning question taken from JobTestPrep’s Morgan Stanley practice pack –
During a team meeting, Sarah, your colleague, suggested a new approach for handling client emails that she thinks would improve efficiency. She mentions she’s observed how you currently handle emails and believes her method would save time.
How would you respond?
- (A) Mention that procedure changes should be discussed with the team leader before considering alternatives.
- (B) Ask her to demonstrate her method after the meeting, then decide if it’s worth discussing with the supervisor.
- (C) Respond that if her approach was better, the manager would have already implemented it.
- (D) Explain that current methods are industry-standard and changing them would take unnecessary time.
The recommended response is (B)
Pre-Recorded Interview
Following the initial stages of your application process, if you received a high score on the assessment tests, you may be invited to take a pre-recorded interview. Major banks widely adopt this method as an advanced screening tool that evaluates your behaviour and ability to articulate yourself.
This format, utilised on online platforms like HireVue, entails responding to job-related queries on camera without immediate interaction. Typically, you will have a set time, usually 2 minutes, to prepare for each question and approximately 3 minutes to record your responses.
Some pre-recorded interviews may also incorporate job-related tasks like case studies and situational judgement questions.
Here’s what it looks like –
Banking Summer Internship Assessment Tips
- Practise for Timed Tests: Banks expect high scores within strict time limits, so practising under real test conditions will build both speed and accuracy.
- Familiarise with Different Test Types: Assessments often include numerical, verbal, logical reasoning, and situational judgement tests, and to get a high score you need to ace all of them. In addition, each bank uses a different test provider (e.g., SHL, Talent Q, Aon, Pymetrics), and since you are probably applying for more than one bank, you need to be ready for all the test formats, features and difficulties.
- Get a Reflective Review: Use test simulations and scoring reports to identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to adjust your focus areas accordingly.
How to Prepare for the Banking Summer Internship Assessment?
Preparing for the Summer internship assessment is made easier with JobTestPrep’s comprehensive Preparation Pack. The pack is regularly updated to include the most accurate test simulations for over 10 of the leading banks.
The pack allows you to:
- Practice under timed conditions
- Sharpen essential cognitive skills
- Analyse scoring reports to identify strengths and areas for improvement
- Learn from mistakes and focus on high-impact skills
It also provides realistic practice for pre-recorded interviews, helping you familiarise yourself with the video format and build confidence.
The preparation pack’s psychologist-backed feedback empowers you to enhance your interview performance and achieve the top percentile score needed to stand out!
See What JobTestPrep’s Summer Internship Preparation Looks Like –
