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BCG Potential Test, Pymetrics Games, Spark Hire Interview, Assessment Center 2024. Practice. Full Guide.

Are you considering applying for BCG? Look no further than our complete 2024 guide to accelerate your BCG online test practice.

The text below provides a full candidate recruitment, assessment and preparation guide and practice for those applying to BCG jobs, internships and graduate programs in the UK and US.

Our website provides scientifically validated practice game-based assessments, assessments tests, interviews and assessment centre exercises that can be used to practice and prepare for the recruitment and assessment process. 

Check here for Free and Premium aptitude assessment tests  and video interviews to practice and prepare for BCG recruitment.

If you are aiming to apply to BCG or have a BCG assessment test, or BCG Pymetrics test coming up, our text below is the best place to start.

Not sure if you should practice preparing for the BCG tests?  According to research, 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired .

A recent study found that candidates who do not practise assessments, tend to fail at the first hurdle of psychometric assessments (54%-84%). This study looked at the Top 100 global employers. (Bradley et al, 2019)

In a nutshell

How to prepare for the BCG assessment process and tests to get the job?

1. Complete Your BCG Online Job Application

• Fill in your BCG application online
• Keep in mind BCG Values while building your resume. 
• Match your application and resume to BCG’s top competencies.
• Use their language/keywords from the job post

2. Familiarise Yourself with BCG Pymetrics Games 

The BCG Pymetrics tests will depend on the job role you have applied to. Understand the 12 key Pymetrics game assessments used by BCG. Ensure you uncover what will be measured, what is required, how much time the game assessments will take.

Register with GF to start your BCG Pymetrics test practice today.

3. Practice for the BCG Potential Test

There are a variety of BCG aptitude tests to hire. These include:

• BCG Numerical Reasoning tests
• BCG Logical Reasoning tests
• BCG Verbal Reasoning tests

You may get rejected already after these BCG tests; tests typically sift out 50-80% of candidates at this stage. The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.

4. Record mock interviews of yourself

Prepare for a telephone or video interview by running mock interviews answering typical consultancy interview questions. For BCG interview practice, use:

• a smartphone
• our  video interview practice platform

Our  video interview practice platform  contains predefined competency and industry questions for consultancy and emulates experience you will have in platforms used for employers’ interviews (Hirevue, Pymetrics, Sonru). 

Use the  STAR  method for your answers and practice each answer several times.

5. Prepare for the BCG Assessment Center exercises

BCG makes use of a variety of competitive exercises during the assessment center to find the right candidates. Ensure that you practice for a variety of exercises including:

BCG Case Interview

Bcg group exercise.

• BCG Final Round Interviews   

Hone your written and spoken communication technique. Research online, prepare and practice as many business case studies as possible.

Be aware; not many get to this stage. The competition is very fierce.

For this final interview, use the  video interview platform  and record yourself answering the consulting questions using the STAR technique .

Continue reading to get answers to critical questions:

• What are BCG values?
• What is BCG Potential assessment?
• How do I prepare for a BCG case interview?
• How do you prepare for BCG Pymetrics game assessments?
• What are the BCG Graduate Schemes?

Looking into assessments with BCG, simply click in the table below to practice assessments relevant to your assessment process!

If you are applying for BCG, practice online aptitude tests  with us to improve your results to get scores above your fellow candidates.

Before we dive further into the BCG assessment tests, let’s discover more about the company first.

BCG: How to Research?

Why is research important before sitting for the BCG online assessments and interviews? 

Good to know: Research is important for all candidates applying to the Boston Consulting Group, as it provides a better idea of the work culture and the company expectations. Research is also key to support your preparation ahead of your interviews in your BCG selection process .

Keep reading as we cover the research basics you should know before you apply.

What does BCG do?

BCG or the Boston Consulting Group is an American Management Consulting firm with its headquarters in Boston. BCG was founded in 1963 and is now one of the Big Three largest management consulting firms by revenue. BCG has 90 offices in over 50 countries around the world. 

It is the world’s top company for management and strategic consulting, working for clients in private, public and not-for-profit sectors including over two thirds of the Fortune 500 companies .

Boston Consulting Group has several subsidiary companies which work under the brand name BCG: 

What are the Boston Consulting Group Values?

• Integrity: BCG values honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all of its interactions with clients, colleagues, and communities.
• Respect for Individual: BCG believes in treating everyone with dignity, empathy, and consideration, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• Teamwork: BCG promotes collaboration, mutual support, and a shared sense of purpose among its teams and clients.
• Personal impact: BCG seeks to empower its employees to make a meaningful difference in the world through their work and contributions.
• Entrepreneurial spirit: BCG encourages creativity, innovation, and a willingness to take risks and experiment in pursuit of new ideas and solutions.

Top qualities BCG expects in their employees

Similar to the above values, BCG seeks the best candidates that have:

• Creative thinking skills
• A collaborative mindset 
• Intellectual curiosity 
• Integrity 

Besides the above-mentioned, we recommend you do some further extensive research on Boston Consulting Group. We have come up with a few pointers on what areas you should focus your research in order to ace your BCG application . 

Boston Consulting Group: Top 4 Tips to research

• Understand the problems being faced by BCG currently : Think about what actions you can take to help resolve these within your role.
• Consider the current and previous projects BCG has worked on : what projects has the company worked on with their clients? Do these interest you? Think about how you can contribute to these in your role.
• Understand the impact of BCG : Research on how BCG is helping the environment, such as committing to reach net-zero climate impact by 2030.
• Consider the key areas that connect you : Think of the key areas on a personal level that you align with the organisation, such as any charitable trusts run by them. 

For more tips on how you can research BCG ahead of your application, check out this short video:

Now that we’ve researched the company, it’s time to apply. So what can we expect in the BCG recruitment process ?

Boston Consulting Group Recruitment Process

What is the BCG application process?

The BCG selection process mainly consists of 5 stages of assessment depending on the job function . These different stages of assessment are designed to assess your full potential, by examining your analytical abilities, decision-making skills, written and spoken skills, and overall work personality through different tests.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s to come in your BCG application process:

• Online Application
• Pymetrics Game Assessments
• Potential test: BCG Online Assessments
• Spark Hire Video Interview
• Assessment Center

Without further ado, let’s get started!

BCG Online Application  

What is the BCG online application?

The BCG online application will be your first chance to impress the recruiters at BCG and so you should make sure that your application consists of all the details required. 

What will the BCG application form consist of?

The BCG application form requires you to fill in the following details: 

• Personal information 
• Education and qualifications 
• Contact information 
• Soft skills 

What skills you add in your BCG application play a major role in getting your application selected. The skills you may use in your BCG job application can be: 

• Problem-solving 
• Adaptability
• Communication
• Teamworking
• Organisational skills
• Attention to detail

BCG Application Tip : Avoid using overused words such as specialize, experienced, skilled, passionate, expert, motivated, etc. Instead focus on using keywords used in the job description.

At this stage you will be required to upload a copy of your CV/Resume. Depending on the position and location, you may also be asked further questions such as language fluency for specific locations.

The most important and job winning part of your BCG application is your CV/Resume . Therefore, make sure you take some extra time in building a resume that can get you to the next stages of the BCG hiring process. 

In your CV/Resume, ensure to include evidence and the impact of the following 4 areas:

• Academic history, performance and achievements
• Excellent team working skills e.g. sports teams or social clubs
• Leadership skills, such as running an event
• Work experience. This can include volunteering or internships

Good to know : It’s always advisable to attach a cover letter if you have the option to. When writing a cover letter, ensure to show your enthusiasm by aligning yourself with their values , discussing recent events at BCG which interest you and how you are the best fit for the role. 

For more tips on your BCG online application, check out this short video where we cover 3 common mistakes that you should avoid in your resume:

With this we have discussed all the major segments of the BCG online application form . 

BCG Application Tip : Apply as early as possible, as applications are often reviewed on a rolling basis. This increases your chances of progressing through to the next stage of the recruitment process.

Once your application has been accepted, you will be shortly invited to the next stage of the Boston Consulting Group application process , i.e., the BCG Pymetrics game assessments. 

BCG Pymetrics Game Assessments

What are the BCG Pymetrics tests?

The BCG game assessments provided by Pymetrics are designed to measure various cognitive and personality traits including attention, memory, risk-taking, decision-making, etc. 

Good to know : You may or may not be invited for this stage of assessment depending on the job role you have applied to. 

Here are some key facts about your BCG Pymetrics game assessment test: 

• You may be required to take one or several of the 12 core Pymetrics mini games
• They measure cognitive and emotional attributes
• The games take around 25 minutes to complete in total
• This series of core games form a picture of your strengths, and suggest suitable roles
• The game assessments measure your:  Attention ,  Focus ,  Effort ,  Generosity ,  Fairness ,  Learning ,  Decision Making ,  Risk Tolerance ,  Emotion

How to prepare for BCG Pymetrics game assessments

We’ve got you covered with our own practice game-based assessments , which emulate how you will be assessed in your BCG tests. Start now to get a head start on your BCG Pymetrics test practice!

For further details on what to expect in each BCG Pymetrics test you are about to get and what qualities do these game-assessments assess, don’t miss our in-depth guide here .  

With this, we move to the next stage of your BCG assessment process, i.e., the BCG potential test. 

BCG Potential Test: BCG Online Assessments

What is the BCG potential test?

BCG potential test is a series of online BCG aptitude tests which aim at measuring your abilities and potential to perform particular tasks or duties required for the role at the company. 

The company typically requires you to perform well in the following 3 kinds of assessments during the BCG tests, and they are:

• BCG Numerical Reasoning Test
• BCG Logical Reasoning Test
• BCG Verbal Reasoning Test

BCG potential test – Key facts:

• All the questions asked in this round will be related to the same business case. 
• The test consists of a series of multiple-choice questions that cover a range of topics, including data analysis, market sizing, business strategy, and logic puzzles
• There is a  -1 point penalty for each wrong answer , compared to + 3 points for each correct answer.
• Some questions in the BCG potential test may have 2-3 correct answers at the same time. Therefore it’s important to check each answer with the data provided
• You will be required to answer 23 questions in 45 minutes. 
• The passing score or cut off for the BCG potential test is around 70%. Therefore, if you solve at least 70% of the questions correctly, you may pass this stage. 

Keep reading as we discuss each of these BCG online assessments in further detail, starting with the BCG numerical test. 

BCG Numerical Reasoning Test Questions

What is the BCG quantitative reasoning test?

The BCG quantitative reasoning test questions are typical numerical reasoning test questions which aim at measuring a person’s capability to perform mathematical problems and interpret numerical data, since at BCG you will be required to work with numbers.

What does the BCG numerical test measure?

The BCG quantitative reasoning test  questions look for the following capabilities in a candidate: 

• Ability to extract data from graphs, tables, pie charts, etc.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations as well as ability to work with algebra, geometry, calculus, etc for those who are applying for engineering and technical roles.
• Ability to identify trends using charts, graphs and statistics and make predictions accordingly.

Gain key insights into the BCG numerical test section with this 1 minute overview of numerical reasoning tests:

How to pass the BCG quantitative reasoning test

Below, we have provided 4 top tips which will help you ace your BCG numerical test questions and tackle time pressure. 

• Revise basic mathematics concepts such as percentage, average, currency conversion, interest calculation, etc. 
• Practice  example numerical reasoning questions beforehand to understand the pattern. Take these  practice tests  exactly in the kind of environment and time constraints as you would have to be during the real test.  
• Be properly organised before your test , i.e., find a quiet place, keep all the equipment such as pencil, paper, etc., ready with you and start the test when you feel relaxed enough. 
• Strike a balance between speed and accuracy . You shouldn’t just aim to attempt as many questions as possible, but make sure that you are answering correctly. Also remember, the proven way to give greater focus on accuracy and speed is practice.

Practice  FREE QUESTIONS  similar to BCG  assessment tests ,  register with GF  and take your FREE  Numerical Reasoning Test  now, or test your numerical skill with this example question below!

BCG Numerical Reasoning Test Question Example

Solved it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer.

If you are looking for even  more BCG-style Numerical Reasoning questions  with answers ,  worked-solutions and professional score reports including personalised tips  based on your performance – then we at GF have you covered.

Another series of questions you are likely to encounter in your BCG potential test after the BCG quantitative reasoning test is logical reasoning. So, let’s discuss the BCG logical reasoning test in detail. 

BCG Logical Reasoning Test Questions

What is the BCG logical reasoning test?

The BCG logical reasoning test questions are designed to measure your ability to analyse and solve complex problems by using critical thinking and logic. The BCG logical test checks for how well you reason and solve problems in a structured and logical manner. 

These test questions will be MCQ-based where you will be required to analyze, evaluate, and draw conclusions from information or data using logical and critical thinking skills.

What skills does the BCG Logical Reasoning Test assess? 

• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills 
• Attention to detail 
• Logical thinking skills 

Gain key insights in this under 1 minute video about the logical reasoning test you may come across at BCG will include.

Top 3 Tips to pass the BCG Logical Reasoning test

• Familiarise yourself with practice to get used to developing pattern recognition skills under time pressure. 
• Remember the key logical rules used. Consider how the colours, numbers and letters affect the pattern.
• Focus on one question at a time. Don’t panic if you get stuck, move onto the next question and answer any remaining questions before the time limit ends.  

If you are looking for  a BCG-style logical reasoning test with answers , worked-solutions and professional score reports including personalised tips based on your performance, then GF has you covered.

Below is an example of the BCG-style logical reasoning test question we’ve designed to help you familiarise yourself with the questions you can expect in your potentials test:

In the example above you will have ONLY around 60 seconds to notice that:

• the arrow moves around the diagram
• shapes change from triangle to circle to square and
• the central line is either horizontal or vertical, and then to find the right answer! There is a lot of time pressure which often leaves candidates anxious and harms their performance.

Got the answer? Check it out at the bottom of the page.

Want access to more such FREE QUESTIONS  similar to  BCG-style logical reasoning tests ?  Register with GF  and take your FREE Logical Reasoning Test now!

Gain more experience on solving BCG-style logical reasoning questions, watch this short video with 5 logical reasoning questions and worked solutions: 

The last of all the BCG online assessments is the BCG verbal reasoning test. Read on to find out more! 

