OC&C Strategy Consultants 2027 Applications Guide

OC&C Strategy Consultants 2027 Recruitment Rounds: What Each Stage Tests

OC&C Strategy Consultants' 2027 recruitment runs in three stages: an online quantitative test, a one-way video assessment, and case interviews across two rounds. OC&C's cases lean heavily quantitative — expect more maths, more data interpretation and more "prove it with numbers" than at generalist firms. Candidates who are strong verbally but shaky on arithmetic get exposed here fast. The full journey — from application to offer — typically takes 6–10 weeks, with the online test and video assessment often completed within the first fortnight.

This guide covers the 2027 intake at OC&C Strategy Consultants — applications open in 2026 and are reviewed on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you the strongest chance. Confirm exact dates on OC&C Strategy Consultants's official careers page.

Programs & Timelines

OC&C hires Associate Consultants (graduates) and Summer Interns across its offices in London, Paris, Amsterdam, Hamburg, New York, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Applications typically open in early autumn and are reviewed on a rolling basis — OC&C is smaller than the MBB firms, so each office has fewer slots and they fill quickly. Check OC&C's official careers page for your target office's exact window.

Round 1: Online Test

OC&C screens first with an online assessment: numerical reasoning, logical reasoning and situational judgement, all strictly timed. What it tests: raw quantitative speed and accuracy. OC&C's bar on the numerical section is notably high — the firm is known for data-heavy casework, and the test reflects that. Practise timed numerical tests until the question types feel automatic; hesitation on percentage changes and ratios is what sinks candidates. Two weeks of 20-minute daily drills on SHL-style numerical reasoning is the standard prescription.

Round 2: One-Way Video Assessment

A recorded video interview, usually 4–6 questions: motivational ("Why OC&C?", "Why strategy consulting?") and competency-based ("Describe a time you solved a complex problem"). What it tests: communication and genuine interest in the firm. OC&C is a strategy boutique — generic "I love problem solving" answers don't land. Show you understand what makes OC&C different: its strategy-only focus, its sector depth, and the specific office you're applying to. Research two recent OC&C deals or insights pieces and reference one naturally — it signals genuine interest in seconds.

Round 3: Case Interviews

Two rounds of case interviews, typically two cases per round. OC&C's cases are quantitative and analytical: market sizing, profitability analysis, data interpretation exercises where you're handed exhibits and asked to draw conclusions fast. What it tests: structured thinking underpinned by strong numerics — every recommendation needs a number behind it. The classic fail is a beautiful framework with sloppy maths. Interviewers will also probe commercial judgement ("The numbers say exit — but the client built this business. What do you tell them?"), so don't hide behind the spreadsheet. Prepare with data-heavy practice cases and drill market-sizing maths until you can do it while talking — at OC&C, silent number-crunching reads as weakness.

FAQ

How quantitative are OC&C case interviews?

Very. Expect heavy emphasis on mental maths, data interpretation and numerically-backed recommendations — more so than at generalist strategy firms.

How many rounds does OC&C run?

Three: online test, video assessment, then case interviews (usually four cases across two rounds).

What makes OC&C different from MBB?

OC&C is a strategy-only boutique with deep sector expertise and smaller teams, meaning earlier responsibility. Its recruitment reflects that: more quantitative, more analytical, less emphasis on generalist polish.

Do I need a maths degree for OC&C?

No — but you need genuine quantitative fluency. Strong candidates come from all degree backgrounds; weak mental maths eliminates candidates from all of them. If your degree wasn't numerical, start practising three months out, not three weeks.

When should I apply to OC&C?

As early in the window as possible. Rolling recruitment at a boutique means interview slots are scarce — late applicants compete for whatever remains after the first waves are filled.

Applying to OC&C? Our 2027 OC&C Online Test & Video Assessment prep covers every round — $79 one-time, instant download.