Degree apprenticeships offer an excellent opportunity to earn while you learn, and Deloitte's programs are among the most competitive in the industry. Like other Deloitte candidates, degree apprentice applicants must pass a series of online assessments before progressing to interviews and assessment centers.
In this comprehensive guide specifically for degree apprenticeship applicants, we'll cover:
- What the Deloitte online assessment includes for apprentice candidates
- Examples of questions you'll encounter in each assessment type
- Free resources for practicing each component of the assessment
- Pro tips specifically for degree apprenticeship applicants
- What to expect after you pass the online assessment
The Deloitte Online Assessment for Degree Apprentices: Overview
The Deloitte online assessment is the second stage in the recruitment process after your initial application. For degree apprenticeship candidates, this assessment evaluates your potential to succeed both in your role at Deloitte and in your academic studies.
The Four Components of Deloitte's Online Assessment
Deloitte's online assessment for degree apprentices consists of four main components:
- Situational Strengths Assessment
- Numerical Reasoning Test
- Verbal Reasoning Test
- Game-Based Assessment
Unlike traditional assessments that present one passage at a time, Deloitte's innovative format provides multiple datasets, requiring you to determine which information is relevant to answer each question—mimicking real-world business scenarios.
1. Situational Strengths Assessment
This assessment evaluates how you would respond to workplace scenarios you might encounter as an apprentice at Deloitte. You'll be presented with realistic situations through written passages or video scenarios.
For each scenario, you'll typically be asked to:
- Select the most appropriate action from multiple options
- Rank responses from most to least appropriate
- Identify the best and worst possible actions
What Deloitte Is Looking For
When assessing your responses, Deloitte is evaluating your alignment with their core values:
- Lead the way: Innovation and forward thinking
- Serve with integrity: Ethical behavior and trustworthiness
- Take care of each other: Prioritizing respect and wellbeing
- Foster inclusion: Embracing diversity and creating a welcoming environment
- Collaborate for measurable impact: Working effectively in teams
Sample Situational Judgment Question
Scenario: You're working with another apprentice on a client project. You notice they're using an outdated procedure that could affect the quality of the deliverable. Your deadline is tomorrow.
What would be your BEST course of action?
A. Complete your portion and let them handle their work their own way B. Inform your manager immediately about the potential quality issue C. Approach your colleague privately, share your observation, and offer to help update their approach D. Take over their portion of the work to ensure it meets quality standards
The best answer is C. This response demonstrates collaboration, respect for your colleague, and a commitment to quality without undermining their work.
2. Numerical Reasoning Test
The numerical reasoning assessment evaluates your ability to interpret data, perform calculations, and draw conclusions from numerical information—essential skills for any role at Deloitte.
You'll be presented with:
- Tables, charts, and graphs containing numerical data
- Multiple-choice questions requiring analysis of this information
- Business scenarios requiring practical application of numerical skills
For degree apprentices, this section is particularly important as it evaluates your readiness for both workplace tasks and the quantitative aspects of your academic program.
Sample Numerical Reasoning Question
Data Table: Monthly Sales Performance by Region (£000s)
| Region | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | Growth Rate (Q1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North | 120 | 135 | 150 | 165 | 7.7% |
| South | 200 | 210 | 218 | 225 | 4.4% |
| East | 175 | 172 | 180 | 195 | 1.4% |
| West | 145 | 160 | 172 | 180 | 8.9% |
Question: If the West region maintains its Q1 growth rate through Q2, what would be its projected sales figure for June?
A. £197,000 B. £205,000 C. £213,442 D. £224,000
To solve this: Calculate two months of continued growth at 8.9% per month from the April figure of £180,000.
- May: £180,000 × 1.089 = £196,020
- June: £196,020 × 1.089 = £213,366 (rounds to £213,442)
The correct answer is C.
3. Verbal Reasoning Test
This assessment evaluates your ability to comprehend written information, analyze arguments, and draw logical conclusions—crucial skills for client communications and academic success in your degree program.
You'll encounter passages of text followed by statements, and you'll need to determine if each statement is:
- True (follows logically from the passage)
- False (contradicted by the passage)
- Cannot Say (insufficient information to determine)
Sample Verbal Reasoning Question
Passage: Deloitte's apprenticeship program combines practical work experience with formal education. While traditional university graduates often need significant on-the-job training, apprentices develop professional skills alongside their academic learning. This integration of theory and practice creates professionals who can apply their knowledge effectively from day one of full employment. However, apprentices face the challenge of balancing work commitments with academic requirements, which can be demanding.
Statement: Deloitte apprentices are more valuable to the company than traditional graduates.
