Apollo Interview Process: Rounds, Timeline & Compensation
Michael King, PE Investment Manager ·
Apollo runs a headhunter screen, then a first round with behavioural questions and a paper LBO, followed by a Superday with a modelling test and partner interviews. In the US, Apollo follows the compressed megafund on-cycle timeline, often moving from first call to offer within days. In London and Europe, PE recruiting is largely off-cycle, spread across the year and run over several weeks. US first-year associate base runs roughly $175k-$225k, with all-in cash commonly $350k-$450k; meaningful carry generally starts at VP. In London, expect roughly 20-30% less — base around £125k-£175k and all-in around £250k-£350k (approximate).
Interview rounds
A headhunter screen, then a first round with behavioural questions and a paper LBO, followed by a Superday with a modelling test and partner interviews
Typical timeline
In the US, Apollo follows the compressed megafund on-cycle timeline, often moving from first call to offer within days. In London and Europe, PE recruiting is largely off-cycle, spread across the year and run over several weeks.
Compensation range
US first-year associate base runs roughly $175k-$225k, with all-in cash commonly $350k-$450k; meaningful carry generally starts at VP. In London, expect roughly 20-30% less — base around £125k-£175k and all-in around £250k-£350k (approximate).
Notes
Apollo's credit and hybrid-capital roots show up in interviews — expect more questions on capital structure and downside protection than at a pure buyout shop, even for corporate PE seats.
Frequently asked questions
How many interview rounds does Apollo run?
A headhunter screen, then a first round with behavioural questions and a paper LBO, followed by a Superday with a modelling test and partner interviews
How long does the Apollo interview process take?
In the US, Apollo follows the compressed megafund on-cycle timeline, often moving from first call to offer within days. In London and Europe, PE recruiting is largely off-cycle, spread across the year and run over several weeks.
What does Apollo pay first-year hires?
US first-year associate base runs roughly $175k-$225k, with all-in cash commonly $350k-$450k; meaningful carry generally starts at VP. In London, expect roughly 20-30% less — base around £125k-£175k and all-in around £250k-£350k (approximate).