Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Interview Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Entry-Level or Senior Associate? Advice for MBB Applications in the Middle East

I'm currently applying to MBB in the Middle East, and I'm unsure whether to apply for entry-level positions or Senior Associate roles (pre MBA). I’d appreciate some advice based on my background:

  • I hold a bachelor’s in management and a master’s in finance from top 10 European universities.
  • Total of 2.5 years of work experience:
    • I completed a six-month internship at Amazon as a Business Analyst.
    • I have two years of in-house consulting experience with major European banks (think HSBC, BNP Paribas, Banco Santander, etc.).
  • I also run an online business on my own, which generated multiple four-figure revenues. While this isn't corporate experience, I still consider it valuable.

So although I dont have external strategy consulting experience, i would say Im ok for Senior Associate role but maybe Im totally wrong. Looking forward to hearing from you :)

Thanks!

2
600+
26
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Hagen
Coach
edited on Oct 30, 2024
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi there,

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

  • First of all, I would advise you to apply for the higher position. If the recruiter reviewing your application does not approve, they will tell you so and change the position accordingly.
  • Moreover, if in doubt, I would advise you to contact the recruiter directly, as only they know for sure. 

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

Best,

Hagen

Florian
Coach
on Oct 29, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

With this profile, you would typically still be considered entry-level.

Associate positions are usually available after 3+ years of relevant full-time work experience and even then, sometimes people are pushed back to the entry level.

However, this would be a great discussion starter for your networking efforts in the region.

Cheers,

Florian

Similar Questions
Consulting
BCG Application status
on Aug 08, 2024
Global
5
5.3k
132
5 Answers
5.3k Views
Consulting
How hard is it to be laterally hired as entry level at MBB?
on Aug 16, 2024
Global
4
1.4k
48
4 Answers
1.4k Views
Consulting
Any MBB offers after maths mistakes?
on Aug 22, 2024
Global
6
1.7k
74
6 Answers
1.7k Views
Consulting
What do they look in a candidate?
on Aug 24, 2024
Global
5
2.2k
65
5 Answers
2.2k Views
Consulting
Preparation for Entry Level MBB
on Sep 24, 2024
Global
7
1.4k
58
7 Answers
1.4k Views
Show more