Have I messed up my chance in landing an internship?

Don't worry too much about it. 

Typically, applying outside of cohort recruitment is a good thing because you're not being pitted against so many other candidates.

Then, you can just submit your application again as part of campus recruitment and if you're asked about it, then you can explain the situation.

Last but not least, needless to say, don't rely on individual applications. Make sure that you apply broadly. 

This guide breaks down a strategy for the application process that you might find useful:
 

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

No need to worry – applying early doesn’t hurt your chances. Firms like McKinsey will review applications in batches, and if you’ve already submitted, yours will simply be considered when your university’s recruiting cycle opens. 

Typically, you can’t submit a duplicate application for the same role in the same cycle. If you try, the system usually just flags it as a duplicate. What you can do is:

• Reach out to recruiting: Send a short, polite note to your campus recruiter or the general recruiting email for your office, letting them know you applied already and want to make sure you’re considered as part of your university’s process.
• Stay engaged on campus: Attend recruiting events, workshops, and info sessions – it shows interest and helps you stand out beyond the application.
• Don’t overthink: McKinsey is used to students applying both directly and through campus recruiting; it won’t count against you.

Feel free to reach out regarding McKinsey test prep - got some good resources suggestions which could help!

Best,
Evelina

Hey there :)

No worries at all, you definitely haven’t ruined your chances. Submitting early is not a problem, McKinsey will simply review your application when the recruiting cycle for your school starts. They typically batch candidates from target schools together, so even if you applied before the “official” opening, your file will be grouped in with the others.

If your university has on-campus recruiting, you’ll still be considered alongside that pool. Usually McKinsey does not allow you to submit two applications for the same role in the same year, so reapplying is unnecessary and not possible. What you did is completely fine.

Try not to overthink it, early submission won’t hurt you, and you’re in the process just like everyone else.

best,
Alessa :)

Hi there,

This is a very common worry, so first of all, don’t panic. You have not messed up your chances by applying early.

Early applications are possible
The fact that the portal was open means the firm was accepting applications. Submitting before the official on-campus cycle does not automatically disadvantage you. Very often, early applications are simply held until the relevant review window begins.

On-campus recruiting is not a separate process
When McKinsey runs a dedicated cycle with your university, it is mainly to coordinate events and communication. The evaluation criteria are the same whether you applied online early or through the on-campus channel in September.

Suggested next steps
Reach out to the recruiting team or the HR contact for your university and ask politely whether your application will be considered in September or if they would prefer that you reapply. At the same time, continue attending networking events and speaking with consultants on campus. Even if your application is already in, showing engagement and interest will only strengthen your position. If they suggest you reapply in September, take it as an opportunity to refine your CV and cover letter so that you submit the strongest possible application.

The bigger picture and bottom line
Firms are used to students applying at different times or through multiple channels. This does not ruin your chances. What really matters is the strength of your application and, later on, your interview performance. At worst, you may need to resubmit in September, which simply gives you more time to prepare and polish your profile.

If you want, I can review your CV and cover letter with you and help you position your early application in the best possible light. I also offer a free intro call if you would like to discuss your strategy and go into September with full confidence.

Hi there, 

When they come to your uni for on-campus recruiting, you can speak with the recruiting team about your situation and clarify if there is any action required on your side, and/or just to make sure that they don't miss your application by accident. 

Other than that, I don't think you'd mess up your chance by applying earlier. 

Best,

Emily

Hey there, 

no need to worry! You did not mess up your chances.

Probably by now you might even have heard back from them? If not, bring it up during the on campus recruiting and discuss next steps with the recruiters.

Best,
Lukas