3 Years Experience via Degree Apprenticeship – Should I Apply to MBB Now or Wait?

Question

I’m looking for some advice on the best route into MBB.

I’m currently completing a 3-year degree apprenticeship at Arup in programme and project management, and I will graduate in July 2026 with around three years of work experience. During this time I’ve worked across several large infrastructure programmes in project controls and programme analytics.

My experience includes building Power BI dashboards for programme performance reporting, analysing cost and schedule data, supporting project forecasting, and working with multidisciplinary teams on large infrastructure projects (including energy and water sector programmes).

My question is: would it be realistic to apply directly to roles at firms like McKinsey, BCG, or Bain when I graduate, or would it be better to remain at Arup for another couple of years to gain more experience first?

If applying now is possible, which role would typically be the most appropriate for someone with my background and experience? For example:
- Business Analyst / Associate Consultant type roles
- Experienced hire roles
- Or another entry pathway

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hey there! I spent a decade at BCG as a Principal, so I’ve seen my fair share of lateral moves.
Looking at your situation, my gut feeling is to go for it now rather than wait. Another two years at Arup might not move the needle much for your profile unless you’re stepping into a major leadership role.
Given your timeline, you’d likely be looking at Business Analyst role with maybe 1 year of seniority. I’m happy to dive deeper into how to position your experience if you want to chat; just reach out!

Answer 2

Your experience actually sounds quite solid for someone coming out of a degree apprenticeship, especially with the exposure to real infrastructure programmes and tools like Power BI. Firms like McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, and Bain & Company usually recruit people at your stage into entry roles like Business Analyst or Associate Consultant, even if you already have a couple of years of work experience. I don’t think you necessarily need to wait longer at Arup unless you’re aiming for a more specialized experienced-hire position.