Microsoft SDE Loop
Coding carries the SDE decision. Early-career loops lean on coding and object-oriented design, and they often use a class design question where senior loops use system design.
The Rounds
Screens
- Recruiter CallCovers your background, role fit, and timing, and places you at a starting level.Practice Recruiter Call
- Online AssessmentCommon for early-career roles: timed coding problems on a platform such as Codility or HackerRank, usually easy to medium.Practice Online Assessment
Onsite
- CodingTwo to three rounds of data structures and algorithms problems, with behavioral questions in each.Practice Coding
- Object-Oriented DesignOften one class design problem: model the objects, their responsibilities, and how they interact.Practice Object-Oriented Design
- Final InterviewMany loops close with a senior interviewer who reads the earlier feedback and follows up on open questions.Practice Final Interview
What the SDE Loop Weighs
- Working code in your strongest language, run and tested in the interview tool.
- Testing on your own initiative: boundaries, error conditions, and corner cases named out loud.
- Clarifying questions and a stated plan before you write code.
- Short, specific stories from school, internships, or early roles.
Sources
Last checked Nov 2026. Loops vary by team and change over time, so confirm the details with your recruiter.