BCG Verbal Reasoning Test Questions

What is the BCG verbal reasoning test?

The BCG verbal reasoning test questions are used to assess your ability to comprehend and analyse written information for roles that require strong written and verbal communication skills.

What does the BCG verbal reasoning test measure?

The BCG verbal reasoning test looks for the following capabilities in the applicant, which are as follows: 

• Comprehension and interpretation of written passages. 
• Ability to understand the main idea and emotion of the text. 
• Ability to make inferences based on written information. 

Take a break from reading and discover more about your BCG verbal reasoning test with this short video on all you’ll need to know about verbal reasoning tests: 

But how do I pass the BCG verbal reasoning questions ? We’ve got you covered with these 5 top tips to help you ace the BCG verbal reasoning questions.

5 Top Tips and Tricks to Ace the BCG Verbal Reasoning Test

• Invest some in reading before sitting for the actual test. This will help you comprehend written statements better.
• Spend some time solving crosswords and other English exercises to make sure you build up on your vocabulary. 
• Practice  a number of verbal reasoning test questions to understand the pattern of questions and develop strategies that suit you to crack the actual test. 
• Understand the answer options . True means correct, false means incorrect and cannot say means the information provided in the passage isn’t enough to determine the validity of the statement. 
• Base your answer only on the information provided in the passage . Candidates sometimes mistakenly use their own understanding of a particular statement, which leads them to choose the wrong answer.

Feeling confident? Try your best at our example BCG verbal reasoning test question below!

BCG Verbal Reasoning Question Example

Want to practice more such  FREE QUESTIONS  similar to those of BCG online test questions,  register with GF and take your FREE Verbal Reasoning Test now!

Good to know: If you are applying for the subsidiaries of BCG such as BCG Gamma, your BCG online tests may also contain the BCG Gamma coding test , so be prepared for any such possibility as well as the BCG Gamma interview. 

And with this, you’re all set to get into the next round of your BCG hiring process, that is the BCG Spark Hire video interview . Now, what is the BCG video interview? Keep reading to find out! 

BCG Spark Hire Video Interview

What is the BCG Spark Hire Video Interview?

The BCG Spark Hire video interview will be an automated interview, where you will be required to record yourself answering some pre-recorded BCG interview questions on the Spark Hire platform. These questions will be behavioural in nature. 

BCG Video Interview Tip : The recruiters use behavioural questions during the BCG pre- screen assessment to understand how you react to likely workplace scenarios you would face within the company.

How long does the BCG Spark Hire video interview take?

The BCG Spark Hire video interview takes around 45 minutes . You will be allowed to pause the video interview after each question and come back to it later. Although, if you are in the middle of a question and the deadline hits, your interview will be deemed incomplete. 

Unlock even more information in under 1 minute about the BCG video interview and how they assess you using video interviews:

But, just how do we ace the BCG video interview? We’ve got you covered! We have come up with 6 key tips and tricks which will guide you to prepare and ace your upcoming BCG video interview.

6 Top Tips to Ace the BCG Video Interview

• Do your research: Read the job-description carefully to understand what key skills that BCG is looking for and check the BCG Values and consider how these values align with your own.
• Prepare sample answers: practice with various example questions that may be asked in the BCG  Video Interview in front of a mirror, with friends or, on our Video Interview Platform to develop your confidence in your answers.
• Dress appropriately:   Even though you will be taking this interview from the comfort of your home, you should not forget that this is after all an interview and you should look confident through your outfit and body language.
• Check your tech: Make sure you have an appropriate internet connection, various external devices to aid your recording, such as the webcam, speakers, microphone, backlight, etc.
• Speak clearly: Do not go too fast with your answers, demonstrate confidence in your responses by answering in a moderate tone and speaking clearly. 
• Use the STAR technique: Use the S- Situation, T-Task, A- Action, R- Result technique when answering questions in an easy-to-understand structure. 

Did you know? By using the GF video interview preparation tool , you can nail your technique in recording answers to critical competency and tech-industry questions in your BCG video assessment through practice.

To unlock more pro tips on how to ace your BCG video interview, don’t miss the following short video:

Now that you are well aware of what you will be expected at your BCG video interview, let us go through some BCG video interview questions and answers to give you a clear idea on how to formulate answers to the interview questions. 

BCG Video Interview Questions and Answers

Question: What are your Strengths and Weaknesses?

Tips to answer: Pick one strength and one weakness. For strengths you can pick any of the key competencies for the job from the job description, but make sure to provide an example. For the weakness, do not use a skill crucial for the job. Use a real weakness and discuss how you are improving this area.

Good Answer:

• My strength is working well in a team, where I prioritize group goals over personal goals and always actively listen to my team members’ thoughts and ideas. In my last role as a team lead in my marketing team, I had delegated tasks across the team based on their ideas and schedules. As a result, we effectively improved our overall performance and saw a boost in sales from our last marketing campaign by 17%.
• Although I had struggled with time-management, I always continue to seek to improve this and I am taking time-management courses. I constantly develop my organisational skills to also help manage my time effectively, leading to more efficiency at work. I left my previous job to seek new responsibilities in this position that enhanced these skills and continue to work towards my professional goals.

To get more tips on how to answer this question, watch this short video by GF:

Question: Tell me a time when you had to lead a team

Tips to answer: When the BCG interviewer asks you this question, they are looking for you to explain a situation where you demonstrated leadership skills. It is important that you prepare 2-3 examples so that you can share any of the examples which suit the situation the best.

• As a team leader in a marketing firm, I led a team of five in creating and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy for a major client. I established clear expectations, encouraged open communication and collaboration, and actively participated in the campaign alongside my team. 
• As a result, we were able to deliver a successful campaign that exceeded the client’s expectations, leading to the client extending their contract with us by a further 2 years. This experience also  reinforced my belief in the power of strong leadership to support the team to achieve team success.

Question: Tell me about your most significant professional accomplishment and the impact it had on your team or organization.

• One of my most significant professional accomplishments was leading a cross-functional team to implement a new project management system for our organization. As the project lead, I worked closely with team members from various departments, including IT, operations, and finance, to ensure successful implementation and adoption across the organization.
• As a result, this team helped streamline our project management processes, improving project tracking, reporting, and resource allocation. The move also improved coordination and alignment across departments.
• As a result, this new project management system had a positive impact on the team and the organization as a whole, improving project outcomes, fostering collaboration, and increasing stakeholder satisfaction.

Ready to take your interviewing skills to the next level ? Discover what top employers such as BCG ,Deloitte, Google, Amazon and Barclays commonly ask candidates with over 39 employer interview sets with our video interview practice platform today.

The last stage of the BCG hiring process is the BCG assessment centre , let’s dive into the details of this stage. 

BCG Assessment Center

What is the BCG assessment center?

The BCG assessment center is designed to understand your performance and behaviours in a real-life work environment. The BCG assessment center is rigorous and puts you through back-to-back tests in order to examine you on the basis of the competencies required for the job position. 

The BCG assessment centre mainly puts you into four stages of assessment. These are: 

• BCG Case Interview  
• BCG Final Round Interviews

Below we will discuss each of these stages in detail, with useful tips. 

What is the BCG case interview?

In the BCG case interview or problem solving test, you will be provided with a real-life work situation which has been already solved in the past and you will be required to use the data and come up with your findings to solve the problem at hand.

Good to know : This case interview is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your problem-solving, technical and specialized skills . This BCG problem solving assessment will be candidate led, where you will be expected to provide a framework and explore your options.

It’s important to prepare for your case interview through practice to develop a method to build this framework, but also to develop the analytic mindset needed to ace this BCG test.

4 Tips to practice and ace your BCG Case Interview

• You will be required to perform quick mathematical functions , so make sure you practice enough numerical calculations beforehand.
• Practice several cases from similar industries and backgrounds and develop a standard method that helps you with all the cases. 
• It is critical that you understand how to present your view or solution rather than just reaching to the solution. Therefore, practice expressing out loud your answer or outcome in a presentable manner. 
• The quantity of cases you practice has little to do with your quality of practice . Practice a fewer number of cases in more depth to find an effective method that suits you.

What is the BCG group exercise?

The BCG group exercise is a group task which you will be required to complete as a team. You will be divided in different teams and given a particular task or case study . You will be required to discuss the problems and reach an agreed conclusion. 

Discover more about group discussions at assessment centres with our in-depth guide .

4 Top Tips to ace the BCG Group Exercise 

• Remember that this is a team task, so you have to focus on the decision that makes your team the best. 
• Let your fellow candidates speak and do not interrupt while they are presenting their thoughts. 
• Try to convince your teammates to accept your idea without using a dominating tone. 
• Bring the shy or introverted teammates into light by asking their opinion on your suggestion and encourage them to give theirs. 

Spare a few minutes to unlock more info on BCG assessment center exercises and tips and tricks on how to ace them: 

Prepare and get ahead in your  BCG Assessment Center with practice. Go further with your  practice group discussion exercises  with GF.

BCG Final Round Interviews 

What are the BCG final round interviews?

BCG will put you through 2-3 rounds of final interviewing, after which your BCG recruitment process will come to an end. The BCG final interviews will mainly take place in two major phases. 

• BCG Behavioural Interview or the BCG skills interview: The recruiter aims to identify your soft skills such as teamwork, communication, stress management, etc. through various open-ended questions.  
• BCG Competency-based Interview : The interviewer will ask questions regarding your previous experiences and provide a scenario where you will be required to answer how you would approach the situation. 

Good to know : For your BCG final round interviews , use the  STAR +R technique to answer competency questions around your past experiences. 

Top Tips to Prepare for BCG Interview Questions

• Consider the job description and key  BCG Values for your answers. What is BCG looking for in their candidates? Think about the recent news, accomplishments and projects around BCG and how these interest you in the role you are applying for.
• Before your BCG interview, you should prepare some relevant examples that you can later use during your interview based on the most common types of interview questions, which require you to demonstrate various skills such as management, prioritization, organisational skills, etc.
• Don’t forget to ask the interviewer your own questions at the end of the final BCG interview. Stand out from the competition with some  thought-provoking questions,  and demonstrate your  genuine motivation  and enthusiasm to work for the company.

But what questions can I ask in my BCG interview? Here’s our top 5 interview questions that you should ask your interviewer:

Example BCG Final Interview Questions and Answers

Here are some of the most commonly used interview questions during the BCG interview process and our tips on how you can best answer them:

Question: Why BCG?

Tips to answer: Focus on the image of the company. Explain what you like about the company which distinguishes it from the other consulting firms, and why. Consider their culture and which aspects connect you with the firm on a personal level. Use this opportunity to explain how your own skills will contribute to the company’s image.

• I am excited to work at BCG for several reasons. BCG’s reputation as a global leader in management consulting is impressive, as well as their approach excellence, integrity, and collaboration which strongly resonate with my values in professional life. 
• I thrive in collaborative environments where diverse perspectives with the team and clients are respected and encouraged. Therefore working for BCG is an unparalleled learning opportunity for me to develop professionally and personally.
• In this role, I am confident I will significantly contribute to BCG’s goal of providing a useful impact on their top-tier clients and society through effective and efficient collaboration with my team. 

Question: Walk me through your resume.

Tips to answer: An important point to keep in mind while answering this question is to be concise. Focus on your achievements and experiences which are most relevant to the job you are applying to. Progress through your CV/Resume as a short story.

• Absolutely, I’d be happy to walk you through my resume. I will highlight my background, key experiences, and achievements.
• I have done my bachelor’s in Business Administration from XYZ University, where I graduated with honors. During my time at XYZ I was involved in various student organizations, including being the president of the Business Club, which helped me develop my leadership skills.
• My first job was with ABC Corporation, where I held the position of a Business Analyst, where I had to conduct market research, analyze data supporting the development of strategic initiatives. This experience allowed me to develop analytical skills and a deep understanding of market dynamics.
• Following my role at ABC Corporation, I transitioned to DEF Consulting as a Consultant. Here, I worked with a diverse range of clients across industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. I collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify business challenges, conducted data-driven analyses, and developed recommendations to drive business performance improvements. I was also involved in client presentations and played a key role in implementing strategic initiatives.

Question: Tell me about a time when you had to face conflict

Tips to answer: This question will require you to answer using the STAR +R model i.e., Situation, Task, Action, Result, and Reflect. Your recruiter is looking for how you managed to communicate effectively in order to resolve an issue quickly and peacefully.

• Situation: In my previous role as a project manager, I encountered a conflict with a team member who had different opinions about the approach we should take for a critical project.
• Task: My team members believed that we needed to allocate more resources to the project, while I thought we should prioritize efficiency and keep the resources at their current level.
• Action: To resolve the conflict, I scheduled a group meeting with all the team members to understand their perspective and express my own concerns. I actively listened to their points, acknowledging their expertise and commitment. We used this meeting to find a compromise solution and adjusted the resources we aimed to use to accommodate the team member’s concerns while still maintaining efficiency.
• Result: In the end, the conflict was resolved, and we were able to move forward with a unified approach, resulting in successful project completion within the deadline. We had spare resources left over which we could use for the next project.
• Reflect: The experience taught me the importance of active listening, effective communication, and finding mutually beneficial solutions in conflict resolution.

Discover the potential question you may be asked in your BCG final interview with our proprietary  Question Identifier Tool (QIT)  as part of our Practice Essentials package .

Make sure you show your BCG interviewers exactly the candidate they want through your answers. To get more details on how to do that, watch the following video: 

After the completion of the whole BCG recruitment process, you will be required to  submit references and the company will run pre-employment checks  on you. If everything gets approved, you will be joining your dream job at BCG. 

But wait, before you go!

Are you a college graduate and want to start a career with BCG? Then check out our dedicated section below, for more information on the BCG graduate schemes and internships . 

Boston Consulting Group Graduate Schemes

Boston Consulting Group (BCG) provides a wide range of opportunities for undergraduates, graduates, and students who are pursuing their MBA degrees and want to kick-start their careers in consulting. To know more about BCG graduate jobs keep reading. 

BCG Internships

The BCG Internship programs provide you with an opportunity to work with experienced persons on real projects. These programs are designed for students who have completed their graduation degrees and interested in pursuing a career in the different departments of a consultancy firm. 

Being a part of these internship programs allows you to develop business acumen and leadership skills, and receive training and mentorship.

