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Bain US ACI Interview Case Style

Hi, what should I expect for the Bain interviews for the associate consultant intern role? I understand Bain is more math heavy, so what kind of formula/metrics should I focus on (graphs, ROI, profitability, payback period)? Also heard Bain interviews have been a bit different thing year -- any insights? 

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Top answer
Hagen
Coach
edited on Sep 26, 2024
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the (presumed) invitation from Bain!

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

  • First of all, the only difference between Bain case studies and, e.g., BCG case studies is their length, as Bain case studies usually take a bit more time. Therefore, you may potentially have to do more calculations, but the focus is certainly not more on quantitative questions, nor are they necessarily more difficult.
  • Moreover, based on the experience of coachees of mine, the interview process hasn't changed from last year.

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 Bain interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Florian
Coach
on Sep 25, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

I have not heard of any major differences to last couple of years.

A couple of points:

  • Interviews are not more math heavy than for other firms. No specific need to learn any formulas or concepts
  • Interviews tend to have a focus area instead of a mix as it is common for other firms, e.g., if there are 3 interviews it could be 1 full fit, 2 full cases or 1 full fit, 1 case, 1 market sizing interview
  • Fit includes a mix of general resume questions, fit questions, stories, and sometimes hypothetical scenarios

In a nutshell, I would not recommend any kind of different prep compared to all other firms.

All the best,

Florian

Pedro
Coach
on Sep 29, 2024
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

All of that :) You have to prepare for all components of a case. 

There's no meaningful difference in interviews (i.e. required skills) between consulting firms.

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