17 Apple Interview Questions: Tips + Tricks

April 25, 2023

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5 min read

A picture of an Apple headquarters with blurred, moving cars in the foreground

Apple is one of the most desirable companies to work for, and it’s no wonder why. The tech giant is known for its innovative products, industry-leading customer service, and cutting-edge research and development. However, getting a job at Apple is no easy feat. The company is notoriously selective in its hiring process and has a reputation for asking tough, unconventional Apple interview questions. 

In this article, we’ll explore what it takes to nail the Apple interview, including how hard it’s, how to prepare, and common questions to expect.

All About the Apple Interview Process

There’s a lot to think about if you have an Apple interview coming up, from the process to the number of interview rounds. Here’s everything you need to know about the Apple interview process. 

How many interview rounds at Apple?

The number of interview rounds at Apple can vary depending on the position and the candidate. However, it’s not uncommon for candidates to go through multiple rounds of interviews, including phone screenings, virtual interviews, and in-person meetings. It’s not uncommon to have five or six interviews. 

Does Apple drug test?

Typically, Apple doesn’t require potential employees to complete pre-employment drug test screenings. However, company policy can always change. Apple is a drug-free work environment. 

How many rounds of interviews does Apple do?

As mentioned earlier, the Apple interview process typically involves multiple rounds of interviews, including phone screenings, virtual interviews, and in-person meetings. These interviews can be lengthy. Candidates may be asked to complete a variety of assessments and exercises, including coding challenges, group projects, and case studies.

How hard is the Apple interview?

The Apple interview process is rigorous and challenging. According to former Apple employees, the company’s hiring standards are incredibly high, and only the top 1% of candidates are typically offered a job. 

If you scored an interview, you should feel proud, as Apple is selective of who they offer interviews to. 

What does Apple look for in employees?

Apple is looking for individuals who are not only skilled in their respective fields but who also embody the company’s core values, including innovation, collaboration, and attention to detail. The ideal person for Apple will encompass all of these, according to Apple CEO Tim Cook.

What percentage of Apple applicants get interviews?

Apple does not release information on the number of applicants who receive interviews. However, based on anecdotal evidence and reports from former employees, it’s safe to assume that the number of applicants who receive interviews is relatively low.

What’s the pass rate for Apple?

Because the Apple interview and hiring interview process is highly selective, the pass rate is pretty low. Although this pass rate ranges by year, only about 0.5% of applicants can continue to the hiring stage.

How to Prepare for Apple Interview Questions

Preparing for Apple interview questions (and the interview itself) requires a lot of effort and dedication. Here are a few tips to help you prepare.

1. Research the company.

Make sure you have a good understanding of Apple’s products, services, and mission. You should also be familiar with the company’s recent news and developments. This will give you a better foundation to answer Apple interview questions.

2. Brush up on your technical skills.

If you’re applying for a technical position at Apple, make sure you’re up-to-date on the latest programming languages and technologies. You may also want to practice coding challenges and review technical concepts.

3. Practice your communication skills.

Apple is looking for individuals who can communicate effectively and work well with others. Make sure you’re comfortable explaining complex ideas and working collaboratively with others.

4. Prepare for specific Apple interview questions.

You can prepare for specific Apple interview questions through Yoodli.

Yoodli is an AI-powered interview coach that can help you improve your interviewing skills. Yoodli provides feedback on your communication skills, body language, and more.

Practicing Apple interview questions isn’t difficult with Yoodli’s interview flow.

For example, you can use the interview simulation function on Yoodli to practice these common Apple interview questions. It’s a realistic way to experience a virtual interview and prep yourself for the real thing. The best part? It’s completely customizable.

You can select the role you’re applying for, the company, the type of interviewer, and even the questions you’d like to practice (such as Apple interview questions).

A screenshot showing Apple interview questions a user is practicing using Yoodli.
You can practice specific Apple interview questions with this interview simulator.

Then, use the actionable feedback and guidance Yoodli provides to take your responses to these questions to the next level. It’s also a good idea to implement the STAR method framework when you answer these questions.

You can get started for free at http://www.yoodli.ai.

Common Apple Interview Questions

While every interview is different, there are a few questions that candidates can expect to be asked during an Apple interview. These are the most common Apple interview questions to help you prepare:

  • Why do you want to work at Apple?
  • What Apple services and products are you familiar with?
  • How would you approach dealing with an angry, frustrated, or difficult customer?
  • What are some of your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Let’s say you were tasked with creating a marketing campaign for a new Apple product. What would your first steps be?
  • What’s your favorite Apple device and why?
  • Can you tell me about a time when you had to think creatively to solve a problem?
  • In 2007, Apple became known as “Apple Inc.” as opposed to its original name, “Apple Computers Incorporated.” Why was this change made?
  • What would you say are the most significant challenges facing Apple today?
  • Recall a time where you made a mistake that affected others. How did you handle it?
  • In your opinion, what’s more important: creating a great customer experience, or resolving a customer’s problem?
  • How do you stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and technologies?
  • Why did you apply to this position in particular as opposed to other roles?
  • Tell me about a time where you disagreed with your supervisor. What was the outcome?
  • What will you most miss from your previous job if you get hired at Apple?
  • Can you explain a complex technical concept to someone without a technical background?
  • What role do you see Apple playing in the future of technology?

You should also be prepared to ask a few questions after your interview.

What to ask at the end of an Apple interview

It’s always good to ask a few questions at the end of your Apple interview. This shows that you’re not only engaged but also interested in the position and company. Some good Apple interview questions to ask include things like: 

  • Can you walk me through a typical day working at Apple?
  • Did anything surprise you when you first started working at Apple?
  • How does Apple define and measure success?
  • Considering Apple as an employer, what’s your favorite thing about it?
  • Where do you envision Apple in the next five years? 
  • What sorts of resources are available to Apple employees?

The Key Takeaway

Nailing the Apple interview is no easy task, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can be done. Remember to research the company, practice your communication and technical skills, and use tools like Yoodli to help you improve. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of some of the most innovative and successful people in the tech industry.

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