I have an interview in a few days - Boutique Debt Advisory firm on the east coast. Would it be wrong to ask interviewers what the case is roughly about? Its 2 hours, and they do lots of sponsor work, but I'd like to know if I should practice LBOs, Credit Analysis, etc. Is asking for context frowned upon?
Thanks
| +139 | Restructuring: Anti-climactic Experience | 36 | 8h |
| +110 | IB Net Worth / Savings Check | 51 | 7h |
| +100 | Woman who emptied Knicks trashcan on street then stole it was DEI exec, worked at JPMorgan Chase | 25 | 5h |
| +80 | Stop sleeping on UBS - it’s pretty good | 29 | 4h |
| +70 | Hot take: I’d rather be at Desjardins than UBS for investment banking in 2026 | 13 | 11m |
| +56 | 2026 VAULT PRESTIGE RANKINGS | 30 | 1h |
| +39 | AI + Financial Modelling | 12 | 1d |
| +32 | Hardest interview experiences? | 20 | 1h |
| +28 | Summer before college | 17 | 19h |
| +26 | Current State of UBS in North America | 8 | 2d |
Career Resources
Get instant access to lessons taught by experienced private equity pros and bulge bracket investment bankers including financial statement modeling, DCF, M&A, LBO, Comps and Excel Modeling.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's not uncommon for candidates to seek clarity about the format or focus of a case study interview. However, directly asking what the case is about might come across as unprepared or overly reliant on the interviewers. Instead, you could frame your question more tactfully, such as asking about the general skills or areas of expertise the case study is designed to assess. For example, you could say:
"I understand the case study is a key part of the process. Could you share if it will focus more on LBO modeling, credit analysis, or another specific area, so I can ensure my preparation aligns with the expectations?"
This approach shows initiative and a desire to prepare thoroughly without appearing to fish for answers.
Given that the firm does a lot of sponsor work, it's wise to prepare for LBO modeling and credit analysis, as these are likely to be relevant. Additionally, brushing up on cap structure analysis and understanding debt instruments would be beneficial, as these are common in debt advisory roles.
Sources: Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Consulting Recruiting 2023, Private Equity Interview Questions - 13 Topics to Know
have a few example cases, pm
Sent one over!
Dolore quod itaque autem facilis. Id quia optio in similique minima. Aut in eligendi placeat et dolores animi voluptas. Doloribus et et qui praesentium consequatur non. Qui corporis qui corrupti quas.
Ut nemo similique nobis vel qui voluptas aliquid et. Consequuntur officia sit voluptatum ipsam nihil vel assumenda. Dolorum sed quod architecto ut et maiores saepe maxime. Quia velit vero ipsam ut et cumque.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...