Some of the key internship programs currently offered by Boston Consulting Group are: 

• Associate Consultant Internship : a 10-week program designed for students who have completed their undergraduate or graduate degree.  
• Associate Consultant Program : a full-time position designed for recent graduates. 
• Business Analyst Program : this full-time position is available for recent graduates.
• BCG Summer Internship Program : This is a 10-week program designed for MBA students. 
• Bridge to BCG Program: This is a program designed for Ph.D. students, postdocs, and medical students who are interested in pursuing a career in consulting. 

Eligibility Requirements for BCG Internships

• Education: Applicants must be enrolled in any discipline under an undergraduate or graduate degree at an accredited institution.
• Academic achievement: BCG looks for candidates who have been excellent academically. This may include high GPAs, honors, awards, etc.
• Work experience: Except for some full-time internship programs and co-op programs at BCG work experience isn’t necessary.
• Language proficiency: BCG expects their employees to at least understand the language of the location they work at. Thus, you must be proficient in the native language of the location you are applying to.

Furthermore, BCG offers a number of graduate schemes for candidates like you who wish to train in a consulting firm work environment. Read on to find out more about the BCG graduate schemes.

BCG Graduate Programs

• Associate Consultant Program: This is a full-time position designed for recent graduates who have completed their undergraduate or graduate degree and are interested in pursuing a career in consulting. Associates work with experienced consultants on client projects, develop business acumen and leadership skills, and receive training and mentorship. This program is available in BCG offices worldwide.
• Business Analyst Program: The Business Analyst Program is a full-time position designed for recent graduates who have completed their undergraduate or graduate degree and are interested in pursuing a career in consulting. This program is available in BCG offices worldwide.
• Global Advantage Program: The Global Advantage Program is a full-time position designed for individuals who have completed their undergraduate or graduate degree and have international experience or language proficiency. This program is available in BCG offices worldwide.
• Advanced Degree Program: The Advanced Degree Program allows associates to work with experienced consultants on client projects, develop analytical and problem-solving skills, and receive training and mentorship. This program is available in BCG offices worldwide and is a full-time position designed for individuals who have completed their PhD, MD, JD, or other advanced degrees and are interested in pursuing a career in consulting.

With this the complete guide to help you pass your BCG selection process comes to an end. However, you can discover more insights into BCG with our quick FAQs section below.

BCG Recruitment FAQs

How to apply to bcg.

• Visit BCG’s official website
• Enter the job position, or
• Use the “personalized job finder”
• Enter your skills and preferences
• Apply to the vacancy online

What is BCG Forage?

BCG Forage is an online platform that offers various internships and allows participants to be a part of various learning opportunities. This platform has been developed in partnership with Forage, allowing participants to develop problem-solving, data analysis, and communication skills, while gaining insights into BCG’s work.

What qualities does BCG look for in candidates?

BCG looks for the following qualities in their employees:

1. Strong academic background and degrees from top universities.

2. The applicants must have demonstrated strong leadership skills, problem-solving skills and excellent communication skills.

3. Relevant work experience, particularly in consulting is always valued.

4. BCG looks for strong, open-minded individuals who are capable of converting their thoughts and company’s aims to action. 

5. The applicants must possess curiosity to ask the right questions and know more about everything they are put in. 

Does everyone get the BCG Pymetrics test?

No, not everyone will be invited to the BCG Pymetrics game assessment. You will only be required to play BCG Pymetrics games if your job position requires you to. This assessment stage may also depend on the location you are applying to.

How long does it take for BCG to get back after the final round interview?

The complete BCG assessment process takes 2-3 months in total and around 14 days between each stage of assessment. Thus, they may take 2-3 weeks to send you an offer or rejection after the last round of interviews.

Practice and Register with GF to get your job with BCG first time

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BCG Online Case – 10 Key Tips to Beat the Chatbot

In recent years, BCG launched a brand new way to assess and shortlist candidates for interviews. This new assessment - called the BCG Online Case - took the form of a web-based chatbot mimicking an actual case interview . The firm quickly validated the new test and the Online Case has since been rolled out globally , replacing the BCG Potential Test in all but a few offices.

If you are interviewing with BCG, you will likely have to take the new BCG Online Case . You only have one shot at the new test - if you fail, you will not get another attempt for 1 to 2 years. Therefore, it is critical that you prepare in the best possible way.

In this article, I ( Francesco ) will give you an overview of the new BCG Online Case and detail how to best prepare for it.

• 1. What Is the BCG Online Case, and Why Is It Important?

The new BCG Online Case (also called Chatbot Interview) involves a chatbot called Casey presenting an actual case similar to those you may receive from human interviewers. However, due to being a chatbot interview, the case is interviewer-led , which means you will have little to no control over the flow.

The case contains 8 to 10 questions , delivered over an instant messenger-like interface, to be solved in 25 to 30 minutes . These questions take 2 forms:

• Multiple-choice questions where candidates have to choose which data they need to proceed, what analyses they want to do next, or what their findings/conclusions are
• Open-ended questions where candidates have to explain their answers to the prior multiple-choice questions or answer a math or creativity question

This is followed by a one-way video interview question at the end where you have to provide a recommendation to the client. To sum up, you have 1 minute to prepare and another minute to present your conclusion.

The main differences compared to the previous BCG Potential Test include:

• There are 8-10 questions instead of 23
• Candidates have only 25-30 minutes instead of the traditional 45
• Calculators are allowed
• There are open-ended questions in addition to multiple-choice questions
• It ends with a video sum up

The Online Case is critical for BCG as it provides the firm with a way to more accurately assess key consulting skills at scale . These skills include structuring , business sense , math skills , graph interpretation , and synthesis . The basic hypothesis of BCG launching this test is that if you perform well along these dimensions you should also perform well in an actual live case interview.

• 2. How Are Candidates Scored?

With the presence of open-ended explanation questions and the video sum up, your grading won’t be as simple as the other more traditional screening assessments such as the McKinsey PST and BCG Potential Test . Instead of having standardized scores (i.e., how many questions a candidate got right), you will likely be evaluated holistically in terms of the key consulting skills mentioned earlier and have your performance compared with those of other candidates .

• 3. When Do I Get my BCG Online Case Results?

The results are usually delivered within 2 weeks . However, sometimes the test is done as part of the first-round interviews . In such cases, your performance in the test will be assessed together with your case interview performance, and the results will be communicated accordingly.

• 4. BCG Online Case Tips
• Tip 1: Check if the Chatbot Interview Is Part of Your Selection Process

The Chatbot Interview and the previous BCG Potential Test are both called the BCG Online Case . While the BCG Potential Test has mostly been replaced, it is still in use in certain countries/offices; therefore, it is good to be clear on which test you have to take and avoid preparing for the wrong one. Additionally, the Chatbot Interview is sometimes given together with the first-round interviews, instead of being used as a pre-interview screening tool. If any of these elements are unclear, it is best that you clarify with HR before preparing . 

• Tip 2: Start Practicing in Advance if Possible

You will often receive an invitation to the Online Case right after your applications, and the Online Case usually needs to be performed within 3 days after receiving the link . Each of the key skills assessed can be developed to maximize the chances of passing the Online Case; however, this is only possible if you have sufficient time to prepare . Ideally, I would recommend starting the preparation as soon as you know that you have to take the test.

• Tip 3: Know How to Analyze the Data

Graphs and charts are a key part of the BCG Online Case, and you can expect to face at least a few during the Case. Sometimes, you might even need to analyze multiple graphs at the same time to answer a question. Hence, building up your graph interpretation muscles will prove very beneficial. When facing a graph question, you should follow 3 steps:

• Understand the objective . The goal of the analysis is often very specific; be sure that you are going to answer the right question to avoid losing time later on
• Analyze the graph . Read the graph, identifying the key elements represented
• Define a formula to answer the question . Identify a structure or equation to derive the answer to the question based on the information provided
• Tip 4: Carefully select your practice material

While the new BCG Online Case differs from traditional tests such as the McKinsey PST and the BCG Potential Test , there is still significant overlap between the skills tested . Hence, it is still beneficial to practice these tests.

If you want to prepare with the material really resembling the new BCG Online Case, you can find 2 full Casey-style tests included in the guide I created , together with several PSTs and BCG Potential Tests examples.

• Tip 5: Structure the conclusion correctly

To succeed in the BCG Online Case final recommendation, you need to be able to communicate your thoughts in a concise and understandable manner . This is critical as you need to summarise your findings in 1 minute.

I would recommend structuring your thoughts as follows:

• Briefly repeat the goal of the case provided in the initial prompt
• Present a direct answer to the question first and only then back it up with distinct supporting points
• Structure your supporting point (eg labeling them with “First,.. Second, Third…”) to make them more clear
• End by presenting your next steps and/or risks
• Tip 6: Develop a case practice routine

Given that the new BCG Online Case mimics an actual case interview , practicing cases is one of the best ways to prepare for the Online Case . Since the Online Case can be administered very early in the process, you should build up a case practice routine early.

Cases can be prepared with both top Casebooks and P2P platforms such as PrepLounge. Casebooks allow you to practice in your own free time, and those from top Business Schools such as INSEAD tend to offer high-quality cases, however, you won’t be able to test your communication skills. Meanwhile, live interviews on P2P platforms tend to be more effective in terms of communication but require more time from your end as you need to both give and receive cases , and your partners may or may not provide good feedback.

I would recommend a combination of both to prepare effectively .

• Tip 7:  Be mindful of your time

The questions in the Online Case are not particularly difficult; however, unlike a test like the McKinsey PST, you cannot proceed “at your own pace” . Instead, you have to follow the evolution of the test as questions are revealed one by one . The implication of this is that you will feel time constraints as you won’t know how difficult the next questions will be and how much time they may require. Moreover, Casey will give you reminders every 5 minutes , which may add additional pressure.

To mitigate these issues, I would recommend paying attention to how much time you are spending on a question and to provide a best-guess answer if you have already spent a substantial amount of time (i.e., 4+ minutes) on a single question.

• Tip 8: Practice test materials under real conditions

In order to mimic the real conditions of the Online Case, I would recommend practicing on the McKinsey PST and/or BCG Potentials Test with a strict time limit. This means spending approximately 2 minutes per question . This is especially critical for the math questions as candidates often find the math in the Online Case to be particularly challenging given the time constraints. Additionally, you should attempt these tests on a computer to mimic the Online Case experience as closely as possible.

• Tip 9: Zero in on the answer to multiple-choice questions via elimination

During the Online Case , you will be presented with several multiple-choice questions. These questions may provide a lot of options and you may have to pick either the best one or select all those that are applicable/relevant . Hence, it is critical that you don’t get confused by all the options that are available to you.

To avoid this, I would recommend  eliminating the options that are not applicable whenever you don’t know the right answer right away. This is often much easier than trying to identify the correct answer(s) upfront. Once you have restricted your options to a reasonable number, it will be easier to narrow them down to the best ones.

• Tip 10: Prepare your test environment beforehand

A great environment will help you to increase concentration and be totally focused on the questions. Some tips that may help you to have the right setup for the test are:

• Take the test in a silent room with a pen, paper, and a calculator ready , so that you can fully focus on the Online Case and have everything in place to perform well
• Check your Internet connection, webcam, and microphone beforehand
• Dress formally for the video interview
• 5. About the Author

#1 Expert for Coaching Sessions (3.600+) | 1.300+ Reviews with 100% Recommendation Rate | Ex BCG | 8+ Years of Coaching

• Professional Experience: BCG
• Languages: English, Italian, Spanish
• Location: Singapore

Francesco is an interview coach, former BCG consultant, and tech entrepreneur. He is the #1 coach on PrepLounge.com for meetings done, where he completed more than 3.000 expert sessions. As a coach for consulting interviews, Francesco helped hundreds of candidates to land offers from McKinsey, BCG, and Bain. Since 2016, he organizes consulting boot camps in some of the leading universities in Europe. As a consultant, Francesco joined BCG in the Milan office, where he worked on projects in the energy, industrial goods, and consumer goods sectors. After BCG, he worked in venture capital in Germany as an angel fund associate. As an entrepreneur, Francesco founded two companies in Europe and Asia in the entertainment and EdTech sectors. He is currently leading a Singapore-based company and supporting startups as a strategic advisor.

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Cracking the BCG Potential Test/Online Case

What Does a Strategy Consultant Do at McKinsey, Bain and BCG?

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• Careers at BCG

Founded in 1963, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is an American multinational management consulting firm headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. It is one of the Big Three consulting firms, alongside Bain & Company and McKinsey & Company.

The company partners with clients all over the world aimed at enabling organisational growth, building sustainable competitive advantage, and driving social impact.

BCG has around 22,000 employees across the globe, with over 90 offices in more than 50 countries. The company is highly respected in the industry, often attracting high calibre candidates such as lawyers, doctors, engineers, and other industry specialists.

This means competition is often fierce, however, do not let this dissuade you from applying, as with some focused preparation you can put yourself in a good position for success.

BCG offers a range of career opportunities, with positions for students and graduates to experienced professionals. These are available in a variety of functions across the company, such as consulting, data science & analytics, and finance.

BCG is regarded as a great place to work, with the company consistently ranking in the Forbes 100 Best Companies to Work For. This view is echoed by its employees, who praise the inclusive culture and opportunities to develop.

• BCG Application Process

Positions at BCG are highly competitive and the application process is rigorous, consisting of multiple stages including an online application, HR screening interview, online assessment, and a series of interviews.

At each step, it is important to demonstrate how you embody BCG's core values, so ensure you keep these in mind through the process. Their core values are:

• Respect for the individual
• Clients come first
• The strategic perspective
• Value delivered
• Partnership
• Expanding the art of the possible
• Social impact

BCG Application Form

The first stage of the application process is to submit an online application on the BCG careers website. Here you will be required to upload a resume, provide some personal details, give some information on your education and employment history, and state your location preferences.

You may also need to answer some additional application questions, such as:

• What skills would you bring to this position?
• Why do you want to work for BCG?
• Describe your biggest achievement

Do spend some time on the application form as this will be your first impression on the hiring team.

You should make sure your resume is up to date and tailored to the specific job you are applying to. A good way of doing this is by researching the company and reviewing the job description, and showcasing how your experience, skill, and qualifications make you a suitable candidate.

