If you want to work at BCG, this full guide will walk you through the entire BCG hiring process. We’ll cover every step of the BCG hiring process and provide you with insider strategies and tips to maximize your chances of getting in.

 

If you haven’t already, you should be preparing for BCG’s case interviews. This step of BCG’s hiring process is the most difficult and takes the most time to prepare, so we recommend getting started as soon as possible.

 

To become a top 1% caser and save yourself hundreds of hours of prep time, check out our case interview course. These insider strategies from a former MBB interviewer have helped thousands get 3x better at case interviews in as little as a week.

 

The Six Steps in the BCG Hiring Process

 

The timeline and dates in the BCG hiring process may slightly differ depending on whether you are an undergraduate student, MBA student, advanced degree student, or experienced hire.

 

However, the overall components in the BCG hiring process are the same.

 

The BCG hiring process has six major steps:

 

• Attend BCG networking events

 

• Submit your BCG application

 

• Pass your BCG online assessment

 

• Pass your first round BCG interview

 

• Pass your final round BCG interview

 

• Receive your BCG offer

 

BCG Hiring Process Step 1: Attend BCG Networking Events

 

BCG hosts several networking events prior to their application deadlines. These events serve two main purposes for you.

 

The first purpose is to gain insights about BCG. Hearing directly from BCG consultants about their experiences helps you develop more compelling answers to interview questions about your interest in consulting and in BCG.

 

The second purpose is to create positive connections. Engaging with BCG representatives gives you opportunities to get noticed by recruiters and potential resume reviewers.

 

Building genuine connections with BCG employees could help advocate for your candidacy during the interview selection process.

 

While attending these events isn't mandatory, their importance varies depending on your background.

 

For students at target schools, which are top-tier undergraduate or MBA programs, networking events are less crucial since BCG regularly recruits from these institutions. Your application will be reviewed regardless of event attendance.

 

However, for candidates from non-target schools or those applying as experienced hires, networking becomes significantly more important.

 

Since BCG dedicates less resources to reviewing applications from these schools, making connections through networking or referrals is often essential to ensure your application receives proper consideration.

 

BCG offers several types of networking events:

 

General Information Sessions

 

• Large-scale presentations featuring 20-30 BCG consultants

 

• Typically held at target schools, virtually, or in hotels

 

• Include presentations followed by networking opportunities

 

• Can be crowded with 10-15 candidates per consultant

 

• Event details available through BCG's website, career services, or consulting clubs

 

• Pro tip: Arrive early for better one-on-one networking opportunities

 

Coffee Chats

 

• One-on-one or small group discussions with BCG consultants

 

• Focus on information sharing rather than evaluation

 

• Opportunity to ask specific, well-researched questions

 

• Can lead to recruiter introductions for experienced hires

 

Invitational Lunches and Dinners

 

• Exclusive events for high-potential candidates

 

• Candidates are selected through resume books or employee recommendations

 

• Invitation suggests strong interview potential. However, not receiving an invite doesn't mean that you won't get an interview

 

• These are typically only given to target school candidates and are much less common for experienced professional applicants

 

BCG Hiring Process Step 2: Submit Your BCG application

 

After BCG’s networking events conclude, you’ll need to submit your application by their specified deadline. Your application typically includes four main components:

 

• BCG application questions

 

• BCG resume

 

• BCG cover letter

 

• BCG referral

 

BCG Application Questions

 

The application requires basic personal details such as your name, demographics, and background. You’ll also need to list the languages you speak and rank your top three office preferences.

 

Although BCG allows you to choose three offices, you’ll typically only be considered for your first choice. Make sure you meet the language requirements for any office you list.

 

BCG Resume

 

Keep your resume to one page and focus on quantifying the impact of your work experience and extracurricular activities. Many candidates overlook this, but it’s one of the most important aspects of a strong resume.

