EY Assessment Test: Questions, Answers & Hiring Guide

The EY Assessment Test is a pre-employment assessment process used for many EY student, graduate, internship, experienced hire, consulting, assurance, tax, strategy, transactions, technology, cybersecurity, data, and corporate roles.

The exact EY hiring process can vary by country, business area, seniority level, and job type. Candidates may complete online assessments, job simulations, reasoning tests, strengths-based questions, video interviews, case studies, assessment center exercises, or final interviews.

EY’s official careers pages explain that candidates can search and apply online, may be invited to complete assessments or interviews depending on the role, and are encouraged to understand the role, prepare carefully, and show their skills, strengths, values, and motivation. For some US early-careers roles, EY states that applicants may receive an online skills assessment invitation within about one business day after applying. EY also emphasizes purpose, values, people, collaboration, client service, integrity, and building a better working world.

This guide explains what to expect in the EY assessment process, the most common test formats, realistic sample questions with answers, and preparation tips for different EY roles. It is not an official EY resource.

What Is the EY Assessment Test?

The EY Assessment Test is a hiring assessment process designed to evaluate whether your skills, judgment, motivation, and work style match the EY role you applied for.

Depending on the role, you may face:

  • numerical reasoning questions;
  • verbal reasoning questions;
  • logical reasoning questions;
  • situational judgment questions;
  • job simulation exercises;
  • strengths-based questions;
  • work style or personality-style questions;
  • video interview questions;
  • case study exercises;
  • written exercises;
  • group exercises;
  • assessment center tasks;
  • final interviews;
  • technical or role-specific interviews.

EY assessment content is usually designed around the role. For example, an audit candidate may be tested on numerical reasoning, attention to detail, professional judgment, and client service. A consulting candidate may face more business judgment, case study, and problem-solving questions. A technology candidate may face technical, data, logic, or systems-related questions.

Banking assessment preparation can help candidates become familiar with numerical reasoning, situational judgment, and job simulation formats before the live assessment step.

For broader context on pre-employment assessments, employment test practice can help candidates compare common assessment formats across employers.

Does Every EY Candidate Take the Same Assessment?

No. EY does not use one identical process for every candidate.

Your assessment may depend on:

  • country;
  • role;
  • business area;
  • graduate vs experienced hire status;
  • internship vs full-time application;
  • service line;
  • assessment provider;
  • hiring team;
  • local office requirements.

A student or graduate candidate may complete an online assessment, job simulation, video interview, and assessment center.

An experienced hire may move through recruiter screening, interviews, technical discussions, case-style questions, or role-specific assessments.

A consulting candidate may face business scenarios and case interviews.

A technology candidate may face technical screening or problem-solving tasks.

A tax or audit candidate may face numerical, verbal, SJT, and professional judgment questions.

Always follow the instructions in your official EY candidate portal or hiring email.

EY Hiring Process Overview

EY’s official careers guidance notes that the process can vary by country, service line, and role level. A typical process may include:

  1. Search for roles and submit an online application
  2. Application review and candidate screening
  3. Online assessment or skills assessment if required for the role
  4. Interview stage, which may include prerecorded video interviews, live video interviews, case study interviews, or multiple interview rounds depending on the business area
  5. Offer, onboarding, and pre-employment steps if selected

For US early-careers roles, EY’s application guidance states that applicants may receive an email invitation to an online skills assessment within about one business day after applying and should complete it within the specified timeframe. EY also recommends limiting yourself to two applications within a six-month period unless local guidance says otherwise.

For graduate and internship roles in some regions, applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis and may close once roles are filled. For experienced roles, the process may be more interview-based and role-specific.

Always follow the instructions in your official EY candidate portal or hiring email.

EY Roles That May Use Assessments

EY hires across several major business areas. The assessment focus may differ by role.

Assurance and Audit

Assurance and audit roles may focus on:

  • numerical reasoning;
  • attention to detail;
  • data interpretation;
  • professional skepticism;
  • client communication;
  • ethical judgment;
  • teamwork;
  • deadline management;
  • documentation accuracy.

Strong candidates show accuracy, integrity, analytical thinking, and ability to work with clients and teams.

Tax

Tax roles may focus on:

  • numerical reasoning;
  • reading comprehension;
  • rule interpretation;
  • attention to detail;
  • client service;
  • confidentiality;
  • research ability;
  • professional judgment.

Strong candidates show precision, structured thinking, and ability to explain complex information clearly.

Consulting

Consulting roles may focus on:

  • problem-solving;
  • business judgment;
  • case study thinking;
  • data interpretation;
  • client communication;
  • teamwork;
  • prioritization;
  • adaptability;
  • structured recommendations.

