Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Case Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

What is the problem solving test version at Bain?

I heard that there is no specific problem solving test at Bain, only a kind of GMAT test (not like Mckinsey PST or BCG potential test). 

3 Answers
3.5k Views
12
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Anonymous
on Aug 29, 2018

Hi there,

The written case which Vlad talks about is actually given at Final Round interviews, so comparing it to the PST is not particularly helpful.

You are right - Bain does not have a pre-interview problem solving test which is rolled out globally. However, local offices have started experimenting with their own "PST-like" versions - for example, our Africa offices are doing this. In other offices (e.g. London), Bain only currently uses a pre-screen quant/verbal test (think CEB SHL test, which you can find lots of examples online). 

Hope this clears some things up!

Alessandro

4
Vlad
Coach
on Sep 06, 2018
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School
Written case is still the first round on many markets
Vlad
Coach
on Aug 28, 2018
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

Bain has a written case. Though it's not a test, it has somehow similar in nature to McKinsey PST. Basically, it has 2 parts: 

  • Case information you have to go through 
  • Slides with missing info you have to complete

I've uploaded the example here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zor4m49eyx5qxal/AABeUN6mtiGkWhEklRjszX2Oa?dl=0

(PM me for a password)

Since each question in a written case has an exact correct answer, the success criteria is the number of questions answered correctly. 

The best way to prepare is the following:

  1. Prepare both McKinsey and BCG type tests - it helps
  2. Check if the calculator is allowed. If not - you have to train mental math. I posted the main tips here: https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/tips-to-do-big-multiplications-in-my-mind-726#a1422
  3. Prepare for a regular case interview - it helps a lot. Basically, prep lounge website is about it
  4. Practice reading cases fast and prioritizing the information. I found useful two sources:
  • Written cases you'll be able to find in google or in case books. I've seen a couple in "Vault Guide to the Case Interview" and "Insead Business Admission Test"
  • Harvard cases - either buy or try to find online. You can find a couple of MIT cases here for free: https://mitsloan.mit.edu/LearningEdge/Pages/Case-Studies.aspx Unfortunately free cases don't have the prep questions. 

Good luck!

on Feb 13, 2019
Hi Vlad,
on Feb 13, 2019
Hi Vlad, I received an invite for Bain's pre-screening test. How can I best find out if a calculator is allowed on the test? As far as I know, it is an online test that I can perform at anytime in the comfort of my home. However, I have heard that some needed to turn on their cam and mic for facilitators to monitor them during the test. Is it best for me to clarify with the recruiter? Looking forward to hear from you soon.
on Aug 31, 2018
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Ben,

the answer depends on the office you are applying for. In Brazil for example Bain is using a test that is a mix between the GMAT and the BCG Potential test, with 15 questions for each part. I would recommend verifying with HR for the specific office you are applying for.

Best,

Francesco

Similar Questions
Consulting
Time to apply and the intake for new hire?
on Feb 29, 2024
Global
7 Answers
5.0k Views
Top answer by
Florian
Coach
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 500+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU
172
7 Answers
5.0k Views
+4
Consulting
Bain's application process
on Feb 26, 2024
Global
6 Answers
4.3k Views
Top answer by
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
188
6 Answers
4.3k Views
+3
Consulting
solve – McKinney's assessment game excel templet
on Mar 05, 2024
Global
6 Answers
2.8k Views
Top answer by
Alberto
Coach
Ex-McKinsey Partner | Most experienced coach (15 years exp, +2.000 real interviews) | 95% success rate
132
6 Answers
2.8k Views
+3
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
You are a true consultant! Thank you for consulting us on how to make PrepLounge even better!