Centerview Technical Interview Questions (PDF‑style Guide)

Centerview patterns

Centerview interviews reward clear structure and precise math. Expect integrated prompts that require you to decide, then defend the decision with succinct quantitative support. The best answers sound like short memos: thesis → evidence → implication.

What shows up

• Mini cases that blend comps/DCF with a business model discussion
• Follow‑ups that test your ability to reconcile numbers across statements
• Behaviorals that probe ownership and decision making under time pressure

Worked mini‑case (example)

Prompt: "A mature software company trading at 12× EV/EBITDA is considering a buyback vs. a tuck‑in acquisition at 10×. Which creates more value?"

• Top‑line: Prefer tuck‑in if synergy capture and growth lift deliver >2 turns of multiple expansion on acquired EBITDA within 18–24 months; otherwise buyback is cleaner.
• Evidence: 10× entry vs. 12× trading; if $20m EBITDA acquired, 1× synergy (8%) plus 2% organic lift can re‑rate to 11–12× on combined, beating neutral buyback math assuming steady multiple.
• Implication: If integration risk is low and synergy visibility high, proceed with tuck‑in; otherwise return cash.

Math you should show

• EV→Equity bridges (cash, debt, minorities, prefs) without hunting through notes
• Simple sensitivity: what has to be true for decision A to dominate B

Checklist for practice

• Timebox 10–12 minutes per prompt; say your thesis in one sentence first
• Write a 3‑line memo after each drill (thesis, numbers, risk)
• Do one reconciliation exercise daily (income ↔ cash flow ↔ balance sheet)

Deeper patterns live in Bank‑Specific Interview Prep. If you want a printable packet, grab it in the app: here.