Houlihan Lokey Superday Guide
Everything you need to know to prepare for and succeed in your Houlihan Lokey Superday. This guide covers the format, what to expect, and proven strategies from successful candidates.
Last updated April 2026 · By the Superday AI editorial team
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Full Day (8-12 hours)
4-6 Back-to-Back
Los Angeles, CA Office
Superday Format
Typically 4-5 interviews with significant emphasis on restructuring concepts for RX candidates. Valuation questions are common given the firm's expertise.
Typical Day Structure:
Online Application & Resume Screen
Houlihan reviews applications with attention to quantitative coursework, valuation exposure, and any distressed or restructuring-related experience. GPA matters but is not the sole filter.
Phone or Video Interview
A 30-minute screen with a VP or Associate covering basic technicals (walk me through a DCF, what is enterprise value) and your interest in Houlihan's specific business segments.
First Round Interview
One or two interviews focusing on deeper technical knowledge, including restructuring concepts, valuation methodologies, and accounting fundamentals. Behavioral questions probe your understanding of Houlihan's differentiated positioning.
Superday
Four to five 30-minute interviews with senior bankers across different groups. Expect a mix of technical deep-dives (restructuring waterfalls, LBO mechanics, valuation scenarios) and cultural fit assessment. Some interviewers may present mini-case studies.
Offer Decision
Decisions are typically communicated within one week. Houlihan values decisive hiring and moves quickly to extend offers to top candidates before they receive competing offers.
What to Do
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of the difference between Houlihan's three business segments and articulate which one you want to join.
- Prepare restructuring-specific technical knowledge: Chapter 11 process, debtor-in-possession financing, cramdown provisions, and recovery analysis.
- Highlight any experience with valuation work, whether through coursework, prior internships, or personal projects.
- Show that you value the analytical depth of middle market and restructuring work rather than simply chasing brand names.
- Research Houlihan's recent marquee restructuring and M&A transactions and be ready to discuss them.
- Ask informed questions about the training program, staffing model, and how analysts rotate across engagements.
What to Avoid
- Do not treat Houlihan like a backup to bulge bracket firms. Interviewers will detect this immediately and it is the fastest way to receive a rejection.
- Avoid being unprepared on restructuring basics. Even if you are interviewing for Corporate Finance, some restructuring knowledge is expected.
- Do not overstate your interest in mega-cap M&A deals. Houlihan's sweet spot is mid-cap advisory and restructuring, and that is where the firm's competitive advantage lies.
- Never suggest you view Houlihan as a stepping stone to a larger bank. The firm has strong retention and values long-term commitment.
- Avoid generic answers about why investment banking. Tie your motivation specifically to Houlihan's strengths in restructuring, valuation, or middle market advisory.
- Do not ignore the Financial and Valuation Advisory segment. This is a major revenue driver and differentiator for the firm.
- Do not ask about hours or lifestyle as primary concerns. While Houlihan's culture is more balanced than some peers, leading with lifestyle questions signals misaligned priorities.
What to Bring
Multiple resume copies
5-6 clean copies
Notepad and pen
For notes and questions
Breath mints
After lunch refresher
Portfolio/padfolio
Looks professional
Business cards
If you have them
Phone charger
For emergencies only