BCG Cognitive Test

Question

I know this hast been asked here before but I haven't really seen a coherent answer so I hope together we can bring some clarity the BCG Cognitive Test.

1) Exactly which type of questions is the BCG Cognitive Test made up of? To be more precise as apparently there are different tests in different BCG country systems, I'm refering to the logic/quantitative test that is administered to BCG candidates in the DACH system.

2) What is the most efficient way to prepare? Again, I've heard people supposedly using GMAT-type questions to prepare but others say that the test is a version of the SHL logical reasoning test (recognizing patterns, etc.). This is very different than GMAT-type questions (reading diagrams like in a case study) so I'm confused.

3) Is there a way to get an estimate of how well-prepared you are? i.e. is there a (free) test version somewhere on the internet that is as close as possible to the actual test and that gives an estimate of how good my results are? Does anybody have an idea of a good-enough test score?

Your insights are much appreciated!

Answer 1

Hi there,

For the BCG Cognitive Test in the DACH system, here’s what to expect:

1. Question type
It’s the BCG Online Case / Sova Cognitive Assessment — a mix of numerical and logical reasoning questions set in a short business context. You’ll interpret charts, tables, and text, then answer questions on trends, ratios, or growth. It’s multiple-choice, timed (around 25–40 questions in ~45 minutes), and focused on logic and data interpretation.

2. How to prepare
Focus on business numeracy and reasoning, not GMAT quant.

Practice with Sova, SHL, or Talent Q numerical and logical reasoning tests
Refresh mental math (percentages, ratios, CAGR)
Get quick at interpreting charts and drawing insights
GMAT Integrated Reasoning can help but isn’t essential

3. Assessing readiness
Use SHL or Sova practice platforms — they’re closest to the real thing. Aim for 80–85% accuracy under time pressure.

In short, think of it as a data-driven business reasoning test, not an abstract puzzle or GMAT exam.

Best,
Evelina

Answer 2

Thanks for the synthesis.

I agree with what you mentioned in points 1 and 2. I think the confusion around this and the fact that nobody answered this question in almost 24h is a confirmation that it's not clear for anybody. What I would do if I were you is to try and get more info out of the recruiter. You could ask them what the format of the test is, what types of questions it focuses on, whether they can provide a sample test, and whether they recommend practising anywhere. Even if they prove unhelpful, you will only be where you are already knowledge-wise, so you're not losing much.

Re 3 - not that I know.

Good luck with practising!
Best,
Cristian