Is there a point in applying for MBB London offices if I'm not from Oxbridge/LSE/LBS?

Hi there, 

Generally, you have nothing to lose from applying. Worst case scenario, you get rejected and you lost the time you put in the application, but the upside is that you gained more experience. 

Specifically for your case, McKinsey London doesn't only hire Oxbridge, LBS, LSE graduates. I've coached many others with different backgrounds that started in London, some of which weren't even from Europe. 

What helps indeed is the referral. The tricky thing is that for London specifically they've gotten a bit more difficult about it and are currently discouraging consultants from extending referrals to candidates that they don't know so well. My suggestion would be to reach out to your network from your current school and see who is in that particular office. Then try to connect with them and express your interest and then indirectly ask for a referral. Happy to advise you in a more detailed manner how to go about it. 

Lastly, make sure that you apply to several firms and don't just go for one. 

Here's an article that I wrote on PrepLounge that details out how you can use these initial conversations with consultants to develop a relationship and eventually get a referral: https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/coffee-chat-questions-consulting 

Best,

Cristian

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

• It's great that you have been able to make connections with consultants at MBB firms in Dubai and Madrid and have had success in getting referrals. While it may be more challenging to break into the consulting industry in London, there are still steps you can take to increase your chances of success.
  • First, it's important to focus on building your skills and experience. This could include getting involved in consulting-related clubs or organizations at your school, completing internships or other relevant work experience, and building a strong network of contacts in the industry.
  • In terms of the referral system, it is worth reaching out to consultants at MBB firms in London and asking for a referral. Referrals are generally permitted for consulting firms in the UK and may be able to provide you with a valuable introduction to the company. It may be that the consultant is able to provide you with advice or guidance on how to best position yourself for a consulting career in London. It's also possible that they may be able to refer you to other contacts or organizations that can help you in your job search.
  • Another option to consider is networking with alumni from your school who are working in consulting in London. They may be able to provide valuable insights into the industry and offer guidance on how to stand out in the job market.
• Overall, it's important to be proactive in your job search and to take advantage of any opportunities that come your way. While it may be more challenging to break into the consulting industry in London, it's worth trying and seeing whether you will succeed.

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

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Q: My school has a limited but decent number of hires in London MBB offices, but most of whom had previous experience or did an MBA. Is there a point in applying for MBB London offices if I'm not from Oxbridge/LSE/LBS?

If your school has a decent track record in London for candidates with your background compared to alternatives, I would go for it and apply via referral (the person referring you should also be able to clarify more on the chances and advise). You should be able to get the relevant information from LinkedIn.

If (i) the sample size of successful candidates similar to you is small compared to the alternatives (taking into account the size of the office) and (ii) you have other options, I would consider the alternatives. You could then try to organize a transfer later on.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hey there,

Sounds a bit like IE, IESE, ESADE :)

To answer your question: yes, there is a point. An MBA is only part of your journey, and you may or may not have relevant ties to the area. All the Oxbridge folks typically have those ties and it's not specifically/exclusively their MBA setting them up for success.

I myself did an MBA at ESADE but had worked in the UK for some years prior to that - as a geoscientist upstream O&G to be exact, which is a source for many consulting projects in Aberdeen and London. Hence, I had some MBB pull from London without even applying (my goal was Chile, where I eventually joined McKinsey).

My point is: focus on what ties you to the area, rather than what separates you. Use that as a starting point for your networking and you may have a good shot.

Hope this helps a bit. Best of luck!

As someone who didn't do OxBridge/LSE nor an MBA and got into BCG - don't worry. If you are from a top non-UK school, you won't be at a disadvantage.

Part of the reason why non-UK universities are not represented in MBB London is selection bias. If you study abroad, you may prefer other locations over London. 

Go with where you want to live.

Hi there,

I couldn't agree more with anonymous. Will you regret more applying or not applying?

If you have the time, why not try and see!

Shoot your shot, you've got nothing to lose! even though London office for MBB have great amount of people from the schools you mentioned, it's not a requirement/barrier. You can do a quick check on LinkedIn and see lots of people from other countries / not from Oxbridge who are working at MBB London.