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Do I get banned if I withdraw my previous application for MBB?

I applied for an MBB last year without a referral and my application is still pending ( I suppose it got forgotten). Now I want to apply through a referral for the same position, but I'm considering to withdraw from the previous one.

Will withdrawing from the previous application get me banned or should I just go ahead with it and apply through referral?

Thank you!

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Top answer
Moritz
Coach
edited on Nov 05, 2023
ex-McKinsey EM & Interviewer | 7/8 offer rate for 4+ sessions | High impact sessions + FREE materials & exercises

Hi there,

Two things to consider:

  • WITHDRAWING: It's a completely legitimate tool you have at your disposal without fear of getting sanctioned. It’s not uncommon for people to withdraw (prior to hearing back) because they have something important to add to their pending application e.g. new work experience.
  • GETTING BANNED: Generally speaking, you don't get banned at the application stage - even when rejected. Bans are typically enforced when people have unsuccessfully interviewed.

Bottom line: I don't see any risk of withdrawing and re-applying with an updated resume through a different avenue.

Best of luck!

Moritz
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on Nov 03, 2023
#1 Rated McKinsey Coach | Top MBB Coach | Verifiable success rates

Hi!

You won't get banned, but it might risk creating some confusion with the recruiter.

I would recommend instead that you reach out to the recruiter and say that you noticed that your old application is still active (that you had assumed you'd been rejected) and now want to formally apply but don't know what to do from a technical perspective on the platform. 

They should be able to advise.

Best of luck! And if you are now putting together your application strategy, this resource might help:


Best,
Cristian

Ian
Coach
on Nov 04, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

You won't be banned!

That said, you should check with the recruiter + person who's referring you.

Make sure the previous application is properly removed from the system. Again, please check with them on steps.

on Nov 04, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: Will withdrawing from the previous application get me banned or should I just go ahead with it and apply through referral?

In theory, you should not get banned if you withdraw an application. You might want to check with the person referring you to confirm there are no issues.

Good luck!

Francesco

Alberto
Coach
on Nov 06, 2023
Ex-McKinsey AP | Professional MBB Coach | +13yrs experience | +2,000 real interviews | +150 offers

Hi there,

You should not be banned but before withdrawing your previous application, I suggest you talk first with your referral and with a recruiting contact to be sure what is the best way to proceed.

Best,

Alberto

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

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