A. True B. False C. Cannot Say
The correct answer is C (Cannot Say). The passage compares the different learning pathways but doesn't make a direct claim about the relative value of apprentices versus graduates to Deloitte.
4. Game-Based Assessment
Deloitte's game-based assessment is designed to evaluate your cognitive abilities and behavioral tendencies through interactive digital games. This innovative approach assesses traits that traditional tests might miss.
For degree apprentice candidates, this section evaluates characteristics particularly relevant to success in a dual work-study environment:
- Risk assessment and decision-making
- Learning agility and adaptability
- Time management and prioritization
- Response to feedback
- Stress management
Unlike the other assessments, there are no "right answers" here—the games measure your natural behavioral tendencies and thinking styles.
Free Resources to Practice for the Deloitte Online Assessment
Numerical Reasoning Practice
- BBC Bitesize Maths: Excellent for foundation skills
- Practise Aptitude Tests: Free numerical reasoning examples
- OpenLearn from The Open University: Free mathematics courses
- Khan Academy: Advanced mathematics tutorials
Verbal Reasoning Practice
- JobTestPrep: Free verbal reasoning sample tests
- Assessment Day: Practice verbal reasoning questions
- Graduates First: Example verbal tests with explanations
Situational Judgment Practice
- Practice Aptitude Tests: Free situational judgment scenarios
- Assessment Centre HQ: Example workplace scenarios
- Deloitte's own careers website: Contains sample questions
Game-Based Assessment Practice
- Pymetrics Games: Similar to those used by employers
- Elevate: Brain training app with cognitive games
- Lumosity: Cognitive skills development games
7 Pro Tips for Degree Apprenticeship Candidates
1. Understand the dual nature of your role
Remember that Deloitte is assessing your ability to succeed both as an employee and as a student. Demonstrate your time management skills and ability to balance competing priorities.
2. Showcase your learning mindset
Degree apprentices must be eager to learn continuously. Throughout the assessment, show your adaptability and enthusiasm for developing new skills.
3. Practice realistic time management
Unlike full-time students or employees, apprentices must excel at time allocation. Practice completing assessment sections under timed conditions to build this crucial skill.
4. Research your specific apprenticeship program
Different Deloitte apprenticeship paths (Audit & Assurance, Business & Financial Advisory, Consulting, etc.) may emphasize different skills. Tailor your preparation accordingly.
5. Highlight practical experience
If you have relevant work experience, keep it in mind during situational judgment questions. Practical experience is a key advantage apprenticeship candidates bring.
6. Demonstrate digital literacy
As a degree apprentice in today's digital environment, comfort with technology is essential. Familiarize yourself with online assessment platforms before test day.
7. Prioritize wellbeing before the assessment
Get a good night's sleep, eat a nutritious meal, and take short breaks between assessment sections to maintain peak cognitive performance.
What Happens After the Online Assessment?
If you successfully pass the online assessment stages, your Deloitte degree apprenticeship journey continues with:
The Deloitte Job Simulation
This immersive assessment mimics real workplace tasks you'd encounter as an apprentice. Conducted via HireVue, it typically includes:
- Video response questions
- Written exercises
- Additional numerical reasoning problems
- Email tasks demonstrating professional communication
The Deloitte Final Stage Assessment
The final hurdle in the process may include:
- One-on-one interviews with Deloitte professionals
- Group exercises demonstrating teamwork
- Presentation on a business topic
- "Connect Event" allowing you to network with potential colleagues
For degree apprentices specifically, this stage often includes questions about how you plan to balance work and study commitments.
Deloitte Degree Apprenticeship Pathways
Deloitte offers several degree apprenticeship programs, each with slightly different assessment emphases:
- BrightStart Higher Apprenticeship: 4-5 year program combining work with studies toward a professional qualification
- Entry-Level Apprenticeship: More practically focused than BrightStart, with opportunities in technology, business administration, and customer service
- Deloitte Scholar Scheme: Combines university sponsorship with guaranteed work placements
Final Thoughts
The Deloitte online assessment for degree apprentices is comprehensive but conquerable with proper preparation. By understanding the format, practicing each component, and approaching the assessment with a balanced mindset, you'll maximize your chances of progressing to the next stage.
Remember that Deloitte is looking for future leaders who can excel both in professional and academic environments. Your ability to demonstrate this dual capability is key to success in the assessment process.
Good luck on your Deloitte degree apprenticeship journey!
This guide is updated for 2025 based on the latest information about Deloitte's assessment process. Assessment formats can change, so always check the official instructions provided with your invitation.
