Applying to strategy consulting

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• Contrary to what other coaches have said, hiring for consulting positions in the Middle East happens on a rolling basis, so there is no better or worse time to apply. If you feel prepared for the upcoming application process, I do not see any need to further wait.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there, 

It depends on the role that you apply and on the specific office. 

Why? 

Because for certain roles, especially more junior roles, recruiting is done in cohorts and then there are specific timelines only when you can apply. 

If you're more senior / or an experienced hire, then you have more flexibility as when you can apply. 

Always check with the recruiter what the upcoming deadlines are for your target role. It's really worth the effort of having that conversation.

By and large, it's always best when fewer people apply. So if you don't have to apply as part of the cohort recruitment, then apply in the 'off-season'. And when you have to apply in the cohort periods, apply rather in the early part of the timeline, rather than towards the deadline. 

You might also find this guide helpful:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

For Tier 1 and Tier 2 consulting firms in the region (such as McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Strategy&, Oliver Wyman, etc.), applications are accepted year-round for experienced hires. However, there are certain periods during the year when recruiting activity tends to be higher.

The best times to apply are typically September to November, which is one of the busiest recruiting periods after the summer, and January to March, when firms resume hiring activity following the year-end break and before Ramadan. On the other hand, it's usually best to avoid applying in late June through August or during Ramadan, as these are generally slower periods due to summer holidays and the holy month.

If you're a recent graduate or applying for entry-level roles, those follow more structured campus recruiting cycles, usually in the fall.

Since you're based in the Middle East, I’d also recommend tailoring your application to show regional interest and familiarity—this is often valued by local offices.

Happy to help with your prep or review your application—feel free to reach out!

Best,

Evelina

Hi,

The application window is typically from August till October; so best is to apply end August.

You can always reach out to the specific office to get the exact dates.

Mattijs

As Mattijs mentioned the big hiring window is late summer, and also a fair number of candidates are brought in at the start of the year.

It’s worth reaching out directly to the recruiting team to confirm the dates.

Hey there :)

For MBB and tier 2 firms in the Middle East, the best time to apply is typically late summer to early fall (August to October), especially for full-time roles. That’s when most structured recruiting happens. That said, experienced hire roles and off-cycle positions open year-round, so it’s worth keeping an eye out regularly.

Happy to help review your CV or timeline if you’re planning your application!

Best,
Alessa :)