Law graduate with KPMG consulting experience and a 325 GRE, targeting a 2027 MBA at INSEAD or HEC to recruit into McKinsey Middle East (Dubai).

Question

Hi everyone, I’d really appreciate some guidance.

I’m a law graduate (London). I practiced litigation briefly, then joined KPMG (Pakistan) as an Associate in Corporate Advisory. After about two months, I transitioned internally to a Consultant role in the ESG & Sustainability team within the Risk & Management Consulting function. I’ve now been in this role for a few months.

I’m planning to apply for an MBA in 2027, with the intention of starting the program in 2028. I’ve already taken the GRE and scored a 325.

My long-term goal is to join McKinsey Middle East, ideally in Dubai.

My top target schools are INSEAD and HEC Paris. Due to personal reasons, I’m only considering 1–1.5 year MBA programs.

I’d like advice on:

• How competitive my profile is for INSEAD and HEC
• Other schools I should consider that align with my goals and program-length constraints
• How realistic it is to recruit into McKinsey Middle East after graduating from these programs

Any insights or honest feedback would be greatly appreciated

Answer 1

Hi there,

You have a strong starting profile. A 325 GRE is competitive for both INSEAD and HEC, and your law background combined with consulting experience, especially in ESG, will be viewed as differentiated. By 2027, the key will be showing clear impact and progression in your role.

INSEAD is the best fit for your goals given its program length and strong McKinsey Middle East pipeline. HEC is also viable, and you may want to consider LBS or IESE as additional options within your constraints.

Recruiting into McKinsey Middle East, particularly Dubai, is realistic from INSEAD and LBS and achievable from HEC with strong networking and case prep. Prior consulting experience will be a plus.

Best,
Evelina

Answer 2

hey there :)

Your background puts you in a solid position overall. A 325 GRE is well within range for both INSEAD and HEC, and the mix of law plus consulting, especially with an ESG focus, gives you a profile that stands out. What will really matter over the next year or two is demonstrating tangible impact, responsibility and a clear story for why consulting and why McKinsey. INSEAD aligns extremely well with your timeline and has a very strong track record for McKinsey Middle East placements, while HEC is also a credible option. You could also look at schools like LBS or IESE given your program length preference. Recruiting into McKinsey Middle East from these schools is definitely achievable, particularly from INSEAD, and your prior consulting exposure will help if paired with strong networking and case preparation. Happy to discuss this further if helpful.

best,
Alessa :)