In this guide, you will be able to get a glimpse of the entire MI5 beginning to end recruitment process. Aside from that, you will also be able to access practice tests, tips, coaching videos and insider secrets and information on how to pass the MI5 assessment centre.
Useful starting-point resource
- Do you want to practice? Practice this MI5 online tests and assessment centre exercises here.
Get a copy of our Ultimate Assessment Day & Interview Guide here. It comes with useful tips, tricks and advices which will help you succeed in your assessment event.
What will I learn in this guide?
In this guide you will learn the entire application process of MI5 and we shall also cover in detail your MI5 assessment centre.
Let us start on the basics…
What is MI5?
The British intelligence agency, MI5 is also known as the secret service. It is one of the most prestigious organizations in the world and is one of the most sought employer/organization in UK. With that said, this could only mean that the recruitment process is tough, fierce and challenging especially with numerous applicants applying for a position.
What does MI5 actually do?
To get an idea of what MI5 does, watch this video.
The Real-world MI5
Though it is easy to be disillusioned by Hollywood movies, it is important to let all candidates know that the real-world MI5 is much less glamorous and they have a more realistic day-to-day work.
Do not get us wrong. The organization plays a vital role in the national security. However, majority of their work is similar to huge companies where the job involves routine, details, administrative and managerial works.
The MI5 Recruitment Process
Depending on the position that you are applying for, the recruitment process differs and varies. However, there are some sections where the steps are the same and they are:
- Written application
- Security questionnaire
- Online psychometric testing
- The Qualifying Test
- Telephone interview
- A day at the MI5 assessment centre
- Interview
Yes, the recruitment process seems long, tedious and difficult. Do not worry as we will help and guide you go through each step. If you wish for more information, visit MI5 careers site
Written Application
In your written application, you will be asked to provide all your personal details such as your qualifications, and work experience. The only difference in applying to MI5 from other companies or industries is that the only person you could inform that you are applying is your partner or one immediate family member. Remember, this organization values discretion as the work in MI5 is sensitive. This also means that your duties, successes, failures and achievements should be kept only to yourself. If you are looking for recognition for your hard work, this organization is not for you.
The Security Questionnaire
Since MI5’s business is all about security, this means they would hire someone they could trust and because of that you will be security vetted and checked as part of your application and their recruitment process.
You will be required to provide information in terms of drinking, drug use, criminal convictions and even time spent in other countries.
We would recommend to put everything in your application even if you think it will lower your chances in getting a job at MI5 because, if they discover that you lied in your application, your application and position will automatically and immediately be terminated.
Remember that MI5 has numerous ways to access your personal data.
Online Psychometric Test
Check our psychometric tests and aptitude tests section in this site. These guides will help you prepare for your MI5 online tests.
One way and the best way to succeed in assessment centres is through practicing a lot. The more you practice the more confident you get and the more your performance will improve.
Tip: not all aptitude tests are the same. It is important and wise to ask and identify who the test supplier of the company or organization you are applying at is using. This way you could practice the practice tests created by the same test supplier.
- The key to succeed in online psychometric tests is to practice the test created by the same test supplier that your employer is using.
- MI5 uses Cubiks which means, you will have to use the practice tests of Cubiks. This way you will be on a more advantageous position compared to other candidates.
You could practice Cubiks MI5 online tests & assessment centre tests here.
In MI5, you will be given two psychometric tests and they are:
- Situational Judgement Test
- Cubiks Verbal Test
The Situational Judgement Test
This test assesses your ability to solve problems, communication powers and organizational abilities. It also looks into your ability to work with others and team. In this test, you do not have to worry as there is no time limit for you to complete answering the questions.
You will be given different types of situations which could and usually happen in the role you are applying for. In these situations, you will have to decide what solution you would do and what the best outcome will be.
In this test, you will be assessed based on the competencies required of the role you are applying for. Hence, it is important for you to practice with this information in mind.
It is wise to request for a copy of the full job description of the role you are applying for from the HR department of MI5. In it, you will be able to see a table that contains the core competencies for your role. Take time to absorb and internalize them. Prepare and think of examples that will demonstrate these core competencies.
