Nomura's 2027 online assessment is the first hard filter — and it arrives within days of applying, often 24 to 72 hours. Candidates who start preparing after the invite are already behind. Here is every stage and how to clear it.
This guide covers the 2027 intake at Nomura — applications open in 2026 and are reviewed on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you the strongest chance. Confirm exact dates on Nomura's official careers page.
Stage 1: The Nomura Online Assessment
The test link follows your application quickly. Nomura's online assessment typically includes:
- Numerical reasoning: Data interpretation under strict time limits — charts, tables, percentage changes. Practice until the mechanics are automatic.
- Verbal reasoning: True/false/cannot-say on business passages. The traps are in qualifiers like "always" and "only."
- Situational judgement: Ranked responses to workplace scenarios. Answer as the ideal junior banker: proactive, communicative, team-first.
You are ranked against other applicants — there is no published pass mark. Target the top quartile.
Stage 2: The Nomura Video Interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a one-way video interview. Expect 4 to 6 questions, roughly 1 to 2 minutes of prep and 2 to 3 minutes per answer. The Nomura-specific mix:
- "Why Nomura?" — the single most important question. Reference its Japanese heritage, Asia franchise, or a specific deal. Generic answers die here.
- "Why this division and region?" — connect your background to the specific seat.
- Competency: "Describe a time you worked in a team under pressure" — STAR format, under 2 minutes.
- Technical (IB): "Walk me through a DCF." Markets: "What is your view on [current market event]?" — have one ready.
- Commercial awareness: A Japan or Asia market development and your take on it.
Record yourself. Watching it back is the fastest way to improve.
Stage 3: Assessment Centre / Final Interviews
The final stage typically includes:
- Competency and motivational interviews with bankers
- A group exercise (markets and IB both use these)
- Sometimes a technical case or presentation
Nomura's culture is consensus-driven and relationship-oriented — interviewers notice collaborative behavior in group exercises. Do not dominate; contribute.
Nomura Assessment Preparation Timeline
- Before applying: Two weeks of daily numerical/verbal drills. Record answers to the five most likely video questions.
- After the invite: Timed full mocks. Re-record weak answers.
- Before finals: Three STAR stories, one Nomura-specific deal discussion, one Asia/Japan market view, smart questions for each interviewer.
FAQ
How difficult is the Nomura online assessment?
Moderately difficult — the content is standard, but the time pressure and applicant ranking make it a real filter. Consistent practice is the difference.
Can I retake the Nomura video interview?
No. One attempt per question. Prepare until your answers feel automatic, then start the real thing.
What should I wear for the Nomura video interview?
Full business attire, plain background, good lighting. Treat it exactly like an in-person interview.
How long after the Nomura assessment do I hear back?
Typically one to three weeks. Video interview invites follow for those who pass; others receive a rejection or silence.
Applying to Nomura? Do not walk in unprepared. Our 2027 Nomura Online Assessment & Video Interview prep contains the real test questions, video interview questions with model answers, and timed practice — $79 one-time, instant download, yours in two minutes.
