McKinsey Application process

Question

I recently completed Solve game with score 10/10 decile (540+ score) and HR phone screening at McKinsey.

Many people said that HR call is just confirmation of logistics before 1R interview.

But Obviously it was not, I was not invited to 1R interview, and recruiter said it is the office who actually evaluate and make a decision your application after they gather all information including CV, game and HR call.

TBH, I though I would go 1R interview.

I think I did good during HR call and now don't know what should I do more.

Answer 1

Hi there,

I know it’s frustrating, but not getting to 1R doesn’t necessarily mean you did poorly. At McKinsey, the decision is holistic – the office screens based on CV, Solve score, HR call, and overall fit with office needs. Even with a top Solve result, they sometimes filter out strong candidates simply because of role availability or competitiveness in that office.

The HR call can feel like an interview, but it’s really a final check to see if your profile aligns with what the office is looking for.

What you can do:

Ask politely for feedback – sometimes recruiters will share whether it was experience, CV, or just the office being very selective
Strengthen your application with clearer consulting-style impact on your CV and strong referrals
Consider reapplying to another office or in the next cycle – strong Solve scores remain a plus

Happy to help you prep – feel free to reach out.

Best,

Evelina

Answer 2

Hey there :)

I know it feels frustrating, but this does happen. The Solve game and HR call are inputs, but the final decision still sits with the office, and they look at overall profile, hiring needs, and competitiveness of the applicant pool. A top Solve score helps, but it doesn’t guarantee an interview, especially in cycles where demand is low.

If you did well on the call, it’s unlikely that was the reason. More often it’s about office capacity or how your CV compares against the pool. What you can do now: ask the recruiter politely if they’d be open to feedback on your profile, and in parallel build stronger ties via referrals and networking with consultants in the target office. That increases your chances next cycle, since the office then knows you beyond just the formal screening.

You’ve already shown you can do well in Solve, so with a bit more networking and timing, you’ll be in a stronger position next time.

best,
Alessa :)