Typical Structure of a Finance Interview

Looking to break into the finance industry? Then you should be prepared for a demanding, multi-stage application process. Unlike in many other fields, the interview doesn’t come right after your CV is screened. Instead, you’ll often start with online assessments and other tests designed to evaluate your analytical thinking and numerical skills.

Only after that comes the part that’s crucial in almost every recruitment process: the personal interview. There are usually several of them – either spread out across multiple rounds or bundled into what’s known as a Superday. On that day, you’ll go through multiple back-to-back interviews with employees from different teams or levels of seniority. In the end, these conversations are what determine whether or not you’ll receive an offer.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how a typical finance interview is structured. You’ll learn which skills matter most, why this format is so widely used, and how you can best prepare for it.
 

How Finance Interviews Are Structured

Although the recruiting process can differ from company to company, most finance interviews follow a similar structure. They usually consist of two key components: a personal fit interview and a technical interview. Depending on the setup of the interview day, the two parts may either be combined into one conversation or spread across multiple interviews.

This format is especially common during Superdays or final rounds. Typically, the process begins with getting to know you as a person, followed by a deep dive into your finance knowledge. You can expect each interview to last between 30 and 60 minutes.

Let's take a closer look at the two areas: 

1. The Personal Fit Interview: Are You a Good Match for the Team?

The first part of the interview focuses on who you are and whether you’d be a good fit for the team and company culture. It usually starts with a brief walk-through of your background and experiences. From there, you’ll be asked about your motivation, soft skills, and how you approach challenges.

However, it isn’t just about your experience – it’s about how you think and work. You’ll likely be asked about teamwork, how you handle stress, whether you take initiative, and what draws you to a career in finance. Questions about the company, your preparation, or your long-term goals are also common.

To stand out here, aim to answer in a clear, structured way while staying authentic. Show that you’ve done your homework and that you genuinely understand what working in finance is all about. 

👉 Check out our Stress Questions and prepare for your personal fit interview.

2. The Technical Interview: Do You Have Finance Knowledge?

The second part is all about assessing your technical skills. This section is usually more formal and follows a clear structure. Depending on the role you're applying for, the focus areas may vary, but common topics include accounting principles, valuation methods, financial ratios, and core concepts like M&A or LBO modeling.

What really matters is that you demonstrate a solid understanding of financial fundamentals and can explain your reasoning in a clear, logical way. It’s less about knowing every formula by heart and more about showing that you grasp the underlying concepts and can apply them in context.

Interviewers will also be watching to see how you perform under pressure – whether you stay calm, think analytically, and communicate your thoughts clearly. Strong candidates use this part of the interview to show that they’ve not only studied the basics, but also developed a sharp, structured approach to financial problem-solving.

👉  Check out our Case Library and practice with cases on various topics to sharpen your technical skills!

Why Interviews Matter in Finance

Of course, interviews are a key part of any hiring process, but they carry particular weight in the finance industry. Expectations are especially high, so being friendly or personable alone won’t be enough to stand out.

In fields like investment banking, private equity, or corporate finance, employers look for sharp analytical thinking, quick decision-making, composure under pressure, and a confident presence. At the same time, cultural and personal fit are just as important. In fast-paced teams working under intense pressure, strong collaboration and chemistry are essential. That’s why firms pay close attention to how well you’d fit in, both professionally and personally.
 

How to Prepare for Your Finance Interview

If you want to succeed in a finance interview, strong preparation is essential. Simply reviewing a few standard questions won’t be enough. You’ll need a solid understanding of key finance concepts, a clear idea of how interviews are structured, and the ability to present yourself confidently in conversation.

The good news: You're in the right place. Our Finance Interview Basics are designed to help you prepare effectively, whether you're applying for an internship, a graduate program, or a full-time position.

We’ll guide you through the most important frameworks, valuation techniques, and financial principles that are frequently tested. You'll also find practical advice on how to stand out in the personal fit interview, avoid common mistakes, and build a strong foundation for your interview success.

Let’s get started and set you up for a great career in finance. 🚀