Barclays SHL Online Assessment: Guide With Example Questions

What Is the Barclays SHL Online Assessment?

Like many other companies, Barclays uses a range of assessments as part of its recruitment process when evaluating the suitability of potential new employees.

The Barclays SHL assessment is a commonly used tool for candidates applying for graduate schemes and internships, as well as more experienced hires.

Barclays prizes employees who possess analytical thinking and decision-making skills, as well as the behavioral attributes that match Barclays' core values and company ethos. 

Designed to assess cognitive ability and workplace behavior, the Barclays SHL is a timed multiple-choice assessment that is split into different sections.

Typically administered after initial CV screening has been completed, each section evaluates a different core skill or attribute. The results are then used to determine which candidates will progress to the next round of the recruitment process. 

In this article, you will learn more about the Barclays SHL assessment and how to effectively prepare for it. 

What to Expect in the Barclays SHL Online Assessment

Typically, the Barclays SHL assessment is made up of several different sections. Each section is timed and comprises multiple-choice questions.

In most cases, candidates will need to complete sections on numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and logical reasoning as well as a situational judgment test. 

Questions within the assessment are designed to thoroughly evaluate a candidate's suitability for a role within Barclays, with a focus on risk awareness and ethical thinking, as well as decision-making and a customer-centric attitude.

Numerical Reasoning

Numerical reasoning tests are designed to assess an individual's ability to read, understand, and form conclusions from numerical data. 

In the Barclays SHL assessment, candidates are presented with a series of questions featuring charts and graphs as well as other numeracy-style questions. Each of these will also feature several potential solutions, and candidates must select the correct one. 

Verbal Reasoning

In the Barclays SHL verbal reasoning assessment, applicants are assessed on their ability to read, understand, and infer from written information. 

Each question presents candidates with a piece of text with an associated question. There will be multiple potential answers to choose from, but by using verbal reasoning skills, candidates will be able to select the correct one. 

Inductive or Logical Reasoning

Inductive reasoning is the process of being able to identify patterns and rules within sequences of images or patterns. 

This ability is tested by presenting candidates with a series of questions that contain a set of images or words which are all linked in some way. Candidates then need to predict the next item in the sequence from a selection of potential options. 

Situational Judgment Tests (SJTs)

Barclays aims to hire people who don’t just possess the skills and knowledge needed for a role. Candidates must also have attitudes that align with the company ethos and values. 

To assess this, candidates are asked to complete a situational judgment test. The Barclays SHL situational judgment test presents candidates with hypothetical workplace scenario questions and a range of potential answers.

The answers selected will then be scored depending on how well they align with the values of Barclays. 

Barclays SHL Test Example Questions

Numerical Reasoning

Question 1:

Barclays' financial report shows that operating expenses increased from £3.2 billion to £3.68 billion over a year.

What is the percentage increase?

a) 12%
b) 14%
c) 15%
d) 18%

The correct answer is: c) 15%

Increase = £3.68bn – £3.2bn = £0.48bn
Percentage increase = (0.48 ÷ 3.2) × 100 = 15%

Question 2:

A Barclays branch processed 2,400 transactions in a week. If 30% were international transactions, how many international transactions were there?

a) 600
b) 650
c) 700
d) 720

The correct answer is: d) 720

30% of 2,400 = 720

Verbal Reasoning

Question 1:

Read the statement and answer the question:

"Barclays is committed to fostering innovation while ensuring compliance with financial regulations."

Which of the following is true based on the statement?

a) Barclays ignores financial regulations.
b) Barclays believes innovation requires breaking rules.
c) Barclays balances innovation with regulatory compliance.
d) Barclays only focuses on regulatory compliance.

The correct answer is: c) Barclays balances innovation with regulatory compliance.

The statement explicitly mentions both innovation and compliance.

Question 2:

Which statement weakens the argument:

"Barclays’ success is largely due to its global reach."

a) Barclays operates in over 40 countries.
b) Many customers choose Barclays because of its excellent customer service.
c) Barclays’ international operations account for the majority of its profits.
d) Barclays continues to expand its global presence.

The correct answer is: b) Many customers choose Barclays because of its excellent customer service.

This suggests that success is not solely because of global reach.

