This Platform Accepts Only the Top 3% of Developers, Graphic Designers, Project and Product Managers. Are You Up to the Challenge?

Can you beat the majority of experts in your domain and join this elite network of freelancers? We are talking about Toptal and here we will describe the process and in the end, how much you can earn if you get in.

What Is Toptal?

Toptal is a freelance marketplace that has strict policy for accepting only top candidates since they also have top profile clients (e.g. Coca Cola, Uber, Goldman Sachs) but also a lot of well funded startups seek their assistance.

The Screening Process – A 5 Step Process

1. Language & Personality – In the first step, Toptal is checking candidates for the ability to read, write, and speak English fluently. They also look for relevant experience and projects, personality traits, drive, and passion to see the work through to completion. According to Toptal, an estimated 26.4% of applicants pass this test.
2. In-depth Skill Review – Here, Toptal screens freelancers for technical knowledge. It’s common to use a codility test or an automated test of one’s programming skills. According to Toptal, only 7.4% of total applicants make it through this round. If you are a non developer, the test is adapted to your domain.
3. Live Screening – Next step in testing the freelancer’s skills, Toptal does a live screening test. Toptal supplies an expert in each domain to do a video chat with the applicant. During the screening, the candidate receives a test while an expert watches how and what they code. For non-developers, there are other live challenges ready. If they fail, they may be asked to re-apply in a month. According to Toptal, only 3.6% of applicants pass this round.
4. Test Projects – Over 1-3 weeks, a freelancer must complete a test project related to a real-world scenario. Here, the candidate puts everything into action, testing everything from competence to their professional style. According to Toptal, only 3.2% of applicants pass this round.
5. Continued Excellence – Once the test is complete, Toptal freelancers are expected to maintain high-quality work. If work quality slips or there’s poor communication, the freelancer is let go. According to Toptal, only 3% of applicants continue to their high standards.

Not Only Developers Are in High Demand

Besides developers, Toptal also accepts:

1. ‍Designers, from graphic design to UI/UX.
2. Finance experts, from business model experts, blockchain consultants, to part-time CFOs.
3. Project managers, from agile project managers to technical business analysts.
4. Product managers, from enterprise product managers to scrum product managers.

How Much Can You Earn?