Strong candidates show clear reasoning, client awareness, communication, and practical problem-solving.

Strategy and Transactions

Strategy and transactions roles may focus on:

  • financial reasoning;
  • data interpretation;
  • business analysis;
  • commercial awareness;
  • case study thinking;
  • written communication;
  • decision-making.

Strong candidates show numerical confidence, business judgment, and ability to draw conclusions from information.

Technology

Technology roles may focus on:

  • logical reasoning;
  • technical problem-solving;
  • systems thinking;
  • data interpretation;
  • coding or technical knowledge if relevant;
  • cybersecurity awareness;
  • communication with non-technical stakeholders.

Strong candidates show both technical skill and client-focused communication.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity roles may focus on:

  • risk awareness;
  • logical reasoning;
  • technical judgment;
  • confidentiality;
  • ethical behavior;
  • problem-solving;
  • attention to detail.

Strong candidates show structured thinking, risk awareness, and responsible judgment.

Data and Analytics

Data roles may focus on:

  • data interpretation;
  • numerical reasoning;
  • pattern recognition;
  • logical reasoning;
  • attention to detail;
  • technical tools;
  • communicating insights.

Strong candidates show accuracy and the ability to explain what data means in a business context.

Graduate and Internship Programs

Graduate and internship candidates may face broader assessments because employers are testing potential rather than long work history.

Common themes include:

  • learning agility;
  • motivation;
  • teamwork;
  • communication;
  • client service;
  • ethical judgment;
  • numerical reasoning;
  • verbal reasoning;
  • problem-solving;
  • adaptability.

What Does the EY Assessment Measure?

EY assessments may evaluate a mix of technical, cognitive, behavioral, and professional competencies.

Numerical Reasoning

Numerical reasoning questions test your ability to interpret numbers, tables, charts, percentages, ratios, trends, and business data.

EY roles often involve data, financial information, performance metrics, risk analysis, or client reports. Numerical reasoning helps assess whether you can draw accurate conclusions from quantitative information.

Verbal Reasoning

Verbal reasoning questions test your ability to read professional text, understand arguments, evaluate statements, and identify what can or cannot be concluded.

This matters because EY work often involves reports, client documents, regulations, emails, business cases, and written recommendations.

Logical Reasoning

Logical reasoning questions test pattern recognition, abstract thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to draw conclusions from rules.

This may appear in technology, consulting, strategy, data, and graduate assessments.

Situational Judgment

Situational judgment questions test how you respond to workplace scenarios.

EY-style scenarios may involve:

  • client communication;
  • teamwork;
  • ethical judgment;
  • deadlines;
  • conflicting priorities;
  • feedback;
  • confidentiality;
  • quality concerns;
  • stakeholder management.

Strong answers usually show professionalism, integrity, collaboration, client service, and accountability.

Job Simulation

A job simulation presents realistic workplace tasks.

You may need to:

  • read emails;
  • respond to messages;
  • analyze data;
  • prioritize tasks;
  • advise a client;
  • choose the best response;
  • record a video answer;
  • write a short recommendation;
  • interpret business information.

Job simulations test how you apply judgment in realistic work settings.

Strengths and Work Style

Some EY assessments may evaluate strengths, motivation, and work style.

They may ask whether you:

  • enjoy solving problems;
  • work well in teams;
  • stay calm under pressure;
  • communicate clearly;
  • learn quickly;
  • adapt to change;
  • take responsibility;
  • show curiosity;
  • act ethically.

Personality assessment practice can help you practice consistent statement-rating responses before work style sections.

Video Interview

A video interview may include motivational, behavioral, strengths-based, or scenario questions.

You may need to answer questions on camera within a time limit.

Case Study

A case study may ask you to analyze a business problem, interpret information, and recommend a solution.

Case studies are especially relevant for consulting, strategy, transactions, and some graduate programs.

Assessment Center

An EY assessment center or final stage may include:

  • group exercise;
  • case study;
  • presentation;
  • written exercise;
  • role play;
  • interview;
  • partner or senior manager conversation.

The goal is to evaluate your skills in a realistic professional setting.

Common EY Assessment Formats

EY Online Assessment

The online assessment may include reasoning tests, SJT questions, job simulation tasks, work style questions, or strengths-based questions.

You may be asked to complete the assessment after submitting your application.

EY Numerical Reasoning Test

Numerical reasoning questions may include:

  • percentages;
  • ratios;
  • financial data;
  • tables;
  • charts;
  • revenue;
  • profit;
  • cost;
  • growth;
  • averages;
  • comparisons.

