L3 (Entry-level): No system design. Lower complexity expectations. Hints are acceptable. Focus on fundamentals and clean code.
L4 (Mid-level): System design round added. Solve medium-hard problems with minimal hints. Discuss trade-offs proactively.
L5 (Senior): Complex system design expected. Solve hard problems independently. Show architectural thinking. Fewer hints tolerated.
You're evaluated against your target level. An L3 who needs hints on a medium problem is fine. An L5 who needs hints on the same problem raises concerns.