BCG HR Screening Interview

If your application is successful, you will be invited to a screening call with a member of HR, which is a brief call to confirm your suitability. It is usually conducted over the telephone and used to get to know you better by discussing your qualifications, skill, and experience.

The screening interview will also be used to give a brief description of the company and the role, and as an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have.

Depending on which position you are applying to, you may be required to take the BCG Potential Test. This is typically used for graduate and early career roles such as internships. The Potential Test is used to assess your numerical, verbal, and logical thinking skills.

The test consists of 23 multiple choice questions in 45 minutes, which are related to one single business case, for example, it might be helping an oil company become more profitable.

Three types of questions are featured in the BCG Potential Test:

Maths word problems: This section accounts for 40% of all questions on the test. In these questions, you will be required to analyse and interpret data presented in graphs, charts and tables, and use basic arithmetic to reach the correct answer. These questions are similar to those found on a numerical reasoning test.

Data Interpretation: Questions in this section will require you to analyse data, and use some basic maths calculations to determine if the statements presented are true or false. The challenge here is to quickly identify facts.

Reading Comprehension: Here you will be required to read a paragraph of around 400 to 600 words and answer a series of questions based on the information presented in the passage. This assesses your ability to quickly read and understand written information. These questions are similar to those found on a verbal reasoning test.

The test does use negative marking, which means wrong answers do generate a reduction in marks, whereas an unanswered question does not - this means you should take your time to make sure you are answering the questions correctly and do not attempt to guess.

It is important to note that for each question there could be 2-3 correct answers at the same time. The passing score for the test is thought to be around 70%.

To prepare for the test you should brush up on your basic arithmetic, as well as take some practice tests to get you accustomed to working under tight pressure.

Depending on the position you have applied to, you may be invited to attend an assessment centre, which will involve several independent and group activities, including:

BCG Presentations

Assessors use this exercise to evaluate your communication skills and ability to present ideas under pressure. Remember that a lot of communication is non-verbal, so make sure to stand confidently and look at those you are addressing.

BCG Group Exercises

This is designed to assess how well you can cooperate as a team to solve a particular problem. Make sure to put forward your ideas, whilst also giving others the chance to share their viewpoints.

Throughout the assessment centre, assessors will be evaluating your communication skills, ability to work in a team, and potential leadership qualities.

BCG Final Interviews

The final stage of the BCG application process is several interviews. The interviews you have will depend on the position you have applied for, however, all candidates are likely to have a typical interview that involves motivational and competency-based questions. Examples of these include:

• Tell me about a time you had to lead a team
• What is your biggest achievement to date?

To prepare for the interviews, make sure to do some thorough research into the company and its culture, the role, and the wider industry. Having a solid understanding of these can help put you ahead of other candidates.

Those applying for consulting positions will usually have to complete multiple case interviews with partners or someone at a senior level at the firm.

During a case interview, you will be presented with a business problem and will be asked to come up with a solution. This is used to assess how you process information, tackle problems and present your ideas. Check out BCGs case interview guide for more information on preparing for them.

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Sample BCG Assessments question Test your knowledge!

In the context of decision-making processes, which approach would typically ensure the highest level of stakeholder buy-in for the implementation of a major organizational change?

• Implementing the change swiftly with minimal consultation to avoid prolonged debate
• Conducting extensive individual interviews with all stakeholders to consider all views
• Holding a town-hall meeting to announce the changes without prior notice
• Facilitating collaborative workshops to gather input and reach a consensus

A consulting firm has been hired to reduce the operating costs for a client. After analysis, consultants found that if the client automates a process, they will save 15% of their current operating costs, which are $1,200,000 annually. What is the annual savings expected post-automation?

During a strategic planning session, a consultant presents two different growth options for a company. Upon reviewing the plans, which of the following should be the primary focus for sustainable long-term growth?

• Short-term profit maximization
• Diversification of the product portfolio
• Cost-cutting by reducing the workforce
• Investment in research and development

A firm has identified three potential markets to enter with its new service. Market A has a high barrier to entry but low competition. Market B has low barriers to entry but high competition. Market C has moderate barriers to entry and competition. To maximize potential for success with limited resources, which market should the firm prioritize?

• All of the above

A consultancy is evaluating a project's potential return on investment (ROI). The project, with an estimated lifecycle of 5 years, will need an initial investment of $2 million and is expected to generate annual revenues of $700,000. What is the ROI after the project's lifecycle, assuming no other costs are involved?

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Fintest is not the cheapest, but definitely the best.

Virat used Fintest to help pass her aptitude tests for Santander.

A deep understanding of what you're up against goes a long way. BCG is known for its rigorous selection process—so, to arm yourself appropriately, familiarize yourself with the types of questions you're likely to encounter. Fintest offers practice exams crafted specifically with BCG's standards in mind. Take the opportunity to explore the breadth and depth of the questions to feel more at ease during the real deal.

Time management can be the thin line between success and 'almost'. The key is not just accuracy but also speed. Practice under timed conditions with Fintest to get a sense for pacing. This will help you allocate just the right amount of time per question when you're in the hot seat, turning pressure into an ally rather than an adversary.

Familiarity breeds confidence. Use Fintest to take practice exams in a setting that mimics the actual test environment. By creating a 'test day' atmosphere, you reduce surprises and increase your comfort level. Plus, you get to troubleshoot any test-day hiccups early—like that neighbor who picks the worst times to rev up the lawn mower.

Practice is paramount, but so is reflection. After each practice exam on Fintest, take time to review your answers. This isn't just about understanding what went wrong but also celebrating what you got right. Acknowledge the patterns in your successes and failures to fine-tune your strategy and improve with each attempt.

Nerves can be beneficial—they keep you on your toes. However, too much anxiety can inhibit performance. As you practice with Fintest, focus on strategies to maintain your calm, such as deep breathing or visualization techniques. This will help you stay composed when it counts, allowing you to showcase your true potential.

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You can practice free BCG test questions to get familiar with the format and improve your test score using our online platform - no credit card required.

Typically, around 30-50% of applicants pass the BCG Potential Test.

No, a calculator is not allowed during the BCG Potential Test. The test is designed to assess candidates' ability to solve complex business problems using mental math and critical thinking skills.

While guessing may be tempting, it is not recommended to guess blindly in the BCG Potential Test. The test is designed to assess candidates' problem-solving skills, and guessing can result in lower scores. If you do get stuck and a single question is consuming too much time guessing can be a good option.

Career in Consulting

Acing the BCG Online Case Interview – 2024 Guide

What’s the BCG Online Case Interview?

It’s a business problem you must solve.

But unlike the traditional case interview, you must solve this problem by interacting with a chatbot, Casey, on your computer.

No more one-to-one discussion with an interview.

For this chatbot case, you’re on your own.

And acing the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Online Case interview is no easy feat.

Not only does it require adapting to a unique interview format, but also having case-cracking skills that outshine the other candidates.

Hence, in this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of the BCG Online Case, discussing its components, differences from traditional case interviews, and tips for success.

Let’s dive in right now.

Table of Contents

Key takeaways.

• The BCG Online Case is an assessment used to simulate real-life problem-solving scenarios. This is a case simulation via chatbot followed by a one-way video assessment.
• It assesses various skills, including problem-solving, business judgment, mathematical aptitude, graph reading, and logical reasoning.
• BCG uses this test during the screening phase to select the candidates who will be invited for interviews.
• The BCG Online Case is mainly used in the US offices right now (but seems to be rolled out worldwide). Alternative screening tests include the BCG Potential Test (also known as BCG online assessment) or the BCG Pymetrics Test.
• After a presentation of a client’s context and problem, candidates have 25 to 30 minutes to answer 8 to 12 questions (the time and number of questions might change, so be careful).
• Also, candidates must record a one-minute video to answer a final question and end the BCG online assessment.
• The online case must usually be performed within 3 days after receiving the link. Candidates hear back within 2 weeks.
• Candidates who fail the test are usually banned for 12 to 18 months.
• Time management is an important factor in acing the BCG online case assessment.

Understanding the BCG Online Case

The BCG Online Case (also called the BCG chatbot case or BCG Casey) plays a significant role in the recruitment process of the Boston Consulting Group.

Because the BCG Online Case evaluates if applicants have the skills to become best-in-class consultants before interviewing those applicants.

During this unique assessment, candidates engage with a chatbot, Casey, that presents a business case study.

Then, the case includes 8 to 12 questions assessing applicants’ critical thinking, data analysis, and strategic insights.

This online case experience aims to challenge candidates by offering a snapshot of the actual case interview process, simulating real-life problem-solving scenarios encountered by BCG consultants daily.

Finally, the candidates who fail the test are not invited for interviews.

Plus, they are usually banned for a 12 to 18-month period.

Key Components

The BCG Online Assessment is composed of a mix of question formats, ranging from multiple-choice to open questions, and culminates in a final video recommendation.

Candidates must complete the 8 to 12 questions within the 30-minute window, followed by a precisely timed 1-minute video on their webcam, presenting their final recommendation.

A sample multiple-choice question:

A sample open question:

A sample one-way video question:

This unique format tests the candidate’s ability to think on their feet and communicate their ideas effectively, similar to a live case interview, making it an essential part of the interview process.

Important : The candidates must answer the questions one by one. In other words: there is no possibility to skip a question or pause the test.

Skills Assessed

A wide range of skills are evaluated in the BCG Online Case, including:

Problem-solving (structuring)

Business judgment

Logical reasoning

Mathematical aptitude

Graph reading and interpretation

Candidates must demonstrate their understanding of business principles and showcase their overall business knowledge to excel in this assessment.

The BCG Online Case emphasizes proficiency in basic math concepts, data interpretation skills, and tackling math questions, all of which are crucial in solving real-life business problems.

Later in this guide, we’ll discuss how to master the different types of questions used to test those 5 skills.

But first, let’s have a quick overview of how the BCG Casey case compares to the aptitude tests used by the other top-tier consulting firms.

Next, let’s talk about the differences between the BCG Casey case and the traditional case interviews.

Differences Between BCG Online Case and Traditional Case Interviews

While the BCG Online Case shares some similarities with traditional case interviews, such as presenting a business problem to be solved, there are notable differences.

The most significant distinction is the use of Casey, a chatbot, which eliminates the need for a human interviewer and offers a more interactive experience through the BCG Interactive Case Library, which features various online cases.

Additionally, the online interview format presents unique time management challenges, as candidates do not receive the same level of interviewer feedback as in traditional case interviews.

Interaction with Casey Chatbot

In the BCG Online Case, success hinges on adapting to interaction with Casey, the non-human interviewer.

Candidates must navigate through questions without guidance, relying on their problem-solving skills and ability to structure their thoughts effectively.

Given the lack of feedback from the chatbot, a solid initial structure and a well-prepared approach are necessary to ensure smooth progression through the questions.

Time Management Challenges

In the BCG Online Case, time management is crucial as candidates must balance accuracy and speed within strict time limits.

The lack of interviewer feedback and the need to think and respond swiftly create a demanding situation, requiring candidates to prioritize questions, avoid getting stuck on difficult problems, and know when to skip or guess.

Calculator are allowed

Candidates can use a calculator during the BCG Casey test. 

While it seems to make the test easier, especially for candidates with limited quantitative backgrounds, remember that calculators are not allowed during live case interviews.

Hence, sooner than later, all candidates must develop strong calculation skills.

Okay, now let’s talk about how to ace the different types of questions asked in the BCG online cases:

• Structuring questions
• Business acumen questions
• Math questions
• Chart questions
• One-way video (or synthesis) questions

Mastering the structuring questions

The structuring questions are most likely asked at the beginning of the assessment.

In this type of question?

The chatbot asks you to choose 2-4 answers among 8 different options.

This is similar to creating an issue tree at the beginning of a live case interview. 

Check this article if you don’t know what an issue tree is.

How to correctly answer Structuring questions

Use the following approach to answer the structuring questions:

Step 1: Understand which metric the client wants to optimize

Step 2: Read each option provided one by one and select ALL the options that can influence this metric

For example, the client wants to optimize its profits.

And the factors that influence the client’s profits include “total costs per segment,” “the number of products per segment sold by the client,” and “the price of products per segment sold by the client.”

How to develop this skill

Refining problem-solving skills is crucial for success in the BCG Online Case.

Practicing mock case interviews is the best way to develop your structuring skills.

All case interviews include structuring questions.

For instance, when developing an issue tree at the beginning of the case.

Or during the case, when answering brainstorming questions such as “Which factors influence the market growth?”

You can practice independently, with friends, or with an expert.

Regardless of how you practice, you must track your mistakes and improvement.

Practice Resources

You can find a library of 280 case examples on this page .

These case examples?

They are directly from top-tier firms’ websites or case books from prestigious universities like Wharton, Harvard, or INSEAD.

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Acing the business acumen questions

Strong business judgment is what separates the good from the best consultants.

And BCG wants to assess how strong your business judgment is.

In other words:

They want to know if you understand how “business forces” can influence a situation or an environment.

But these “business forces” can take many forms, such as supply & demand, competition dynamics, regulation, etc.

Hence, you must develop a strong business culture to be able to understand how these “business forces” work.

How to correctly answer Business Acumen questions

Use the following approach to answer the business acumen questions:

Step 2: Select, from the list of options provided, the factors that can influence this metric

For example, the client wants to optimize its pricing.

And the factors that influence the client’s pricing include “the willingness to pay of the customers” and “the sales of competitors for different price levels.”

One of the useful tactics for learning to ‘think business’ is when you learn about recent business events, try to figure out the (direct and indirect) implications of the event.

For example, imagine that the OPEC nations have decided to restrict oil supply. 

A first direct implication can be that gas prices will increase, which means that oil company revenues will increase as well. 

An indirect implication can be that the sales of SUVs will decrease, which means that  Auto companies will be offering more sales promotions on SUVs.

Another indirect implication can be that the use of public transportation will increase.  

And so on… you can think of dozens of other implications. 

If you want to learn more about developing your business acumen, check out our coaching program on this page or sign up for our free case interview training.

I recommend reading business articles from the following websites:

McKinsey.com

Business insider ( the strategy section )

When reading these articles, try to understand the underlying business forces that created or solved a problem.

Mastering the Math questions

For all consulting firms, including BCG, a strong correlation exists between a candidate’s quantitative skills and the probability that this candidate will become a best-in-class consultant.

