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I didnt clear the PST for a Mckinsey Knowledge role, would I be blacklisted from applying again in a similar role?

Is the Mckinsey blacklist universal for all types of rounds you reach be it the Resume, PST, the Case Interview etc. A little urgent!!

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Top answer
Ian
Coach
on Sep 17, 2020
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

My understanding is that yes, unfortunately you are blacklisted.

You will have to wait anywhere from 12 to 24 months before you re-apply. (office-dependent).

When you do so, you need to make sure you have demonstrated real growth/progress in your career and have networked effectively.

Ken
Coach
on Sep 17, 2020
Ex-McKinsey final round interviewer | Executive Coach

No - I've never heard of a "McKinsey blacklist" based on your PST results. Beyond the usual cooling period recommended before you re-apply (especially for the same role), it will have no effect as you will be asked to take re-sit the test or perhaps complete the new Problem Solving Game.

Vlad
Coach
on Sep 17, 2020
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

As far as I know if you don't pass PST you have to wait 1-2 years no matter what's the role. Otherwise everyone will be writing PSTs multiple times

Best

Deleted user
on Sep 19, 2020

Hi A,

Yes, you are blacklisted. You can reapply at least in a year sometimes it can take up to 2 years.

You should clear your particular situation with HR because it usually depends on the office. Would be also great if you show your professional improvement next time you apply again.

Best,

André

5
on Sep 18, 2020
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Yes, you will have to wait before applying again. It makes sense, as otherwise, as Vlad mentioned, everyone would reapply immediately.

The standard period is 1 to 2 years, you can check with HR in your target office for your particular case.

Best,

Francesco

Clara
Coach
on Sep 18, 2020
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

Unfortunately, yes. 

It is structured as a funnel and you need to pass this 1st step for accesing the 2nd one. 

They will make you wait at least a year, to ensure you have enaugh time to "improve" on whatever left you out. 

Cheers, 

Clara

Robert
Coach
on Sep 19, 2020
McKinsey offers w/o final round interviews - 100% risk-free - 10+ years MBB coaching experience - Multiple book author

Hi Anonymous,

Yes you are 'blacklisted' in terms of the regular cool-down period of 12-24 months (usually on the upper end, but depends on your specific circumstances).

However, you are not 'blacklisted' in absolute terms based on failing on the PST.

Hope that helps - if so, please be so kind to give it a thumbs-up with the green upvote button below!

Robert

Gaurav
Coach
on Oct 31, 2020
#1 MBB Coach(Placed 750+ in MBBs & 1250+ in Tier2)| The Only 360° coach(Ex-McKinsey+Certified Coach+Active recruiter)

Hi Anonymous,

Sorry to hear that, yes, you are blacklisted. Clarify with HR when you are able to reapply next time because the ban period can vary depending on the office.

Spend this time to upgrade your profile - get relevant work experience, improve networking, maybe think of the guidance of an experienced coach to maximize your chances.

Do you need any further help?

GB

Deleted user
on Oct 31, 2020

I think yes, the cool-off time would apply to you.

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