BCG first round interview

Question

Hi, I have a first-round interview for a summer internship with BCG’s Riyadh office. I’ve already completed a first-round interview with Bain, so I’m wondering how the BCG interview might differ from Bain’s. Are they generally similar in structure (I mean the case interview)?

Also, is there a common framework for BCG first-round interviews? I remember that Bain’s interviews often use standard case types like profitability, market entry, and acquisition.

I’m also curious about the data exhibits, how complex are they typically, and how should I prepare for them? In my Bain interview, the charts and data were quite detailed and required a lot of quick analysis.

Lastly, is it important to ask questions at the end of the interview?

Answer 1

Congrats on the interview — BCG and Bain case interviews are broadly similar in structure, but the “feel” can be different. BCG tends to be ever so slightly more hypothesis-driven and interviewer-led. You might get more pushback or nudging, so it helps to stay flexible and think out loud clearly.

In terms of frameworks: yes, there are standard ones (profitability, market entry, etc.), but you’ll often need to go beyond the textbook to stand out. Build from first principles, not memorization. The interviewer wants to see your logic, not your ability to recall a structure.

As for data exhibits — they can definitely be dense. Tables, multi-axis charts, survey data… but nothing unmanageable. The key is to:

Take 15–20 seconds to orient yourself
Talk through what you’re seeing
Translate data into an insight (e.g. “Product A has the highest margin, but its volume is declining”)

Finally, yes — asking a thoughtful question at the end helps, especially if it’s grounded in the case or the region (e.g., “How has BCG’s work in digital or public sector evolved in the GCC?”). Try to get some intel from the current consulting practitioners at the firm.

Good luck and please upvote if you find it helpful!

Answer 2

The case types are quite similar between Bain and BCG.

Is there a typical framework? No. And I would strongly recommend against that.

Even if you happen to use a framework that actually works, your answer will be at most average, which doesn't quite cut it for MBB.

Try instead to root your structuring into first principles and leverage more your common sense. Sharing here two materials you might want to consider:

Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Hi there,

The case types for BCG and Bain interviews are actually very similar.

The only difference is that Bain tends to use more exhibits and the exhibits tend to be more complex than those in BCG interviews. So if you are comfortable with Bain style, you don't need to worry too much about BCG on the data / exhibits.

Best of luck for your interviews!

Emily

Answer 4

Hi there,

Congrats on the BCG interview — and yes, Bain and BCG interviews are broadly similar, but there are a few differences in tone and style worth noting.

1. Structure and style
Both firms use a case + fit interview, but BCG’s cases tend to be a bit more open-ended and conceptual, while Bain’s are often more structured and number-driven. At BCG, you’ll need to show strong reasoning and creativity — not just apply a pre-built framework. The interviewer may let the case flow more naturally, challenging your assumptions and pushing your thinking.

2. Frameworks
There’s no single BCG-specific framework. Instead, focus on building case-specific structures that fit the problem (e.g. growth, profitability, market entry). You can absolutely use familiar logic — revenue/cost, demand/supply, or customer/journey — as long as you adapt it to the context. BCG interviewers value clarity and tailored thinking more than memorized frameworks.

3. Data exhibits
Expect 2–3 charts or tables per case — not overly complex, but often less direct than Bain’s. They might include trends, market splits, or operational metrics that require interpretation before doing math. Practice reading between the lines — what the numbers mean, not just what they show.

4. Asking questions
Yes, it’s important to ask one or two thoughtful questions at the end. Keep them specific to your interest in the office or the interviewer’s experience (e.g. “How does BCG Riyadh’s project mix differ from other GCC offices?”). Avoid generic culture or recruiting questions.

If you’ve already done well in a Bain interview, you’re in great shape — just prepare to show a bit more flexibility and business judgment with BCG’s cases.

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out!

Best,
Evelina