That’s why top consulting firms love asking quantitative questions in case interviews.

And the Casey chatbot interview is no exception.

Hence, you’ll have to answer Math questions like this one:

How to correctly answer Math questions

Use the following approach to answer the math questions:

Step 1: Understand the objective and the data presented (units, titles, etc.)

Step 2: Develop the formula you need to answer the question

Step 3: Plug the numbers provided in your formula and do the Math

Step 4: If you have time, do a quick sanity check of your answer

For example, the client wants to optimize its pricing to maximize revenues.

Since revenues are equal to volumes times price, you need to add all the units per price level and multiply the total volumes by the price levels.

The answer will be the price level that maximizes the client’s revenues.

Note : calculators are allowed during the BCG test.

To sharpen your quantitative skills, practice with mock quantitative tests such as:

Mock GMAT Tests: These tests are excellent for practicing various quantitative problems.

Case Interviews: Simulate the real experience using case interviews that include math questions.

Mock McKinsey PST or BCG Potential Test .

Don’t limit yourself to traditional methods.

Various online platforms and apps are designed to help you practice mental calculations and case-specific math problems.

By mastering case interview math, you’re not just showcasing your ability to crunch numbers.

You’re proving that you can think critically, make data-driven decisions, and lead a case to its logical conclusion.

Acing the Chart questions

Analyzing lots of data is part of the daily routine of a consultant.

And these data come in many forms: charts, data tables, texts, etc.

Hence, you’ll have to answer Chart questions like this one:

To answer a chart question, you might have to analyze more than one chart.

How to correctly answer Chart questions

Use the following approach to answer the chart questions:

Step 3: Find the data you need in the charts presented

Step 4: Plug numbers from these charts into your formula and do the math.

This is important to do step 2 before step 3.

You don’t want to jump aimlessly in the chart.

Instead, have a clear goal (know what you’re looking for) before wasting your precious time reading the chart.

As for the Math questions, you can practice with mock quantitative tests like GMAT, McKinsey PST, or BCG Potential test.

Additionally, this article shares more tips on developing your analytical skills (including chart reading).

First, you can practice with GMAT tests.

Here are some examples .

Besides, visit websites full of charts like The Economist, The Wall Street Journal, etc.

Find charts, draw conclusions from these charts, and read the article to check if your conclusions make sense. 

Also, practice with the case examples you can find in these case books .

Additionally, here are more resources:

• SHL practice tests ( here )
• SHL verbal reasoning questions ( here )
• SHL numerical reasoning questions ( here )
• SHL inductive reasoning questions ( here )
• Free aptitude test examples ( here )
• Kearney mock recruitment test ( here )
• McKinsey PST examples ( here , here , and here )

Finally, you can use a platform like JobTestPrep to practice with tests that mimic real tests.

Tackling the one-way video question

With this question, BCG will test your communication skills and capacity to synthesize your work.

Most of the time, the one-way video question asks you to give a recommendation to the client’s CEO.

The one-way video question looks like this:

How to correctly answer One-Way Video questions

Use the following approach to answer the one-way question:

Step 1: Repeat the objective

Step 2: Provide an answer-first conclusion (following the pyramid principles)

Step 3: Discuss potential next steps and risks

Your answer is very similar to the conclusion you must provide in a real-life case interview.

For instance:

“ Our objective was to understand why profits declined and how to fix this problem. The drop in profits comes from an increase in our client’s labor costs. A solution is outsourcing some administrative activities in a low-labor-cost country such as [X]. For the next steps, I would estimate the impact of our client’s labor costs and analyze the potential risks, such as the impact on our client’s brand image and quality of services. “

There is a must-read book if you want to become a consultant.

The pyramid principle by Barbara Minto.

If you don’t have this book in your library, buy it now.

As for structuring questions, use this library of 280 case examples to practice giving recommendations and improving your communication skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (and final tips)

Is the online case important for bcg.

The Online Case is an integral part of the BCG recruitment process and provides the firm with a way to evaluate essential consulting skills, such as structuring, business sense, math skills, graph interpretation, and synthesis. As such, it is highly important for BCG.

What is BCG online case experience?

BCG Online Case Experience is a 25-minute assessment that challenges candidates with a fictional client case presented by the online chatbot ‘Casey’, requiring them to answer 8-12 questions to demonstrate their business skills.

How much does the BCG online case matter?

BCG online case is important because if your performance on the test isn’t up to the mark, then it doesn’t matter what other documents you provide; you won’t be invited to the first round of interviews.

What is the passing score for the BCG online case?

BCG’s online test is not used to filter candidates, but an average performance would be considered a good result with 70% of questions answered correctly.

What is the role of the chatbot, Casey, in the BCG Online Case?

Casey is an AI-powered chatbot that facilitates the BCG Online Case, assessing candidates’ critical thinking, data analysis, and strategic insights through various question formats.

Will I have to take the test from home?

Yes. BCG will send you a link to take the test.

Can I pause the game once it has started?

No. You must go through all the questions at one time once you have started.

Hence, it’s important to have an effective time management strategy.

Effective time management strategies for the BCG Online Case include avoiding getting stuck on difficult problems and knowing when to skip or guess.

Any last advice?

Before starting the test, ensure you are in a silent room (mute your phone) and check your internet connection.

BCG online case: final words

In conclusion, acing the BCG Online Case requires thorough preparation, mastery of relevant skills, and effective time management.

So, I hope you enjoyed this guide about the BCG online case.

And that you feel more confident about taking this online test, paving your way to a successful career with the Boston Consulting Group.

Now, I’d like to hear from you: What’s your biggest challenge in answering the 10 questions?

Managing your time effectively?

The one-way video assessment?

The numerical questions?

Let me know by leaving a quick comment below right now.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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Online Assessments

MBB and other management consulting firms often use online assessments to screen a large number of applicants before the interview stage. These assessments help identify which applicants share traits with successful consultants. Many offices have now phased-out traditional assessments, such as the McKinsey Problem Solving Test or BCG Potential Test, and are instead using gamified assessments. This is to test candidates’ interpersonal and cognitive skills better, as well as to make the pre-interview stage more fun and unpredictable for applicants.

To help you prepare, we break down the “why” behind the assessment, explain how each test works, and give tips on how to be ready for each assessment type. Our Prepmatter Online Assessment Package includes comprehensive guides for 3 of the McKinsey, BCG and Bain assessment models.

What is included?

Mckinsey problem solving game (solve).

McKinsey Solve is a digital gamified assessment designed to evaluate candidates’ abilities holistically. The online game involves two parts, and candidates are asked to play one game in each part. In part I, candidates play either Ecosystem Creation (Coral Reef) or Ecosystem Creation (Mountain Ridge); in part II, candidates play Plant Defense, Migration Management, Red Rock Study, Disaster Management, or Disease Management. We lay out exactly how Solve works, with publicly-available and remastered in-game visuals, a host of tips to crack the games, and provide you with the best guide available on how to prepare.

The McKinsey Online Assessment i.e., Problem Solving Game, Imbellus or Solve, is intended to assess a candidate based on:

• Systemic thinking - Being aware of cause-and-effect relationships and how they will influence potential consequences.
• Situational awareness - Being mindful of current conditions weighing on a situation and deducing likely outcomes.
• Decision making - Being able to determine the best course of action given a variety of options and variables.
• Metacognition - The ability to capture and process large amounts of information.
• Critical thinking - Critical thinking requires a questioning mindset and involves weighing information from a variety of sources and coming to logical conclusions.

BCG Potential Test

The BCG Potential Test is a variation of the same assessment used in many other management consulting firms, such as the SOVA assessment at Bain, or the Problem Solving Test at McKinsey, as a way to evaluate candidates' numerical, logical, and reasoning skills. The objective is to lower the company's recruiting expenditures by reducing the number of candidates who are considered worthy of a face-to-face interview. A candidate who fails the BCG Potential Test in these areas is likely to fail a case interview anyhow, which would be a huge waste of time and money for the organisation. Included in your BCG Potential Test guide are 4 best-in-class 23-question sample online assessments that are carefully crafted by former BCG consultants and give you the best opportunity to familiarize yourself and prepare for the test.   The Potential Test is accessible in two formats: computerised and paper-based; which format is used is determined by the local office. The key difference between both (apart from the fact that one is virtual and the other is physical) is that the candidate has 45 minutes to answer 23 questions on the computer-based Potential Test. The applicant has 50 minutes to answer 53 questions on the paper Potential Test. The computer-based test has questions on a single instance, but the paper test has questions about multiple separate cases. You will, however, be examined mathematically with numerical problems and logically with data interpretation and comprehension questions in both assessments.   Important note: This examination has been largely phased out by BCG, as they aim to go towards the chatbot or pymetrics evaluation.

Packed with 30 verbal reasoning questions, 30 numerical reasoning questions, 18 logical reasoning questions, and 40 personality test statements, our Bain SOVA prep package is a comprehensive tool designed to facilitate your preparation for the assessment.

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The BCG Cognitive Test: Insights and Preparation Strategies

Last Updated on May 3, 2024

In February 2024, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) introduced a new cognitive assessment in several of its global offices, including Germany – the BCG Cognitive Test. This strategic move, anticipated to expand worldwide, marks a significant shift in how potential consultants are evaluated, and a move away from the BCG Casey Chatbot Test .

The introduction of the BCG Cognitive Test is a direct response to the increasing challenges in maintaining the integrity of remote assessment processes, particularly with the advent of advanced AI tools like ChatGPT.

This article explores the intricacies of the new test, its implications for candidates, and effective preparation strategies.

The Genesis of the BCG Cognitive Test

A response to modern challenges.

In the ever-evolving landscape of consulting recruiting , the integration of technology into the recruitment process has both streamlined operations and introduced new challenges. One significant hurdle has been the advent of advanced AI technologies, such as ChatGPT, which candidates have increasingly turned to for assistance in solving traditional test questions. This trend not only raises concerns about the fairness and integrity of the assessment process but also calls into question the authenticity of a candidate’s abilities.

With the new abilities of AI to analyze screenshots directly, candidates would have been able to copy the test prompt (including charts and quantitative information) from the BCG Casey into the AI prompt and automatically create the answer.

In response to these challenges, BCG embarked on a journey to revamp its assessment approach, leading to the birth of the BCG Cognitive Test in early 2024. This strategic decision was driven by the necessity to ensure a level playing field for all candidates, irrespective of their access to or familiarity with AI technologies.

By focusing on numerical and logical skills in a tightly timed and proctored environment, BCG aims to more accurately gauge a candidate’s innate problem-solving abilities and intellectual agility – qualities that are paramount in the fast-paced world of consulting.

Global Rollout Plans of the BCG Cognitive Test

We believe that BCG’s introduction of the Cognitive Test in a few select offices, such as those in Germany, marks the beginning of a broader strategy aimed at global implementation. This phased rollout reflects the firm’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of candidate evaluation across all its locations worldwide.

By standardizing the assessment process, BCG ensures that every potential consultant, regardless of geographic location, is evaluated using the same criteria, thereby upholding the principles of fairness and equality.

The global rollout of the BCG Cognitive Test is not just an operational update; This move reinforces the ambition of all MBBs to position hire meritocratically where talent and capability are the sole determinants of a candidate’s success.

Other test formats such as the BCG one-way video interview or the BCG Pymetrics are likely not affected and will be continued.

Understanding the Test’s Framework

Proctored online format.

The BCG Cognitive Test represents a significant leap in ensuring the integrity of the assessment process through its proctored online format. Candidates are required to undertake the test in a monitored environment, facilitated by the video conferencing tool Zoom.

Proctors oversee the examination in real-time, ensuring that candidates adhere to the rules and that the test’s authenticity is preserved. This method effectively counters the potential for unfair advantages, such as the use of unauthorized resources or AI tools, maintaining the credibility of the evaluation process.

Numerical and Logical Skills Assessment

At the heart of the BCG Cognitive Test is its focus on numerical and logical skills assessment. This component is designed to probe the candidate’s quantitative reasoning abilities, a cornerstone of effective problem-solving in the consulting realm.

Through a series of tailored questions, BCG evaluates an individual’s capacity to analyze data, discern patterns, and derive logical conclusions under pressure. These skills are indispensable for consultants who are often tasked with navigating complex business challenges and delivering data-driven insights to clients.

The test’s emphasis on quantitative reasoning aligns with the critical competencies required for success in the consulting industry, ensuring that candidates possess the intellectual rigor necessary for high-stakes decision-making.

Rigorous Question Pacing in the BCG Cognitive Test

One of the most distinguishing features of the BCG Cognitive Test is its rigorous question pacing. With 80 questions to be completed in a mere 30 minutes, the test sets a brisk pace that demands quick thinking and sharp analytical skills.

This design is intentional, aiming to simulate the pressure-cooker environment of consulting work, where consultants must often make rapid, yet accurate, assessments. The tight time constraint also makes it virtually impossible for candidates to seek external assistance, including the use of AI technologies like ChatGPT.

This constraint ensures that the focus remains on the candidate’s own abilities, testing their genuine analytical prowess and time management skills. The pacing of the test is not just a challenge; it’s a deliberate barrier to cheating on the test.

Insight into Question Types

Quantitative reasoning focus.

The BCG Cognitive Test places a significant emphasis on quantitative reasoning, a critical skill set for consultants who must navigate complex data, financial analyses, and strategic decision-making processes. This focus is designed to measure a candidate’s ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information effectively. It challenges candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in numerical analysis, logical reasoning, and problem-solving under pressure.

The questions are crafted to reflect real-world business scenarios, requiring candidates to apply mathematical concepts and analytical skills in a practical context. This approach ensures that the test not only assesses raw numerical ability but also evaluates how candidates can leverage their quantitative reasoning skills to solve complex problems.

By emphasizing quantitative reasoning, BCG aims to identify individuals with the intellectual agility and analytical prowess essential for succeeding in the demanding consulting environment.

Sample Question of the BCG Cognitive Test

Let’s dissect a sample question from the BCG Cognitive Test to understand the type of logical reasoning it demands:

If Lisa was twice as old as Sam when he was 5, and Sam is 35 now, how old is Lisa? Sample question of the BCG Cognitive Test

This question exemplifies the cognitive test’s focus on numerical and logical reasoning. It requires candidates to process given information and apply arithmetic operations alongside logical deductions to solve the problem.

