Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Financial Analyst at Barclays, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
After the initial screening stage, I went through what felt like a standard two-round assessment centre flow. It was pretty structured: one round focused on a case study and the other was mostly normal behavioural questions. Each round lasted about an hour, so I had to keep my pace and energy steady.
My process hit an early snag on the assessment side. During the online test, I encountered multiple bugs that disrupted my ability to finish it the way I intended. I stopped to flag the problem and asked whether there could be any flexibility or guidance on next steps.
Candidates typically start with online assessments, including behavioral and numerical tests, which can be time-pressured and challenging. Some candidates reported technical issues during these assessments that affected their performance.
The technical interviews often focus on fundamental finance topics, including modeling, valuation, and financial analysis, with a high level of difficulty expected. Candidates should be prepared for in-depth questions that test both knowledge and speed.
Behavioral interviews play a significant role in the process, with a focus on fit and competency. Candidates should prepare to provide clear examples and articulate their experiences effectively, as interviewers look for genuine responses rather than rehearsed answers.
The superday typically consists of multiple back-to-back interviews with senior leaders, combining both technical and behavioral questions. Candidates should be ready for a fast-paced environment where staying composed is crucial.
Some candidates encounter case study interviews that require them to analyze complex scenarios and present their findings. These sessions often involve defending their reasoning and handling pushback from interviewers.
Candidates generally report a high level of difficulty throughout the process, with some experiencing long wait times between stages, which can be mentally taxing. It's important to remain resilient and prepared for a rigorous evaluation.