Evaluate candidates’ advanced Excel skills with a comprehensive test to assess data analysis, modeling, and automation abilities
Used by leading companies across the UK to build winning teams.
The Test Snapshot
| ⏱️ Time to complete: | 40 minutes |
| ❓ Questions: | 28 |
| ⌨️ Question Types: | Multiple-Choice, Fill-in-the-blank, Practical Exercises in-app |
| ⚖️ Graded by: | Subject-Matter Experts & Automated System |
Why a CV Isn’t Enough for Excel Skills
Nearly every candidate lists “Proficient in Microsoft Excel” on their CV. But how can you be sure they can handle the complex spreadsheets your business relies on? A mis-hire can lead to costly errors, wasted time, and decreased productivity.
Serand’s Advanced Excel test moves beyond self-reported skill levels. We provide objective, data-backed evidence of a candidate’s abilities, allowing you to screen applicants efficiently and identify top performers before you even get to the interview stage. Stop sorting through résumés and start making decisions with confidence.
A Deep Dive into the Skills We Evaluate
This assessment covers four critical areas of advanced Excel proficiency, using real-world business scenarios.
1. Advanced Formulas & Functions
We assess whether candidates can move beyond basic SUM and AVERAGE to manipulate data with precision.
- Lookup/Reference: INDEX, MATCH, VLOOKUP (and knowing their limitations)
- Logical Functions: Complex nested IF, AND, OR, IFERROR statements
- Statistical Functions: SUMIFS, COUNTIFS, AVERAGEIFS
- Financial Functions: NPV, IRR
2. Data Analysis & Visualization
This section evaluates the ability to derive meaningful insights from raw data.
- PivotTables & PivotCharts: Creating, formatting, and manipulating them for analysis
- Data Tools: Using Goal Seek, Scenario Manager, and Solver
- Advanced Charting: Building combination charts and dynamic visualizations
- Data Aggregation: Using functions like CONCATENATE and text functions to clean and merge data
3. Data Management & Integrity
We test a candidate’s ability to organize and protect data effectively.
- Conditional Formatting: Applying complex rules for data visualization
- Data Validation: Creating dropdown lists and restricting data entry to ensure accuracy
- Workbook Protection: Securing sheets, cells, and workbook structures
- Formula Auditing: Tracing precedents and dependents to debug errors
4. Automation & Efficiency
This section identifies users who can streamline workflows and improve productivity.
- Macros: Recording, running, and assigning macros to automate repetitive tasks
- VBA: A brief assessment of understanding VBA concepts for more complex automation (optional sub-test)
How to Get the Most from This Test
For best results, we recommend using the Advanced Excel test as a top-of-funnel screening tool for all relevant applicants. This ensures a fair and unbiased process.
A great score indicates strong technical ability, but for a truly holistic view, combine this test with our other assessments. For a Financial Analyst role, for example, pair it with the Attention to Detail and Critical Thinking tests to see the full picture of a candidate’s potential.
Who Created This Test?
The Serand UK Advanced Excel test was developed by chartered accountants and financial analysts from leading UK firms. Our subject-matter expert ensures every question reflects the practical challenges and skills required in today’s data-driven business environment.
Your Questions, Answered
▶ How valid is this test?
Our tests are rigorously vetted and validated against industry standards. We continuously analyze performance data to ensure our assessments accurately predict on-the-job success.
▶ What is the experience like for my candidates?
We provide a user-friendly, accessible platform. Candidates are given clear instructions, and the test is designed to be challenging but fair, allowing them to truly showcase their skills.
▶ Can I see a sample of the report?
Absolutely. You can request a demo to walk through our platform and see a sample candidate report, which includes an overall score, percentile ranking, and a detailed breakdown of performance by skill area.