 

BCG likes to see:

 

• Strong academic performance (if you are a student)

 

• Prestigious schools

 

• Brand name companies in your work experience

 

• Measurable impact in previous roles

 

• Leadership positions in both professional and extracurricular settings

 

If you need professional help crafting the perfect resume that will land you consulting interviews, check out our resume review and editing service.

 

BCG Cover Letter

 

While the BCG cover letter is often optional, confirm with the recruiter whether one is required.

 

If you submit a cover letter, keep it concise and to the point. Introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in consulting and BCG, and highlight why you’d be a great fit.

 

To make your letter stand out, mention specific reasons you’re drawn to BCG, such as conversations with BCG representatives or particular aspects of the firm that appeal to you.

 

That said, your resume carries far more weight in securing an interview, so prioritize refining your resume.

 

BCG Referrals

 

Referrals aren’t a formal requirement, but they can help your application stand out.

 

If you know someone who currently or previously worked at BCG, consider asking for a referral. You can also request one from a BCG representative you connected well with at networking events.

 

A referral means that a BCG employee submits your name and resume to the recruiter handling resume reviews, increasing the likelihood of your application receiving closer attention.

 

However, a referral isn’t necessary to get an interview, nor does it guarantee one. It simply improves the chances of your application being reviewed more favorably.

 

BCG Hiring Process Step 3: Pass Your BCG Online Assessment

 

Before advancing to BCG in-person interviews, most candidates must complete an online assessment. BCG uses these assessments to evaluate problem-solving skills, cognitive abilities, and overall fit for consulting.

 

While not every candidate will be required to take them, they are commonly used for screening purposes, especially for non-traditional applicants and candidates from non-target schools.

 

The specific assessment you take depends on your office location, experience level, and the role you're applying for. There are three main types of BCG online assessments.

 

BCG Pymetrics Test

 

The BCG Pymetrics test is a series of 12 short, neuroscience-based games that measure your cognitive and emotional traits.

 

BCG uses artificial intelligence to compare your responses with those of successful consultants, helping them assess whether your natural behaviors align with the firm's culture and working style.

 

What it tests:

 

• Risk-taking and decision-making: Are you cautious or willing to take calculated risks?

 

• Problem-solving and adaptability: How quickly can you adjust strategies when faced with uncertainty?

 

• Attention and memory: How well can you process and recall information?

 

• Emotional intelligence and collaboration: Are you cooperative and team-oriented?

 

How it works:

 

• It typically takes 25–30 minutes to complete

 

• The test consists of simple interactive games, such as pressing a key when certain patterns appear or remembering sequences of numbers

 

• There are no “right” or “wrong” answers. BCG evaluates your responses based on behavioral trends rather than specific outcomes

 

Since there are no technical questions or business cases, the best way to prepare is to take similar behavioral-based cognitive tests online.

 

Maintain your focus and play naturally. Overthinking your responses can lead to poor or inconsistent results.

 

BCG One-Way Video Interview

 

The BCG one-way video interview is a recorded interview where you answer pre-set behavioral and fit questions. Instead of speaking to a live interviewer, you’ll record responses using BCG’s video platform, which will then be reviewed by recruiters and hiring managers.

 

What it tests:

 

• Communication skills: Can you articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely?

 

• Structured thinking: Are your responses logically structured and well-organized?

 

• Leadership and teamwork: Have you demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and impact in past experiences?

 

• Motivation for consulting and BCG: Why are you interested in consulting and specifically in BCG?

 

How it works:

 

• You’ll be given 3–5 questions, typically focusing on behavioral and motivation-based topics

 

• After seeing the question, you’ll have 30–60 seconds to prepare your response

 

• You’ll then record your answer, usually with a time limit of 1 - 2 minutes per question

 

• Some versions allow for multiple attempts, while others only give you one chance per question

 

To prepare, record yourself speaking to get comfortable with video responses and refine your delivery. Dress professionally and ensure you have good lighting and minimal background distractions.

