Grab Software Engineer Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Grab is a leading technology company in Southeast Asia, offering a wide range of services, such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and digital payments. Its mission is to drive economic empowerment through innovative solutions and services.

Grab is a leading technology company in Southeast Asia, focused on providing a diverse range of services including ride-hailing, food delivery, and digital payments, all aimed at empowering local communities economically.

In the role of a Software Engineer at Grab, you will be responsible for designing and developing scalable web and mobile applications that support the company’s wide array of offerings. Your key responsibilities will include conducting architectural discussions, delivering high-quality and maintainable code, and applying Agile methodologies to ensure effective sprint execution. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, which may include product managers, designers, and other engineers, to drive product innovations and improvements.

To excel in this position, you will need strong technical skills in programming languages such as Golang or Java, as well as proficiency in front-end technologies like React. A solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and best practices in software development is essential. Furthermore, possessing strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences will be crucial in fostering collaboration across teams.

This guide will help you prepare for your interview by providing insights into the expectations and standards for the Software Engineer role at Grab, while equipping you with the knowledge to effectively showcase your skills and experiences during the interview process.

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a software engineering interview at Grab. The interview process will likely focus on your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and your experience in leading and mentoring teams. Expect a mix of coding challenges, system design questions, and behavioral inquiries that assess your fit within the company culture.

Coding and Algorithms

1. Can you explain the difference between a stack and a queue?

Understanding fundamental data structures is crucial for any software engineer.

How to Answer

Discuss the definitions of both data structures, their use cases, and how they differ in terms of data access.

Example

“A stack is a Last In First Out (LIFO) structure, where the last element added is the first to be removed. A queue, on the other hand, is a First In First Out (FIFO) structure, where the first element added is the first to be removed. Stacks are often used in scenarios like function call management, while queues are used in scheduling tasks.”

2. How would you reverse a linked list?

This is a common algorithm question that tests your understanding of linked lists.

How to Answer

Explain the approach you would take, including any edge cases you would consider.

Example

“To reverse a linked list, I would use an iterative approach where I maintain three pointers: previous, current, and next. I would iterate through the list, adjusting the pointers to reverse the links until I reach the end of the list.”

3. What is the time complexity of searching for an element in a binary search tree?

This question assesses your understanding of data structures and their efficiencies.

How to Answer

Discuss the average and worst-case scenarios for searching in a binary search tree.

Example

“The average time complexity for searching in a balanced binary search tree is O(log n), while in the worst case, it can degrade to O(n) if the tree becomes unbalanced.”

4. Can you implement a function to check if a string is a palindrome?

This question tests your coding skills and understanding of string manipulation.

How to Answer

Outline your approach and then write the code, explaining your thought process as you go.

Example

“I would iterate through the string from both ends towards the center, comparing characters. If all characters match, the string is a palindrome. Here’s a simple implementation in Python…”

5. Describe how you would implement a basic LRU cache.

This question evaluates your understanding of caching mechanisms and data structures.

How to Answer

Explain the concept of an LRU cache and the data structures you would use to implement it.

Example

“I would use a combination of a hash map for O(1) access and a doubly linked list to maintain the order of usage. When an item is accessed, I would move it to the front of the list, and when the cache exceeds its limit, I would remove the least recently used item from the back.”

System Design

1. How would you design a URL shortening service?

This question tests your ability to design scalable systems.

How to Answer

Discuss the components of the system, including the database schema, API endpoints, and any caching strategies.

Example

“I would create a service that generates a unique identifier for each URL, stores it in a database, and maps it to the original URL. The API would have endpoints for creating and retrieving shortened URLs. I would also implement a caching layer to speed up retrieval.”

2. What considerations would you take into account when designing a microservices architecture?

This question assesses your understanding of modern software architecture.

How to Answer

Discuss aspects like service communication, data management, and deployment strategies.

Example

“When designing a microservices architecture, I would consider how services communicate (e.g., REST vs. messaging), how to manage data consistency, and how to handle service discovery and load balancing. I would also ensure that each service is independently deployable.”

3. Explain how you would handle database migrations in a live system.

This question evaluates your understanding of database management and system reliability.