You usually need to interpret business data quickly and accurately.

Numerical reasoning test practice can help you build speed with percentages, charts, and business data before timed assessment sections.

EY Verbal Reasoning Test

Verbal reasoning questions may ask you to read a passage and decide whether a statement is:

  • true;
  • false;
  • cannot say;
  • supported;
  • not supported;
  • implied;
  • contradicted.

The key is to answer based only on the text provided.

Verbal reasoning practice can help you practice true, false, and cannot say formats before the live test.

EY Logical Reasoning Test

Logical reasoning questions may involve:

  • patterns;
  • sequences;
  • shapes;
  • rules;
  • abstract logic;
  • deductive reasoning.

These questions test how you solve unfamiliar problems.

EY Situational Judgment Test

Situational judgment questions may ask what you would do in a workplace situation.

Example themes:

  • a client is unhappy;
  • a team member is not contributing;
  • a deadline is at risk;
  • you notice an error;
  • you receive unclear instructions;
  • you disagree with feedback;
  • confidential information is involved.

Strong answers usually show collaboration, integrity, communication, accountability, and client focus.

Situational judgment test practice can help you rehearse client service and professional judgment scenarios before the assessment.

EY Job Simulation

A job simulation may combine several question types.

You may see:

  • emails;
  • chat messages;
  • business documents;
  • data tables;
  • client scenarios;
  • video responses;
  • written responses;
  • ranking questions;
  • multiple-choice judgment items.

The goal is to see how you think and act in realistic EY-style work.

EY Video Interview

A video interview may ask questions such as:

  • Why EY?
  • Why this service line?
  • Tell us about a time you worked in a team.
  • Describe a time you solved a difficult problem.
  • How would you handle conflicting deadlines?
  • Tell us about a time you received feedback.
  • How do you approach client work?
  • What motivates you?

Prepare concise examples using the STAR method.

EY Assessment Center

At an assessment center, you may be evaluated across several exercises.

These may include:

  • individual case study;
  • group discussion;
  • written recommendation;
  • presentation;
  • interview;
  • role play.

Assessors may look at your communication, teamwork, commercial awareness, structure, judgment, and professionalism.

EY Case Study

A case study may present a business situation and ask you to analyze it.

Examples:

  • a client wants to reduce costs;
  • a company is considering market expansion;
  • a business is facing declining profitability;
  • a client needs digital transformation support;
  • a company is dealing with operational risk;
  • a transaction or investment decision needs evaluation.

Strong answers are structured and evidence-based.

EY Group Exercise

A group exercise may ask you to discuss a business problem with other candidates.

You may be assessed on:

  • listening;
  • contributing useful ideas;
  • building on others’ points;
  • keeping the discussion organized;
  • not dominating;
  • encouraging quieter participants;
  • reaching a practical recommendation.

EY Written Exercise

A written exercise may ask you to prepare:

  • a short email;
  • a client memo;
  • a recommendation;
  • a summary;
  • a report section;
  • a prioritization note.

Strong writing is clear, concise, structured, and business-focused.

Is the EY Assessment Timed?

Some EY assessments may be timed, especially reasoning tests, online exercises, video interviews, or job simulation tasks.

Before starting, check:

  • whether there is a time limit;
  • whether you can pause;
  • whether you can go back to previous questions;
  • whether you need a calculator;
  • whether you need a quiet space;
  • whether video or microphone access is required.

Even if the assessment is not strictly timed, you should complete it in a focused environment.

Can You Fail the EY Assessment Test?

Yes. If an EY assessment is required, weak performance may prevent you from moving forward.

You may perform poorly if you:

  • misread numerical data;
  • rely on assumptions in verbal reasoning;
  • choose weak SJT responses;
  • show poor teamwork judgment;
  • ignore ethics or confidentiality;
  • struggle to communicate clearly;
  • give unstructured video answers;
  • fail to explain case study reasoning;
  • show poor commercial awareness;
  • appear unprepared for the role;
  • give inconsistent work style answers.

EY assessments are competitive, especially for graduate and internship programs.

EY Numerical Reasoning Sample Questions

These questions are not official EY questions. They are practice-style examples designed to reflect common numerical reasoning themes.

Sample Question 1: Percentage Increase

A department’s revenue increased from $800,000 to $920,000.

What was the percentage increase?

  • A. 10%
  • B. 12%
  • C. 15%
  • D. 20%

Correct answer: C

Explanation: Increase = $920,000 - $800,000 = $120,000. Percentage increase = $120,000 / $800,000 = 0.15 = 15%.

Sample Question 2: Profit Margin

A project generated $500,000 in revenue and $375,000 in costs.

