Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Chegg, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
My process started with a recruiter-style step, and then I moved into rounds that felt very DSA-forward. The first technical round was basically data structures and algorithms—mostly easy to medium questions. I then reached a more thorough technical grilling in a later round that felt tightly grounded in what was written on my resume.
I went through an initial recruiter touchpoint, and then the process moved into a sequence of technical conversations. I had two technical interviews, and the second one leaned into system design. After that, I met with HR and eventually got a recommendation stage involving managers. Overall the difficulty felt average, but the experience was tense enough that it didn’t feel smooth or celebratory; it was more like being put through the expected mold.
The interview process typically starts with a recruiter call, followed by a series of technical interviews that may include coding challenges, system design discussions, and HR rounds. Candidates reported varying timelines, with some experiencing quick turnarounds while others faced prolonged waits without feedback.
Candidates encountered a strong emphasis on data structures and algorithms (DSA), with interviews often featuring coding problems that required solid recall and practical application of concepts, particularly in Java and backend technologies. System design questions were also common in later stages.
The interview process often included coding assessments, which could be live coding sessions or take-home assignments. Candidates noted that take-home assignments were sometimes more time-consuming than expected, and the coding tests often featured multiple-choice questions covering various programming topics.
Behavioral interviews were a part of the process, with some candidates required to record video responses to prompts or complete written communication tasks. The focus was on assessing interpersonal skills and cultural fit, though some candidates found the format challenging due to time constraints.
Candidates reported mixed experiences regarding the overall tone of interviews, with some finding the process respectful and organized, while others felt it was tense and lacking in engagement. A common concern was the lack of feedback after interviews, leaving candidates uncertain about their performance.
The outcome of interviews varied, with some candidates receiving offers quickly while others faced abrupt endings with little explanation. Many expressed a desire for clearer communication and closure regarding their candidacy status after completing the interview process.