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Anonymous A

on Sep 14, 2022

Global

BCG cooldown?

Recent undergraduate here, applied for a software engineer internship in BCG, got rejected in the final round in July. Could I still apply for consulting roles in a few months when they come up, or must I wait for a cooldown period?

I am from semi-target school, with an otherwise good resume. Additionally I had fallen ill immediately after ending my undergrad in July, lost a previous software engineering offer and have begun job hunting after getting better earlier this month. Will this gap be an issue in the future if I apply for MBB?

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Top answer

Emily

Coach

on Sep 14, 2022

Ex McKinsey EM & interviewer (5 yrs) USA & UK| Coached / interviewed 300 +|Free 15 min intro| Stanford MBA|Non-trad

As it’s a very different role I don’t think that the cool down period will apply. It’s worth checking with the recruitment team though.

I wouldn’t worry about the resume - people often have gaps, it’s only a few months and you can explain it if required.

Good luck!

Cristian

Coach

on Sep 14, 2022

#1 Rated McKinsey Coach | Top MBB Coach | Verifiable success rates

Hi there,

Sorry to hear that the BCG application didn't work out.

My expectation is that since you're applying for a significantly different role, then there shouldn't be a cooldown period. However, it's best to actually check this directly with the recruiter. They will be able to tell you with certainty since there are also rules that differ from office to office.

In terms of the gap you are mentioning, I wouldn't expect it to be an issue. This whole topic of a CV gap is definitely overrated and only problematic in case you are unable to give a good reason for the gap. So don't worry about that and just focus on preparing for the interviews.

Feel free to reach out directly if you have further questions.

Best,

Cristian

Deleted user

on Sep 20, 2022

Hello,

Definitely check with HR about the cooldown period - I also think you should be ok given that it is a very different role, but it is important to make sure.

The gap shouldn't be an issue if it is only a few months, and you can explain it if someone asks.

Pedro

Coach

on Sep 30, 2022

Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

These are different roles, so you can definitely apply.

Regarding the gap, its prety small, shouldn't be an issue, and your explanation is reasonable if asked (shouldn't be a deal breaker when revieweing your CV).

Ian

Coach

on Sep 15, 2022

Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

My understanding is that you *should* be ok here. It's a different role/channel so you should be able to apply. I would double check with HR.

Also, make sure to network!

I wouldn't worry too much about the gap.