The newer “Interactive” (drag-and-drop, sorting, graphing) are innovative, but I’ve experienced lag on a high-spec laptop using Chrome. One question failed to register my correct graph-building, costing me 2 minutes. Support was slow to respond.
If you’ve applied to a large multinational bank, consulting firm, FMCG, or tech company in the last five years, you’ve likely encountered SHL. They are one of the “big three” psychometric testing providers (alongside Kenexa and Talent Q). After taking multiple SHL assessments for graduate schemes and mid-level roles, here is my in-depth review. 1. Real-World Simulation Unlike some abstract reasoning tests, SHL’s newer “Interactive” and “Verify” series feel relevant. The verbal reasoning uses authentic business memos, and the numerical tests present realistic data tables (sales figures, market share, HR metrics). You aren’t just solving equations; you’re interpreting information a manager would see. shl tests
Take them seriously, prepare relentlessly, but don’t internalize a poor score. Even SHL admits these tests are moderate predictors at best. Some of the best colleagues I’ve worked with failed SHL tests the first time. If you’ve applied to a large multinational bank,
Here’s a detailed, balanced long review of SHL tests, suitable for a career blog, Reddit, or Glassdoor-style post. calculate % change
No. Do I respect their validity? Moderately. Will you need to take one for a big corporate job? Probably yes.
SHL’s verbal section is infamous for “True / False / Cannot Say.” They craft statements that seem obviously true based on common sense, but the passage does not explicitly state them. Example: Passage says “Sales rose in Q3.” Statement: “Sales were higher in Q3 than Q2.” Answer: Cannot Say (Q2 data isn’t given). It’s logically correct, but maddening under a timer.
SHL includes screen reader support, extra time for neurodivergent candidates (with approved accommodations), and color-blind friendly palettes. This is better than many competitors. The Bad (Frustrations & Flaws) 1. Time Pressure is Brutal Standard SHL numerical tests: ~18 questions in 18–20 minutes. That sounds fine, but the questions often require 3–4 steps (e.g., convert currency, calculate % change, compare to a second table). Many competent analysts will leave 4-5 questions unanswered. The pressure feels manufactured, not job-relevant.