Possibility of landing a MBB offer in Switzerland (or generally DACH) for EU student?

Hi there, 

The first thing that I'd do if I were you is to reach out to a few consultants working in Switzerland who are not nationals. Get a sense from them of how they navigated the process, and then you'll have a blueprint of sorts.

I've worked with several candidates interviewing and getting offers in Switzerland, some of them not being originally Swiss. They each had very different backgrounds. 

Which is why it's important for you to start having these conversations as well, as early as possible in advance. In parallel, it would be worth understanding from recruiters which firm require what knowledge of what language. 

You might find this guide useful on how to approach these chats with existing consultants:

Expert Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals
Best,
Cristian

Hey Michael :)

Yes, it's absolutely possible to land an MBB offer in Switzerland as an EU student, even without a DACH background, but it’s super competitive, especially in Zurich and Geneva. Those offices are small, prefer fluency in German or French (depending on the location), and they often hire candidates with top-tier internships and strong local ties. That said, CEMS is well respected, and with two years ahead, you’ve got time to build a strong profile.

To boost your chances, focus on getting relevant internships (ideally in strategy or consulting), improve your German (if not fluent yet), and get involved in local CEMS events and alumni networks, many consultants are part of that community. Targeting internships in Germany or Austria first can be a smart stepping stone into MBB Switzerland later.

Happy to support you personally on this path! In my coachings, I tailor everything to your goals and timeline and only work with people where I see a great fit and real potential, feel free to reach out if you want to chat :)

Best,
Alessa :)

Hi Michael,

It is feasible to secure a job offer in Switzerland as non-DACH student, although it's correct to say offices in Switzerland are more competitive vs. others in EU. I still have connections working in the Zurich office. Feel free to schedule a free intro call to further discuss.

Mattijs

Hi Michael,

1) I would like to ask, how often it is for Switzerland offices to accept non-DACH applicants? 

I helped candidates from Italy to land offers in Swtizerland in the past, however normally you need to speak German and/or French to be considered.

2) And what should I do to increase the odds?

The best option is to find a referral. You can find some tips below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Interview

▶ The 3 Steps to Get a Referral

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi Michael,

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

• First of all, contrary to what other coaches have said, it seems to be almost impossible to enter a Swiss office directly without any affiliation. However, since you have at least completed an exchange semester there, you already have some form of affiliation, and you can potentially build upon it.
• Moreover, if you would like to work with the most-recommended coach using the relatively inexpensive credits of Premium + Coaching, please feel free to reach out to me directly.

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

Best,

Hagen

Hi Michael,

From a German perspective, I think joining an Office in the DACH Region is feasible, but speaking the local language is a very strong advantage. 

Certainly, a clear storyline in your CV and application that outlines your motivation and local experience will be crucial to breaking into MBB in the DACH region.

If you aim to prepare for your interviews in German, I can definitely help you get ready. I’ve interviewed and worked at German MBB offices (I interned at BCG and worked at McKinsey both as an intern and full-time).

Kind regards,

Kevin

Hi Michael,

Adding to the comments of my colleagues above, it’s also good to know that local language requirements tend to be a bit lighter for specific T2s. This can depend on individual markets but this is something that I have experienced a lot first hand.

Let me know if you want to chat more about this as I am happy to help.

Best,

Jeroen

Hello there,

An alternative in case plan A fails is to target tier 2 companies and try a lateral move later.

Good luck!

Mari