I applied online. The process took 3 weeks.

Initial HR Screening (Phone or Video Call): The first stage is a conversational interview with a member of Xero's recruitment or HR team. This round is focused on your background, motivations for applying, and alignment with Xero’s values. Expect questions about your university experience, interest in tech, and what excites you about working at Xero.

In-Person Interview (1-on-1 or Panel): If successful, you’ll be invited to an in-person interview. This is typically a behavioral and technical discussion with an engineer or team lead. The aim is to assess your problem-solving ability, communication style, and understanding of basic software engineering principles. You may be asked to walk through past projects or solve simple whiteboard-style logic or code problems.

Final Group Assessment Day: The last stage is a half-day or full-day assessment, usually held in-person at a Xero office. You'll work as part of a small group of other candidates to solve a practical problem. Activities include:

• Group coding/design tasks
• Presentations or solution walkthroughs
• Collaborative exercises to assess teamwork, initiative, and communication
• Short individual interviews or reflection sessions with Xero staff

Throughout the process, emphasis is placed on cultural fit, collaboration, and your approach to learning—not just technical perfection.

Tell me about a time you worked on a team project. What was your role, and how did you handle challenges within the group?