Does anyone know if you will get the 1 year ban period from MBB if you're rejected at the CV stage?

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about the rejection!

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

• First of all, contrary to what other coaches have said, yes - you need to wait anywhere between 12 and 18 months, no matter the stage in which you were rejected.
• Moreover, after about 8-10 months after the rejection, feel free to reach out to the recruiter to inquire about the specific time you can reapply, since reapplying prematurely will only renew the ban period.
• Lastly, I would advise you to use the waiting period actively instead of reapplying with the same profile. Fix the weak spots that likely caused the rejection - at best with an experienced coach like me - and secure a referral before the next try.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting firm.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

It depends on the firm, office, role, and recruiting channel.

A CV rejection does not automatically mean that every MBB firm will impose the same one year ban. Check the rejection email first. If it does not give you a date, ask the recruiter before reapplying.

Regardless, do not just apply again with the same profile. Fix your resume, strengthen your experience, and network extensively, ideally aiming for a referral.

My Applications course covers the full application strategy, including CVs, referrals, networking, and an application tracker with 40+ firm options.

Unfortunately, yes. The reapplication waiting period also applies at the CV-screening stage.

The only exceptions I have seen in my career involved candidates with exceptionally strong internal support (e.g. a very senior partner actively pushing for the reapplication to be reconsidered), but these are exceptions.

Best,
Franco

Yes - ban applies to a failed application, regardless of the stage.

All the best!

Usually, a rejection at the CV screening stage does not trigger the same cooling off period as reaching the interview stage, but policies can vary by firm and office. I’d confirm with the recruiter for the specific MBB office you applied to.

Best, Alessa