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Aptitude & video interview process for Singapore banks

By Marin Devereux·7 min read·

Singapore’s three major banks — DBS, OCBC, and UOB — all use multi-stage assessment processes for graduate and internship roles. The tests differ by bank, but the pipeline is similar: online application → aptitude tests → video interview → assessment centre → offer.

DBS

DBS uses SHL for numerical and verbal reasoning. Graduate roles also include a HireVue video interview (typically 3–4 questions, 2 minutes each). Expect SJT-style questions focusing on DBS’s PRIDE values: Purpose, Relationship, Innovation, Decisiveness, Everything Fun.

DBS-specific tip
DBS numerical questions frequently use Southeast Asian currencies and regional market data. Get comfortable switching between SGD, MYR, IDR, and USD in the same table.

OCBC

OCBC uses a mix of SHL and Cappfinity strengths-based assessments. The strengths assessment is less about right answers and more about what energises you — consistency is key. Their video interview focuses on customer service scenarios and teamwork.

UOB

UOB’s process varies by division. Technology roles may include coding assessments. Banking roles use SHL numerical and verbal plus a recorded video interview. UOB is known for testing risk awareness — expect SJT scenarios about compliance and escalation.

The typical timeline

  1. Week 1: Online application closes. You receive the test link within 3–5 days.
  2. Week 2: Complete online tests (usually 3–7 day window).
  3. Week 3: Video interview invitation (if you pass tests).
  4. Week 4–5: Assessment centre or final interview.
  5. Week 6–8: Offer or rejection.
Pipeline check
You applied to DBS Management Associate Programme. You receive an SHL test link on Monday with a 5-day deadline. What should your prep plan be?

Day 1: Take the Forge diagnostic to identify weak areas. Day 2–3: Drill your weakest skill with SHL-format questions. Day 4: One full timed mock. Day 5 morning: Take the real test when you are fresh.

Do not wait until the last day
Technical issues (browser crashes, WiFi drops) happen. If you take the test on the last day and something goes wrong, most banks will not give you an extension.

What trips people up

  • Regional data formats. Singapore uses DD/MM/YYYY. Test tables may use US format (MM/DD/YYYY). Check carefully.
  • The HireVue prep time. You get 30 seconds to prepare and 2 minutes to record. Use the STAR framework: Situation (10s), Task (10s), Action (60s), Result (30s).
  • Strengths-based traps. Cappfinity assessments repeat similar questions in different wording. Inconsistent answers lower your score.

Prep for Singapore bank assessments on forge

SHL numerical and verbal packs, HireVue practice with 200+ questions, and company-specific guides for DBS, OCBC, and UOB.

Start preparing
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