What are financial reasoning tests?
Financial reasoning tests are designed to uncover your ability to work through complex financial problems, as well as numerical challenges such as graphs, ratios and percentages.
The test will be set if you’re applying for a legal role with a heavy financial bias, as it helps employers to see whether you have the right skills for the job.
Practising financial reasoning tests is the best way to familiarise yourself with the content you’re likely to see on the day, as well as increase your speed at answering questions.
Why do employers use financial reasoning tests?
Employers use aptitude tests such as the financial reasoning test to help them find the best candidate for a specific role. If you’re applying for a finance-based role within the legal sector then it’s likely you’ll take a test such as this.
As is widely publicised, the job market is getting more and more competitive; aptitude tests allow employers to get a more detailed picture of the large number of people applying for a certain role. And by the same token, the test allows you an additional chance to impress that employer.
So as always, we recommend practising and preparing beforehand!
What is the financial reasoning test format?
The financial reasoning test is wordeir than a numerical reasoning test; you’ll often have to read through passages of text to pull out the important information you need to answer the question.
The content is varied - you can expect anything and everything from maths questions on fractions, percentages and ratios, to more specific financial queries about profit margins and financial markets.
As always, the test will be timed so there’s a fine balance between speed and accuracy. But practising tests beforehand will help you to achieve this.
What skills does financial reasoning test?
Employers in the legal sector will use this test if they’re hiring for a role which will involve in-depth financial knowledge. As well as more specific finance questions, you’ll also have to demonstrate your grasp of standard mathematical skills.
Jump to a section on this page:
A professional and helpful service, competitively priced and packed with testing resources and assessments.
Caitlin used Law Tests to help her secure a position at Allen & Overy
Level up
Choose the package that works for you.
Pro
- 30 Numerical reasoning tests
- 30 Verbal reasoning tests
- 30 Diagrammatic reasoning tests
- 30 Situational judgement tests
- 32 Employer packages
- 14 Publisher packages
- Dashboard performance tracking
- Full solutions and explanations
- Tips, tricks, guides and resources
- Access to free tests
- Basic performance tracking
- Full solutions and explanations
- Tips and resources
Financial Reasoning Test FAQs
- How are financial reasoning tests scored?
The scoring of financial reasoning tests varies from paper to paper, but it’s worth mentioning that in some tests, points are actually deducted for wrong answers.Yet another reason to boost your skills and your confidence by practising as much as you can in the lead up to the test!
- What are financial reasoning tests used for?
The test is usually set by employers looking to hire someone, or multiple people, with strong financial and numerical skills. Obviously this is a common test in the financial sector, but many legal firms will also adopt it if needed.
- What do financial reasoning tests involve?
The test will cover both maths and finance. So ratios, tables and graphs, as well as profit and loss accounts, balance sheets and margins.
- What do financial reasoning tests measure?
You’ll be aware that you’re being tested on your financial knowledge and mathematical skills, but your ability to work quickly and calmly under pressure will also be under scrutiny. All of these skills will be vital in the role you’re applying for.
- Where can I practice financial reasoning tests?
You’ll find lots of tests on our website. Practising will help you improve your skills and boost your confidence, and you’ll also pick up helpful tips along the way.
- Which employers use financial reasoning tests?
If you’re applying for a legal role and have been asked to take the financial reasoning test it’s a good indicator (if you weren’t already aware!) that the role will require day-to-day financial skills. Reading up on the company and the role in more detail can also help you to prepare.