What is the profit margin?

  • A. 20%
  • B. 25%
  • C. 30%
  • D. 35%

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Profit = $500,000 - $375,000 = $125,000. Profit margin = $125,000 / $500,000 = 25%.

Sample Question 3: Average

A team completed the following number of client reports over four weeks:

  • Week 1: 18
  • Week 2: 22
  • Week 3: 20
  • Week 4: 24

What was the average number of reports per week?

  • A. 20
  • B. 21
  • C. 22
  • D. 23

Correct answer: B

Explanation: 18 + 22 + 20 + 24 = 84. 84 / 4 = 21.

Sample Question 4: Ratio

A consulting team has 6 analysts and 3 managers.

What is the ratio of analysts to managers?

  • A. 1:2
  • B. 2:1
  • C. 3:1
  • D. 6:1

Correct answer: B

Explanation: 6 analysts to 3 managers simplifies to 2:1.

Sample Question 5: Cost Reduction

A client reduces annual operating costs from $2.4 million to $2.1 million.

How much did the client save?

  • A. $200,000
  • B. $250,000
  • C. $300,000
  • D. $400,000

Correct answer: C

Explanation: $2.4 million - $2.1 million = $0.3 million = $300,000.

EY Verbal Reasoning Sample Questions

Read the passage and answer based only on the information provided.

Sample Question 6: True / False / Cannot Say

Passage: A professional services firm introduced a new digital tool to help client teams organize project documents. During the first quarter, adoption was highest among consulting teams and lowest among tax teams. The firm plans to provide additional training to improve adoption across all service lines.

Statement: Tax teams had the lowest adoption of the new digital tool during the first quarter.

  • A. True
  • B. False
  • C. Cannot say

Correct answer: A

Explanation: The passage directly states that adoption was lowest among tax teams.

Sample Question 7: True / False / Cannot Say

Passage: A firm surveyed employees about hybrid work. Most respondents said flexibility improved productivity, but some reported that collaboration was harder when teams worked remotely on different days.

Statement: All employees said hybrid work improved collaboration.

  • A. True
  • B. False
  • C. Cannot say

Correct answer: B

Explanation: The passage says some employees found collaboration harder, so the statement is false.

Sample Question 8: Cannot Say

Passage: A company’s finance team implemented a new reporting process. Managers said the process reduced manual errors and improved review speed.

Statement: The new process reduced the company’s total operating costs.

  • A. True
  • B. False
  • C. Cannot say

Correct answer: C

Explanation: The passage says errors and review speed improved. It does not say whether operating costs decreased.

Sample Question 9: Main Idea

Passage: Client expectations have changed as organizations adopt new technology. Professional services firms must combine technical knowledge with clear communication, industry understanding, and practical implementation support.

What is the main idea?

  • A. Technical skills are no longer needed.
  • B. Professional services firms must combine technical expertise with communication and practical support.
  • C. Clients only care about implementation speed.
  • D. Industry knowledge is irrelevant.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: The passage emphasizes the combination of technical knowledge, communication, industry understanding, and implementation support.

Sample Question 10: Inference

Passage: A project team noticed that client stakeholders had different expectations about the project timeline. The team scheduled a meeting to clarify milestones and responsibilities.

What can be reasonably inferred?

  • A. The project had no timeline.
  • B. The team wanted to align stakeholder expectations.
  • C. The client canceled the project.
  • D. The team had already missed every deadline.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: The meeting was scheduled to clarify milestones and responsibilities, suggesting the team wanted alignment.

EY Logical Reasoning Sample Questions

Sample Question 11: Sequence

Find the next number:

3, 6, 12, 24, ?

  • A. 30
  • B. 36
  • C. 48
  • D. 60

Correct answer: C

Explanation: Each number doubles. 3 × 2 = 6, 6 × 2 = 12, 12 × 2 = 24, 24 × 2 = 48.

Sample Question 12: Pattern

Find the next number:

5, 10, 20, 40, ?

  • A. 45
  • B. 60
  • C. 70
  • D. 80

Correct answer: D

Explanation: Each number doubles.

Sample Question 13: Rule

If all analysts are employees, and some employees are consultants, which statement must be true?

  • A. All analysts are consultants.
  • B. Some analysts are consultants.
  • C. All analysts are employees.
  • D. No analysts are employees.

Correct answer: C

Explanation: The first condition directly states that all analysts are employees.

Sample Question 14: Business Logic

A project cannot begin until both the contract is signed and the project team is assigned. The contract has been signed, but the project team has not been assigned.

What can be concluded?

