When preparing for internships or full-time positions, many international students focus heavily on coding practice, particularly for Online Assessments (OAs). One common concern is whether they can use their preferred programming language during these assessments. Python, known for its simplicity, speed, and large library support, is often the first choice. However, not all companies allow Python in their OAs, a detail that can be easy to overlook while preparing.
Some large companies, especially those involved in low-level development or with strict performance needs, might not support Python during their OAs. Companies like Citadel, Jane Street, or high-frequency trading firms tend to prefer C++ or Java, which offer faster execution and better control over memory. Even if Python is an option, the performance of Python code may not meet the system’s requirements, and this could lead to issues during the submission.
For positions related to embedded systems, system-level development, or memory optimization, Python may also be restricted. This is because Python’s high-level abstractions can obscure the low-level algorithmic skills that some roles require. Certain assessments may even require you to use a statically typed language such as Go, Java, or C++. Relying on Python in these cases might prevent your code from compiling, stopping you from completing the test.
That said, Python remains widely accepted at most tech companies, particularly in firms like Google, Meta, and Amazon, which allow or even prefer Python for their coding assessments. However, for those applying to roles in fields like fintech, quantitative analysis, or systems development, it’s essential to check if Python is supported in their OAs. If not, being comfortable with languages like C++ or Java will be necessary to complete the test.
In conclusion, while practicing coding is essential, it’s equally important to be flexible with the languages you use. Python, although a great choice, should not be the only language you rely on. Make sure to research your target companies, check which languages their OAs support, and have a mock interview. After all, if your code doesn’t compile because of language restrictions, the problem-solving skills you demonstrate won’t matter.
Release time:2025-05-14