• Understanding the Scenario: The question informs us about the ages of Lisa and Sam at a specific point in their past and provides Sam’s current age.
• Identifying the Relationship: When Sam was 5 years old, Lisa was twice his age, meaning Lisa was 5 * 2 = 10 years old at that time. The difference in their ages, therefore, is 10 – 5 = 5 years.
• Calculating the Age Difference: The key information is that Lisa is 5 years older than Sam. This age difference remains constant over time.
• Applying Logical Reasoning: Knowing Sam’s current age is 35 and that Lisa is consistently 5 years older than Sam, we can calculate Lisa’s current age. Thus, Lisa is 35 (Sam’s age) + 5 (the age difference) = 40 years old.

This sample question from the BCG Cognitive Test showcases the examination’s demand for a blend of numerical calculation and logical reasoning. It challenges candidates to carefully analyze the information, apply basic arithmetic principles, and deduce the correct answer based on a logical understanding of age differences and time progression.

You might also notice that the question is not overly complex in itself. However, imagine going through 80 questions, only with a couple of seconds to think about each.

The ability to navigate through such questions efficiently requires practice in both quantitative reasoning and critical thinking, underlining the importance of preparation strategies that focus on these skills.

Preparation Strategies

Leveraging gmat and bain sova resources.

To excel in the BCG Cognitive Test, candidates should focus on sharpening their quantitative reasoning skills. A strategic approach to preparation involves leveraging resources that closely mirror the test’s focus and format. Two highly recommended resources are GMAT study materials and the Bain SOVA guide.

• GMAT Study Materials : The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is known for its rigorous quantitative section, which tests a wide range of mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities. GMAT prep books and online resources offer a wealth of practice questions that require similar analytical thinking and numerical proficiency. Specifically, the GMAT’s quantitative reasoning section can help candidates familiarize themselves with the types of numerical and logical puzzles they might encounter on the BCG Cognitive Test. We have compiled a few free practice resources here .
• Bain SOVA Guide : Our Bain SOVA Assessment Guide is another excellent resource for candidates. Although it’s tailored for a different company, the Bain SOVA guide includes practice questions and sample tests focusing on quantitative reasoning, similar to what candidates can expect with BCG’s new assessment. The guide also offers strategies for tackling complex problems under time pressure, making it a valuable tool for preparing for the BCG Cognitive Test’s unique challenges.

Incorporating these resources into your preparation regimen can provide a solid foundation in quantitative reasoning, enhance your problem-solving strategies, and improve your ability to perform under tight time constraints.

Understanding the Test’s Unique Challenges

The BCG Cognitive Test presents a unique set of challenges that distinguish it from other industry assessments, such as the Casey and traditional case interview formats. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective preparation and success:

• Tighter Time Constraints : With 80 questions to answer in just 30 minutes, the BCG Cognitive Test imposes considerably tighter time constraints compared to other assessments. This format requires quick thinking and efficient problem-solving, as candidates have less than 30 seconds per question. Time management skills become as critical as solving skills, emphasizing the need for practice under similar conditions to improve speed and accuracy. As is often the case with such tightly-timed assessments, we don’t think it is expected that you will actually be able to go through all questions. The goal should be to go through as many questions as possible and answer them accurately. If you are stuck in a question for too long, move on!
• Departure from Case Interviews : Unlike the Casey or traditional case interviews that focus on situational analysis and strategic thinking in business scenarios, the BCG Cognitive Test emphasizes quantitative reasoning and logical skills. This shift means candidates must prepare differently, focusing more on numerical analysis and less on case study preparation.
• Increased Difficulty Level : The combination of a strict time limit and the requirement for precise analytical thinking makes the BCG Cognitive Test more challenging than many other assessments in the consulting field. It tests not only a candidate’s ability to solve quantitative problems but also their capacity to maintain composure and perform under pressure.

Practice with time-bound quantitative reasoning questions, familiarize yourself with rapid problem-solving techniques, and develop strategies for managing stress and maintaining focus throughout the test. Emphasizing speed, accuracy, and mental agility in your preparation will be key to mastering the BCG Cognitive Test.

Introducing the BCG Cognitive Test Practice: A Tailored Practice Test for the New Assessment

In May 2024, we proudly unveiled the industry’s first practice test tailored specifically for the new BCG assessment.

• Uniquely Designed: The first of its kind, specifically crafted for those aiming to succeed at the new BCG test format. Inspired by real candidate feedback, ensuring an authentic preparation experience.
• Comprehensive Question Bank: Features 80 crafted questions based on the 8 common question types that mirror the format and difficulty of the actual BCG Cognitive Test, providing you with the most relevant practice material.
• Real Exam Simulation: Experience the pressure with a strict 30-minute timer replicating the real test conditions. This helps sharpen your cognitive abilities and enhances your time management skills under exam-like scenarios.
• Unlimited Retakes: Practice as much as you need with no restrictions. Each attempt helps you learn and improve, giving you the freedom to master the test at your own pace.
• Prepare for Success: Elevate your confidence and readiness. Our practice kit equips you with essential insights you won’t find anywhere else.

Take a real-life BCG Cognitive Test Now!

A Tailored Practice Test for the New Assessment

Inspired by real candidate feedback, ensuring an authentic preparation experience.

Comprehensive Question Bank: Features 80 crafted questions based on the 8 question types.

Way Forward

The introduction of the BCG Cognitive Test in early 2024 represents a significant shift in the firm’s approach to candidate assessment. Designed to address the challenges posed by the misuse of AI technologies and to ensure a fair evaluation process, this new test emphasizes quantitative reasoning, logical thinking, and the ability to perform under pressure. With its proctored online format, rigorous question pacing, and focus on numerical and logical skills, the BCG Cognitive Test sets a high bar for candidates aspiring to join one of the world’s leading consulting firms.

Preparation for this test requires a focused approach, leveraging resources like GMAT study materials and the Bain SOVA guide to hone the necessary quantitative reasoning skills. Understanding the unique challenges of the test – its tight time constraints, departure from traditional case interviews, and increased difficulty level – is crucial for success. Candidates must practice under similar conditions to improve speed, accuracy, and problem-solving efficiency.

As BCG likely plans a global rollout of this assessment, candidates worldwide need to consider preparing their skills, even before sending the application .

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Florian spent 5 years with McKinsey as a senior consultant. He is an experienced consulting interviewer and problem-solving coach, having interviewed 100s of candidates in real and mock interviews. He started StrategyCase.com to make top-tier consulting firms more accessible for top talent, using tailored and up-to-date know-how about their recruiting. He ranks as the most successful consulting case and fit interview coach, generating more than 500 offers with MBB, tier-2 firms, Big 4 consulting divisions, in-house consultancies, and boutique firms through direct coaching of his clients over the last 3.5 years. His books “The 1%: Conquer Your Consulting Case Interview” and “Consulting Career Secrets” are available via Amazon.

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Let's face it, most mornings the allure of the snooze button is far stronger than the office. But what if work wasn't a slog, but a source of satisfaction, even enjoyment? Companies would do well to understand what makes work joyful, given the link between joy at work and attrition. According to recent research from the BCG Henderson Institute, 45% of office-based workers worldwide are at least passively job searching. One way companies can guard against their people leaving in droves is by making work a more joyful experience.

While how we find joy at work differs for everyone, Debbie Lovich, managing director and senior partner at Boston Consulting Group and a fellow of the BCG Henderson Institute, says there are some common elements that make work enjoyable. “Feeling valued, feeling appreciated, and feeling seen are the emotional needs that dominate and must be met. But after that, it really varies.” Some people get satisfaction from problem-solving, having fun, or being good at their craft. Others simply want to get through the day with more joyful moments than difficult ones.

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Lovich highlights the stark contrast between joy and its nemesis: toil. "Think soul-sucking, mindless, stressful work," she says. “People are very sensitive to the amount of toil and joy in their day-to-day work.”

The level of toil one experiences impacts one's willingness to stay in role. BCG finds that people who enjoy their work are 49% less likely to consider taking a new job than those who don’t enjoy their work. They also find that employees not looking to change jobs spend 35% of their week on activities they enjoy, and only 10% on activities they don’t like.

Toil is even more costly than simple attrition. Increased levels of toil are linked to impaired cognitive function, diminished memory, and a reduced ability to learn and engage.

NSA Warns iPhone And Android Users To Turn It Off And On Again

Donald trump $300 million poorer after guilty verdict as truth social stock sinks, trump still faces 54 more felony charges after hush money verdict, what's the culprit behind the joy gap.

Look no further than leadership with misplaced priorities. “Leaders are held accountable for delivering financial results. Over the last decade, they’ve been asked to deliver this in a sustainable manner. But people have historically been a means to an end to deliver those results. They are assumed to be an infinite resource to be consumed and used up,” says Lovich.

She then explains the downstream impact that has on the labor market. While the Great Resignation may have woken employers up to the fact that office-based people will walk if work is unmeaningful or too stressful, there’s currently an imbalance in the labor market that has yet to be rectified. “Some companies have been a little wary of hiring because they’ve just gone through a big adjustment. So they’re going to put more on the shoulders of their workforce and — ironically and dangerously — create less joy and more stress. They’ll lose their best people. You should care about joy just to keep your best and brightest.”

Lovich proposes a bold idea. "Let's elevate joy to a key performance indicator (KPI) alongside efficiency and effectiveness." She argues that "engagement," the current metric du jour, lacks teeth. "Think about it," she says, "When someone asks about your day, do they inquire about your 'engagement level' or do they ask if you enjoyed yourself?”

Designing joyful work experiences

Motivation and joy, often conflated, are distinct emotions. Joy springs from making an impact and having positive interactions, while motivation can be fueled by external rewards like salary. Lovich emphasizes the role of thoughtful job design in boosting joy. “It’s time to think about your employees as customers,” says Lovich. “I don’t mean that you should be subservient to them, but you should understand their needs, personalize offerings, and test new work experiences with them.”

One way to increase joy at work is to be more thoughtful in how you design jobs themselves. There is a large opportunity to re-design office-based work given advancements in technology and the fact that hybrid work is here to stay. Managers will also need upskilling to make joyful work a reality. “The burden is so much more on managers with younger or more junior employees to proactively think about reducing the toll and creating the joy.”

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McKinsey Solve

• Fundamentals
• How it works
• Skills tested
• How to prepare
• A guide to the McKinsey Problem Solving Game

MCC is here to help

McKinsey’s Solve assessment has been making candidates sweat ever since it was initially trialled at the firm’s London office back in 2017 - and things have gotten even more difficult since a new version launched in Spring 2023, adding the Redrock case study.

More recently, in Summer 2023, we have seen a new iteration of that Redrock case, as we continue to interview test takers to keep you updated. This replaces the case study about optimising wolf pack populations across Redrock Island with one about boosting the overall plant biodiversity on the same island.

Since its initial roll-out, the Solve assessment has definitely been the most idiosyncratic, but also the most advanced, of the screening tests used by the MBB firms.

It can be hard to understand how an ecology-themed video game can tell McKinsey whether you’ll make a good management consultant, let alone know how to prepare yourself to do well in that game. When you consider that McKinsey are potentially cutting 70%+ of the applicant pool based on this single test, you can hardly blame applicants for being worried.

Matters are definitely not helped by the dearth of reliable, up-to-date information about what could very well be - with a top-tier consulting job on the line - the most important test you will take over your entire career. This was already true with the version of Solve that had been around for a few years, let alone the new iterations.

What information is available online is then often contradictory. For a long time, there was huge disagreement as to whether it is actually possible to meaningfully prepare for the Solve assessment - before you’ve even considered how to go about that preparation. There is also a lot of confusion and inaccuracy around the new Redrock case - largely as it is such a recent addition, and individual test takers tend to misremember details.

Luckily, we at MCC have been interviewing test takers both before and after the Redrock case rollout and have been following up to see which strategies and approaches actually work to push individuals through to interview.

Here, we’ll explain that it is indeed possible to prepare effectively for both versions of Solve and give you some ideas for how you can get started. Understanding how the Solve assessment works, what it tests you for and how is critical for all but the most hurried preparations.

This article makes for a great introduction to the Solve assessment. However, if you are going to be facing this aptitude test yourself and want full information and advice for preparation, then you should ideally get our full PDF guide:

Master the Solve Assessment

What is the mckinsey solve assessment.

In simple terms, the McKinsey Solve assessment is a set of ecology-themed video games. In these games, you must do things like build food chains, protect endangered species, manage predator and prey populations, boost biodiversity and potentially diagnose diseases within animal populations or identify natural disasters.

Usually, you will be given around 70 minutes to complete two separate games, spending about the same amount of time on each.

Until recently, these games had uniformly been Ecosystem Building and Plant Defence. However, since Spring 2023, McKinsey has been rolling out a new version across certain geographies. This replaces the Plant Defence game with the new Redrock case study. Some other games have also been run as tests.

We’ll run through a little more on all these games below to give you an idea of what you’ll be up against for both versions and possible new iterations.

An important aspect that we'll cover in more detail here is that the Solve games don't only score you on your answers (your "product score"), but also on the method you use to arrive at them (your "process score") - considerably impacting optimal strategy.

In the past, candidates had to show up to a McKinsey office and take what was then the Digital Assessment or PSG on a company computer. However, candidates are now able to take the re-branded Solve assessment at home on their own computers.

Test takers are allowed to leverage any assistance they like (you aren’t spied on through your webcam as you would be with some other online tests), and it is common to have a calculator or even another computer there to make use of.

Certainly, we strongly advise every candidate to have at least a pen, paper and calculator on their desk when they take the Solve assessment.

Common Question: Is the Solve assessment the same thing as the PSG?

In short, yes - “Solve” is just the newer name for the McKinsey Problem Solving Game.

We want to clear up any potential confusion right at the beginning. You will hear this same screening test called a few different things in different places. The Solve moniker itself is a relatively recent re-branding by McKinsey. Previously, the same test was known as either the Problem Solving Game (usually abbreviated to PSG) or the Digital Assessment. You will also often see that same test referred to as the Imbellus test or game, after the firm that created the first version.

