How likely is it that I will get an internship or a full-time job at McKinsey, as I am 18 years old and in my first university (non-target university)?

Hi there, 

It's hard, but not impossible. 

If I were you, I'd think about it more like a portfolio. Your objective at this point should be to get an internship in consulting, in one of the best-rated firms. To achieve that, you should target multiple firms and optimise for each stage of the recruitment process. 

To begin with, it comes down to writing a great CV and CL, and trying to get a referral. In parallel comes the case practice and the personal fit question.

If you approach it like a portfolio, you have more chances of securing 'something' at the end of the process, rather than going after individual targets. Plus, you will have learned a lot through the recruitment process and received a lot of feedback from these firms. 

I explain this at length in the following guide:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hello,

It is possible, in fact I have coached someone who got such an internship. Here are a few things that make the difference:

• Timing: it would be important to know if McKinsey is doing well in these offices because if the answer is yes, then it will be likely that they will need more interns than usual and therefore it will be easier to land a role. I could check this for you
• Networking: indeed reaching out to a partner that has a similar background and/or interests to you would be helpful. But you need to be careful how you do this as first impressions are important
• Solid base: treat your cv like a mini project and showcase your skills in a way in which they are relevant to that McK office

Best of luck and feel free to chat me if you need help.

Hey :)

Super cool that you're thinking about McKinsey this early! At 18 and from a non-target university, it’s definitely a more competitive path, but not impossible—especially if you build a strong story and network well. The GCC offices do look for exceptional profiles, so focus on building a standout CV through relevant internships, strong grades, and maybe some extracurricular leadership or impact.

Right now, the best strategy: reach out to consultants (ideally from the GCC region) for short chats and advice, maybe even ask for referrals later. Keep building your profile step by step, and in a year or two, look at applying to internships or Insight programs if available.

You're early, which is great—just stay consistent and proactive!

best,
Alessa :)

Hello there,

To offset a non target school, you will have to be a high performer in all business/academic areas. That will ultimately be reflected in your CV. Also, referrals play a role here.

I have recently successfully helped a client to pass the CV screening of Bain, JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley despite having little work experience and being an international student in a non target school.

If you would like to talk about your situation over a 20min free call, I’ll be happy to give you some guidance for you to use in the upcoming months to build the relevant experience you’ll need to apply for consulting.

Best,

Mari

Hello,

It’s possible, but it might require working for another company first or doing an MBA - McKinsey doesn’t hire that many non target student straight out of undergrad. 

Another thing that would help is getting a referral.

In any case, you’ve got plenty of time. Best of luck.

Hi,

I guess there are 2 important things for you to consider

1. Network
   1. As you are from non-target, there will be no campus recruiting (OCR), so having a referral is key
2. Build up your CV
   1. Do well in academics
   2. Excel in other areas (internships, leadership etc).

All the best!