Google Interview Preparation Guide 2026

Category: FAANG/MAANG

Headquarters: Mountain View, CA

Average Package (India): ₹25-60 LPA (India)

Tech Stack: Python, Java, Go, C++, JavaScript

World's leading search and cloud company, known for its rigorous coding interviews.

The Google hiring process typically follows these stages:

Step 1: Online assessment

Step 2: Phone screen

Step 3: 4-5 onsite rounds

Step 4: Hiring committee

The entire process usually takes 4-8 weeks from application to offer.

Round 1: Coding (2-3)

Solve 1-2 algorithmic problems within a time limit. Focus on optimal solutions with clean code. Explain your approach before coding.

Round 2: System Design (1)

Design a scalable system (e.g., URL shortener, chat system). Cover requirements, high-level architecture, database design, and trade-offs.

Round 3: Behavioral (1)

Answer situational and behavioral questions. Use STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 5-6 strong stories from your experience.

Round 4: Googleyness

Standard interview round testing technical and problem-solving abilities.

12-Week FAANG Preparation Plan

Weeks 1-4: Master 100 LeetCode problems (Easy + Medium) covering core patterns

Weeks 5-8: Solve 100 more Medium + Hard problems. Start system design study.

Weeks 9-10: Company-specific problems and mock interviews

Weeks 11-12: Review weak areas, practice behavioral questions

Key Resources on W Code:

Average Package: ₹25-60 LPA (India)

Compensation at Google typically includes base salary, performance bonuses, and RSUs/ESOPs. Total compensation can be 30-50% above base salary when including stock grants.

Primary Technologies: Python, Java, Go, C++, JavaScript

Google hires for roles including SDE-1, SDE-2, Senior SDE, and specialized positions. FAANG companies have well-defined leveling (L3-L7 at Google, SDE1-Principal at Amazon) with clear growth paths.