Quant Research Intern

Detailed Account of My Optiver Quant Research Internship Hiring Process

I recently went through the hiring process for an Optiver Quant Research internship, and my experience was overwhelmingly negative. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the interview and assessment process I encountered:

The Automated Assessments
The process consisted of four automated tests, each with its own format and expectations:

1. Optiver – Quantitative Research Test (2025/26 – AMS)
This test presented three questions that simulated the type of problems a Quantitative Researcher at Optiver might handle on the job.
Some problems required precise calculations, while others only allowed approximate solutions, with the required precision level specified.
Candidates were free to allocate time among the three questions as they saw fit and could implement solutions in any of the programming languages supported by HackerRank.
2. NumberLogic
A 25-minute numerical reasoning test focused on evaluating candidates’ ability to quickly and accurately process numerical information.
3. Beat the Odds
A 45-minute probability assessment designed to test the application of probability theory under time pressure.
Each question had a strict time limit, and familiarity with basic probability concepts was crucial.
4. Zap-N
A series of short neuro-assessment games, each ranging from 2 to 15 minutes in length.
These games measured cognitive responses, attention, and problem-solving agility.

The Outcome and Follow-Up
After completing all four assessments, I was informed that I did not progress further in the process. Out of curiosity and frustration, I submitted a European data request a month later, which confirmed that I had scored enough points to pass the tests. Despite this, I was rejected without any additional feedback, and I was informed that I could not reapply for another eight months.

This experience left me with a very negative impression of Optiver’s recruitment process. The company:
Provided no meaningful feedback on performance.
Automatically banned me from reapplying for an extended period, despite successfully completing the assessments.
Appeared to show little concern for the candidate experience.

Overall, my Optiver Quant Research internship hiring process felt impersonal, opaque, and dismissive toward applicants.