Application and Interview Process at BCG Switzerland
Our hiring process for consulting roles is designed to help us get to know you and for you to get to know us. Each step gives both sides the chance to explore whether we’re the right fit for each other. Throughout the process, we want every interaction to feel open, fair, and genuine.
We don’t rely on rigid procedures. What matters most to us is having an authentic conversation on equal footing. Learn more about how our approach works here.
Your Application at BCG
Ready to apply to BCG? Here you’ll find practical advice on how to make your cover letter and resume stand out.
Write a Cover Letter
A cover letter is not strictly required, but in some cases it can be helpful to include one.
The following tips may guide you:
Introduce yourself briefly and explain what motivates you to apply to BCG.
Be authentic and share your career aspirations and goals.
Avoid standard phrases – we’re looking for a personal and genuine application.
Keep it concise (no more than one page) and ensure it has a clear structure.
Spark our interest: What are you looking for? What can we look forward to? Why BCG?
Feel free to mention if we’ve already met at an event or fair.
Tailor Your Resume
We value quality over quantity
– what matters most to us is clarity and structure. Organize your career story into clear sections,
such as education, work experience, language skills, and personal interests. But don’t stop at the hard facts.
We’re also interested in what drives you outside of work
– your
passions, projects, or experiences that have shaped who you are. They help us see the person behind the resume and how you could enrich our team in the future.
Your Interview at BCG
Let’s get straight to the point: We’re not just looking for impressive resumes – we’re looking for curious, motivated, and authentic people who inspire us with their ideas and energy.
That’s why we want to get to know you personally and understand what drives you. At the same time, we want you to learn more about what makes BCG unique and how we work.
At BCG Switzerland, the interview process differs slightly depending on whether you’re applying for a full-time consulting role or a Visiting Associate internship.
Whether you join us as an Associate, Consultant, or a Visiting Associate, you’ll take on real responsibility for clients from day one!
Full-Time Consulting Roles for Graduates
Our interview process for full-time consulting roles begins with a virtual cognitive test, followed by one virtual first-round case interview and a final round of three in-person case interviews. Based on our overall impression from the first round, a decision may already be made at that stage. Candidates who progress to the final round and exhibit a great fit will receive an offer to start their journey with BCG.
Cognitive Test
In a
30-minute cognitive test, you will demonstrate your
numerical, verbal, and logical skills. The majority of questions will be in
multiple-choice format and must be answered
without any tools or resources.
First Case Interview
Our virtual
45-minute case interview explores your experience and problem-solving skills. First, we’ll get to know what drives you. Then, you’ll crack a
client case, showcasing your strategic thinking. We value analysis over memorized solutions.
Final Case Interviews
In the final round, you’ll tackle
three in-person case interviews in our office in Zurich to demonstrate your problem-solving and strategic mindset. Clear structuring, creative thinking, and effective communication are key. Logic matters more than perfect answers. Stay composed and demonstrate sound judgment.
Offer
If you succeed in the final round, we’ll
extend an offer and align on the ideal start date to launch your career at BCG.
Our interview process for the Visiting Associate internship begins with a virtual cognitive test, followed by a round of three in-person case interviews. Candidates who make a strong impression will receive an offer to join BCG as a Visiting Associate.
Cognitive Test
In a
30-minute cognitive test, you will demonstrate your
numerical, verbal, and logical skills. The majority of questions will be in
multiple-choice format and must be answered
without any tools or resources.
Case Interviews
You’ll tackle
three in-person case interviews in our office in Zurich to demonstrate your problem-solving and strategic mindset. Clear structuring, creative thinking, and effective communication are key. Logic matters more than perfect answers. Stay composed and demonstrate sound judgment.
Offer
If you succeed in the final round, we’ll
extend an offer and align on the ideal start date to launch your career at BCG.
A Day @BCG Virtual Experience Program
Take a look behind the scenes at BCG and find out how we work.
Yes, we hire graduates from all levels and offer different entry levels according to your degree: from Junior Associate to Partner.
All applications must be submitted via our
online application portal for data privacy reasons. We do not accept applications via email, mail, or external platforms.
For consulting positions (full-time or internships), we recommend applying at least six months before your desired start date.
Please include the following documents:
CV
High school transcripts
All university transcripts
Cover letter (not mandatory but recommended)
References
The cognitive test will take place approximately one month prior to your first interview.
The in-person interviews for all consulting roles at BCG Switzerland will take place at our Zurich office.
In Switzerland (Zurich and Geneva), we accept applications throughout the entire year for full-time or internship positions without any deadlines.
For our consulting roles, fluency in English is required. A knowledge of German or French is a plus but not a requirement.
We are interested in all study backgrounds.
Very strong academic record.
Experience abroad (exchange or work experience abroad, at least three months).
Relevant work experience.
Prior experience in Switzerland and a strong motivation to work in Switzerland are required.
Yes, please directly get in touch with the preferred entity in case of interest.
Yes, we encourage you to reapply in the future. We appreciate your continued interest in BCG and look forward to receiving your application again.
Yes, we offer flextime options for consulting roles to enable and support diverse life plans. Feel free to contact our Talent Acquisition team for more details.
Yes, you will receive a personalized training program to ensure a smooth transition into your role at BCG.
Interviews are generally conducted in German or French, with at least one interview in English. If you are not fluent in German or French, all interviews will be held in English.
We provide preparation calls for candidates interviewing for consulting roles. Case study preparation is essential, so we offer a case library for self-study.
Yes, you will have opportunities to engage with our consultants throughout and after the interview process. We also encourage you to attend our recruiting events to gain deeper insights into BCG’s culture and work. Many of these events provide a chance to connect informally with BCGers.
No, the interview process for non-consulting roles (BST) differs and varies based on the specific role you apply for. You will receive detailed information with your interview confirmation.
