How to Prepare for IBO
Comprehensive preparation guide for the International Business Olympiad competition
Qualification Round Preparation
Global Grand Test - 150-minute objective exam
Exam Format
- Duration: 150 minutes
- Questions: 300 multiple-choice questions
- Focus: Core business theories and methodologies
- Style: Business fundamentals and literacy
Preparation Strategy
Use IBO Learning Syllabus
Follow the official IBO Learning Syllabus as your primary study guide to ensure comprehensive coverage of all required topics.
Review Business Fundamentals
Study core business concepts through online courses, textbooks, and educational resources covering all major business disciplines.
Practice Questions
Access practice questions in the EAE system to familiarize yourself with the exam format and question styles.
Downloadable Resources
Official comprehensive study guide covering all business topics and concepts.
Access practice questions in the EAE system after registration to prepare for the exam format.
Final Round Preparation
Material-Based Objective Exam & Case Analysis
Material-Based Objective Exam
Preparation Tips:
- Practice consulting-style case studies
- Develop rapid case analysis skills
- Focus on business problem identification
- Practice time management for multiple cases
Resources:
Sample questions to understand the exam format and practice case analysis skills.
Case Analysis Presentation
Preparation Tips:
- Study sample business cases
- Learn consulting frameworks (SWOT, Porter's Five Forces, etc.)
- Practice strategic communication skills
- Develop teamwork and collaboration abilities
Resources:
Sample business case to practice analysis techniques and presentation skills.
Recommended Reading List
Essential books for comprehensive business knowledge
Consulting & Analysis
"The Trusted Advisor"
Essential guide to building trust and advisory relationships in business.
"Crack the Case"
Comprehensive guide to case interview preparation and business problem solving.
"Case In Point"
Complete case interview preparation with frameworks and practice cases.
"The McKinsey Way"
Insights into problem-solving techniques used by top consulting firms.
Communication & Strategy
"The Pyramid Principle"
Logic and structure in thinking, writing, and problem solving.
"Strategy Management"
Comprehensive guide to strategic management concepts and applications.
"BCG on Strategy"
Classic and contemporary readings on business strategy.
Presentation & Visualization
"Say it with Charts"
Executive's guide to visual communication and data presentation.
"Unfolding the Napkins"
Visual thinking for business problem solving and communication.
"Visualizing This"
Web-based data visualization techniques and best practices.
"Slide:ology"
Art and science of creating great presentations and visual stories.
Study Tips & Best Practices
Maximize your preparation effectiveness
Create a Study Schedule
Develop a structured study plan that covers all business domains systematically over several months.
Form Study Groups
Collaborate with teammates to discuss concepts, share insights, and practice case studies together.
Practice Regularly
Consistently work on practice questions and case studies to build confidence and speed.
Stay Updated
Follow current business news and trends to understand real-world applications of business concepts.
Master Frameworks
Learn and practice business analysis frameworks like SWOT, Porter's Five Forces, and financial analysis.
Time Management
Practice working under time pressure to simulate exam conditions and improve efficiency.
Ready to Start Your Preparation?
Begin your journey to business excellence with structured preparation and dedicated practice.
Register for 2025 IBO