McKinsey R1 cases

Hi there,

For McKinsey London, you can absolutely get wildcard or non-profit cases in R1 as well. They’re not reserved for R2. McKinsey cases are often less “textbook corporate” than other firms, and public sector, non-profit, or unusual contexts can appear in either round. The skills being tested are the same: structure, logic, prioritization, and synthesis — not industry knowledge.

Difference between R1 and R2:

R1

• Typically 2 interviews
• Strong focus on core case mechanics (structure, math, exhibit reading)
• PEI is tested, but often more straightforward
• Interviewers may guide you slightly more

R2 (final round)

• Usually with more senior interviewers (often Partners)
• Cases may feel more open-ended or conversational
• Greater emphasis on judgment, decisiveness, and synthesis
• PEI is probed more deeply and reflectively

In R2, they’re less concerned with whether you can do a case and more with whether they would trust you in front of clients.

For London specifically, expect a fairly balanced approach in both rounds, but with higher expectations on clarity and maturity in R2.

Best,
Evelina

Hello,

For McKinsey London, you can get non-profit / public sector / “wildcard” cases in both R1 and R2. They’re not reserved for final rounds. McKinsey tests structured thinking — not industry familiarity — so sector variation can appear at any stage.

R1 vs R2 differences:

Round 1

• Usually 2 interviews
• Focus on core skills: structure, math, clarity
• More standardized evaluation
• Interviewers often Associates / EMs

Round 2 (Final)

• 2–3 interviews, often with Partners
• More conversational and judgment-heavy
• Greater emphasis on business intuition and synthesis
• PEI tends to go deeper and more personal

In short:
R1 = “Can you do the job?”
R2 = “Would I trust you with my client?”

Case type (incl. non-profit) is less important than how well you structure, think, and communicate.

As a coach, I’m here to help you — we can simulate London-style McKinsey cases (including public sector), refine your PEI, and ensure you’re fully prepared for both R1 and R2 expectations.