I have a numerical and critical reasoning test with OC&C. If anyone has done one before could they pls advise me how to prepare and whether they are standard SHL ?I'm assuming that most graduates applying there would have taken this test. For those that would like info abt other firms and their interview process, I'd be more than happy to help.

Example tests should be linked to from their web sites - they are pretty standard anyway, nothing really needing specific training. They interviewed me on the first day too - with examples very similar to those on the website.Best of luck! D

D - thank you so much. What did you think of OC&C ? And may I ask howmany questions were there in the test ?Do you also know howmany rounds they have?Sorry for the number of ques

What is your backround Help?I am just wondering because I too have the test soon.I am an oxbridge engineer.

Hi there Don't know if you've already taken the test, but there are many free practice tests available online. You've already checked out SHL, and here's 3 more: 1. efinancial Careers - 3 tests sponsored by Credit Suisse at http://www.efinancialcareers.co.uk/numerical_test.htm2. University of Kent Careers Service - http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/tests/mathstest.htm3. Cubiks - http://practicetests.cubiks.com/linkpage.htmHope this helps. Best of luck!

HiI hope you don't mind my asking this, but would you remember which date you applied to OC&C? I sent in my application on 16 Nov, a day before the deadline of 17 Nov, and haven't heard from them yet. Thanks

Hey,As for my background, I'm doing a masters in economic history at the LSE.I applied on the 10th of November.Could I ask you D whether the tests were basic even for a humanities graduate like myself.

Well I obviously like OC&C becuase I will be joining them in Jan!I am from quite a mathematical background (maths a-levels and a degree in Eng) and while not finding the questions totally easy-peasy, they were just more of a test of quick calculations and getting through all the material in the time. Just lots of percentages etc to do based on reading graphs and pie charts etc.The verbal I did was along the lines of given a true statement and then work out if other statements are true based on that etc (and other types, all similar though)Just make sure that you have had plenty of practice and things should be smooth (you do get a calculator - but many times this slows things down!)I applied around the beginning of Aug (I have been working elsewhere for the last 3 years) and got a reply within a month and then had all the interviews quite quickly.My process involved doing the two tests, and then moving straight into two interviews with Consultants the same morning. I got a reply back in a couple of days. The second and final round was with two partners in a similar format to the ones before - same questions but also with a little more chat from them about OC&C.I hope this helps - do feel free to ask more questions! (Although I am travelling in China at the moment so can only get to here every few days!)Best of luck to you all, D

Hi, I have to take the test too. I've been practising and so far have have managed barely 70% on the math but aced the verbal. As you can guess, I have a first degree in humanities and took art instead of math at the A-levels. My question is: for the OC&C test, can someone recommend a realistic practice twin? The SHL test available online is quite simple and didn't recommend using a calculator. I also did a whole lot better on that than some of the I-banking tests. So, I reckon the real thing will be tougher. Also, OC&C mentioned critical reasoning instead of verbal. Can anyone enlighten me on the difference?Thanks in advance.

Well I suppose Critical reasoning is the more accurate - but just based on understanding the nuances of various sentences...

The test wasn't that much fun was it :) Quite long the numerical section. The critical reasoning was ok, but I ended up answering only 30 of the 35 questions, and had to randomly answer five.

Is the test written by SHL ? And are you allowed to use a calculator? I think 30 questions is good. Do you have any advise on how to prepare? I have only done online tests before.Thanks

Yes, the numerical test is written by SHL. There are 35 questions, and you have 35 minutes. It's a standard paper test with circles to fill in. You are allowed to (and I encourage you to) use a calculator.The verbal test isn't SHL, its some other company's stuff. There are 80 questions to answer in 30 minutes. Don't be too scared, it is actually more achievable than the numerical test is, if you work quickly enough. There are five sections, and all are related to logic / critical reasoning. Some are True/False/Cannot Say/Partially True/Partially False etc. Some of them are even more logical. I myself found the first section most challenging because "Partially True" and "Partially False" is a very thin line.Hope this helps.Good luck!