I was called two weeks prior and asked to schedule for a paper based skills test in English. I was unsure as to the position that was being tested for. I had not previously formally applied, but had sent my resume to a friend who was worked in another office at the time. When I arrived I was told to wait on the couch in the front lobby. A woman came out promptly at 9am and escorted us into a conference room. She passed out the tests and several sheets of scratch paper and pens. We were told that we had a half hour for the test and at the end, all materials were to be returned. She then left.
The test consisted of three case studies with 25-30 multiple choice questions. A lot of reading and details. The questions tested inference and the ability to synthesize and interpret financial situations and values based on graphs with limited data and information presented in the text. My guess is that the position was going to have a strong financial emphasis.
There were three other applicants. At the end of the time limit, the woman returned, collected our materials and said that we would be contacted if the company felt it valuable to pursue further discussions with us as potential candidates.
I didn't hear back and so called about a week later. I was told very kindly that the company was not interested in continuing my application process at this time.
It was a nerve racking 30 min and a good chance to find out what I don't know. Probably not as difficult for someone with extensive business experience, though the time pressure was certainly an issue.