How can I prep for the Bain SOVA assessment for the UK and other MBB tests to ensure I get an interview?

Hi there

Great question and indeed its important to prepare for the SOVA test. The SOVA test contains 2 sections: 

A. First section covers a personality assessment which looks at behavioural preferences to various work scenarios

B. Second section covers numerical, verbal and logical reasoning questions

From personal experience with the SOVA test, I can vouch for the following approach:

1. Identify areas of improvement: Attempt the free sample SOVA test. This is available on the SOVA website. It should give you a good idea about the test and also where you stand in terms of improvement areas.

2. Work on improvement areas: For the first section, you may want to check out YouTube videos to avoid some common pitfalls. Use GMAT Prep books to work on improvement areas of the second section. 

3. Prepare for timed tests: Working professionals might find a timed test over-whelming particularly if its been a while since they last gave an exam. Useful to give a few timed sample GMAT tests to bring back the rhythm and confidence.

Do get in touch in case you have further questions!

First of all, great that you're taking this seriously. Too many people take these tests lightly. 

You can find lots of practice tests online. Happy to share a few examples myself - do reach out. 

And you can find simulations of the tests to buy. I don't happen to offer these, but if you google around you should come across them rather easily. 

Two things to keep in mind

1. All these tests are rather similar and test for the same things. The format varies a bit. The majority resemble GMAT type questions disguised as business situations. And if you've already been doing casing (and practicing case maths), then you should be well positioned already.

2. The more you practice, the better you get. It might sound obvious, but somehow it escapes a lot of people. 

You will also find this useful:

• Cheatsheet: The Must-Know Consulting Terms for Interviews

Good luck!
Cristian

Hi there,

Q: How can I prep for the Bain SOVA assessment for the UK and other MBB tests to ensure I get an interview?

For McKinsey and BCG, you can find some material below (full disclosure – I am the author):

▶ McKinsey PSG Solve Combo Guide

▶ BCG Chatbot Software Simulation

Good luck! 

Francesco

Hi there,

Some additional free GMAT materials to help in your preparation:

• https://gmat.london.edu/
• https://www.varsitytutors.com/gmat-practice-tests
• https://www.shl.com/shldirect/en/practice-tests

You can check how the full recruiting process works from an internal MBB perspective here:

MBB Hiring Hacks - Behind the Curtain Secrets

Best,

Alberto

—

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

1. You can find online examples

2. You can find online examples of similar tests from other competitors.

3. You can use GMAT preparation material (for the relevant GMAT sections)