 

BCG Online Case

 

The BCG Online Case is a business simulation designed to test your problem-solving skills, data analysis abilities, and strategic thinking. It mimics a real case interview but is conducted in an automated, online format.

 

What it tests:

 

• Data interpretation: Can you analyze charts, graphs, and tables to extract key insights?

 

• Mathematical reasoning: Can you perform basic business calculations, such as profitability analysis or market sizing?

 

• Logical problem-solving: Can you break down complex problems into structured solutions?

 

• Decision-making: Can you recommend the best course of action based on available information?

 

How it works:

 

• The test is usually 45-60 minutes and consists of multiple-choice questions, ranking exercises, and short written responses

 

• You’ll be presented with a business scenario, typically involving a client problem that BCG has worked on in the past

 

• Some versions require you to perform calculations manually, while others provide a built-in calculator

 

• You’ll analyze company financials, industry data, and competitive insights to develop recommendations

 

How to prepare:

 

• Practice mental math to improve speed and accuracy, focusing specifically on percentages, ratios, and growth rates

 

• Review basic business concepts like supply and demand, profitability, and market analysis

 

• Solve sample case studies from BCG’s website or case prep books to get comfortable with case-style thinking

 

BCG Hiring Process Step 4: Pass Your BCG First Round Interview

 

Your BCG first round interview consists of two separate sessions, each lasting between 40 to 60 minutes. Most of the time will be dedicated to case interviews.

 

While you may be asked one or two behavioral or fit questions, these are typically emphasized more in the final round.

 

Case interviews are a unique interview format used by consulting firms like BCG to evaluate a candidate’s problem-solving abilities and potential as a consultant.

 

A case interview, often called a "case," is a 30- to 60-minute exercise where you collaborate with the interviewer to analyze and solve a real-world business problem. These problems reflect challenges that actual companies face.

 

Here are some examples of BCG cases from their website:

 

• How can a global company reduce its environmental impact?

 

• How can a bank improve its customer satisfaction rankings?

 

• How can a consumer goods company upgrade their enterprise resource planning (ERP) system?

 

The interview typically begins with the interviewer presenting background information about the case. You’ll have a chance to ask clarifying questions to fully understand the business situation and objectives.

 

Next, you’ll develop a framework, which is a structured approach to breaking down and solving the problem.

 

BCG case interviews are candidate-led, meaning you will guide the discussion by requesting relevant data, suggesting analyses, and interpreting findings. At the end of the interview, you’ll present your final recommendation on how to address the business challenge.

 

If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to learn case interviews quickly and save yourself hundreds of hours, make sure to check out our comprehensive case interview course. 

 

Whether you have no business background, rusty math skills, or are short on time, learn the most effective case interview strategies and become a top 1% caser.

 

BCG Hiring Process Step 5: Pass Your BCG Final Round Interview

 

Your BCG final round interview will typically consist of two to three separate 40- to 60-minute interviews. In addition to case interviews, you’ll also see three other types of BCG interview questions:

 

• Behavioral or fit interview questions

 

• “Why BCG?” question

 

• “Why consulting?” question

 

Behavioral or fit interview questions

 

BCG uses consulting behavioral questions to assess your problem-solving skills, leadership potential, and ability to work in a team. These questions often follow the STAR method, so structuring your responses accordingly is key.

 

For those unfamiliar, STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

 

Common behavioral questions include:

 

• Tell me about a time you had to solve a complex problem

 

• Describe a situation where you had to influence a team

 

• Give an example of a time you received critical feedback and how you responded

 

BCG values collaboration, adaptability, and impact, so your answers should highlight these qualities with specific examples from your work experience, academics, or extracurricular activities.

 

“Why BCG?” question

 

This is your chance to demonstrate why you’re interested in BCG. Avoid generic answers and instead focus on BCG’s unique qualities that align with your career goals.

