Are there any specific resources for practicing Bain’s SOVA test?

Question

Any recommended resources that are specific to this test? Some people recommend GMAT prep materials, but I find it isn’t quite the same, so looking for prep materials that are specific to this test.

Answer 1

Hi there,

I really do not recommend the GMAT. You can think of it as a merge between a case and the GMAT, but the GMAT doesn't help much.

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

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

Google is your friend here.

Also, here are a bunch of practice questions:

Answer 2

Hi there,

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

Generally speaking, the Bain Sova pre-interview assessment will be very similar to the reasoning section of the GMAT, even if, of course, not the same. You will be required to solve numerical, verbal, and abstract reasoning exercises, as well as complete a psychometric personality test.
Therefore, I would highly advise you to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions and utilize any practice materials or mock tests that might be available. Since it is very similar to the GMAT, official GMAT preparation material should suffice if you cannot find any old Bain Sova tests.
For the personality test, I would advise you to carefully consider the personality traits being tested and how they would be desirable in a (Bain) consultant. This might guide you in answering the questions.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for the Bain Sova pre-interview assessment or your upcoming Bain interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 3

Hello A,

There are no official resources or practice materials specifically for Bain's SOVA test (to my knowledge). The test is designed to assess a candidate's problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and strategic reasoning, so it is difficult to prepare for it using a specific set of resources.

However, you can still use general resources to improve your problem-solving and analytical skills. Some options to consider include:

GMAT prep materials: Although the SOVA test is not the same as the GMAT, the GMAT test focuses on similar skills, such as critical reasoning and problem-solving. So, GMAT prep materials can help you practice these skills.
Case interview prep books: Books such as "Case in Point" and "Crack the Case System" offer tips and frameworks for approaching case interviews, which can also help you prepare for the SOVA test.
Practice problems: You can find various practice problems online that are designed to improve your problem-solving skills. These problems can range from brainteasers to business cases.
Bain's website: Although there are no specific SOVA test resources on Bain's website, you can still learn about the company's culture, values, and case interview process. This information can help you prepare for the interview and give you a better understanding of what the company is looking for in a candidate.

Ultimately, the best way to prepare for the SOVA test is to practice your problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities. By practicing with a variety of resources, you can improve your chances of success on the test.

Best of luck!

Answer 4

Hi there,

There are a few guides here on the platform.

Also check out the guide from MConsultingPrep - also good.

Best,
Cristian