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What language is used for MBB case interview in Southeast Asia?

Hi, what language is used for MBB case interview in Southeast Asia? 

Is it local language or English?

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Top answer
Emily
Coach
on Mar 12, 2025
9 years in MBB Southeast Asia & China| 8 years as MBB interviewer | Free intro call

Hi there, 

It is in English. :)

Best

Emily

Alessa
Coach
on Mar 12, 2025
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | +200 individual & group coachings | feel free to schedule a 15 min intro call for free

Hey there 😊,

For MBB case interviews in Southeast Asia (SEA), the language used depends on the country and office, but in most cases, it’s English.

1️⃣ Default Language: English

English is the primary language for case interviews across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
✅ Most MBB clients in SEA are multinational corporations or large regional firms, so consultants work in English.

2️⃣ Exceptions: When Local Language Might Be Used

🔹 Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia – Some local market-focused roles may involve a mix of English and the local language, but English remains dominant.
🔹 Fit/Behavioral Questions – If your interviewer is local and comfortable in both languages, they might ask behavioral questions in the local language, but cases will still be in English.

3️⃣ Should You Prepare in English or Local Language?

Prepare for cases entirely in English, as that’s the standard.
If fluent in the local language, be ready for small parts of the interview (especially fit questions) to be in that language.
If unsure, ask HR beforehand—they can clarify for your specific office.

In short, English is the safest bet for MBB interviews in SEA, so focus on structuring, communication, and problem-solving in English. Let me know if you need case prep support! 🚀

Best, Alessa 😇

on Mar 13, 2025
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer

Hi,

You will be interviewed in English if its for a generalist role. 

other less 'formal' positions (e.g. CTA) may differ, sometimes they will be in the local language

on Mar 13, 2025
Ex-BCG Principal & Senior Recruiter in Germany | 300+ real recruiting interviews at BCG | Free 15min intro call

Generally English, best to check with your Recruiting contact as well

Florian
Coach
on Mar 14, 2025
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

Sometimes fully English, sometimes a mix of English and local language.

Interviewers are often expats or from different offices.

Cheers,

Florian

Pedro
Coach
on Mar 13, 2025
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

General answer is English, but you need to check the individual office, as a local language in some cases may be required.

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