A key part of this is the BCG Online Case, you will be interviewed by a chatbot named Casey.
Starting a consulting career with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is an exciting opportunity that begins with their challenging selection process. A key part of this is the BCG Online Case, you will be interviewed by a chatbot named Casey.
This unique assessment lets candidates tackle tough business scenarios right from their homes. Unlike traditional interviews, it uses an interactive chat format to test how well candidates can solve problems and think strategically. This step is important for selecting candidates before in-person interviews, helping you get a consulting job with BCG.
Why is BCG Online Case Test Required?
There are two main reasons for adding it. First, it saves money. BCG, like McKinsey and Bain, receives many applications each year. The online test helps cut down the number of candidates who advance to costly in-person interviews. Second, the test makes the hiring process fairer. Even though candidates get different cases, everyone is judged by the same standards. The test also shows candidates the kinds of problems they might work on at BCG and checks their skills in business judgment, logical reasoning, and math. This helps you see if you’d enjoy solving these kinds of problems.
What is the Format?
The BCG Online Case typically lasts for 25–30 minutes and includes 6–8 questions. Once you begin, there’s no option to pause, and time reminders every five minutes can add to the pressure. Therefore, it is very important to be well-prepared for this step.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in the test:
Question Types:
- Structuring Questions: These questions present a scenario or problem, asking you to identify the best course of action or the data needed. They require logical structuring rather than just data analysis. For example, you might need to decide what market research data is essential for entering a new market or which cost data is needed for optimizing expenses.
- Data Analysis/Logical Questions: These questions assess your ability to analyze scenarios, apply logical reasoning, and make sound decisions. You’ll often evaluate different actions or identify cause-and-effect relationships. For instance, you might choose the best marketing strategy based on economic trends or decide on process improvements in a manufacturing plant.
- Brainstorming Questions: These involve generating ideas and insights within a given context. Tasks could include identifying root causes or evaluating options. You might brainstorm why consumers are shifting to SUVs or whether a vacuum company should venture into car manufacturing.
- Quantitative Questions: These require basic calculations and data interpretation. Expect about two math-related questions in each case, focusing on simple arithmetic and data analysis. You’ll need to analyze graphs and charts to find relevant details, but advanced math knowledge isn’t necessary.
Answer Formats:
- Single-Answer Multiple Choice: Select the correct answer from given options. Once you choose, you cannot change it.
- Multiple-Answer Multiple Choice: Choose several correct answers as instructed. This is the most common format.
- Short Answer: Provide numerical answers for quantitative questions, following instructions on rounding or decimal places.
- Long Form Answer: Give concise written responses, limited to four to six lines.
Video Recording
After completing the chatbot case, you’ll make a video recording of a final pitch. You’ll have 60 seconds to prepare your thoughts and another 60 seconds to present them. This part of the process is separate from the 30-minute test, allowing you to showcase your communication and presentation skills.
How Scoring Works in BCG Casey?
In previous BCG online assessments, wrong answers led to points being deducted from your score, so it was better not to guess if you weren’t sure. However, this rule no longer applies in the current version called Casey. Now, the focus is not just on getting the right answers but also on how you solve problems and break down complex issues. You must answer each question to move on, so you might need to make educated guesses if you’re unsure. While BCG doesn’t officially share how they score, insights from the BCG Interactive Case Library show that most criteria focus on problem-solving skills, which are key in consulting roles.
Preparing for the BCG Case Online: Key Tips
Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format:
- Get to know the BCG Online Case layout, including the chatbot interface and the types of questions you’ll encounter.
- Focus on understanding the test sequences and the skills that are evaluated.
- Use online resources such as Casebasix’s free BCG Casey Chatbot simulations and YouTube video walkthroughs to practice and gain valuable insights.
Understand Case Interview Modules:
- Recognize that the BCG Online Case is like a traditional case interview but uses a chatbot for evaluation.
- Study the Case Interview Modules to know what BCG looks for in candidates.
- Pay attention to problem-solving criteria, and practice how to approach different types of questions.
- By thoroughly understanding these modules, you’ll be better prepared for the test and increase your chances of success.
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