Consulting Assessment Comparison Tool
Select the firms you're applying to and instantly compare their assessment formats, pass rates, difficulty levels, and prep strategies side by side.
Select firms to compare (3 selected)
| Attribute | McKinsey | BCG | Bain |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment Name | Solve (2026) | Pymetrics + Casey | SOVA Assessment |
Format | 2–3 gamified simulations | 12 behavioral games + chatbot case | Verbal, numerical, logical reasoning |
Duration | 65–85 min | 25–30 min + 25 min | 40–60 min |
Rounds / Stages | 2–3 games | 2 stages | 1 integrated test |
Pass Rate | ~20% | ~40% | ~50% |
Skills Tested | Critical reasoning Systems thinking Data interpretation Behavioral judgment | Cognitive agility Emotional intelligence Risk tolerance Attention | Verbal reasoning Numerical reasoning Logical reasoning Situational judgment |
Retake Policy | 12–24 months | 12 months | 12 months |
Prep Difficulty | |||
Prep Resources | High — simulators, guides, Excel tools available | Moderate — behavioral trait practice, case bot familiarity | Moderate — standard aptitude test prep applies |
Detailed Breakdowns
Expand each firm for a deeper look at their assessment structure, tips, and preparation advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which consulting firm has the hardest assessment test?
McKinsey's Solve assessment is widely considered the hardest with a pass rate of approximately 20%. It uses gamified AI simulations that evaluate cognitive patterns in real time, making it difficult to prepare for with traditional test-prep methods.
Can I retake a consulting firm's assessment if I fail?
Yes, but retake policies vary by firm. Accenture allows retakes after 6 months, while McKinsey requires 12–24 months. BCG, Bain, and Roland Berger typically enforce a 12-month waiting period.
How do MBB assessments differ from Big 4 consulting tests?
MBB firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) use more specialized assessments — gamified simulations and behavioral games — while Big 4 firms like Deloitte and Accenture rely more on traditional aptitude tests combined with situational judgment scenarios.
What is the best way to prepare for consulting assessment tests?
Preparation depends on the firm. For McKinsey Solve, practice with AI simulators that replicate the game mechanics. For BCG Pymetrics, understand your natural behavioral traits. For Bain and others, standard numerical and verbal reasoning practice is most effective.
Preparing for McKinsey Solve?
McKinsey's Solve has the lowest pass rate of any consulting assessment. Our AI simulators and Excel tools give you the practice edge other candidates don't have.