Group discussion
Peer candidates receive a shared brief — ranking projects, allocating a budget, or agreeing a recommendation. Assessors watch contribution balance, listening, and how conflict is handled. Domination and silence are both risky.
Assessment formats
Stations you are likely to meet in a German graduate centre
Employers mix these exercises differently. Use this guide to recognise what your invitation is asking for — then choose preparation that matches.
Case study
A pack of tables, memos, or market notes with a timed write-up or oral recommendation. Industrial and consulting trainee centres use this heavily to score structuring and numeracy under pressure.
Presentation
Often paired with the case: five to ten minutes to a small panel, then questions. Clarity of the ask matters as much as slide polish.
Competency interview
Structured questions mapped to dimensions such as drive, cooperation, or customer focus. STAR-shaped examples from studies and internships are the usual currency.
Role play
A simulated conversation with a customer, colleague, or manager. Tone, listening, and boundary-setting are observed alongside content.
In-tray / Postkorb
Prioritising emails and tasks in a limited window. Less common than a decade ago, still used by some industrial graduate intakes.
Match practice to the invitation
If your letter emphasises Fallstudie and Interview, start with a case drill and competency coaching. If Gruppendiskussion leads the day, book a warm-up before a full simulation.