How to Answer

Discuss strategies for minimizing downtime and ensuring data integrity during migrations.

Example

“I would use a blue-green deployment strategy, where I create a new version of the database alongside the old one. I would then gradually switch traffic to the new version while monitoring for issues, ensuring that I can roll back if necessary.”

4. How would you design a system to handle real-time notifications?

This question tests your ability to design systems that require low latency.

How to Answer

Discuss the components involved, such as message queues and push notification services.

Example

“I would use a message broker like Kafka to handle incoming notifications and a push notification service to deliver them to users. I would ensure that the system can scale horizontally to handle spikes in traffic.”

5. Describe how you would implement logging and monitoring for a distributed system.

This question assesses your understanding of observability in software systems.

How to Answer

Discuss the tools and practices you would use to ensure effective logging and monitoring.

Example

“I would implement centralized logging using tools like ELK Stack or Splunk, allowing for easy searching and analysis of logs. For monitoring, I would use Prometheus and Grafana to track system metrics and set up alerts for anomalies.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Tell me about a time you faced a significant challenge in a project. How did you handle it?

This question assesses your problem-solving and leadership skills.

How to Answer

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response.

Example

“In a previous project, we faced a major delay due to unexpected technical debt. I organized a team meeting to identify the root causes and prioritized tasks to address them. By reallocating resources and improving our communication, we were able to get back on track and deliver the project on time.”

2. How do you prioritize tasks when managing a team?

This question evaluates your management and organizational skills.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to task prioritization and how you involve your team in the process.

Example

“I prioritize tasks based on their impact on project goals and deadlines. I involve my team in the discussion to understand their perspectives and ensure that we are aligned on priorities. This collaborative approach helps us stay focused and motivated.”

3. Describe a time when you had to mentor a junior engineer. What was your approach?

This question assesses your mentoring and leadership abilities.

How to Answer

Discuss your mentoring style and how you support the growth of others.

Example

“I took a junior engineer under my wing during a critical project. I scheduled regular one-on-one sessions to discuss their progress and challenges. I provided constructive feedback and encouraged them to take ownership of their tasks, which helped them grow in confidence and skill.”

4. How do you handle conflicts within your team?

This question evaluates your conflict resolution skills.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to addressing conflicts and fostering a positive team environment.

Example

“When conflicts arise, I address them directly by facilitating a conversation between the parties involved. I encourage open communication and ensure that everyone feels heard. My goal is to find a resolution that aligns with our team values and project objectives.”

5. What motivates you to work in software engineering?

This question assesses your passion for the field and alignment with the company’s values.

How to Answer

Discuss your motivations and how they relate to Grab’s mission and values.

Example

“I am motivated by the challenge of solving complex problems and the opportunity to create impactful solutions. I believe in Grab’s mission to empower people in Southeast Asia, and I am excited about the chance to contribute to that vision through innovative technology.”

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Prepare for Live Coding Challenges

Expect to face live coding sessions during your interviews, which can be quite challenging. To prepare effectively, practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode, focusing on medium to hard difficulty levels. Familiarize yourself with common data structures and algorithms, as these will likely be the focus of your coding assessments. Make sure to articulate your thought process clearly while coding, as interviewers appreciate understanding your approach to problem-solving.

Understand the Company Culture

Grab emphasizes its core values: Heart, Hunger, Honour, and Humility. Familiarize yourself with these principles and think about how they align with your own values and work ethic. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you embody these principles in your work and interactions with others. This will demonstrate your cultural fit and commitment to the company's mission.

Be Ready for System Design Questions

System design is a critical component of the interview process. Brush up on your knowledge of architectural patterns, microservices, and cloud system design, particularly with AWS. Be prepared to discuss trade-offs and feasibility during design discussions. Practice articulating your design choices and the reasoning behind them, as this will showcase your ability to think critically and strategically.

Communicate Effectively

Strong communication skills are essential, especially when discussing technical topics with non-technical stakeholders. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, and be ready to engage in discussions about your past projects and experiences. This will not only help you convey your expertise but also demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively within a team.

