Online Application
Submit the online application. We’ll review your application against the minimum eligibility requirements outlined on our ‘About the scheme’ page.
If you meet the minimum requirements, you’ll be invited to complete Stage 1 of the assessment process.
Stage 1: Capptivate and Numerical Reasoning Test (NRT)
Stage 1 combines our Capptivate assessment with an online Numerical Reasoning Test (NRT).
Capptivate introduces you to the NAO and the trainee journey and helps us assess and understand your potential, strengths and ability needed as a NAO trainee.
You do not need to be a mathematician to succeed in the numerical reasoning test part of the assessment. The purpose of the numerical reasoning test is to understand how you work with data and make decisions using the kind of numerical information you might encounter in your role here.
We strongly recommend completing at least one practice test beforehand. This will help you get familiar with the types of questions, how long they will take you to answer and the format. It’s a great way to prepare. feel more confident and perform at your best.
If you successfully meet the required benchmark, you’ll progress to Stage 2.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during this stage, please contact HRServiceDesk@nao.org.uk BEFORE you complete the test so we can discuss how best to assist you.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback from Stage 1.
Stage 2: Job Simulation
Our job simulation is designed to give you a realistic insight into the type of work you could undertake as a NAO trainee.
You’ll work through a series of interactive exercises based on scenarios you may encounter in the role, allowing you to demonstrate your judgement, analysis and decision-making skills.
The assessment combines written and video responses.
Candidates who are successful at this stage will be shortlisted for Assessment Centre.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback following Stage 2.
Stage 3: Assessment Centre
Once you’ve successfully completed the earlier stages of the application process – including the online form and numerical reasoning test—and met our initial criteria, you’ll enter the shortlisting stage. During this phase, we’ll review your application and performance across all completed stages. Please note that shortlisting is an ongoing process, so there is no fixed timeframe for this stage.
If you’re successful, you’ll be invited to attend one of our assessment centres. These are held at our NAO Headquarters in London Victoria, and at our regional office in Newcastle. We may also run some assessment centres virtually.
What to expect
Our Assessment Centres take place in either London or Newcastle, depending on your preferred office location.
The Assessment Centre is designed to assess the skills and behaviours required for success on our Chartered Accountancy Scheme. You’ll participate in a range of exercises, including:
- Group Exercise
- Role Play Exercise
- Skills-Based Interview
- Reflection Exercise
The Assessment Centre also provides an opportunity to learn more about the NAO, meet colleagues and gain a better understanding of the trainee experience.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during this stage, please contact HRServiceDesk@nao.org.uk so we can discuss how best to support you.
Conditional Offer and Pre-Employment Checks
Following your attendance at the Assessment Centre, we will notify you shortly afterwards to let you know whether you have been successful.
If you are successful, you will receive a conditional offer to join the NAO. All offers are subject to a number of pre-employment checks, which include:
- Security vetting
- Verification of academic qualifications listed in your application (you will be required to produce hard copy certificates)
- Confirmation of your right to work in the UK
- Any other relevant checks required for your role
Feedback
Regardless of the outcome, all candidates who attend the assessment centre will receive feedback on their performance.
