Online Application
For this initial stage you are required to submit basic personal details and previous grades etc. Only a CV is required. There are basic motivational questions as well.
Example task
Expect something along the lines of 'Tell us something interesting about yourself?'
How to respond for success
I ensured that I showed a clear interest in Investment Banking - as that is the division that I aim to work within. I also ensured that my CV was quantitative as well as qualitative - numbers are KEY. The format of my CV is certainly something that stands out - it is clear and easy to read, it is also consistent throughout.
As firms like UBS receive so many applications, a lot of the time initial applications go through automated screening where bots either accept / reject a CV based on basic criteria the firm is looking for. Therefore, I went through online CV checkers to see if my CV got rejected automatically and what online bots would rate my CV.
Expect a few hours wait before progressing to the next stage.
Online Tests
There were two tests - numerical and logical reasoning. They were both timed (around 30 minutes each). To prepare, I practiced numerous tests from various websites online so that I was ready.
Example task
Expect basic numerical and graph calculations, along with time management, shape and patterns questions.
How to respond for success
I worked fast as well as trying to being accurate - you also will receive a feedback report after the test. I'd definitely say practice a lot before you do the tests and ensure that you have a good internet connection and a quiet place to think.
Expect a few hours wait before progressing to the next stage.
Video Interview
This took me around 15 minutes to complete. I went through basic questions and practiced them, for example, why UBS? I also researched UBS and their core values thoroughly beforehand so that I knew what to talk about and what business areas interested me. I wore a suit to the interview, not only to look professional, but to feel it too.
Example task
Expect questions along the lines of Why UBS? Please talk about a current story in the news that interests you? There was also an optional question at the end to add any more information if you wanted to.
How to respond for success
I researched the firm thoroughly, I knew what I was talking about and what interested me so I went into deeper detail in regards to those things. Advice I'd give is to research a lot and not to write down and try to remember things - find parts that genuinely interest you as that will enable your interview to flow well. Also, maintain eye contact with the camera and if you stutter or hesitate - don't worry - everyone does and I did too. Just carry on and don't give up!
Expect a 2-3 month wait before being offered a position.
Online Tests
There were two tests - numerical and logical reasoning. They were both timed (around 30 minutes each). To prepare, I practiced numerous tests from various websites online so that I was ready.
Example task
Expect basic numerical and graph calculations, along with time management, shape and patterns questions.
How to respond for success
I worked fast as well as trying to being accurate - you also will receive a feedback report after the test. I'd definitely say practice a lot before you do the tests and ensure that you have a good internet connection and a quiet place to think.
Expect a few hours wait before progressing to the next stage.
Video Interview
This took me around 15 minutes to complete. I went through basic questions and practiced them, for example, why UBS? I also researched UBS and their core values thoroughly beforehand so that I knew what to talk about and what business areas interested me. I wore a suit to the interview, not only to look professional, but to feel it too.
Example task
Expect questions along the lines of Why UBS? Please talk about a current story in the news that interests you? There was also an optional question at the end to add any more information if you wanted to.
How to respond for success
I researched the firm thoroughly, I knew what I was talking about and what interested me so I went into deeper detail in regards to those things. Advice I'd give is to research a lot and not to write down and try to remember things - find parts that genuinely interest you as that will enable your interview to flow well. Also, maintain eye contact with the camera and if you stutter or hesitate - don't worry - everyone does and I did too. Just carry on and don't give up!
