Application status closed 3 days after first-round interview at McKinsey but no email notice

Question

I was interviewed for a specialist/knowledge analyst postion at McKinsey.

I logged into the application system 2 working days after the interview and found that the applicaiton has been moved from open applications to previous applications and the status shows closed. I haven't received email on the outcome of the interview and the recruiter didn't reply on my enquiry.

Does it mean that I was not successful in the interview or anything else.

I applied McKinsey positions before and received emai on the rejection.

Anybody has siimlar experience before?

Answer 1

Hey there :)

If your McKinsey application status moved to “Closed” under “Previous Applications” just a few days after your interview, it almost always means that the process has ended and you were not selected to move forward. Usually, McKinsey still sends a formal rejection email, but it can sometimes come a few days later (especially if HR is handling multiple roles or offices).

So while it’s unfortunately a strong indication of a rejection, it’s best to wait a few more days for the official confirmation email. You could also politely follow up with the recruiter again next week if you still haven’t heard back.

best, Alessa :)

Answer 2

Sorry to hear about this confusion.

I wouldn't read into it.

You'll likely hear back with the official news in a couple of days.

Don't assume the worst or the best.

Keeping my fingers crossed for you!
Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Hi there,

Alessa summarised what I also believe happened. Hopefully, you will receive further information within the next couple of days. It is frustrating, but keep preparing and applying to other consulting firms.

Best of luck!

Answer 4

Hi there,

It usually just means the process has been updated internally and sometimes applications get marked “closed” before official communication goes out. It’s not necessarily a rejection, though in many cases it can be. If it’s been a few days, I’d wait until midweek next week, then follow up politely with your recruiter for clarity.

Answer 5

Hi there,

That status usually means the process for that specific application has been formally closed in the system, but it doesn’t always mean rejection right away. For specialist or knowledge roles, it’s common for HR to close applications while decisions or approvals are still being finalized internally — especially if multiple candidates are being compared or if there’s a hiring freeze or delay.

That said, in most cases, if the portal shows “closed” and you haven’t heard back after several days, it often does indicate an unsuccessful outcome, even if the rejection email hasn’t been sent yet. McKinsey sometimes updates the system before sending out the official communication.

If you don’t hear anything within a week, it’s fine to send one polite follow-up to the recruiter — short and professional.

Best,
Evelina