Seeking Guidance: Off-Campus Pathway to Consulting (Tier-3 Engineering Background)
I’m an engineering graduate from a Tier-3 college in India, exploring a long-term path into management consulting and business analytics. Since MBB doesn’t recruit from my campus, an off-campus route is my only option.
I’ve been actively building consulting-relevant skills, especially case interview preparation, using Case in Point and Preplounge, and genuinely enjoy structured problem-solving. I scored 95 percentile in CAT, but couldn’t convert BLACKI, so my current plan is to gain strong experience in Business Analyst / Consultant-type roles and then target top consulting firms laterally.
I’ve seen non-IIT/non-IIM candidates make it to firms like Bain & Company, which makes the goal feel achievable but most advice I hear is broad.
I’d appreciate clarity on:
- Which early roles or companies best position candidates for MBB off-campus
- What actually matters for resume shortlisting beyond case prep (projects, internships, competitions, referrals) using which I can make it to MBB as a undergrad itself without work experience?
- Common mistakes non-target candidates should avoid.
- Whether retaking CAT / pursuing an MBA later materially improves odds versus a pure work-experience route?
Looking for honest, experience-based perspectives. Thanks for reading and sharing your insights.
