First step at BCG

Question

I'd like to ask you guys few question before i'm starting my 'marathon' preparation for the first interview at BCG [first case assessment].

1. What does the task look like? Is there a virtual interviewer, or am I essentially "alone" in the room?
2. Am I expected to speak on video or just type? Can I write things down for myself in a side notebook?
3. What tips do you think could help me prepare for this interview?
4. If you have experienced this recently, I would love for you to share your experience.

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hi there,

Happy to clarify — this first BCG step can feel confusing if you haven’t seen it before.

What does the task look like?
For the first case assessment, you are usually alone, not speaking to a live interviewer. There is no virtual person reacting to you in real time. It’s a structured online case or assessment where you work through prompts, questions, and exhibits on your own within a fixed time window.
Do you speak or type? Can you write notes?
You’re typically expected to type your answers, not speak on video. You can absolutely use pen and paper or a notebook to structure your thoughts, do calculations, or sketch frameworks — that’s encouraged. Just make sure your final answers are clearly reflected in what you submit on screen.
How to prepare effectively
The biggest tips are:

Practice clear, structured written answers, not just verbal casing
Get comfortable interpreting exhibits quickly and drawing 1–2 key insights
Keep answers concise and top-down — don’t try to explain everything
Manage time carefully; it’s easy to overinvest in one question
Think like a consultant: clarify the objective, prioritize, then answer

This is less about perfection and more about showing structured thinking under time pressure.

What recent candidates experience
People often say the hardest part is pacing and resisting the urge to overthink. Those who do well tend to keep calm, stick to simple logic, and focus on answering the exact question asked rather than trying to impress.

If you want, I can also help you map out a short, focused prep plan for this first step so you don’t burn out before the live interviews.

Best,

Evelina

Answer 2

Hi!

To answer your questions, it'll depend on what you meant by "first case assessment" - are you referring to the online test or a live Round 1 case interview with an interviewer?

Either way, if you have time, I'd suggest going through videos of how a case interview with MBB works (plenty on YouTube) - to get a sense of what you're expected to do.

If you're short on time, i.e., the interview is approaching very soon - I'd suggest you get one of the coaches here to help you out and get you as ready as possible.

All the best!