 

Strong responses might include:

 

• The people you’ve met at BCG and what stood out about their culture

 

• BCG’s industry expertise or practice areas that align with your interests

 

• BCG’s approach to professional development, mentorship, or leadership opportunities

 

If you’ve attended BCG networking events, reference specific conversations you had and what impressed you about the firm.

 

“Why consulting?” question

 

For this question, BCG wants to understand your motivation for pursuing a consulting career. Your answer to “why consulting?” should show a strong fit between your skills, interests, and what consulting offers.

 

Strong responses might include:

 

• Problem solving: You enjoy tackling complex business challenges

 

• Impact: You want to make a tangible difference for companies and industries

 

• Exposure: You’re excited about working across multiple industries and learning quickly

 

• Collaboration: You thrive in team-based, high-performance environments

 

Avoid generic responses like “I like working with people” or “I enjoy challenges.” Instead, share a personal experience that illustrates why consulting is the right career path for you.

 

If you want to learn how to answer 98% of behavioral and fit questions in just a few hours, check out our behavioral interview course.

 

Differences between BCG first round and final round interviews

 

There are three key differences between BCG’s first-round and final-round interviews.

 

First, your interviewers in the final round will likely be more senior, which can make the case interviews feel less structured and more qualitative. Instead of a rigid framework, the discussion may feel more open-ended, with a focus on your thought process and business perspective.

 

Second, there will be a greater focus on cultural fit.

 

While the first round primarily evaluates your ability to solve cases and your potential as a consultant, the final round goes beyond that. Interviewers will assess whether you’d be a good fit for the firm and the office.

 

They’ll look for qualities like coachability, collaboration, and overall workability within the team.

 

Third, your final-round interviewers may review feedback from your first-round interview. If there were areas where you struggled, they may test you on those skills again to ensure they aren’t persistent weaknesses.

 

Despite these differences, the strategies you used in the first round will still apply in the final round. Focus on demonstrating strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and a good cultural fit.

 

BCG Hiring Process Step 6: Receive Your BCG Offer

 

After completing your final round interview, the next step is simply waiting to hear back about your BCG offer. Typically, BCG informs candidates of their job offers via a phone call before sending an official email.

 

Some candidates receive a call with positive news on the same day as their BCG final round interview, while most hear back within a few days.

 

If you haven’t received a response after a few days, don’t assume you’ve been rejected. In some cases, BCG may need to complete interviews with other candidates before making a final decision, especially if you are on the borderline of receiving an offer.

 

It's important to remain patient during this process. However, if a week passes with no update, you can follow up with your recruiter to check on the status of your application.

 

Once you receive your call and offer letter, all that’s left is to sign and officially secure your position at BCG.

 

Land a Consulting Offer at BCG

 

Here are the resources we recommend to land a consulting offer at BCG:

 

For help landing consulting interviews

 

• Resume Review & Editing: Transform your resume into one that will get you multiple consulting interviews

 

For help passing case interviews

 

• Comprehensive Case Interview Course (our #1 recommendation): The only resource you need. Whether you have no business background, rusty math skills, or are short on time, this step-by-step course will transform you into a top 1% caser that lands multiple consulting offers.

 

• Case Interview Coaching: Personalized, one-on-one coaching with a former MBB interviewer.

 

• Hacking the Case Interview Book (available on Amazon): Perfect for beginners that are short on time. Transform yourself from a stressed-out case interview newbie to a confident intermediate in under a week. Some readers finish this book in a day and can already tackle tough cases.

 

• The Ultimate Case Interview Workbook (available on Amazon): Perfect for intermediates struggling with frameworks, case math, or generating business insights. No need to find a case partner – these drills, practice problems, and full-length cases can all be done by yourself.

 

For help passing consulting behavioral & fit interviews

 

• Behavioral & Fit Interview Course: Be prepared for 98% of behavioral and fit questions in just a few hours. We'll teach you exactly how to draft answers that will impress your interviewer.