BAE Systems online assessment
Overview of BAE Systems Assessment Process
BAE Systems uses a multi-stage assessment process for their hiring. Based on my research and experiences from other candidates, here's what you can expect:
Application Roadmap
- Initial online application - Submit your CV, skills, and experience
- Online aptitude tests - Verbal and numerical reasoning assessments
- Pre-recorded interview (HireVue) - Virtual assessment of your skills and personality
- Live interview - Either virtual or in-person with BAE staff
- Security vetting - Thorough background check (crucial given the defense industry)
Online Assessment Types
BAE Systems primarily uses two assessment providers:
SHL Tests (Graduate Roles)
- Graduate Numerical Reasoning Test
- 12 questions (6 sets of 2 questions each)
- 17-minute time limit
- Calculator allowed
- Adaptive difficulty (questions become easier/harder based on your performance)
- Graduate Calculation Test
- 20 questions with missing variables
- 10-minute time limit
- Calculator permitted
Cut-e Tests (Engineering Roles)
- Numerical Ability Test
- 37 questions
- 12-minute time limit
- 6 tabs with tables/charts
- Determine if statements are True/False/Cannot Say
- Verbal Ability Test
- 49 questions
- 12-minute time limit
- 6 tabs with text
- Determine if statements are True/False/Cannot Say
- Logical-Deductive Reasoning Test (scales lst)
- Grid-based pattern recognition
- 6-minute time limit
- Identify which object belongs in the place of a question mark
Situational Judgment Test (SJT)
- Work-related scenarios
- Evaluate your behavioural traits and decision-making
- Format varies by role
Tips for Cut-e Tests
When answering the cut-e test questions:
- A TRUE statement must be completely verified by information in the relevant tab
- A FALSE statement must be contradicted by information in the relevant tab
- A CANNOT SAY statement is one you can neither verify nor disprove using the information provided
HireVue Interview
The pre-recorded interview typically includes questions about:
- Your motivation for joining BAE Systems
- Relevant experience and skills
- How you align with BAE's values: trust, innovation, and boldness
- Career aspirations within the company
BAE Systems Assessment Centre
For graduate positions, you might attend a one-day assessment centre featuring:
- Presentations about the company
- Group exercises to evaluate teamwork
- In-tray exercises to assess prioritization skills
- Face-to-face interviews
BAE Systems Competencies
BAE Systems focuses on these core competencies:
- Continuous improvement - Innovation, receptiveness to feedback, self-development
- Collaboration - Teamwork, constructive communication, attention to detail
Interview Questions (UK)
Common interview questions include:
- Why do you want to work for BAE Systems?
- What interests you about the defense industry?
- Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership
- How do you approach problem-solving?
- Give an example of a challenging project you've worked on
- How do you handle pressure and deadlines?
- What are your career aspirations?
Apprenticeship Assessment
For apprenticeship roles, the process is similar but may include:
- Basic skills assessments
- Technical aptitude tests relevant to the specific apprenticeship
- Practical exercises to demonstrate hands-on abilities
Gamified Assessment Elements
Some roles may include gamified assessment components to evaluate:
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Decision-making skills
- Multitasking abilities
- Attention to detail
Preparation Tips
- Practice numerical and verbal reasoning tests
- Research BAE Systems' projects and values
- Prepare examples demonstrating key competencies
- For engineering roles, brush up on technical knowledge
- Be ready to discuss your motivation for joining the defense industry
- Practice explaining how your skills match the role requirements
Remember that the specific assessments may vary depending on the role, location, and level you're applying for. The defense industry requires thorough vetting, so expect a comprehensive assessment process.
