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Retake Solve?

Hello,

I recently applied for the OEP at the London office, took the solve game and unfortunately, I haven’t been invited to interview despite being in the 10th decile with a score of 541.

Just out of curiosity, if I am to apply in the future to the same position, will I likely have to repeat the solve game or will they consider my current score?

Thanks!

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Top answer
on Oct 07, 2025
Most Awarded Coach on the platform | Ex-McKinsey | 90% success rate

Sorry to hear about this. As you can expect, the role is very competitive. 

Depending on when you re-apply the test might be taken into account (if, for instance, you re-apply due to some exception in less than a year). But in most situations, you'll have to retake the test. 

However, if your score was already so good and yet you got rejected, you might want to look at the other components of your application and see if you can improve them 

1. CV and CL - consider getting a professional review

2. Referral - if you didn't apply with one, that will certainly help. Below is a guide that explains how you can go about it. 

Best,
Cristian
 

Thabang
Coach
on Oct 07, 2025
Top Rated McKinsey Coach | Ex-McKinsey | Top MBB Coach

Hey there, 

The Solve scores remain valid for 1 year, so if you were to apply for the same position after a years time, you generally would be required to re-take the assessment. 

Hope that helps!
 

All the best 

Ian
Coach
on Oct 08, 2025
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

McKinsey’s Solve game score is one input in a bigger decision. Scoring high means nothing if your CV is weak or the office already filled its quota. It happens all the time. If you reapply, you will likely have to redo the assessment. 

The smart move is to fix the front end — your application and networking — so you get the interview next time. Use Applications to strengthen your materials and message me if you want access to real McKinsey and BCG Solve practice tests. That is what will actually change your outcome.

Jenny
Coach
on Oct 08, 2025
Buy 1 get 1 free for 1st time clients | Ex-McKinsey Manager & Interviewer | +7 yrs Coaching | Go from good to great

Hi there,

You’ll most likely have to retake Solve if you reapply in the future. That said, being in the 10th decile is a great sign. I suggest reaching out to HR to get more insight as to why you didn't get an invite for an interview.