Expect a Multi-Stage Interview Process

The interview process at Grab typically involves multiple stages, including coding assessments, technical interviews, and HR discussions. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy process, and stay proactive in following up with recruiters if you experience delays. This will show your enthusiasm for the role and help you stay informed about your application status.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Software Engineer, you may be expected to demonstrate leadership qualities, especially if you have prior management experience. Be prepared to discuss how you have mentored or guided team members in the past, and share examples of how you have contributed to team success. Highlight your ability to foster a collaborative environment and drive engineering excellence.

Stay Positive and Resilient

Some candidates have reported negative experiences during the interview process, including unprofessional behavior from interviewers. Regardless of your experience, maintain a positive attitude throughout the process. If faced with challenging situations, focus on what you can control—your preparation and performance. This resilience will reflect well on you as a candidate.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you can enhance your chances of success in the interview process at Grab. Good luck!

The interview process for a Software Engineer at Grab is structured and involves multiple stages designed to assess both technical and interpersonal skills. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Initial Screening

The process typically begins with a phone interview conducted by a recruiter. This initial screening lasts about 30 minutes and focuses on understanding your background, motivations, and fit for the company culture. The recruiter will also discuss the role's expectations and answer any questions you may have about Grab.

2. Online Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates are usually required to complete an online coding assessment, often hosted on platforms like Codility. This assessment typically consists of 2-3 algorithmic questions that range from easy to medium difficulty, similar to those found on LeetCode. Candidates are expected to demonstrate their problem-solving skills and coding proficiency within a set time limit.

3. Technical Interviews

If you pass the online assessment, you will move on to the technical interview rounds. These usually consist of two to three back-to-back interviews, each lasting around 45-60 minutes. The first technical interview often focuses on data structures and algorithms, where you will be asked to solve coding problems live while explaining your thought process. The second interview may delve into system design, where you will discuss architectural decisions, trade-offs, and best practices relevant to the role.

4. Managerial Interview

The next step is typically a managerial interview, which may involve the hiring manager or a senior leader. This round assesses your leadership skills, experience in managing teams, and ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively. Expect questions about your past projects, how you handle team dynamics, and your approach to mentoring and developing talent.

5. Final HR Round

The final stage of the interview process is usually an HR round, where you will discuss salary expectations, company culture, and any remaining questions you may have. This round is also an opportunity for the HR team to gauge your fit within the organization and ensure alignment with Grab's values.

Throughout the process, candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal skills, as these are crucial for success in a collaborative environment like Grab.

Now that you have an overview of the interview process, let’s dive into the specific questions that candidates have encountered during their interviews.

1. Create a function find_bigrams to return a list of all bigrams in a sentence.

Write a function called find_bigrams that takes a sentence or paragraph of strings and returns a list of all its bigrams in order. A bigram is a pair of consecutive words.

2. Write a query to get the last transaction for each day from a table of bank transactions.

Given a table of bank transactions with columns id, transaction_value, and created_at, write a query to get the last transaction for each day. The output should include the id, datetime, and transaction amount, ordered by datetime.

3. Create a function find_change to find the minimum number of coins for a given amount.

Write a function find_change to find the minimum number of coins that make up the given amount of change cents. Assume we only have coins of value 1, 5, 10, and 25 cents.

4. Write a function to simulate drawing balls from a jar based on their counts.

Write a function to simulate drawing balls from a jar. The colors of the balls are stored in a list named jar, with corresponding counts of the balls stored in the same index in a list called n_balls.

5. Create a function calculate_rmse to compute the root mean squared error of a regression model.

Write a function calculate_rmse to calculate the root mean squared error of a regression model. The function should take in two lists, one that represents the predictions y_pred and another with the target values y_true.

6. What’s the difference between Lasso and Ridge Regression?

Explain the key differences between Lasso and Ridge Regression, focusing on their regularization techniques and how they handle coefficients.

7. What kind of model did the co-worker develop for loan approval?

Identify the type of model used for determining loan approval based on customer inputs.

8. How would you compare two credit risk models for predicting loan defaults?

Since personal loans are monthly installments, describe how you would measure the difference between two credit risk models over a specific timeframe.

