What is the Bain SOVA Test?
The Bain SOVA is a 30-minute online assessment testing numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment. It's used by Bain offices worldwide to screen candidates before case interviews, measuring cognitive ability and professional behavior.
Quick Facts
| Duration | ~30 minutes |
| Format | Multiple choice, timed sections |
| Sections | Numerical, Verbal, Situational Judgment |
| Where | Online, typically unproctored |
| Provider | Aon (formerly cut-e) |
| Calculator | Not allowed (mental math required) |
The Three Sections
1. Numerical Reasoning
Interpret tables, charts, and numerical data to answer questions. Tests your ability to quickly extract relevant information and perform calculations.
- • Time: ~8-10 minutes
- • Questions: 10-12
- • Skills: Percentages, ratios, growth rates, data interpretation
2. Verbal Reasoning
Read passages and evaluate whether statements are true, false, or cannot be determined based on the information provided.
- • Time: ~8-10 minutes
- • Questions: 10-12
- • Skills: Reading comprehension, logical inference, avoiding assumptions
3. Situational Judgment
Workplace scenarios where you rank responses from "most effective" to "least effective." Tests your professional judgment and Bain values alignment.
- • Time: ~10-12 minutes
- • Questions: 8-10 scenarios
- • Skills: Teamwork, client focus, results orientation, integrity
Example Question Types
Numerical Example:
"Based on the table, Company A's revenue grew from $45M in 2022 to $54M in 2023. What was the percentage increase?"
Answer: 20% (54-45=9; 9/45=0.20)
Verbal Example:
Passage: "Company X launched three products in 2023. Product A generated $10M in its first year."
Statement: "Product A was Company X's most successful product."
Answer: Cannot Say (we don't know how other products performed)
Situational Example:
"A colleague presents analysis with an error that will affect the client recommendation. What do you do?"
- A) Raise the issue privately with your colleague
- B) Point out the error in front of the team
- C) Correct it yourself without mentioning it
- D) Tell the manager immediately
How Scoring Works
| Section | Scoring Method |
|---|---|
| Numerical | Correct answers only (no penalty for wrong) |
| Verbal | Correct answers only (no penalty for wrong) |
| Situational | Compared to "ideal" response pattern from Bain consultants |
There's no published pass mark. Bain compares your scores to other applicants and internal benchmarks.
Success Tips
1. Practice Mental Math
No calculator allowed. Brush up on percentages, fractions, and quick estimation techniques.
2. Don't Overthink Verbal
Stick to what the passage says. "Cannot Say" is often correct when you're tempted to assume.
3. Be Client-Focused (Situational)
Bain values results, teamwork, and integrity. Choose responses that balance these—not just the "nicest" option.
4. Move Quickly
Time is tight. If stuck, make your best guess and move on—there's no penalty for wrong answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Bain offices use SOVA?
Most do, but some offices use different assessments (like Pymetrics) or skip online testing entirely for certain recruiting channels. Confirm with your recruiter.
Can I use a calculator?
No. Calculators are not permitted. Practice mental math—percentages, division, multiplication of 2-3 digit numbers.
How can I prepare for the situational section?
Research Bain's values (True North, Results, Collaboration). Practice SJT tests from Aon or similar providers. Think about how a top consultant would handle each scenario.
Related Terms
Prepare for Bain Interviews
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