I have a live virtual case interview and an online case next week an I am wildly unprepared (literally started studying today) but I know that their recruiting process for summer interns is pretty standardized. Is it more harm than good to even ask?
Also, it says the live virtual case interview will be with a BCGer. Is that normal for a first round interview? I thought the first case was an AI one.
Hi there,
With just 7 days, the fastest way to progress is to get straight into live case practice – don’t spend too much time just reading frameworks. Doing cases (even with peers, or by talking through them aloud yourself) will give you the basics and help you see patterns quickly. Each case you do will improve your structuring, math, and communication more than hours of passive study.
If you’re disciplined, you can absolutely get interview-ready in a week. I’ve seen candidates make huge leaps in this timeframe – it’s about focused practice, not volume of materials. Start with one case a day to get the basics right, then ramp up to two or more once you’re comfortable. Combine this with daily math drills and a quick review of your PEI stories.
I’ve helped place 4 candidates at BCG since January, so I know this is achievable if you’re consistent.
Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out!
Best,
Evelina
Hi,
congrats on the interview!
Usually there are more than one interview slots with BCG and you just happen to be slotted on that specific one. So now harm in asking to move it. Ideally you can frame it well (e.g., another academic or private commitment) and propose a week in the not to far future that works for you.
Your other question - it is normal to have a person in the first round.
Other than that, given your short timeframe, working with a coach is probably a good idea. Let me know if you need help. I know BCG inside and out :)
Best,
Lukas
Hey there :)
Yes, you can ask to postpone, it’s not uncommon from my expeirence, just make sure you have a good reason and reach out quickly. It won’t harm your chances if you do it professionally. And yes, a first round with a BCG consultant is normal, the AI case is just one of the formats they use.
best, Alessa :)
There's no downside in asking. Doesn't mean you will get it as the timelines for interships are not that flexible. But there's no downside.
Having first case with an employee is perfectly normal.
Definintely ask.
I would say at least 1/3 candidates end up postponing their interview so it's a rather usual thing for consulting interviews.
Worst case scenario they just say no (because for instance they are interviewing a batch of candidates at the same time so they don't have separate days for individual interviews) and even then it doesn't affect your chances in any way.
Best of luck with the last minute prep and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Best,
Cristian
Hi,
No harm asking as it is within a range of days - but don't expect that it will give you vastly alot more time as you are right to point out the process is standardized.
Different offices have some leeway to choose how to interview candidates and the format, but the evaluation criteria doesn't change.
All the best!
