Prepare for the Bain & Company Case Interview and Online Tests

About Bain & Company

Bain & Company is a global management consulting company. The company has many different entry routes and a large focus throughout the recruitment process is put on case study interviews. This article will focus on the graduate scheme for candidates applying with an MBA but a similar process can be expected for both undergraduate candidates and experienced professionals.

Throughout the process, it is important to have the competencies Bain & Company looks for in mind. Here is a list of their 4 competencies: 

• Problem Solving - As a consultant, a large part of your job is helping clients overcome challenges. Good problem solvers who are able to think creatively and find pragmatic solutions make for strong candidates.
• Ability to Lead - Bain & Company looks for candidates who can be leaders in teams as well as guide clients toward effective change. Any leadership experience you have from work, school or extracurricular activities should be highlighted.
• Results Delivery - The ability to solve problems and lead are just part of it. Bain & Company want candidates who can deliver positive, effective results that really make a difference.
• Passion - Enthusiasm and commitment to change are what Bain & Company value most. Bain & Company want candidates who show their passion and energy for solving issues and strive for success.

Bain & Company Online Application

The Bain & Company online application is fairly straightforward. You are asked to provide your basic details followed by questions about your academic career. There is also an opportunity to upload a CV and cover letter.

Bain & Company Online Aptitude Tests

The online aptitude tests for Bain & Company are provided by Cubiks, one of the leading test providers. Although you may not find the Cubiks assessment material difficult, working under pressure can be challenging. The subjects may be required to be tested on are the Bain and Company math test, abstract reasoning and a personality test. For some positions, the Bain math test, and other tests are provided by CEB SHL, or other providers. We recommend you use the countries and positions table at the top of this page to find out the Bain practice test that is relevant to you.  

Bain & Company Numerical Test

The Bain & Company numerical tests are business oriented and aim to assess your numerical ability. With approximately 25 questions to answer in 20 minutes, you must work fast and efficiently. In the questions, you are presented with data is either a graph or table form. Using basic math functions, you may use the data to answer the questions asked. Practicing numerical reasoning questions is the best way to prepare for this test and you can do so with JobTestPrep’s numerical style practice tests above.

Bain & Company Abstract Reasoning Tests

The Bain & Company logical reasoning test is focused on diagrammatic reasoning. Again, in this test time is of the essence. You are given approximately 30 questions to complete in 15 minutes. You are given two groups of shapes, each with a different shape pattern. Your first task is to identify the pattern or rule which links each shape in the group together. Following this, you must examine 4 new shapes and decide which pattern or rule they follow. Being familiar with this type of test is the best way to prepare as you will learn the underlying concepts and rules that govern this test. JobTestPrep provides practice for Cubiks style diagrammatic reasoning tests to help you.

Bain & Company Interviews

If you are successful in the online tests you will next be invited to the case study interviews. The first round of case study interviews is held in an assessment centre and consists of two different interviews: a market sizing case study interview and a broad case study interview. Get some Bain interview tips on our consulting case study page.

Market Sizing Case Study

This Bain interview begins with a few basic competency questions such as “when was a time you failed?” or “what is your greatest strength?” In the remaining time, the assessors then ask you to analyse a common industry such as TVs or cars.

Broad Case Study

This interview is performed by a manager and consists solely of a case study. The case is more detailed than the previous one and you are asked to analyse data and perform calculations at this point. If you are successful in the first round, you will be invited to the second round of case study interviews. Much like the first, the second round is held in an assessment centre and consists of three interviews: a case study, an experience and a written interview.

Case Study Interview

This is the third case study interview you encounter during your Bain interview process. The assessor presents you with an issue and you must break down the problem into parts and identify possible solutions. The focus here is your problem-solving skills so there is no right answer. Assessors are looking at your thought process and if it’s suitable for Bain & Company Make sure to get your Bain case interview practice, and to review JobTestPrep's Consulting Case Study and Interview page beforehand.

Experience Interview

The experience interview is a more traditional CV based interview. This Bain interview questions will most likely be regarding your CV, work experience and behavioural questions. The aim of the interview is to get a better picture of how you work and to learn more about you.

Written Interview

The

The interview is very similar to the case study interviews you have previously done. The only difference is that you give written rather than verbal answers. You are provided with a 20-30 slide PowerPoint presentation that describes a situation you may encounter with clients. In approximately 55 minutes you must review the slides and write a short synopsis and give your recommendations. It is a good idea to practice written case studies before this interview to help with time management and giving good, concise answers. 

Following this preparation, you must give a 45-minute presentation where you discuss your recommendations with the interviewer. The interviewer may challenge your suggestions in order to simulate a real client situation. Get advice on how to handle a written exercise on our advice page and practice presentations with our presentation preparation pack. The 2 part interview process is the most important stage as it is where Bain & Company assessors can get a full picture of how you work. Bain & Company makes a conscious effort to provide and warm and welcoming environment and the assessors are known for being friendly. Preparation and confidence are your keys to success in this section and you can use JobTestPrep’s interview preparation pack for your Bain interview prep, and get yourself ready.