Case interview preparation
Case interview preparation
Thinking about applying for a consulting role — or already in the process? This is your one-stop resource for case interview preparation. You'll find Bain-designed materials, sample cases, practical tips, and trusted external resources to help you understand our approach, sharpen your problem-solving, and walk into your interview with confidence. Take your time to explore and practice — we're rooting for you.
What is a case interview?
A case interview is a structured conversation where you work through a real business problem, the kind our teams tackle every day. We're not looking for a single right answer; we're looking for how you think, structure problems, and build on ideas as the conversation evolves. Case interviews are used for consulting roles only.
If you're applying for a non-consulting role, head to our Interviewing page for guidance relevant to your process.
Get ready with confidence using Bain’s resources
Designed by our team, these materials offer practical insights into our problem-solving approach, case structures, and interview expectations.
Practice cases
Coffee Shop Co.
Help a friend determine whether opening a coffee shop is a good idea.
FashionCo.
Advise a player in the fashion market on why it has experienced declining revenues for the past five years.
Additional tips for a strong interview performance
-
Tips for all interviews (in-person & virtual)
- Clarify the objective: Make sure you understand the question before diving in; ask clarifying questions as needed.
- Structure your thinking: Use a clear framework and walk your interviewer through your approach.
- Think aloud: Share your reasoning and calculations, even if you’re unsure.
- Listen and adapt: Pay attention to interviewer cues and adjust accordingly.
- Emphasize key points: Highlight important numbers or insights for easy reference.
- Take a moment: Pause to gather your thoughts when needed.
- Show personality: Bring energy and authenticity—we’re excited to hear your perspective.
- Ask thoughtful questions: Be curious about Bain and your interviewer’s experience.
- Enjoy the conversation: Relax and use the case to get a feel for the work we do.
-
Tips for in-person interviews
- Bring pen and paper: You’ll need them for notes and case work.
- Write clearly and share your notes: Be prepared to walk through your framework.
- Be mindful of body language: Maintain eye contact, good posture, and minimize fidgeting.
- Dress professionally: Wear clean, business professional attire.
- Arrive early: Allow time for check-in and unexpected delays.
-
Tips for virtual interviews
- Set up your space: Choose a quiet, well-lit area with a neutral (or blurred) background.
- Test your tech: Check your internet, camera, and microphone in advance.
- Minimize distractions: Turn off notifications and close unrelated applications.
- Project presence: Maintain strong posture and engagement on screen.
- Communicate actively: Let your interviewer know when you’re taking notes and clearly describe your structure
More ways to prepare
Sharpen your problem-solving skills with free, structured external resources—including real case interviews. We’ve found that Management Consulted, Crafting Cases, CaseCoach, and RocketBlocks offer especially helpful content. Explore the links below.
Management Consulted
Offers practical tips and strategies to help you master the basics and build a strong case prep foundation.
Crafting Cases
A focused 7-day course designed to build confidence and help you take control of any case interview.
CaseCoach
A full-scope platform with videos, drills, and practice room to help you prep with confidence for every part of the interview.
Mock cases from RocketBlocks (external)
-
Beginner case: Market entry in food and beverage
This case centers on a client facing a pressing, time-sensitive challenge, where swift strategic decisions are critical to capitalize on an emerging opportunity while mitigating risks. It tests the candidate's ability to analyze fast-moving situations, prioritize actions, and develop a rapid, effective response plan.
-
Beginner case: Growth in public sector
This case involves a public sector organization aiming to identify strategic growth opportunities while addressing inherent bureaucratic challenges and shifting market dynamics. It requires candidates to evaluate various initiatives to drive sustainable improvement and enhanced operational efficiency in a complex, regulated environment.
-
Intermediate case: Market sizing in travel and tourism
This case challenges candidates to develop a comprehensive turnaround strategy for a business facing declining performance and competitive pressures. It requires a deep dive into market positioning, operational inefficiencies, and strategic initiatives to reinvigorate growth and restore the company’s momentum.