You might be feeling a little apprehensive towards the idea of an 'assessment centre'; it is designed to be challenging, but most candidates also find it a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

If you have been invited to an assessment centre, the chances are, you have the best possible opportunity of securing a job offer.  So, if this applies to you, congratulations on reaching this critical and final stage in the selection process.

We will normally invite you to an assessment centre via e-mail and you will be invited to log onto our 'interview zone' to confirm you can make it. Assessment centres range in type and format, ranging from a few hours to 1-2 days to assess in more detail your capabilities against the AstraZeneca capabilities or role competencies.

We design our assessment centres to include only exercises and activities that correspond to the type of work you will be employed to. We will let you know the full details of the day beforehand and typically this might include activities such as:

  • Interview(s)
  • Ability/personality tests
  • Group exercises/team activities
  • Individual tasks; e.g. giving a presentation, reviewing a case study, etc

It is worth reflecting on your 1st interview stage or the actual job description (if available) to review the areas that might be explored in more detail. e.g. your leadership potential and team-working style, communications skills etc.

Your university careers service is likely to offer good advice and support, and run training and workshops to help you prepare for an assessment centre style event. Here are a few guidelines, which we hope will be a helpful starting point...

  • Review your application, and reflect on your 1st interview.
  • Think about the questions you were asked, what do you think will be explored in more detail at a follow-up interview(s)?
  • What new questions do you think will be covered?
  • Expect a challenging, rewarding and enjoyable experience.
  • Assume you are being assessed at all times
  • Take the opportunity to talk to staff, ask question and join in discussions
  • Listen carefully to instructions and ask if you are not clear about what you have to do.
  • Make sure you are aware of the time constraints in any exercise. Don't be afraid to ask clarifying questions if you are unsure.
  • Reflect on what you did well and ask for feedback on your day.