You will still see all these names used across various sites and forums - and even within some older articles and blog posts here on MyConsultingCoach. McKinsey has also been a little inconsistent on what they call their own assessment internally. Candidates can often become confused when trying to do their research, but you can rest assured that all these names refer to the same screening test - though, of course, folk might be referring to either the legacy or Redrock versions.

How and why does McKinsey use the Solve assessment?

It’s useful to understand where the Solve assessment fits into McKinsey’s overall selection process and why they have felt the need to include it.

Let’s dive right in…

How is the Solve Assessment used by McKinsey?

McKinsey's own account of how the Solve assessment is used in selection can be seen in the following video:

Whilst some offices initially stuck with the old PST, the legacy Solve assessment was soon rolled out globally and given universally to candidates for roles at pretty well every level of the hierarchy. Certainly, if you are a recent grad from a Bachelor’s, MBA, PhD or similar, or a standard experienced hired, you can expect to be asked to complete the Solve assessment.

Likewise, the new Redrock case study versions seem to be in the process of being rolled out globally - though at this point it seems you might be given either (especially as McKinsey has been having significant technical problems with this new online case study) and so should be ready for both.

At present, it seems that only those applying for very senior positions, or perhaps those with particularly strong referrals and/or connections, are allowed to skip the test. Even this will be office-dependent.

As noted above, one of the advantages of the Solve assessment is that it can be given to all of McKinsey’s hires. Thus, you can expect to be run into the same games whether you are applying as a generalist consultant or to a specialist consulting role - with McKinsey Digital , for example.

The takeaway here is that, if you are applying to McKinsey for any kind of consulting role, you should be fully prepared to sit the Solve Assessment!

Where does the Solve assessment fit into the recruitment process?

You can expect to receive an invitation to take the Solve assessment shortly after submitting your resume.

It seems that an initial screen of resumes is made, but that most individuals who apply are invited to take the Solve assessment.

Any initial screen is not used to make a significant cut of the candidate pool, but likely serves mostly to weed out fraudulent applications from fake individuals (such as those wishing to access the Solve assessment more than once so they can practice...) and perhaps to eliminate a few individuals who are clearly far from having the required academic or professional background, or have made a total mess of their resumes.

Your email invitation will generally give you either one or two weeks to complete the test, though our clients have seen some variation here - with one individual being given as little as three days.

Certainly, you should plan to be ready to sit the Solve assessment within one week of submitting your resume!

Once you have completed the test, McKinsey explain on their site that they look at both your test scores and resume (in more detail this time) to determine who will be invited to live case interviews. This will only be around 30% of the candidates who applied - possibly even fewer.

One thing to note here is that you shouldn’t expect a good resume to make up for bad test scores and vice versa. We have spoken to excellent candidates whose academic and professional achievements were not enough to make up for poor Solve performance. Similarly, we don’t know of anyone invited to interview who hadn’t put together an excellent resume.

Blunty, you need great Solve scores and a great resume to be advanced to interview.

Your first port of call to craft the best possible resume and land your invitation to interview is our excellent free consulting resume guide .

Why does this test exist?

As with Bain, BCG and other major management consulting firms, McKinsey receives far far more applications for each position than they can ever hope to interview. Compounding this issue is that case interviews are expensive and inconvenient for firms like McKinsey to conduct. Having a consultant spend a day interviewing just a few candidates means disrupting a whole engagement and potentially having to fly that consultant back to their home office from wherever their current project was located. This problem is even worse for second-round interviews given by partners.

Thus, McKinsey need to cut down their applicant pool as far as possible, so as to shrink the number of case interviews they need to give without losing the candidates they actually want to hire. Of course, they want to accomplish this as cheaply and conveniently as possible.

The Problem Solving Test (invariably shortened to PST) had been used by McKinsey for many years. However, it had a number of problems that were becoming more pronounced over time, and it was fundamentally in need of replacement. Some of these were deficiencies with the test itself, though many were more concerned with how the test fitted with the changing nature of the consulting industry.

The Solve assessment was originally developed and iterated by the specialist firm Imbellus ( now owned by gaming giant Roblox ) to replace the long-standing PST in this screening role and offers solutions to those problems with its predecessor.

We could easily write a whole article on what McKinsey aimed to gain from the change, but the following few points cover most of the main ideas:

• New Challenges: Previously, candidates were largely coming out of MBAs or similar business-focussed backgrounds and the PST’s quickfire business questions were thus perfectly sufficient to select for non-technical generalist consulting roles. However, as consulting projects increasingly call for a greater diversity and depth of expertise, McKinsey cannot assume the most useful talent – especially for technical roles – is going to come with pre-existing business expertise. A non-business aptitude test was therefore required.
• Fairness and the Modern Context: The covid pandemic necessitated at-home aptitude testing. However, even aside from this, online testing dramatically reduces the amount of travel required of candidates. This allows McKinsey to cast a wider net, providing more opportunities to those living away from hub cities, whilst also hugely reducing the carbon footprint associated with the McKinsey selection process.
• Gaming the System: More pragmatically, the Solve assessment is a much harder test to “game” than was the PST, where highly effective prep resources were available and readily allowed a bad candidate with good preparation to do better than a good candidate. The fact that game parameters change for every individual test taker further cuts down the risk of candidates benefitting from shared information. The recent move towards the Redrock version then also helps McKinsey stay ahead of those developing prep resources for the legacy Solve assessment.
• Cost Cutting: A major advantage of scrapping the old pen-and-paper PST is that the formidable task of thinning down McKinsey’s applicant pool can be largely automated. No test rooms and invigilation staff need to be organised and no human effort is required to devise, transport, catalogue and mark papers.

Impress your interviewer

There has been a bit of variation in the games included in the Solve assessment/PSG over the years and what specific form those games take. Imbellus and McKinsey had experimented with whole new configurations as well as making smaller, iterative tweaks over time. That being said, the new 2023 Redrock case studies (seemingly added by McKinsey themselves without Imbellus) are by far the largest change to Solve since that assessment's genesis back in 2017.

Given that innovation seems to continue (especially with the lengthy feedback forms some candidates are being asked to fill in after sitting the newest iteration), there is always the chance you might be the first to receive something new.

However, our surveys of, and interviews with, those taking the Solve assessment - both before and after recent changes - mean we can give you a good idea of what to expect if you are presented with either the legacy or one of the Redrock versions of Solve.

We provide much more detailed explanation of each of the games in our Solve Assessment PDF Guide - including guidance on optimal scenarios to maximise your performance. Here, though, we can give a quick overview of each scenario:

Ecosystem Building

In this scenario, you are asked to assemble a self-sustaining ecosystem in either an aquatic, alpine or jungle environment (though do not be surprised if environments are added, as this should be relatively easy to do without changing the underlying mechanics).

The game requires you to select a location for your ecosystem. Several different options are given, all with different prevailing conditions. You then have to select a number of different plant and animal species to populate a functioning food chain within that location.

In previous versions of the game, you would have had to fit as many different species as possible into a functioning food chain. However, newer iterations of the Solve assessment require a fixed number of eight or, more recently, seven species to be selected.

Species selection isn’t a free-for-all. You must ensure that all the species you select are compatible with one another - that the predator species you select are able to eat the prey you have selected for them etc. All the species must also be able to survive in the conditions prevailing at the location you have selected.

So far, this sounds pretty easy. However, the complexity arises from the strict rules around the manner and order in which the different species eat one another. We run through these in detail in our guide, with tips for getting your food chain right. However, the upshot is that you are going to have to spend some significant time checking your initial food chain - and then likely iterating it and replacing one or more species when it turns out that the food chain does not adhere to the eating rules.

Once you have decided on your food chain, you simply submit it and are moved on to the next game. In the past, test takers were apparently shown whether their solution was correct or not, but this is no longer the case.

Test takers generally report that this game is the easier of the two, whether it is paired with the Plant Defence game in the legacy Solve or the Redrock case study in the new version. Candidates will not usually struggle to assemble a functioning ecosystem and do not find themselves under enormous time pressure. Thus, we can assume that process scores will be the main differentiator between individuals for this component of the Solve assessment.

For ideas on how to optimise your process score for this game, you can see our PDF Solve guide .

Plant Defence

As mentioned, this game has been replaced with the Redrock case study in the new newer version of the Solve assessment, rolled out from Spring 2023 and further iterated in Summer 2023. However, you might still be asked to sit the legacy version, with this game, when applying to certain offices - so you should be ready for it!

This scenario tasks you with protecting an endangered plant species from invasive species trying to destroy it.

The game set-up is much like a traditional board game, with play taking place over a square area of terrain divided into a grid of the order of 10x10 squares.

Your plant is located in a square near the middle of the grid and groups of invaders - shown as rats, foxes or similar - enter from the edges of the grid before making a beeline towards your plant.

Your job then is to eliminate the invaders before they get to your plant. You do this by placing defences along their path. These can be terrain features, such as mountains or forests, that either force the invaders to slow down their advance or change their path to move around an obstacle. To actually destroy the invaders though, you use animal defenders, like snakes or eagles, that are able to deplete the groups of invaders as they pass by their area of influence.

Complication here comes from a few features of the game. In particular:

• You are restricted in terms of both the numbers of different kinds of defenders you can use and where you are allowed to place them. Thus, you might only have a couple of mountains to place and only be allowed to place these in squares adjacent to existing mountains.
• The main complication is the fact that gameplay is not dynamic but rather proceeds in quite a restricted turnwise manner. By this, we mean that you cannot place or move around your defences continuously as the invaders advance inwards. Rather, turns alternate between you and invaders and you are expected to plan your use of defences in blocks of five turns at once, with only minimal allowance for you to make changes on the fly as the game develops.

The plant defence game is split into three mini-games. Each mini-game is further split into three blocks of five turns. On the final turn, the game does not stop, but continues to run, with the invaders in effect taking more and more turns whilst you are not able to place any more defences or change anything about your set-up.

More and more groups of invaders pour in, and your plant will eventually be destroyed. The test with this “endgame” is simply how many turns your defences can stand up to the surge of invaders before they are overwhelmed.

As opposed to the Ecosystem Building scenario, there are stark differences in immediate candidate performance - and thus product score - in this game. Some test takers’ defences will barely make it to the end of the standard 15 turns, whilst others will survive 50+ turns of endgame before they are overwhelmed.

In this context, as opposed to the Ecosystem Building game typically preceding it, it seems likely that product score will be the primary differentiator between candidates.

We have a full discussion of strategies to optimise your defence placement - and thus boost your product score - in our Solve guide .

Redrock Case Study

This is the replacement for the Plant Defence game in the newest iteration of Solve.

One important point to note is that, where the Solve assessment contains this case study, you have a strict, separate time limit of 35 minutes for each half of the assessment. You cannot finish one game early and use the extra time in the other, as you could in the legacy Solve assessment.

McKinsey has had significant issues with this case study, with test takers noting several major problems. In particular:

• Glitches/crashes - Whilst the newest, Summer 2023 version seems to have done a lot to address this issue, many test takers have had the Redrock case crash on them. Usually, this is just momentary and the assessment returns to where it was in a second or two. If this happens to you, try to just keep calm and carry on. However, there are reports online of some candidates having the whole Solve assessment crash and being locked out as a result. If this happens, contact HR.
• Poor interface - Even where there are no explicit glitches, users note that several aspects of the interface are difficult to use and/or finicky, and that they generally seem poorly designed compared to the older Ecosystem Building game preceding it. For example, test takers have noted that navigation is difficult or unclear and the drag and drop feature for data points is temperamental - all of this costing precious time.
• Confusing language - Related to the above is that the English used is often rather convoluted and sometimes poorly phrased. This can be challenging even for native English speakers but is even worse for those sitting Solve in their second language. It can make the initial instructions difficult to understand - compounding the previous interface problem. It can also make questions difficult, requiring a few readings to comprehend.
• Insufficient time - Clearly, McKinsey intended for Redrock to be time pressured. Whilst the newest, Summer 2023 iteration of the Redrock case seems slightly more forgiving in this regard, time is still so scarce that many candidates don't get through all the questions. This is plainly sub-optimal for McKinsey - as well as being stressful and disheartening for candidates. We would expect further changes to be made to address this issue in future.

McKinsey are clearly aware of these issues, as even those sitting the new version of Redrock have been asked to complete substantial feedback surveys. Do note, then, that this raises the likelihood of further changes to the Redrock case study in the near term - meaning you should always be ready to tackle something new.

For the time being, though, we can take you through the fundamentals of the current version of the Redrock case study. For more detail, see our freshly updated PDF Guide .

The Scenario

Whilst changes to the details are likely in future, the current Redrock case study is set on the Island of Redrock. This island is a nature reserve with populations of various species, including wolves, elk and several varieties of plant.

In the original Redrock case, it is explained that the island's wolves are split into four packs, associated with four geographical locales. These packs predate the elk and depend upon them for food, such that there is a dynamic relationship between the population numbers of both species. Your job is to ensure ecological balance by optimising the numbers of wolves in the four packs, such that both wolves and elk can sustainably coexist.

In the newer iteration of the case, first observed in Summer 2023, you are asked to assess which, if any, of three possible strategies can successfully boost the island's plant biodiversity by a certain specified percentage. Plants here are segmented into grasses, trees and shrubs.

The Questions

The Redrock case study's questions were initially split into three sections, but a fourth was added later. These sections break down as follows:

• Investigation - Here, you have access to the full description of the case, with all the data on the various animal populations. Your task is to efficiently extract all the most salient data points and drag-and-drop them to your "Research Journal" workspace area. This is important, as you subsequently lose access to all the information you don't save at this stage.
• Analysis - You must answer three numerical questions using information you saved in the Investigation section. This can include you dragging and dropping values to and from an in-game calculator.
• Report - Formerly the final section, you must complete a pre-written report on the wolf populations or plant biodiversity levels, including calculating numerical values to fill in gaps and using an in-game interface to make a chart to illustrate your findings. You will leverage information saved in the Investigation section, as well as answers calculated in the Analysis section.
• Case Questions - This section adds a further ten individual case questions. These are wolf-themed, so are thematically similar to the original Redrock case, but are slightly incongruous with the newer, plant-themed version of Redrock. In both instances, though, these questions are entirely separable from the main case preceding them, not relying on any information from the previous sections. The ten questions are highly quantitative and extremely time pressured. Few test takers finish them before being timed out.

