If you're a graduate looking to get into banking and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate banking interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Banking Interview Questions:
1. What is the sum of numbers from 1 to 100?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer is assessing your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities. They want to see if you can identify patterns and apply efficient methods to arrive at the correct answer.
Answer: To find the total efficiently, you need to recognise the pattern. Pairing numbers from the start and end - like 1 with 100, 2 with 99 - each pair sums to 101. With 50 such pairs, you can calculated 50 × 101. This yields a total sum of 5,050.
2. You are given a 3-gallon jug and a 5-gallon jug. How do you use them to get 4 gallons of liquid?
Interviewer Expectation: This question evaluates your logical thinking and ability to devise step-by-step solutions to practical problems.
Answer: The goal is to measure 4 gallons using these jugs. First, fill the 5-gallon jug completely. Then, pour from it into the 3-gallon jug, leaving 2 gallons in the 5-gallon jug. After emptying the 3-gallon jug, transfer the remaining 2 gallons from the 5-gallon jug into the 3-gallon jug. Fill the 5-gallon jug again, and pour into the 3-gallon jug until it's full, leaving exactly 4 gallons in the 5-gallon jug. This method successfully measures 4 gallons.
3. What is the angle between the hour-hand and minute-hand of a clock at 3:15?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer seeks to assess your analytical skills and understanding of geometry in practical scenarios.
Answer: At 3:00, the hands are 90 degrees apart. By 3:15, the hour hand moves a quarter of the way between 3 and 4, equating to 7.5 degrees (since each hour represents 30 degrees). Subtracting this from 90 degrees, the angle is 82.5 degrees. Thus, the angle between the hands at 3:15 is 82.5 degrees.
4. Your CV demonstrates a variety of skills, so why banking?
Interviewer Expectation: They want to understand your motivation for choosing banking over other industries and how your diverse skills align with a banking career.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Throughout my academic and extracurricular activities, I've developed a broad skill set. (Task) I sought a career that leverages analytical, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities. (Action) Banking appeals to me because it offers a dynamic environment where I can apply these skills to drive financial solutions and client success. My experience in data analysis and team collaborations aligns with the demands of banking roles. (Result) I am confident that my diverse competencies will contribute positively to a banking career."
5. What attracts you to a career in banking?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer is assessing your understanding of the banking industry's role and your genuine interest in being part of it.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Observing the banking sector's influence on economic development piqued my interest. (Task) I aimed to be part of an industry that drives financial stability and growth. (Action) I researched how banks facilitate business operations, support personal financial goals, and innovate through technology. This aligns with my aspiration to work in a field that impacts both individuals and the broader economy. (Result) My enthusiasm for contributing to such a pivotal industry motivates my pursuit of a banking career."
6. What kind of lifestyle do you expect to have in banking?
Interviewer Expectation: They are gauging your awareness of the demands of a banking career, including work-life balance and commitment levels.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Entering the banking industry, I anticipate a dynamic and demanding work environment. (Task) I understand the importance of dedication and adaptability. (Action) I expect periods of high intensity, especially during critical projects or market fluctuations, requiring long hours and focused effort. However, I also recognise the opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and the rewards that come with hard work. (Result) I am prepared to embrace this lifestyle, balancing commitment to my career with personal well-being."
7. Tell me about a recent development at this bank.
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer wants to see if you've researched the bank and are informed about its recent activities or initiatives.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Preparing for this interview, I explored recent developments at your bank. (Task) I aimed to understand your strategic initiatives. (Action) I learned that the bank recently launched a digital platform to enhance customer experience, reflecting a commitment to innovation and adapting to technological advancements. (Result) This initiative demonstrates the bank's proactive approach to meeting evolving client needs and staying competitive in the digital age."
8. What would you be doing if you weren't in banking?
Interviewer Expectation: They are interested in understanding your career motivations and whether your skills and interests align with banking or other fields.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Considering alternative career paths, I reflect on my core interests. (Task) Identify a field that aligns with my analytical and client-focused skills. (Action) If not in banking, I would pursue a career in management consulting, where I could apply problem-solving abilities to help businesses optimise operations and strategies. This field, like banking, requires analytical insight and effective communication. (Result) Both careers align with my competencies, but banking's direct impact on financial markets and client prosperity makes it my preferred choice."
9. Who’s our major competitor? How do we measure up?
Interviewer Expectation:The interviewer is assessing your knowledge of the competitive landscape and your ability to critically analyse the bank’s position within it. They want to see that you've researched the industry and can provide an informed opinion.
Example Answer: "(Situation) In analysing your bank’s position in the industry, I reviewed key competitors and their market strategies. (Task) I aimed to understand how your bank differentiates itself. (Action) One of your major competitors is [Insert Major Competitor], which has a strong presence in [specific sector, such as retail banking or investment banking]. However, your bank stands out due to its focus on [unique value proposition, such as digital transformation, customer service, sustainability, or innovation]. For example, your bank recently launched [mention a key initiative] that enhances customer engagement and operational efficiency. (Result) This strategic approach positions your bank as a strong competitor, ensuring continued growth and market relevance."
10. Tell me about a time you had to work under pressure.
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer wants to evaluate your ability to handle stressful situations while maintaining performance and meeting deadlines. They are looking for resilience, time management, and problem-solving skills.
Example Answer: "(Situation) During my university exams, I was also working on a finance internship project with a tight deadline. (Task) I needed to balance both commitments without compromising performance. (Action) I created a structured schedule, prioritising tasks based on urgency and complexity. I also used productivity techniques, such as the Pomodoro method, to maintain focus. Additionally, I communicated proactively with my internship supervisor to manage expectations. (Result) By staying organised and disciplined, I successfully met my project deadline while achieving strong exam results, demonstrating my ability to perform well under pressure."