  • A. The project can begin immediately.
  • B. The project cannot begin yet.
  • C. The project has been completed.
  • D. The client canceled the project.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: Both conditions are required. Since the team has not been assigned, the project cannot begin yet.

Sample Question 15: Deductive Reasoning

All audit reports must be reviewed before submission. The report has not been reviewed.

What follows?

  • A. The report can be submitted.
  • B. The report should not be submitted yet.
  • C. The report is unnecessary.
  • D. The client has approved the report.

Correct answer: B

Explanation: If review is required before submission and it has not been reviewed, it should not be submitted yet.

EY Situational Judgment Sample Questions

The following questions are not official EY questions. They reflect common professional services workplace themes.

Sample Question 16: Client Deadline

Scenario: You are working on a client deliverable due tomorrow. You realize that one section contains data that may be incorrect.

What should you do?

  • A. Submit the deliverable anyway because the deadline is close.
  • B. Ignore the issue and hope no one notices.
  • C. Check the data, inform the appropriate team member or manager, and help correct the issue.
  • D. Delete the section without telling anyone.

Best answer: C

Explanation: This answer shows integrity, accuracy, communication, and accountability. Professional services work depends on quality and trust.

Sample Question 17: Team Conflict

Scenario: Two team members disagree about how to approach a client analysis, and the discussion is becoming unproductive.

What should you do?

  • A. Encourage a structured discussion focused on evidence and project goals.
  • B. Take sides immediately.
  • C. Ignore the conflict.
  • D. Tell the client the team cannot agree.

Best answer: A

Explanation: This answer shows collaboration, professionalism, and problem-solving.

Sample Question 18: Unclear Instructions

Scenario: A manager gives you a task, but you are unsure about the expected output.

What should you do?

  • A. Guess and complete the task quickly.
  • B. Ask clarifying questions before proceeding.
  • C. Wait until the deadline passes.
  • D. Ask another new hire to guess.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Clarifying expectations prevents rework and shows professional communication.

Sample Question 19: Confidential Information

Scenario: You receive confidential client information and a friend outside the firm asks about the project.

What should you do?

  • A. Share general details because they are a friend.
  • B. Refuse to share confidential information and follow confidentiality rules.
  • C. Share the information if they promise not to tell anyone.
  • D. Discuss the client name but not the numbers.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Confidentiality and client trust are essential.

Sample Question 20: Feedback

Scenario: A senior colleague gives you feedback that your analysis needs more structure.

What should you do?

  • A. Become defensive and explain why the feedback is wrong.
  • B. Listen, ask for clarification if needed, revise your work, and apply the feedback next time.
  • C. Ignore the feedback.
  • D. Stop contributing to the project.

Best answer: B

Explanation: This answer shows coachability and learning agility.

Sample Question 21: Competing Priorities

Scenario: You have two urgent tasks from different managers and cannot complete both by the same deadline.

What should you do?

  • A. Choose one randomly.
  • B. Communicate the conflict early, clarify priorities, and agree on expectations.
  • C. Work on neither task.
  • D. Complete the easier task and ignore the other.

Best answer: B

Explanation: Strong professional judgment includes early communication and prioritization.

Sample Question 22: Client Question You Cannot Answer

Scenario: A client asks you a technical question during a meeting, and you are not sure of the answer.

What should you do?

  • A. Guess confidently.
  • B. Say you will confirm the answer and follow up with accurate information.
  • C. Ignore the question.
  • D. Give an answer you found online without checking.

Best answer: B

Explanation: It is better to be accurate and follow up than to provide unreliable information.

Sample Question 23: Error in Previous Work

Scenario: You notice that a small error in a previous analysis may affect a client recommendation.

What should you do?

  • A. Hide it because it may make you look bad.
  • B. Inform the appropriate team member, help assess the impact, and correct it.
  • C. Wait until the client notices.
  • D. Blame another analyst.

Best answer: B

Explanation: This answer shows accountability and professional integrity.

EY Work Style Sample Questions

Work style questions may ask how you usually behave in a professional setting.

Sample Question 24: Teamwork

Statement: I enjoy working with others to solve complex problems.

  • A. Strongly disagree
  • B. Disagree
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Agree
  • E. Strongly agree

Strong answer logic: Agree or Strongly agree is usually strong for EY roles because professional services work is highly collaborative.

Sample Question 25: Attention to Detail

Statement: I check important details before submitting work.

  • A. Strongly disagree
  • B. Disagree
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Agree
  • E. Strongly agree

Strong answer logic: Agree or Strongly agree is strong, especially for audit, tax, transactions, data, and consulting work.

Sample Question 26: Client Focus

Statement: I try to understand what the client or stakeholder needs before recommending a solution.

