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Consulting interview language

Hi all,

I've started preparing for both fit and case interviews, and I was wondering what language the interviews will primarily be conducted in. I assume that the fit questions will mostly be in German, but I'm unsure how to best prepare for the case interviews, as all the resources I'm currently using are in English.

Should I also practice cases in German?

Thank you!!

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Profile picture of Hagen
Hagen
Coach
edited on May 25, 2025
Globally top-ranked MBB coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

  • First of all, if you are applying to consulting firms in the DACH region, interviews are usually conducted in German, depending on the specific firm. For example, at Bain, one case study interview is conducted in English. Therefore, I would advise you to prepare for case study and personal fit interviews in both German and English.
  • Moreover, however, the language of preparation material should not really be anything to worry.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best

Hagen

Profile picture of Hafeezah
on May 23, 2025
1st session -50% | Ex-McKinsey, Ex-Coca-Cola Strategy |Offical McKinsey Case Coach | +250 coaching sessions

Hi,

Offices usually indicate which languages they operate in and whatever language they use, the interview will likely be conducted in that one. 

But, what I suggest you do is:

  • Reach out the recruiting teams of the companies you are interested in and find out - sometimes firms use the globally practiced language. So make sure you find out before you step into any interview.
  • Continue to prep cases in German and English. Be ready.

 

Good luck!

Profile picture of Mariana
Mariana
Coach
on May 23, 2025
#1 coach for Revolut | ex Mckinsey ex Nubank | Consulting & Fintech | Clients hired by Revolut, McKinsey, Kearney & more

Hello there,

If you’re applying for MBB, you’ll need to master local language and English as well. In my experience, at least one part of the interviews will be conducted in EN to test your knowledge (may be the fit portion or the case).

Feel free to reach out to HR to solve this question directly.

Best,

Mari

Profile picture of Cristian
on May 23, 2025
Most awarded coach | Ex-McKinsey | Verifiable 88% offer rate (annual report) | First-principles cases + PEI storylining

Hi there, 

It differs on the region, office and role.

I assume you're applying in the DACH region, in which case both case and fit are likely to be in German. Depending on the role, some offices only run the fit in German, while others do the full interview in English. 

To get clarity on this, and how it will work specifically for you, ask the recruiter. 

Best,
Cristian

Profile picture of Alessa
Alessa
Coach
on May 28, 2025
Ex-McKinsey Consultant & Interviewer | PEI | MBB Prep | Ex-BCG

hello!

In Germany, interviews at MBB and other firms are primarily conducted in German, both fit and case. So yes, you should definitely practice cases in German to get used to the structure, vocabulary, and flow. That said, many firms will briefly switch to English during the interview to test your comfort, especially if the role involves international clients. So being prepared in both is key.

Best,
Alessa :)

Profile picture of Mihir
Mihir
Coach
on May 23, 2025
McKinsey Associate Partner and interviewer | Bulletproof MBB prep

It’s worth speaking to your recruiter directly, since it can vary by office. Best of luck!

Profile picture of Pedro
Pedro
Coach
on May 25, 2025
BAIN | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | FIT & PEI Expert | 10% Discount until 27th Feb

You have to be ready to interview in both languages...

You may be able to find some case examples (and german peers to do case prep) here at Preplounge.

Profile picture of Benjamin
on May 28, 2025
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer

As others have mentioned, its region specific. 

The definitive answer can be given by HR/recruiting in the specific office you are applying for.

All the best!