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Question about MBA sponsorship timelines?

So I’m in a bit of a tough situation right now, I’ve been given an offer at an MBB, and I also have a deferred offer to an HSW MBA program. Not attending the MBA program wouldn’t be an option for me.

The problem is that if I defer the maximum amount they allow me to, I’d only be able to stay at the MBB one year and a half until having to attend. I know MBA sponsorship is usually given after 2+ years. I’d like to know:

1. Is there any chance it could still be sponsored, even if partially?

2. If not, do you think I can at least get a return offer?

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Top answer
on Apr 21, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: Is there any chance it could still be sponsored, even if partially? If not, do you think I can at least get a return offer?

Agree with the other comments that it makes sense to talk with HR. You should have aligned interest with them that you join, do the MBA and come back, so hopefully they will find a solution.

Good luck!

Francesco

Ian
Coach
on Apr 21, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

You need to have a conversation with HR.

Tell them about your situation (but don't say you “have” to do your MBA). Ask them what the scenario might be and what they can agree to.

I think it's likely you could be sponsored (if you perform well). I think it's also likely you could get a return offer (if you perform well). Ideally, you would not need a return offer in terms of re-applying, but rather when you leave, they could keep you on contract (leave of absence) so that you don't need to re-recruit.

Congrats!

Hagen
Coach
on Apr 21, 2023
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the offers!

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

  • First of all, I would highly advise you to reach out to the HR or training team as soon as you start with your future employer, explain the situation, and inquire about the different options.
  • From my perspective, chances are high you will get sponsorship if your performance is good, and the same applies to returning to your employer after the MBA (i.e., you normally do not terminate the contract either way).

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

Best,

Hagen

Lilit
Coach
on Apr 20, 2023
Ex Associate Partner at Bain| ex EY-Parthenon|5+ yrs of coaching | Personalised approach; detailed & actionable feedback

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on your MBB and MBA offers.

I think it should be possible but would really come down to negotiations/ discussions you will have with MBB as your case is not something that falls under the standard guidelines.

There should be no issue in terms of securing a return offer, especially if you will have a good performance and in 1.5 years time become someone they would want to retain. 

In terms of a full or partial funding, you should try to negotiate and see what's possible. It would be very dependant on MBB and specific office as well. At the end of the day there would be someone deciding if they want to make an exception for you or not.

I would suggest you have a chat with your MBB contact now to outline exactly what you said and see what they would say. I doubt they will give any promises now, especially regarding the funding but good to start the discussions now. At the end of the day, its a people business and the decision would depend how much they would value you in 1.5 years time and how much they would be willing to go out of the way to keep you.

Good luck,

Lilit

Deleted
Coach
on Apr 20, 2023
1st&2nd session 33% off|Incoming BCG Consultant ME|President of the Consulting Club|Esade MBA|Offers from McKinsey & BCG

Hello A,

My answer to your questions:

  1. It is possible that the MBB could still sponsor your MBA, even if you have only been with the firm for 1.5 years. However, it is important to note that MBA sponsorship policies can vary between firms and offices, so it would be best to speak with HR or a senior member of the firm to determine if this is a possibility.
  2. It is possible to receive a return offer from the MBB, even if you only stay for 1.5 years. However, this will depend on your performance during your time at the firm and if there is a need for your skills and expertise at the time of your return offer. It is important to maintain good relationships with your colleagues and managers and continue to perform at a high level during your time at the MBB to increase the likelihood of receiving a return offer.

Best of luck and congrats on both of your great accomplishments!!!

Deleted user
on Apr 20, 2023

Hello,

To answer your questions:

1. Is there any chance it could still be sponsored, even if partially?

I don't think there's a universal answer here. But in general, I don't see why they shouldn't be willing to work with you (at least give partial sponsorship, for instance). I would reach out to HR, explain your situation, and see what they say. There's no harm in asking!

2. If not, do you think I can at least get a return offer?

Same here - I don't think there's a universal answer, but I don't see why not, especially if you establish a good track record while you're there before your MBA. If you go down this route, be sure to network and establish some good mentorship connections at the firm, who can then advocate for you and help secure you a return offer.

10
on Jul 31, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach | top MBB coach

Hi there, 

Nice problem to solve. 

In short, discuss this with the firm that gave you the offer. 

They are usually quite flexible and understanding of these things and will make an effort to retain you.

Best,
Cristian

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