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

Hello,

I will be starting my CEMS MIM this autumn. After my previous exchange in Switzerland I am really interested in working there or in DACH as a consultant. I have two years of studies ahead of me and little to no previous experience. Since I have read some threads here, it is very competetive to land a job especially in Switzerland, moreover without any connections, but anything could be possible, right?

I would like to ask, how often it is for Switzerland offices to accept non-DACH applicants? And what should I do to increase the odds?

In this matter I would like to also request a personal coaching from someone, who could possibly help me on this journey and tailor my path to success. Strong connections in DACH are crucial. Price point on the lower end. Thank you.

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Top answer
on Jul 23, 2025
#1 Rated McKinsey Coach | Top MBB Coach | Verifiable success rates

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

Alessa
Coach
on Jul 23, 2025
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | xRB | >400 coachings | feel free to schedule an intro call for free

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 :)

Mattijs
Coach
on Jul 23, 2025
Free 15m intro call | First session -50% | Bain| Hiring team | 250+ successful candidates

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

Jeroen
Coach
on Jul 23, 2025
Ex-Netherlands Recruitment Lead OW | 5+ years of coaching experience | Great Price/Value | Free Intro Calls

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

Kevin
Coach
edited on Jul 23, 2025
1st session -50% | Ex-McKinsey | Ex-BCG | MBB Germany Expert | CV & Cover Letter Review | FREE 15min intro call!

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

Mariana
Coach
on Jul 23, 2025
xMckinsey | Consulting and Tech | 1.5h session | +200 sessions | Free 20-min introductory call

Hello there,

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

Good luck!

Mari

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