Joining MBA in September? What can I do to join MBB?

Hi there,

If you're starting your MBA in September and aiming for MBB, you have a great window to get ahead. I’ve been through business school myself, so I know how important it is to use this time wisely—early prep can make a big difference.

1. Master case interviews early
Start practicing both fit and case interviews now. Use resources like Case in Point, Victor Cheng’s Case Interview Secrets, and platforms like PrepLounge. The earlier you begin, the more confident and relaxed you’ll be when recruiting kicks off.

2. Build business fundamentals
Review key topics like market sizing, profitability, growth strategy, and corporate finance. Sharpen your mental math and Excel skills—MBB looks for structured, analytical thinkers.

3. Craft a consulting-ready CV
Update your résumé to highlight leadership, impact, and problem-solving. Make sure it’s polished and ready to share with career services or networking contacts.

4. Connect with consultants and alumni
Start reaching out to MBB consultants—especially those who went to your school or share your background. These relationships are often key to standing out at campus events and may lead to referrals.

5. Refine your personal pitch
Be ready to explain your story clearly: why consulting, why now, and why MBB. A confident and concise pitch helps you make a strong impression at networking events.

Using the next couple of months to prep will put you ahead of the curve. You’ll enter MBA recruiting season feeling sharp and well-positioned.

Feel free to reach out—happy to help you with your prep.

Best,

Evelina

Hi there, 

That's a great question and even better that you're asking it in advance. 

Basically, what I tell everyone in your situation is that you need a good strategy before you join the program. Specifically, a strategy around how you're going to approach the application process. You might find the following guide useful:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

That aside, focus on the following:

• Get early clarity over deadlines and the firms you want to apply to
• Optimise getting referrals for all the top firms you want to apply to
• Build your case fundamentals ideally before you start your MBA program
• Get a coach to support you in prioritising your growth
• Prepare your documents (CV and CL) to an exceptional standard (not just a good one).

Best,
Cristian

Hello! 

Great that you’re thinking ahead! The time before your MBA is perfect to build a strong foundation. Start by getting super comfortable with case interviews—practice structure, mental math, and communication. Also, polish your CV and think through your personal stories for fit interviews.

You can also research each firm’s recent work and values so you show up to on-campus events informed and curious. If you haven’t already, reach out to a few alumni at MBB to ask about their paths and tips—that insight helps you stand out when networking starts.

No need to wait until your MBA begins—starting now will make a big difference later!

Best,
Alessa :)

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the MBA offer!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

• First of all, I would advise you to begin case preparation even before the MBA program starts. The competition at leading MBA programs is high, and being ahead will give you more space to fine-tune later.
• Moreover, I would advise you to reach out to current consultants from your target consulting firms who went to your future MBA school and ask them for short coffee chats, in which you can learn how recruiting worked for them, and already try to build early connections for later referrals.

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

Best,

Hagen

I would recommend getting started on case prep early, to get a head-start vs. your peers.

It's important to have a clear picture of what firms you are going to target in advance, so that your prep is focused.

You can also network with alums / your existing network at those firms - not only to secure referrals, but also to get a good sense of how the application process worked.

Lastly, I would suggest joining your MBA consulting club when you begin.

Good luck.