  • A. Strongly disagree
  • B. Disagree
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Agree
  • E. Strongly agree

Strong answer logic: Agree or Strongly agree is strong because EY roles often involve client service and stakeholder communication.

Sample Question 27: Adaptability

Statement: I can adjust when project priorities change.

  • A. Strongly disagree
  • B. Disagree
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Agree
  • E. Strongly agree

Strong answer logic: Agree or Strongly agree is strong for consulting, audit, tax, technology, and client-facing roles.

Sample Question 28: Ethics

Statement: I would rather raise a concern than ignore information that may be inaccurate.

  • A. Strongly disagree
  • B. Disagree
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Agree
  • E. Strongly agree

Strong answer logic: Strongly agree is usually strong because professional integrity matters in client work.

Sample Question 29: Learning Agility

Statement: I enjoy learning new tools, methods, or business topics.

  • A. Strongly disagree
  • B. Disagree
  • C. Neutral
  • D. Agree
  • E. Strongly agree

Strong answer logic: Agree or Strongly agree is strong, especially for student, graduate, consulting, technology, and transformation roles.

EY Video Interview Sample Questions

Sample Question 30: Why EY?

Question: Why do you want to work at EY?

Strong answer framework:

I am interested in EY because it is a global professional services firm where client service, teamwork, learning, integrity, and problem-solving are central to the work. The role appeals to me because it combines analytical thinking with real client impact. I am also interested in EY’s focus on purpose, people, development, and building a better working world.

Sample Question 31: Why This Role?

Question: Why are you interested in audit, tax, consulting, strategy, transactions, technology, or your chosen service line?

Strong answer framework:

Connect your answer to:

  • the work the service line does;
  • your skills;
  • your motivation;
  • your long-term career interest;
  • EY’s client work;
  • your ability to learn and contribute.

Example for consulting:

I am interested in consulting because I enjoy analyzing business problems, working with teams, and turning information into practical recommendations. I like that consulting requires both structured thinking and communication with clients.

Sample Question 32: Teamwork

Question: Tell me about a time you worked in a team.

Strong answer framework:

Use STAR:

  • Situation: What was the team context?
  • Task: What needed to be achieved?
  • Action: What did you contribute?
  • Result: What happened?

Focus on collaboration, communication, and impact.

Sample Question 33: Problem-Solving

Question: Tell me about a time you solved a difficult problem.

Strong answer framework:

A strong answer should show:

  • how you defined the problem;
  • what information you gathered;
  • how you analyzed options;
  • what action you took;
  • what result you achieved;
  • what you learned.

Sample Question 34: Feedback

Question: Tell me about a time you received constructive feedback.

Strong answer framework:

A strong answer should show that you:

  • listened;
  • did not become defensive;
  • understood the feedback;
  • improved your work;
  • applied the learning later.

Sample Question 35: Ethical Judgment

Question: Tell me about a time you had to act with integrity.

Strong answer framework:

Choose an example where you:

  • raised a concern;
  • corrected an error;
  • protected confidential information;
  • followed a rule even when inconvenient;
  • made a fair decision.

EY Case Study Sample Exercise

Sample Case Scenario

A retail client has experienced declining profit margins over the last year. Revenue has increased slightly, but costs have increased faster than revenue. The client asks EY to identify possible causes and recommend next steps.

Strong Answer Structure

A strong case answer should:

  1. Clarify the objective.
  2. Separate revenue and cost drivers.
  3. Identify possible causes.
  4. Ask for relevant data.
  5. Analyze trends.
  6. Consider operational, pricing, supply chain, labor, and technology factors.
  7. Recommend practical next steps.
  8. Explain risks and implementation considerations.

Sample Case Recommendation

A structured recommendation might include:

  • review cost categories to identify the largest increases;
  • compare margins by product category or region;
  • analyze labor, logistics, supplier, and inventory costs;
  • assess pricing strategy and discounting;
  • identify quick cost-control actions;
  • recommend a longer-term operational improvement plan.

What Makes a Strong EY Case Answer?

Strong case answers are:

  • structured;
  • data-driven;
  • practical;
  • client-focused;
  • clearly communicated;
  • aware of risks and tradeoffs.

Weak case answers are:

  • unstructured;
  • based on assumptions;
  • too generic;
  • missing data analysis;
  • unrealistic;
  • poorly communicated.

EY Group Exercise Tips

In a group exercise, do not try to dominate.

Strong behavior includes:

  • listening carefully;
  • building on others’ ideas;
  • suggesting structure;
  • keeping the group on time;
  • using evidence;
  • asking thoughtful questions;
  • encouraging quieter participants;
  • helping the group reach a recommendation.

