How to prepare for a graduate assessment centre
Assessment centres are a key part of graduate recruitment in the UK. But they aren’t easy.
They are designed to test not just your knowledge and technical ability, but also your behaviours, teamwork, and cultural fit for the organisation.
Preparing the right way can dramatically increase your chances of landing your dream graduate scheme, and failing to prepare can have the opposite effect.
So, let’s debunk what an assessment centre is, what it involves, and how you can put your best foot forward when it comes to landing your dream role.
What is an assessment centre?
An assessment centre is usually a half-day or full-day event (sometimes virtual, sometimes in-person) where employers assess candidates through a series of structured tasks.
You will usually be invited once you have passed the initial application and online test stages, meaning that the employer already believes you could be a strong fit. The purpose of the centre is to test you against the competencies required for the role in a controlled but realistic way.
Group exercises (problem-solving or discussions)
Case studies or presentations
In-tray/e-tray exercises (simulating workload management)
Psychometric tests (numerical, verbal, logical reasoning)
Interviews (competency, strengths-based, or technical)
Networking or informal sessions (still being assessed!)
Employers will observe how you interact with others, how you analyse information, how you prioritise, and how you respond under pressure. It is important to remember that even moments such as lunch or informal networking sessions may be observed, so professionalism is recommended at all times.
How to prepare for an assessment centre
1. Research the employer and role in more detail
The first step in preparing for an assessment centre is to research thoroughly.
Every UK graduate recruiter has a set of values and competencies that they use to judge candidates.
For example, the Civil Service uses its “Success Profiles” framework, which covers behaviours such as delivering at pace and communicating effectively. Professional services firms such as PwC, Deloitte, or EY emphasise commercial awareness, relationship-building, and leadership potential. Public sector schemes such as the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme place a strong focus on inclusivity, compassion, and resilience. Once you know what the organisation values, you’ll be able to consciously reflect these traits throughout the day.
Reading the job description carefully is also essential: highlight the key skills being asked for and think of real examples from university, part-time work, volunteering, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate them best.
2. Understand expectations in group exercises
One of the most common tasks in an assessment centre is the group exercise, where you will be asked to solve a business problem or work on a project with other candidates.
The assessors are not just interested in the solution, but also in how you interact with your peers.
To perform well, you should contribute ideas regularly but avoid dominating the conversation. Simple strategies help, such as suggesting time checks, summarising what has been agreed, or encouraging quieter members to share their views.
This demonstrates teamwork and leadership without being overbearing. Remember that collaboration is usually valued more highly than competition in the UK graduate market.
3. Practice psychometric tests
Even if you have already completed psychometric tests online, it is common to sit them again at the assessment centre.
These include numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and logical reasoning. Practising beforehand will enable you to manage your time during these tests, but also recognise which skills are being tested by each style of question.
For numerical reasoning, brush up on percentages, ratios, and data interpretation, essentially GCSE-level maths.
For verbal reasoning, practise extracting key information from passages quickly and answering based only on what is written.
Time management is critical, so rehearse with a timer and under formal conditions to get comfortable with working quickly and under pressure. Here are some resources you can work from for free:
4. Make practical and logistical preparations
Preparation is not just about knowledge; logistics matter too. Dress codes at UK assessment centres are usually business formal. This typically means a dark suit and tie for men, or a smart suit or dress for women. Aim for neat, professional presentation rather than anything flashy. It’s perfectly acceptable to clarify the dress code ahead of time, so don’t be afraid to ask!
Consider on-the-day logistics to avoid hiccups, too:
If the centre is in person, plan your journey carefully and arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid stress.
If online, test your internet, camera, and microphone in advance, and choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background.
Bring everything you might need (usually outlined in the pre-read email): ID, documents requested by the employer, a notepad, and a pen.
5. Be mindful of how you present yourself
Throughout the day, remember that assessors are observing not just your performance in tasks but also your behaviour in general.
Display energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism. If you stumble in one exercise, don’t let it affect the rest of the day; each activity is scored separately, and you can recover quickly.
Treat other candidates as colleagues — UK employers value people who can collaborate, even in competitive situations, so stay calm, stay polite, and show resilience if you feel under pressure.
Feeling ready?
Assessment centres can feel daunting, but they are also an opportunity to demonstrate your strengths. Unlike a single interview, you’ll be given multiple chances across different tasks to showcase your skills, personality, and potential. Employers aren’t expecting perfection; they are looking for consistency, self-awareness, and behaviours that align with their values.
Think of it as a two-way process: while the organisation is assessing whether you’d be a good fit for them, you also have the chance to see whether their culture, people, and ways of working feel right for you.
Key takeaways
Research the employer: understand their values, competencies, and what they want in future leaders.
Balance participation in group tasks: collaborate, contribute, and encourage others.
Practise psychometric tests: get comfortable with the format and time pressure.
Sort your logistics early: avoid unnecessary stress by preparing your setup and presentation.
Stay professional throughout: every interaction counts, not just the formal assessments.
Above all, treat the day as an experience to learn and grow. Even if you don’t secure the role, you’ll gain valuable insights, sharpen your skills, and leave better prepared for the next assessment centre you attend. You might even make some fantastic contacts on the day to add to your network and support you with whatever is next.
With the right preparation and mindset, you can walk into your assessment centre feeling calm, confident, and ready to stand out for all the right reasons. Good luck!
