Is MBB still a possibility?

It’s certainly still a possibility.

In your shoes I’d advise applying both to remaining MBBs as well as T2s. If you don’t get into MBB this time you can always apply again later or lateral across.

It may make sense to come up with a story for why you’re applying to the other MBBs or T2s - maybe there’s a specific sector you want to focus on, for example. 

Let me know if you need some case or fit practice.

Hi there, 

With an internship experience it is definitely worth trying if you enjoyed the experience, but I would recommend to expand your searching scope. 

The conversion rate is lower than before for interns, so wouldn't be too discouraged there. Expand your search to include other consulting roles is a good idea, as you may get some pleasant surprise and find a better fit somewhere. The interview experience you had with MBB would be very helpful for you during those interviews too. 

Good luck!

Han

Hi there, 

You can try the remaining 2 MBB firms. But be prepared you might be asked why you didn't get a return offer. Be honest, but also highlight what have you done differently since then to make yourself more ready / suitable for the other MBB firms. 

I don't see the rationale to go for a T2 at this moment (you would also run into the same question). 

Corporate strategy role could be a good alternative. You might consider applying in parallel (with MBB), as your plan B. 

Best,

Emily

Hi there,

It’s definitely still worth trying again — especially if you target offices where the working language is your native one. That way, you can proactively address the earlier challenges and demonstrate how you’ll perform differently in a better-fit environment.

The internship isn’t necessarily a red flag, especially with a low conversion rate — just be ready to explain what you learned and how you’ve grown since.

I’d recommend applying to both MBB and strong alternatives in parallel, and see where you get traction. Good luck!

Cheers,

Kevin

Possible for sure! In fact a close friend of mine was an intern with me at BCG many years ago. She did not get an offer but then went on to work for McKinsey full time and has been successful in doing so.

However, I would put all eggs in one basked (= only MBB). Go for the remaining two MBB, T2 and corporate strategy roles at firms that interest you.

Absolutely — MBB is still a possibility for you.

Many people assume that not getting a return offer is a red flag, but that’s not necessarily true. What matters more is how you frame that experience and what you’ve done since. And frankly, you’re in a stronger position now with:

• A 6-month MBB internship (which many never even get),
• ~2 years of strategy consulting experience at a boutique, and
• 1 year of Big 4 tech consulting.

That’s a solid foundation.

Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. Own the story – don’t avoid it

MBB will ask about the internship, so be honest and self-aware:

• Acknowledge the gaps (communication, motivation).
• Show exactly how you’ve addressed them since — specific examples.
• Position it as a learning curve that made you stronger.

If you come off defensive, it’s a no.

If you come off reflective and growth-oriented, it’s a win.

2. Language & motivation context

You were operating in a non-native language — that’s not a red flag, it’s context. If you now work in a similar environment and thrive, use that as evidence.

Motivation is tricky — but again, you can reframe that. If you felt underutilized, explain how that shaped your motivation to take on more strategic work, or how it pushed you toward your current role.

3. Apply to the other MBBs

Yes, go for it. Don’t self-reject. Your background will be interesting to the right office and team — particularly those looking for experienced hires.

Even the same MBB firm could consider you for a different office, a different role, or a later timeline — depending on how you frame your growth.

4. T2 and corporate strategy are good too — but don’t treat them as “fallbacks”

If MBB doesn’t work out now, T2 or strong corp strategy roles are excellent next steps. In fact, many people go from T2 → MBB. But apply in parallel.

Hi there,

I'm sorry to hear that the internship conversion didn't work out. These things happen. 

It sounds like you are committed to being in consulting and you've already accumulated a bit of experience. Yes, you should definitely apply for MBB, but not only. Go broader, that's super important, especially in the current market. 

You might find the following guide useful:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hello there,

I’m sorry for the outcome of your internship! But you’re definitely well positioned to find another fulfilling consultant job.

Adding to what was already stated, remember to network with people from your target companies, referrals can go a long way, specially for MBB and T2.

Your historic so far is one that really contributes for you to get interviews in good consulting firms, you’ll be fine!

Best,

Mari

Hey there. Sorry to hear you didn't receive an offer. I have seen several MBB interns not receive offers and go on to be successful within MBB. 

My general advice for you: If you enjoyed your internship and you think MBB is what you would enjoy the most, you should go for it. 

Make sure you can clearly (and truthfully) articulate why you didn't get an offer.

But my main question for you would be: Did your lower drive during the internship relate to you actually not enjoying the work that much? 

Ask yourself: Do you want to work at MBB because you (think you) will enjoy it or because of other reasons? Find the job you actually want to do, not the job you want to be able to tell others about. 

Best of luck! 

-Andreas

Hi there,

Yes — MBB is still very much a possibility. A declined return offer isn’t a deal-breaker, especially if the feedback was on soft skills and you’ve gained more experience since.

Option 1: Apply to the other two MBBs

• The internship won’t automatically be a red flag — just be ready to explain it positively (e.g. language challenge, motivation gap, low overall conversion).
• Emphasize how you've grown and addressed the feedback.
• Target offices where your language and experience are a better fit.

Option 2: Consider T2 as a backup

• A strong role at a T2 (EY Partheon, LEK, AT Kearney) can boost your profile further and keep the door open for MBB later

Happy to help you prep or provide further advice – feel free to reach out.
Best,
Evelina