Does McKinsey require a cover letter?

Hi,

You are required to submit cover letters regardless of the office. As Vlad said, only in case of some referrals you may not be required to submit a cover letter (as you are not going through a formal process). But it is widely true that some offices do not read cover letters and only look at CVs to screen the candidates to save time.

Best,

Deniz

Hi,

That's not correct. You have a mandatory cover letter in the application form. If you apply via a referral, they dont ask for the cover letter at the beginning, but ask for them later, after you are invitied for an interview

Best

I would def include one!

Hi Omar,

some McKinsey offices don’t have cover letters as a compulsory requirement indeed, but this is not true for all the offices. Unless at KL they specifically mention not to attach a cover letter, I would attach one just in case.

Best,

Francesco

to my knowledge this various by location

Dear Omar,

Cover letters is a part of your application. They may read it and may not, but I would rather recommend you to send it. 

Best,
André

I've attended various events at the london office and the recruiters have mentioned each time that a cover letter is not required for your application. I don't think that applies to every office though.