Case Interview Duration
A single case interview lasts 30-45 minutes. A full interview day takes 2-4 hours, including 2-3 back-to-back interviews with breaks. Most firms run 2 rounds (first round + final), totaling 4-8 hours of interview time across the entire process.
Duration by Firm
| Firm | Per Case | Cases/Round | Total Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| McKinsey | 45-60 min | 2-3 | 3-4 hours |
| BCG | 35-45 min | 2 | 2-3 hours |
| Bain | 30-40 min | 2 | 2-3 hours |
| Deloitte S&O | 30-40 min | 2-3 | 2-4 hours |
| Strategy& | 35-45 min | 2 | 2-3 hours |
Source: CaseStar user surveys (n=847), 2024 recruiting cycle.
Time Within a Case
How a typical 40-minute case breaks down:
| Phase | Minutes | % |
|---|---|---|
| Prompt + Clarifying Questions | 3-5 | 10% |
| Framework/Structure | 3-5 | 10% |
| Analysis (data, exhibits, math) | 20-25 | 55% |
| Synthesis/Recommendation | 2-3 | 7% |
| Fit Questions | 5-10 | 18% |
Full Interview Process
| Stage | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Assessment | 30-70 min | McKinsey Solve, BCG Casey, Bain SOVA |
| First Round | 2-3 hours | 2-3 interviews, virtual or in-office |
| Final Round | 3-4 hours | 2-3 interviews with senior partners |
| Total Interview Time | 5-8 hours | Across 2-4 weeks |
Firm-Specific Details
McKinsey
Longer individual cases (45-60 min) because they include both case and PEI in one session. Fewer total interviews but more intensive.
BCG
35-45 minute cases with separate behavioral discussion. May include written case component (15-20 min) in some offices.
Bain
Faster-paced cases (30-40 min) with more conversational style. Behavioral often integrated naturally throughout.
Key Insight
Practice at real pace. If your practice cases take 60+ minutes, you're moving too slowly. Time yourself to hit synthesis by minute 35 so you have buffer for tough math or follow-up questions.
Data Sources & Methodology
- Primary Source: CaseStar user surveys (n=847), candidates interviewed at MBB in 2024.
- Validation: Cross-referenced with firm career websites and MBA career services.
- Variance: Times vary by office, interviewer, and role. Virtual interviews often run shorter.
Last updated: January 2025. Data reflects 2024 recruiting cycle.
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