Back to overview

From Generalist to TDA Consultant

Hello, 

If I got rejected from the generalist track, can I apply to BCG TDA? Or shall I wait a ban period? 

Thanks!

5
400+
9
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Profile picture of Julia
Julia
Coach
on Aug 04, 2025
Ex-McKinsey Engagement Manager in US and Europe | 3 years+ interviewer | Columbia MBA

You can definitely apply, there's no restriction to do so. Especially because the TDA role requires different skills and experience than the generalist role, so it's possible to be a good fit for one and not the other! I would encourage you to prepare very well, and justify why you're a good fit for TDA (because the interviewers will know that you were rejected for the generalist track, so nailing your story and rationale is key!!)

Profile picture of Pallav
Pallav
Coach
on Aug 04, 2025
Non-target expert | Ex-BCG | >200 cases

You can definitely apply again. There’s no major downside to trying for the TDA track after a rejection from the generalist role—it actually shows your continued commitment and interest in consulting.

If you get the chance to communicate during your new application, it’s a good idea to be honest and say something like: you weren’t selected for the generalist role but you’ve worked on your areas for improvement, and you feel the TDA role better matches your background and goals.

No need to wait for a ban period unless BCG explicitly tells you so. Just keep preparing and apply when you’re ready!

Profile picture of Hagen
Hagen
Coach
edited on Aug 04, 2025
Globally top-ranked MBB coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi there,

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

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

  • First of all, contrary to what other coaches have said, since BCG's Digital, Technology, and Data Consulting practice is not fundamentally different from other practices, I am certain that you will have to wait for the 12- to 18-month ban period to pass before reapplying.
  • Moreover, if you want to know for certain, I would strongly advise you to reach out to the recruiter.

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

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Profile picture of Mariana
Mariana
Coach
on Aug 04, 2025
#1 coach for Revolut | ex Mckinsey ex Nubank | Consulting & Fintech | Clients hired by Revolut, McKinsey, Kearney & more

Hello,

I would recommend you to reach out to HR to be certain about it.

Best,

Mari

Profile picture of Cristian
on Aug 05, 2025
Ex-McKinsey | Verifiable 88% offer rate (annual report) | First-principles cases + PEI storylining

Hi there,

Theoretically, you can't apply for the coming year, but sometimes they make exceptions. 

Reach out to the recruiter from that specific location and ask them directly. 

Best,
Cristian