9. What metrics would you track to measure the success of a new credit risk model?

List and explain the metrics you would use to evaluate the performance and success of a new credit risk model.

10. How would you evaluate the suitability of a decision tree for predicting loan repayment?

Describe the criteria and methods you would use to determine if a decision tree algorithm is appropriate for predicting loan repayment.

11. How would you evaluate the performance of a decision tree model before and after deployment?

Explain the steps and metrics you would use to assess the performance of a decision tree model both before deployment and after it is in use.

12. How does random forest generate the forest and why use it over logistic regression?

Describe the process by which a random forest algorithm generates its forest and explain its advantages over logistic regression.

13. How would you interpret coefficients of logistic regression for categorical and boolean variables?

Explain the interpretation of logistic regression coefficients when dealing with categorical and boolean variables.

14. How would you measure the success of Uber Eats for Uber?

To determine if Uber Eats has a net positive value for Uber, identify key performance indicators (KPIs) such as revenue growth, customer acquisition and retention rates, market share, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Analyze these metrics to assess the overall impact of Uber Eats on Uber’s business.

15. What is the expected number of good ads rated by different types of raters?

1. Suppose we have 100 raters each rating one ad independently. What’s the expected number of good ads?
2. Now suppose we have 1 rater rating 100 ads. What’s the expected number of good ads?
3. Suppose we have 1 ad, rated as bad. What’s the probability the rater was lazy?

16. Write a function to simulate coin tosses with a given probability of heads.

Create a function that takes the number of tosses and the probability of heads as input and returns a list of randomly generated results (‘H’ for heads, ’T’ for tails).

Example 1:

tosses = 5
probability_of_heads = 0.6

Output:

coin_toss(tosses, probability_of_heads) -> ['H', 'T', 'H', 'H', 'T']

Example 2:

tosses = 3
probability_of_heads = 0.2

Output:

coin_toss(tosses, probability_of_heads) -> ['T', 'T', 'T']

17. Write a function to calculate the sample variance of a list of integers.

Create a function that takes a list of integers and returns the sample variance, rounded to 2 decimal places.

Example:

test_list = [6, 7, 3, 9, 10, 15]

Output:

get_variance(test_list) -> 13.89

18. What is the probability of rolling at least one 3 with dice?

1. What’s the probability of rolling at least one 3 with 2 dice?
2. What’s the probability of rolling at least one 3 given (N) dice?

19. What is the probability of finding an item on Amazon’s website given its availability in warehouses?

Given that the probability of item X being available at warehouse A is 0.6 and at warehouse B is 0.8, calculate the probability that item X would be found on Amazon’s website.

Here are some quick tips for your upcoming Grab software engineer interview:

• Practice with Interview Query: Most coding challenges are medium to hard in difficulty. Focus on algorithms and data structures, and practice coding on a shared editor.
• Prepare for System Design: Ensure you’re well-versed in designing scalable and maintainable systems. Be ready to discuss architectural trade-offs, caching strategies, concurrency, and database schema designs.
• Communicate Clearly: Throughout the interview, maintain clear communication. Explain your thought process and approach to solving problems, and don’t hesitate to ask clarifying questions. If you’d like to improve your communication skills, be sure to

What is the average salary for a Software Engineer at Grab?

What’s the overall candidate experience during the interview process?

Experiences vary; some candidates have reported highly positive interactions with supportive interviewers who guide them through the problems. However, others have cited issues such as scheduling mishaps and inadequate communication from the recruitment team. Be prepared for both possibilities.

What is the company culture like at Grab?

At Grab, the company culture is driven by the 4Hs: Heart, Hunger, Honour, and Humility. Employees are encouraged to adhere to these principles as they work towards Grab’s mission of economic empowerment in Southeast Asia. Collaboration and innovation are highly emphasized within the organization.

While the interview process can be rigorous and occasionally flawed, with some reports of scheduling issues and unprofessionalism, others have found the experience to be supportive and enriching. Prepare by polishing your skills and understanding core computer science concepts.

For more support and insights into navigating the interview landscape at Grab, check out our comprehensive guides at Interview Query, where we provide you with the tools and confidence to excel. Dive into our expert-crafted resources, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Good luck with your interview!