Business Analyst / McKinsey

Question

Update: It’s 24th today, and I still haven’t heard back from them. I understand that since I played solve in November 2024 for a different position, they wouldn’t make me play it again.

If I don’t hear back until tomorrow- should I drop them an email?

-

McKinsey emailed me on 7th March saying I will hear back about my application by March 25, 2025. A few days after the email, my status changed from 'Submitted' to 'Submitted - In Progress.' However, I haven’t received an invitation to play Solve yet. Its 16th March already. Does this mean I’m likely to be rejected, or could I still get invited to Solve?

The offices I chose were: Karachi, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Answer 1

Hi there,

It’s normal for McKinsey’s process to take time, especially in the Middle East & South Asia offices, where recruiting cycles can be less structured than in the US or Europe.

Since they explicitly mentioned you’d hear back by March 25, I’d wait until then before reaching out. The “Submitted – In Progress” status suggests your application is still under review, so there’s no clear rejection signal yet.

Given that you played Solve in November 2024 for another role, it makes sense that they wouldn’t ask you to play it again. In some cases, if your previous Solve score is still valid, they might move forward without retesting you.

If you don’t hear anything by March 26, it’s reasonable to send a polite follow-up email to check on your status.

Best,

Evelina

Answer 2

Hello there!

It has been a while, definitely reach out to them. Also, start applying for other companies, T2 and boutique. “Worst” case scenario, you’ll receive offer from alternative firms where you can work if the process with Mck doesn’t move, best case scenario, you’ll have the chance to practice for McKinsey’s interviews in a real setup.

Good luck!

Best,

Mari

Answer 3

If you’ve already played and passed Solve, McKinsey typically keeps your score valid for 12 months.

Follow up with the recruiter to confirm that and also to check the status of your application—especially since the deadline they gave you has passed.

Best,

Alberto

—

Explore my latest case inspired by a real MBB interview: TitanTrail - Operations Outsourcing

Answer 4

Hey there ?,

Thanks for the update—and yes, you’re doing everything right by staying patient and observant. Since you already played Solve in November 2024, it’s very possible they’re reusing your results, especially if it was recent and linked to a similar role. That could explain why you haven’t received a new invitation this time.

If you don’t hear back by end of day tomorrow (25th), it’s totally okay to send a polite and short follow-up email—just to reaffirm your interest and check in on the timeline. Nothing pushy, just a friendly nudge ?

Let me know if you want help drafting that message—I’m happy to support!

Best,
Alessa ?

Answer 5

Hi,

No one can predict what it means however since they said to wait till March 25th, it makes sense to wait till then and then reach out to the HR to ask for any updates on their end. As others have suggested, also apply to other firms for roles so you have many options to choose from as you move through the interview process.

Best,

Udayan

Answer 6

Hi there,

Q: If I don’t hear back until tomorrow- should I drop them an email?

You can wait for a few more days and then send an email, there is no problem with that.

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 7

I don't see a reason why you wouldn't reach out to them again with that message.

Answer 8

Hi there,

Did you ever hear back?

I'd definitely reach out now in case you have not.

Fingers crossed!

Florian