I applied through college or university. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Microsoft (Mountain View, CA) in Oct 2012
Interview
The on-site interview is very much, pure technical. The question is basically related with my resume, which implies if the resume do not get their interest, I will not get this chance for interview. There are 4 round of interview, in each of session, there is one interviewer discuss with me about my research or related area.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What does your interaction with the industry help you to learn?
Not too technical, only a few simple oral questions about coding skills. Other questions are behavioral, such as asking what's your biggest challenge so far or what is your strength/weakness.
I was directly invited to the final round. Three sessions followed, each lasting 45 minutes, with a 15-minute break between them. It was a rigorous process but an exciting experience overall.
Took about month to hear from them. Email described that your papers have been read and your interview is being scheduled. Next week the recruiter invites to a meeting the next day. 1st meeting with the recruiting manager. Sadly not invited to proceed. I was asked during the interviewing about skills that I did not have.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Have you been been in charge of installation/investment processes when getting new equipment?