The Verbal Reasoning Test
This test is also the standard verbal reasoning test. For more information, guidance and advice, check our verbal reasoning success guide here.
In this section of the test, you will be provided with a passage of text which will your basis in answering the questions. Take in mind that this test is timed and you will be measured against other candidates. Hence, every second really counts. In this test, you are being measured based on accuracy and speed.
The key to passing the verbal reasoning test is practice. Practice the relevant test supplier and for sure your chances on passing will increase.
At this point, many candidates get cut off from the process and those who have passed will be the only ones that will be invited to MI5 assessment centre and to take the Qualifying test.
The Qualifying Test
The Qualifying Test of MI5 assessment centre is done in London. Hence, if you are living somewhere else, be prepared to travel. This test will measure your comprehension and decision making skills. You will be assessed based on your ability to extract key details from a huge amount of information. In this test you will have to mind quality and speed.
The Telephone Interview
Once you pass the qualifying test, you will undergo a telephone interview. This type of interview is competency based which means they would assess if your traits are fit with the role you are applying for,
We would recommend that you reach the HR department and ask for a copy of your full job description. In it, you will find the competencies they are looking for.
Tip: highlight your past experiences which would demonstrate the competencies that they are looking for.
Also, when you are answering the interviewer, it would be impressive if you answer with the STAR method in mind.
- Situation- background of the challenge or problem
- Task- describe the challenge or problem
- Action- what was the great thing you did to solve the problem
- Result- what was the impact of the great thing you did
This is a great way to frame your answers. It would definitely have a huge impact on your assessment. We recommend however that you practice this and say them aloud.
Example…
You could be asked to give an example when you had to make a difficult decision. Take note you will not be asked if you could make a difficult decision instead you will be asked when was the time you had to make one.
Think back and evaluate your experiences if they incorporate the core competencies of your role.
Do not skip this tip and step as it is very important. If you are serious about wanting to join this organization, ensure you take the time to prepare for the examples.
MI5 Assessment Centre
If you pass the telephone interview, be prepared to head back to London for another full day.
Since MI5 is very secretive, it is difficult to get an up-to-dated information about the assessment centre. However, here is what we know:
- You will be assessed on your communication skills, ability to analyze complex data, make sound judgments and decision making skills.
- You will be undergoing a teamwork exercise. Check our group exercise success guide here.
- Learn about the organization. Do your homework
- Review key skills required which are found in the job description. Try to incorporate them in your answers.
- Be aware that you will be undergoing a thorough vetting process. You will be required to provide personal information including your background, health and even lifestyle. You will also be asked about your financial status and history.
The Final Interview
Now that you have passed almost everything and you are now at the final stage of your test. In this section, you will be undergoing a panel interview. This could be very nerve wreaking but try not to think as more people are judging you. The best possible way to calm your nerves is to visualize that the group of people there would like to want and like you. They would want you to succeed and would enjoy to work with.
Also, a panel interview is more fair than being interviewed by a single recruiter as it would be less bias.
We recommend that you read more about interviews. Check the interview section of this site and read how to prepare for an interview. These must-read guides will be of great help in your final interview assessment.
The importance of really being yourself
Be yourself. Do not show a false best foot forward as this will not help you in the long term.
Remember an interview is a two-way communication. If you are not fit for the job in MI5, it would be best to know early. If you get in you will not have a difficult time in working and being yourself.
Update your CV before your Interview
One of the biggest mistakes when going to your interview is not improving your CV. Here’s why:
- Update your CV before the interview event and take with you a fresh, newly and improved version. One that is tailored to the job or role you would want.
- In interviews, one of the basis of your interview will come from the information on your CV. No matter the interview is competency based or no. You will have to answer the questions based on your CV.
- Your CV is one of the basis in the hiring decision process. It is your CV that they look at when they decide whether to hire you or not.
The CV is the one that reminds the hiring manager of what your skills and experiences are and what happened during your hiring process. Aside from that, your CV is also your first and last impression. With this, we remind you to make your CV as strong as you could.
Final resource
- Get to practice the MI5 online test and assessment centre exercises here.
Good Luck!
We wish you luck and we hope that this guide will help you in your MI5 assessment event.