First you got to write some essays like why are you interested in HSBC (HSBC highly value the interest you have on working in HSBC) and leadership skills. Then after the application has been accepted, you need to pass a numeric reasoning test. Then a phone interview will be conducted if the test is passed. The phone interview questions varies, sometimes ask behavorial questions, sometimes interested-based questions.
I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at HSBC in Apr 2014
Interview
1st Interview - On the phone. Asked questions about your experience and why you want the position etc.
2nd Interview - Group. Written behavioural questions, presentations on how well you think on your feet (random topics), a dragon's den type pitch at the end on a random product they give you.
3rd Interview - Why you want to work for the department. Technical questions & judging for good fit on their team.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Draw a word from an envelope. You have 1 minute to prepare for a 1 minute presentation on the topic
Applied online
1st: online reasoning, verbal tests
2nd: phone interview e.g. Competitors, career goal,what is the most important element in teamwork
3rd: face to face interview, not yet conducted