Weak behavior includes:

  • interrupting;
  • ignoring others;
  • speaking too much;
  • saying nothing;
  • becoming argumentative;
  • focusing only on your own idea;
  • losing track of the task.

EY Written Exercise Tips

For written exercises, use a clear structure.

A strong written response may include:

  • short introduction;
  • key findings;
  • analysis;
  • recommendation;
  • risks;
  • next steps.

Keep the tone professional and concise.

Avoid:

  • long unclear paragraphs;
  • unsupported claims;
  • spelling errors;
  • missing recommendations;
  • ignoring the audience;
  • including irrelevant detail.

How to Prepare for the EY Assessment Test

1. Understand the Role and Service Line

Before preparing, identify what EY role you applied for.

Ask:

  • Is it audit, tax, consulting, strategy, transactions, technology, cybersecurity, or data?
  • Is it graduate, internship, entry-level, or experienced hire?
  • Is the role client-facing?
  • Does it require technical knowledge?
  • Does it involve numerical analysis?
  • Does it involve case studies?
  • Does it require strong communication?

Your preparation should match the role.

2. Practice Numerical Reasoning

Review:

  • percentages;
  • ratios;
  • averages;
  • profit margins;
  • revenue and cost analysis;
  • chart interpretation;
  • table interpretation;
  • business data comparisons.

3. Practice Verbal Reasoning

Practice:

  • true / false / cannot say;
  • reading comprehension;
  • inference;
  • conclusion;
  • business text interpretation;
  • identifying unsupported claims.

Only answer based on the information provided.

4. Practice Logical Reasoning

Practice:

  • number sequences;
  • abstract patterns;
  • deductive reasoning;
  • conditional rules;
  • business logic.

5. Practice Situational Judgment

Practice scenarios involving:

  • client service;
  • teamwork;
  • ethics;
  • confidentiality;
  • deadlines;
  • feedback;
  • prioritization;
  • unclear instructions;
  • errors in work.

Choose answers that show professionalism, integrity, communication, and accountability.

Situational judgment test practice can give extra timed drills with client service and professional services scenario questions.

6. Prepare for Video Interviews

Before a video interview:

  • test your camera and microphone;
  • choose a quiet place;
  • prepare examples;
  • practice speaking clearly;
  • keep answers structured;
  • look at the camera;
  • avoid reading from a script.

Use STAR for behavioral questions.

7. Prepare for Case Studies

For case studies, practice:

  • structuring business problems;
  • interpreting data;
  • identifying drivers;
  • making recommendations;
  • explaining assumptions;
  • considering risks;
  • communicating clearly.

8. Prepare for Assessment Centers

For assessment centers, practice:

  • group discussion;
  • written exercises;
  • presentation structure;
  • case analysis;
  • interview answers;
  • teamwork behavior.

9. Research EY

Review EY’s official careers pages, service lines, purpose, values, and role descriptions.

You should understand:

  • why you want EY;
  • why you want the role;
  • what skills the role requires;
  • how your experience fits;
  • what EY does for clients.

10. Prepare Strong Examples

Prepare examples about:

  • teamwork;
  • leadership;
  • problem-solving;
  • client or customer service;
  • learning quickly;
  • managing deadlines;
  • receiving feedback;
  • acting ethically;
  • adapting to change;
  • analyzing data.

Work style assessment practice can help you rehearse consistent statement answers before personality-style sections.

Broader pre-employment test practice can also help candidates compare professional services assessment formats across employers.

EY Assessment Tips by Role

EY Graduate and Internship Candidates

Focus on:

  • learning agility;
  • teamwork;
  • motivation;
  • communication;
  • numerical reasoning;
  • verbal reasoning;
  • SJT judgment;
  • strengths-based questions;
  • video interview preparation.

Graduate candidates are often assessed for potential.

EY Audit Candidates

Focus on:

  • numerical reasoning;
  • attention to detail;
  • professional skepticism;
  • documentation;
  • client communication;
  • deadlines;
  • ethics;
  • accuracy.

EY Tax Candidates

Focus on:

  • reading comprehension;
  • numerical reasoning;
  • rule interpretation;
  • accuracy;
  • confidentiality;
  • client service;
  • structured communication.

EY Consulting Candidates

Focus on:

  • case studies;
  • business judgment;
  • structured problem-solving;
  • data interpretation;
  • client communication;
  • teamwork;
  • adaptability.

EY Strategy and Transactions Candidates

Focus on:

  • commercial awareness;
  • financial reasoning;
  • market analysis;
  • valuation basics if relevant;
  • case study thinking;
  • written recommendations.

