Oliver Wyman Online Test

Question

I've been invited to take the Oliver Wyman online test as a first step in the recruitment process for the role of a Senior Consultant in the Middle East offices. Does anyone know what kind of a test it is? Upon asking, I was told it'll take 30 minutes to complete that it's meant to test one's ability to solve complex business problems and interpret data in different forms.

Previously, I've heard from people that the Oliver Wyman online test is purely numerical, quite similar to the GMAT, has negative markings, and takes 20 minutes to complete. I'm wondering if that has changed lately as the description given to me doesn't quite sound like a GMAT like test.

Can anyone shed some light on it ASAP please?

Thank you very much!

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the invitation by Oliver Wyman!

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

The information you've received from Oliver Wyman may be the most accurate and up-to-date description of the test, as the format and content of the online test can change over time. I would advise you to trust the information given to you directly by the company, and to prepare for the test based on their description.
Generally speaking, it is likely going to be a reasoning test like the GMAT, but with a more applied focus, specifically in the form of case-study based questions. You will be required to analyze and interpret information provided in a business scenario and then apply your problem-solving and analytical skills to make recommendations and derive conclusions.
I would highly advise you to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions, and utilize any practice materials or mock tests that may be provided by the company.
Additionally, make sure to stay calm, confident, and well-rested on the day of the test and take your time to read through the instructions and questions before submitting your answers.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hi there,

All of these online tests are very similar

Format? Slightly different. Content and what's required from you ability-wise? Essentially the same.

The best way is to really find online tests / questions and practice. Regardless as to whether is a new or old test, the principles are mostly the same:

Time management (need to think quick)
Business knowledge/context (incl key formulas)
Critical thinking (answers that are very similar to each other...clues "hidden" in the text)
Ability to interpret data/charts

Think of it as a merge of a case and the GMAT/GRE.

You need to be clear on some key case-related and account formulas (margin, growth, breakeven, etc) as well as be good at critically understanding the question (including nuance to questions) and parsing through complicated text with a fair amount of distraction.

You'll also need to be good at chart/graph reading.

The (old) McKinsey PST, BCG Online Test, Bain SOVA test, etc. are all quite similar so leverage resources across all of them.

Answer 3

Hi there,

There are a few examples that you can find online if you google for them.

Basically, you can expect:

GMAT questions
chart/data interpretation
business judgement - you're given a business context and provided with several options to choose from

Some offices also use inductive reasoning, but this is becoming less popular.

Best,

Cristian

Answer 4

Hi there,

In a nutshell, it's a mix of the Bain SOVA and some business math questions.

I have a free guide available for the former in case you are interested.

Cheers,

Florian