The turn around from my initial application to the assessment centre (AC) was quite quick. This was because they had room for one more graduate on the current year's intake, I was therefore shortlisted (even though I had applied for next year's intake) because I had already graduated.
Up until the AC the application process was quite short. After submitting my application I just had to complete numerical and verbal reasoning tests, I was then immediately through to the AC. About a week before the event I had a conference call with the other candidates outlining what the AC was going to consist of, as well as research preparation I was expected to carry out.
The AC consisted of two group activities, further numerical and verbal reasoning tests, as well as a competency based interview. I did not make it through to the second half of the day, so only participated in the testing and one group activity.
I was quite disappointed not to get through, which I was told was due to my performance in the one group activity. Their graduate scheme seemed very good, lots of perks/freebies, great work-life balance and a good salary. I had a feedback call about a week later outlining why I had not been offered the role.