Join MBB or Tier 2

Hi there!

What's behind your hesitation regarding the timing? 

Theoretically, you can apply at any point as long as the applications are open. 

Strategically, you could wait until you have 2-3 years of professional experience so you don't have to apply for entry level, but it seems like you'd have a rather long wait until then. 

If I were you, what I'd do is speak with the recruiters from all these firms-office for which you have referrals. Understand from them whether they are currently recruiting and what role they would recommend you apply for. Then go for it. 

Since you're applying to several roles at once and you have interviewing experience and are already in Big4, chances are some of these leads will convert into an offer.

Worse case scenario, you learn from the experience, get referrals again next year and apply once again - this time, perhaps for a non-entry level role.

Hope this helps!
Best,
Cristian

Hey there! I would say that you're in a solid position. My recommendations would be: 

1. Apply now — don’t wait. With 6 months Big 4 experience and 1 year prior consulting in Dubai, you’re already in the window for interviews at MBB and Tier 2. More experience might help slightly, but the current timing (before you hit 1.5–2 years) is ideal to still be considered for generalist Associate/Consultant roles, not too junior, not too senior.
2. Apply as an “experienced hire” for Associate (McKinsey), Consultant (BCG/Bain), or equivalent in Tier 2. Avoid entry-level (Business Analyst/Associate Consultant) — you’ve passed that stage. If unsure, referrals will guide your application to the right level internally.

Use your referrals now, especially if they’re at senior levels, they’ll have stronger influence. You don’t need to wait for promotion or project “depth” unless aiming for post-MBA roles, which doesn’t apply here.

Let me know if you’d like help refining your resume or message to referrals.

Alessa

Hi there!

1) How much longer should I wait to get a high chance of getting interview?

You can apply right now, your CV is what matters now, meaning the achievements you had in this 1.5 years. Also, if you don’t pass there will be a 1y cooling off period for you to work more and gather more experience.

2) What positions should I apply for, as in entry or experienced? 
If you have graduated 1.5y ago, that would be a post grad role (e.g.: BA at McKinsey). 

Also, apply for t2 and MBB as you don’t know how you’re going to perform. Besides that, having multiple offers may help you negotiating better salaries/signing bonuses.

If you need support in crafting a strong and consulting ready CV, happy to work with you!

Best,

Mari

1. Wait or no wait doesn't matter much with referrals. I would suggest to get T2 processes started first and MBB with a few weeks lag - to be able to grab both opportunities with the required prep
2. 1.5y experience would mean entry level - for example Associate in BCG
3. Seniority of referees doesn't matter so much that you worry about it - it serves only to get you an interview call

It would be helpful if you can share specific names (education, current firm etc.) over direct messages - I can give you more specific and targeted advice. We can also do an intro call do draw out a prep plan and application/referral timing plan for you. Let me know.

Hi there,

It is up to you when do you want to apply. 

If you apply early (e.g., now), you likely apply for the entry level role (e.g., Associate in BCG / Bain). Depending on how good your interview performance is, you might be able to ask for some tenure credit. 

If you apply later (usually after 3 years of experience), you can apply for say Senior Associate Consultant role (again, in BCG / Bain terms). 

Best,

Emily