EY Technology Candidates

Focus on:

  • logical reasoning;
  • technical skills;
  • problem-solving;
  • systems thinking;
  • cybersecurity or data awareness if relevant;
  • explaining technical ideas clearly.

EY Experienced Hire Candidates

Focus on:

  • role-specific experience;
  • client examples;
  • leadership;
  • stakeholder management;
  • technical expertise;
  • business impact;
  • behavioral interview stories.

Common Mistakes on the EY Assessment

Mistake 1: Treating EY Like a Generic Employer

EY is a professional services firm. Your answers should reflect client service, teamwork, integrity, and business problem-solving.

Mistake 2: Not Preparing for Numerical Reasoning

Even candidates who are comfortable with numbers can lose points if they are slow or careless.

Mistake 3: Making Assumptions in Verbal Reasoning

Answer only based on the passage.

Do not use outside knowledge.

Mistake 4: Choosing Weak SJT Answers

Avoid answers that ignore client needs, hide mistakes, break confidentiality, avoid communication, or fail to follow up.

Mistake 5: Giving Unstructured Video Answers

Video answers should be concise and organized.

Use STAR for examples.

Mistake 6: Dominating Group Exercises

EY assessors may value collaboration, not just confidence.

Listen, build on others’ points, and help the group progress.

Mistake 7: Ignoring EY’s Values and Purpose

Your answers should show awareness of integrity, collaboration, learning, client service, and professional impact.

Mistake 8: Failing to Explain Your Reasoning

In case studies and interviews, the reasoning is as important as the answer.

Before test day, banking assessment preparation can highlight how client focus, integrity, and structured reasoning change answer strength.

Final EY Assessment Checklist

Before taking the EY assessment, make sure you can answer these questions:

  • What EY role and service line am I applying for?
  • What does the official hiring process require in my country?
  • Do I need to practice numerical reasoning?
  • Do I need to practice verbal reasoning?
  • Do I need to practice logical reasoning?
  • Do I understand SJT answer strategy?
  • Can I explain why EY?
  • Can I explain why this service line?
  • Have I prepared STAR examples?
  • Can I handle a video interview?
  • Can I structure a case study?
  • Can I contribute professionally in a group exercise?
  • Can I communicate clearly and concisely?
  • Can I show integrity, teamwork, client focus, and learning agility?

If you can answer these clearly, you are better prepared for the EY assessment and hiring process.

Official careers sources

The hiring and assessment details on this page are based on publicly available information from EY’s official careers resources. Process steps, assessment formats, and timelines can vary by country, role, and hiring team, so always follow the instructions in your candidate email or portal.

Official sources checked:

Sample questions elsewhere on this page are practice-style examples only. They are not official EY questions.

FAQ

What is the EY Assessment Test?

The EY Assessment Test is a hiring assessment process that may include online reasoning tests, situational judgment questions, job simulation, strengths or work style questions, video interviews, case studies, group exercises, written exercises, and final interviews.

Does EY use online assessments?

Yes, many EY candidates may complete online assessments, especially for student, graduate, internship, and early-career roles. The exact format can vary by country and role.

What questions are on the EY assessment?

EY assessment questions may include numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, logical reasoning, situational judgment, work style questions, job simulation tasks, video interview questions, case study exercises, and role-specific questions.

Is the EY assessment hard?

It can be challenging because EY assessments are competitive and may combine reasoning, judgment, communication, and role-specific thinking. Preparation is important. Banking assessment preparation can help you rehearse common question types before test day.

How do I pass the EY assessment?

Practice numerical, verbal, logical, and situational judgment questions. Prepare for video interviews, case studies, and assessment center exercises. Research EY and the service line you applied for. Situational judgment practice can support additional preparation with professional services scenario formats.

Does EY use numerical reasoning tests?

Some EY roles may include numerical reasoning, especially audit, tax, consulting, strategy, transactions, finance, data, and graduate roles.

Does EY use video interviews?

Many candidates may face a video interview or recorded interview depending on the country and role. Prepare structured examples using the STAR method.

Does EY use assessment centers?

Some EY candidates, especially graduate or student applicants, may attend an assessment center, Superday, or final stage that includes interviews, group exercises, case studies, or written tasks.

What should I avoid on the EY assessment?

Avoid careless numerical mistakes, unsupported verbal reasoning assumptions, weak SJT judgment, poor confidentiality awareness, unstructured video answers, and generic interview answers that do not connect to EY or the role.

Are these official EY assessment questions?

No. The sample questions on this page are practice-style examples designed to reflect common EY assessment themes. They are not official EY questions.