Here are some insights that really helped me when I went through the HPCL placement process. HPCL is not just about testing your technical skills; they’re really focused on understanding your mindset, attitude, and overall seriousness. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you



Give HR Questions the Attention They Deserve

- Trust me, HPCL cares a lot about the HR part of the interview. They want to see where your head's at—your goals, your attitude, and how well you’ll fit into the company. They’re paying close attention to how thoughtfully you respond to these questions. I’ve seen people lose points by not taking these seriously. Make sure you’re fully prepared to answer with sincerity and focus.



Know Your Core Subject Inside Out

- You’ll likely be asked to choose a favorite subject in chemical engineering, so be ready to back it up with knowledge. In my case, I picked one core subject that I knew well, and I made sure I could handle in-depth questions about it. It’s not just about your technical understanding—they want to see genuine interest and confidence in your field.



Handle the Pressure of the Interview Panel

- HPCL’s interview panels can include some of the top leaders in the industry—Executive Directors, Chief General Managers, even board members sometimes. They might throw in unexpected questions or interrupt you to test how you handle stress. Keep your cool, stay composed, and show that you can think on your feet. It’s part of their way of seeing if you’re ready for the challenges of the job.



Group Discussion (GD) is Key

- You’ll probably face a GD with about 8–10 other candidates. It’s not just a formality—they’re watching how well you can communicate under pressure and how respectfully you handle other people’s viewpoints. Make sure to contribute meaningfully, stay respectful, and show you’re a team player. That’s something HPCL values a lot.



Final Thoughts

HPCL’s interview process is thorough and challenging. They’re looking for technical skill, but just as much, they’re looking for the right attitude and the ability to keep your cool under pressure. If you go in prepared, confident, and focused, you’ll have a great shot. Best of luck!