Logical (Inductive) Reasoning

Question 1:

What is the next letter in the sequence:

F, J, O, U, ?

a) V
b) W
c) X
d) Z

The correct answer is: d) Z

Pattern: +4, +5, +6 letters

F (+4) → J
J (+5) → O
O (+6) → U
U (+7) → Z

Question 2:

Find the missing number:

8, 13, 21, 34, ?

a) 45
b) 50
c) 55
d) 55

The correct answer is: d) 55

This is the Fibonacci sequence:

8 + 13 = 21
13 + 21 = 34
21 + 34 = 55

Situational Judgement Test (SJT)

Question 1:

You notice that a new colleague is struggling to understand a task that you are experienced in. You are very busy but know you could help them.

What do you do?

a) Ignore the situation as it’s not your responsibility.
b) Offer brief advice when you have a moment.
c) Stop your own work immediately to help them in full detail.
d) Tell your manager the colleague is struggling.

The correct answer is: b) Offer brief advice when you have a moment.

This balances teamwork with time management.

Question 2:

You’ve been asked to take on an urgent piece of work that will delay the project you’re currently working on.

What do you do?

a) Decline the new task because you’re already busy.
b) Immediately start the new task without informing your current project team.
c) Inform your manager and current project team about the conflict and discuss priorities.
d) Try to complete both tasks at the same time without telling anyone.

The correct answer is: c) Inform your manager and current project team about the conflict and discuss priorities.

This shows good communication, time management, and stakeholder awareness.

How to Prepare for the Barclays SHL Online Assessment

Thorough preparation is key to performing well in any exam situation, but it can be especially useful ahead of taking the Barclays SHL assessment. Performing well in the test is essential to progressing to the next stage of your recruitment process. 

There are several ways you can prepare for your assessment. From simple steps like researching the company values to options that require more effort, like creating a study schedule with practice papers and feedback.

Practice Barclays-Specific SHL Tests

There are several different SHL tests available for employers to choose from. The Barclays SHL assessment has been specifically designed to assess the skills and attributes Barclays wants from its employees. 

This is why it’s important to use practice tests that are specifically targeted to replicate the Barclays SHL assessment – those found on JobTestPrep are just one example. 

By doing this, you will be able to familiarize yourself with the test format and accurately gauge your performance concerning the core skills and attributes Barclays seeks in its employees. 

Sharpen Core Skills Under Time Pressure

Your Barclays SHL assessment will need to be completed under strict timed conditions. To score as highly as possible, you will need to complete the assessment within the time limits allowed. 

By practicing answering questions under pressure, you will be more able to perform well on the day, improving recall and reaction times as well as reducing anxiety. 

Understand Barclays’ Values and Competencies

Barclays holds five core values: respect, integrity, service, excellence, and stewardship and it requires its employees to hold and exemplify these values as well. 

Taking the time to research Barclays as a company and understand the type of person it wants as an employee will help to shape the way you answer questions, especially in the situational judgment test.

Take time to consider the skills and attributes that you have as an individual and how you can showcase your suitability as an employee. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SHL test for Barclays?

The Barclays SHL assessment is a cognitive ability assessment designed to accurately assess reasoning and problem-solving skills. It’s commonly used as part of the recruitment process for individuals applying to work in a variety of roles at Barclays. 

How long is the Barclays SHL test?

This will vary depending on the exact assessments you’re required to complete, but most tests will last between 45 and 60 minutes. 

Is the Barclays SHL test difficult?

Yes, the Barclays SHL test is widely considered to be difficult. It’s designed to challenge candidates’ reasoning ability and judgment to select the best possible candidates in terms of skill and personality attributes. 

Can I retake the Barclays SHL test?

No. In most cases, candidates will only have one chance to achieve the required score. Failure to achieve this will mean the end of their application. However, they can apply for a different role in the future and may need to complete SHL testing again as part of that process.

Where can I practice for the Barclays SHL test?

There are several websites offering information and tips to individuals completing the Barclays SHL test. Many will also provide sample questions. For full practice tests and feedback on your scores, JobTestPrep offers a variety of comprehensive study packages. 

Final Thoughts

Achieving a good score on the Barclays SHL assessment is essential for progressing to the next stage of the recruitment process, so understanding what the test is asking and how best to answer is essential. 

The Barclays SHL assessment is your opportunity to showcase your critical thinking and professional judgment skills to recruiters.

The results of your assessment will directly impact whether or not you progress to the next stage of the recruitment process and are invited for virtual or in-person interviews. This is why you should do everything you can to prepare and aim to achieve the highest possible score on the day.

Taking the time to thoroughly prepare with the help of practice tests, such as those on JobTestPrep, and researching the characteristics Barclays looks for in its employees can significantly help your performance on the day. By familiarizing yourself with the test format and Barclays' expectations, you’ll feel more relaxed and confident when completing your assessments.