This is a very brief summary - more detail is available in our PDF Guide .

Other Games - Disease and Disaster Identification

There have been accounts of some test takers being given a third game as part of their Solve assessment. At time of writing, these third games have always been clearly introduced as non-scored beta tests for Imbellus to try out potential new additions to the assessment. However, the fact that these have been tested means that there is presumably a good chance we’ll see them as scored additions in future.

Notably, these alternative scenarios are generally variations on a fairly consistent theme and tend to share a good deal of the character of the Ecosystem Building game. Usually, candidates will be given a whole slew of information on how an animal population has changed over time. They will then have to wade through that information to figure out either which kind of natural disaster or which disease has been damaging that population - the commonality with the Ecosystem Building game being in the challenge of dealing with large volumes of information and figuring out which small fraction of it is actually relevant.

Join thousands of other candidates cracking cases like pros

What does the solve assessment test for.

Whilst information on the Solve assessment can be hard to come by, Imbellus and McKinsey have at least been explicit on what traits the test was designed to look for. These are:

• Critical Thinking : making judgements based on the objective analysis of information
• Decision Making : choosing the best course of action, especially under time pressure or with incomplete information
• Metacognition : deploying appropriate strategies to tackle problems efficiently
• Situational Awareness : the ability to interpret and subsequently predict an environment
• Systems Thinking : understanding the complex causal relationships between the elements of a system

Equally important to understanding the raw facts of the particular skillset being sought out, though, is understanding the very idiosyncratic ways in which the Solve assessment tests for these traits.

Let's dive deeper:

Process Scores

Perhaps the key difference between the Solve assessment and any other test you’ve taken before is Imbellus’s innovation around “process scores”.

To explain, when you work through each of the games, the software examines the solutions you generate to the various problems you are faced with. How well you do here is measured by your “product score”.

However, scoring does not end there. Rather, Solve's software also constantly monitors and assesses the method you used to arrive at that solution. The quality of the method you used is then captured in your “process score”.

To make things more concrete here, if you are playing the Ecosystem Building game, you will not only be judged on whether the ecosystem you put together is self-sustaining. You will also be judged on the way you have worked in figuring out that ecosystem - presumably, on how efficient and organised you were. The program tracks all your mouse clicks and other actions and will thus be able to capture things like how you navigate around the various groups of species, how you place the different options you select, whether you change your mind before you submit the solution and so on.

You can find more detail on these advanced aspects of the Solve assessment and the innovative work behind it in the presentation by Imbellus founder Rebecca Kantar in the first section of the following video:

Compared to other tests, this is far more like the level of assessment you face from an essay-based exam, where the full progression of your argument towards a conclusion is marked - or a maths exam, where you are scored on your working as well as the final answer (with, of course, the major advantage that there is no highly qualified person required to mark papers).

Clearly, the upshot of all this is that you will want to be very careful how you approach the Solve assessment. You should generally try to think before you act and to show yourself in a very rational, rigorous, ordered light.

We have some advice to help look after your process scores in our PDF Guide to the McKinsey Solve Assessment .

A Different Test for Every Candidate

Another remarkable and seriously innovative aspect of the Solve assessment is that no two candidates receive exactly the same test.

Imbellus automatically varies the parameters of their games to be different for each individual test taker, so that each will be given a meaningfully different game to everyone else’s.

Within a game, this might mean a different terrain setting, having a different number of species or different types of species to work with or more or fewer restrictions on which species will eat which others.

Consequently, even if your buddy takes the assessment for the same level role at the same office just the day before you do, whatever specific strategy they used in their games might very well not work for you.

This is an intentional feature designed to prevent test takers from sharing information with one another and thus advantaging some over others. At the extreme, this feature would also be a robust obstacle to any kind of serious cheating.

To manage to give every candidate a different test and still be able to generate a reliable ranking of those candidates across a fundamental skillset, without that test being very lengthy, is a considerable achievement from Imbellus. At high level, this would seem to be approximately equivalent to reliably extracting a faint signal from a very noisy background on the first attempt almost every time.

(Note that we are yet to confirm to what extent and how this also happens with the new Redrock case studies, but it seems to be set up to allow for easy changes to be made to the numerical values describing the case, so we assume there will be similar, widespread of variation.)

Preparation for the McKinsey Solve assessment

Understanding what the Solve assessment tests for immediately begs the question as to whether it is possible to usefully prepare and, if so, what that preparation should look like.

Is it Really Possible to Prepare for the McKinsey Solve Assessment?

In short, yes you can - and you should!

As noted previously, there has been a lot of disagreement over whether it is really possible to prep for the Solve assessment in a way that actually makes a difference.

Especially for the legacy version, there has been a widespread idea that the Solve assessment functions as something like an IQ test, so that preparation beyond very basic familiarisation to ensure you don’t panic on test day will not do anything to reliably boost your scores (nobody is going to build up to scoring an IQ of 200 just by doing practice tests, for example).

This rationale says that the best you can do is familiarise yourself with what you are up against to calm your nerves and avoid misunderstanding instructions on test day. However, this school of thought says there will be minimal benefit from practice and/or skill building.

The utility of preparation has become a clearer with the addition of the Redrock case study to the new version of Solve. Its heavily quantitative nature, strong time pressure and structure closely resembling a traditional business case make for a clearer route to improvement.

However, as we explain in more detail in our PDF guide to the Solve assessment, the idea that any aspect of either version of Solve can't be prepared for has been based on some fundamental misunderstandings about what kind of cognitive traits are being tested. Briefly put, the five key skills the Solve assessment explicitly examines are what are known as higher-order thinking skills.

Crucially, these are abilities that can be meaningfully built over time.

McKinsey and Imbellus have generally advised that you shouldn’t prepare. However, this is not the same as saying that there is no benefit in doing so. McKinsey benefits from ensuring as even a playing field as possible. To have the Solve test rank candidates based purely on their pre-existing ability, they would ideally wish for a completely unprepared population.

How to prep

We discuss how to prep for the Solve assessment in full detail in our PDF guide . Here, though, we can give you a few initial pointers to get you started. In particular, there are some great ways to simulate different games as well as build up the skills the Solve assessment tests for.

Playing video games is great prep for the legacy Solve assessment in particular, but remains highly relevant to the new Redrock version.

Contrary to what McKinsey and Imbellus have said - and pretty unfortunately for those of us with other hobbies - test takers have consistently said that they reckoned the Problem Solving Game, and now the Solve assessment, favours those with strong video gaming experience.

If you listened when your parents told you video games were a waste of time and really don’t have any experience, then putting in some hours on pretty much anything will be useful. However, the closer the games you play are to the Solve scenarios, the better. We give some great recommendations on specific games and what to look for more generally in our Solve guide - including one free-to-play game that our clients have found hugely useful as prep for the plant defence game!

PST-Style Questions

The inclusion of the Redrock case studies in the new version of Solve really represents a return to something like a modernised PST. Along with the similar new BCG Casey assessment, this seems to be the direction of travel for consulting recruitment in general.

Luckily, this means that you can leverage the wealth of existing PST-style resources to your advantage in preparation.

Our PST article - which links to some free PST questions and our full PST prep resources - is a great place to start. However, better than old-fashioned PDF question sets are the digital PST-style questions embedded in our Case Academy course . Conducted online with a strict timer running, these are a much closer approximation of the Solve assessment itself. These questions are indeed a subset of our Case Academy course, but are also available separately in our Course Exercises package .

Quick Mathematics With a Calculator and/or Excel

Again, specifically for the Redrock assessment, you will be expected to solve math problems very quickly. The conceptual level of mathematics required is not particularly high, but you need to know what you are doing and get through it fast using a calculator nand/or Excel, if you are already comfortable with that program.

Our article on consulting math is a great place to start to understand what is expected of you throughout the recruiting process, with our consulting math package (a subset of our Case Academy course) providing more in-depth lessons and practice material.

Learn to Solve Case Studies

With the Redrock case studies clearly being ecology-themed analogues to standard business case studies, it's pretty obvious that getting good at case studies will be useful.

However, the Solve assessment as a whole is developed and calibrated to be predictive of case interview performance, so you can expect that improving your case solving ability will indirectly bring up your performance across the board.

Of course, this overlaps with your prep for McKinsey's case interviews. For more on how to get started there, see the final section of this article.

Learning About Optimal Strategies for the Games

The first thing to do is to familiarise yourself with the common game scenarios from the Solve assessment and how you can best approach them to help boost your chances of success.

Now, one thing to understand is that, since the parameters for the games change for each test taker, there might not be a single definitive optimal strategy for every single possible iteration of a particular game. As such, you shouldn’t rely on just memorising one approach and hoping it matches up to what you get on test day.

Instead, it is far better to understand why a strategy is sensible in some circumstances and when it might be better to do something else instead if the version of the game you personally receive necessitates a different approach.

In this article, we have given you a useful overview of the games currently included in the Solve assessment. However, a full discussion with suggested strategies is provided in our comprehensive Solve guide .

With the limited space available here, this is only a very brief sketch of a subset of the ways you can prep.

As noted, what will help with all of these and more is reading the extensive prep guidance in our full PDF guide to the Solve assessment...

The MCC Solve Assessment Guide

Preparing for the Solve assessment doesn’t have to be a matter of stumbling around on your own. This article is a good introduction. From here, though our new, updated PDF guide to the McKinsey Solve assessment is your first stop to optimise your Solve preparation.

This guide is based on our own survey work and interviews with real test takers, as well as iterative follow-ups on how the advice in previous editions worked out in reality.

Does it make sense to invest in a guide?

Short answer: yes. If you just think about the financials, a job at McKinsey is worth millions in the long run. If you factor in experience, personal growth and exit opportunities, the investment is a no-brainer.

How our guide can help you ace the test

Don't expect some magic tricks to game the system (because you can't), but rather an in-depth analysis of key areas crucial to boost your scores. This helps you to:

As noted, the guide is based on interviews with real recent test takers and covers the current games in detail. Being familiar with the game rules, mechanics and potential strategies in advance will massively reduce the amount of new information you have to assimilate from scratch on test day, allowing you to focus on the actual problems at hand.

Despite the innovative environment, the Solve assessment tests candidates for the same skills evaluated in case interviews, albeit on a more abstract level. Our guide breaks these skills down and provides a clear route to develop them. You also benefit from the cumulative experience of our clients, as we have followed up to see which prep methods and game strategies were genuinely helpful.

A clear plan of how to prepare is instrumental for success. Our guide includes a detailed, flexible preparation strategy, leveraging a whole host of diverse prep activities to help you practice and build your skills as effectively as possible. Importantly, our guide helps you prioritise the most effective aspects of preparation to optimise for whatever timeframe you have to work in.

Overall, the MyConsultingCoach Solve guide is designed to be no-nonsense and straight to the point. It tells you what you need to know up front and - for those of you in a hurry - crucial sections are clearly marked to read first to help you prep ASAP.

For those of you starting early with more time to spare, there is also a fully detailed, more nuanced discussion of what the test is looking for and how you can design a more long-term prep to build up the skills you need - and how this can fit into your wider case interview prep.

Importantly, there is no fluff to bulk out the page count. The market is awash with guides at huge page counts, stuffed full of irrelevant material to boost overall document length. By contrast, we realise your time is better spent actually preparing than ploughing through a novel.

If this sounds right for you, you can purchase our PDF Solve guide here:

McKinsey Solve Assessment Guide

• Full guide to both the legacy version of the Solve assessment and the newer Redrock Case Study versions
• In-depth description of the different games and strategies to beat them
• Preparation strategies for the short, medium and long-term prep
• No fluff - straight to the point, with specific tips for those without much time
• Straight to your inbox
• 30 days money-back guarantee, no questions asked. Simply email us and we will refund the full amount.

The Next Step - Case Interviews

So, you pour in the hours to generate an amazing resume and cover letter. You prepare diligently for the Solve assessment, going through our PDF guide and implementing all the suggestions. On test day, you sit down and ace Solve. The result is an invitation to a live McKinsey case interview.

Now the real work begins…

Arduous as application writing and Solve prep might have seemed, preparing for McKinsey case interviews will easily be an order of magnitude more difficult.

Remember that McKinsey tells candidates not to prepare for Solve - but McKinsey explicitly expects applicants to have rigorously prepared for case interviews .

The volume of specific business knowledge and case-solving principles, as well as the sheer complexity of the cases you will be given, mean that there is no way around knuckling down, learning what you need to know and practicing on repeat.

If you want to get through your interviews and actually land that McKinsey offer, you are going to need to take things seriously, put in the time and learn how to properly solve case studies.

Unfortunately, the framework-based approach taught by many older resources is unlikely to cut it for you. These tend to falter when applied to difficult, idiosyncratic cases - precisely the kind of case you can expect from McKinsey!

The method MCC teaches is based specifically on the way McKinsey train incoming consultants. We throw out generic frameworks altogether and show you how to solve cases like a real management consultant on a real engagement.

You can start reading about the MCC method for case cracking here . To step your learning up a notch, you can move on to our Case Academy course .

To put things into practice in some mock interviews with real McKinsey consultants, take a look at our coaching packages .

And, if all this (rightfully) seems pretty daunting and you’d like to have an experienced consultant guide you through your whole prep from start to finish, you can apply for our comprehensive mentoring programme here .

Looking for an all-inclusive, peace of mind program?

Our comprehensive packages.

Get our Solve guide for free if you purchase any of the following packages. Just email us with your order number and we will send the guide straight to your inbox.

Access to our Case Academy and to coaching will help you prepare for Solve and for the following rounds!

The MCC bundle

• All Case Interview Course Videos
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Bridge to Consulting

• 5 one-hour sessions with ex-MBB (McKinsey/Bain/BCG) coach of your choice
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• AI-powered performance benchmarking, skill-gap assessment and actionable feedback through your Dashboard
• Full Access to Case Academy (Course, Exercises, Self-Assessments, Fit and Math)
• McKinsey Digital Assessment Guide
• All our PST material

Case Interview Course

• 16+ hours of lectures  covering  all aspects of the case interview
• Introduction to the consulting interview
• Case Interview foundations section 
• Problem Driven Approach
• Building blocks 
• Efficiency tools
• Problem driven structure in action
• Roadmap for preparation planning

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