I am currently studying at a top MBA in Spain. I want to apply to MBB because I speak arabic. But I feel it is very competitive as almost everyone is applying to middle east. Then I met a recruiter for one of the MBB and, I am from Africa. Once he heard that he told me he can directly connect me to the recruiter. I told him am intersted in ME. He even suggested to put option 1 and 2 in middle east then option 3 AfricaThe reason is I worked in my country my whole life , and I would want a change of location. The more I think about it the more I realize I have greater chance to get an interview and job at Mckinsey or BCG in my country. What is the transfer policy of the two firms? And how hard or easy is it to transfer between offices? and is it true that it is easier to get an interview and job at your home country?
Hi there,
You’re right to think strategically about this — office choice can make a big difference in your odds. Here’s how it generally works for McKinsey and BCG:
1. Interview and hiring chances
Yes, it’s usually easier to get an interview in your home country, since offices prioritize local talent pipelines and you already meet their language, visa, and cultural-fit criteria. Middle East offices are highly competitive right now, given the influx of international MBA candidates and limited spots.
2. Transfer policy
Both McKinsey and BCG allow transfers after about 1.5–2 years, depending on performance and business needs. There are two main types:
- Temporary transfers (short-term staffing for 3–12 months)
- Permanent transfers (full relocation to another office)
Transfers are quite common, but they depend on your track record, demand in the destination office, and alignment with your career goals.
3. Strategy for you
It’s often smarter to apply first to your home-country office, where your chances of an interview are higher. Once you’re in the firm, you can request a transfer or get staffed on cross-regional projects with the Middle East — both McKinsey and BCG have flexible global staffing models.
In short, applying where you’re strongest (your home market) doesn’t lock you in. It often increases your entry chances and still gives you paths to move to the Middle East later.
Best,
Evelina
Hello,
You’re thinking about this the right way as it’s often easier to get into your home country because local offices value regional knowledge and language skills. As for transfers, both McKinsey and BCG allow internal office moves, but it usually comes after you’ve started, isn’t guaranteed, and can take some time. So you should definitely consider applying directly to where you have a strong local fit to diversify your chances.
Hi there,
I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:
- First of all, yes - it’s usually easier to get an interview in your home country. Offices know the local context, you likely meet visa and language requirements, and they see you as a lower-risk hire.
- Moreover, all major consulting firms allow transfers between offices. Usually, after some tenure, you can apply for a permanent transfer, or even earlier for temporary staffing on Middle East projects. But these moves depend on your performance, the needs of the other office, and support from your leadership.
If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.
Best,
Hagen
Hey there
At MBB, transferring between offices is possible but usually happens after 1–2 years of experience, and it depends on business needs and availability in the target office. It’s generally easier to get an interview and a job in your home country, especially if you have local experience and language skills, because the firm sees you as lower risk and immediately valuable. So starting in your home office can be strategic, and later you can explore transfers to another region like the Middle East once you have internal experience.
Best,
Alessa
It is easier to get a job in your own country. Your profile is then stronger / more relevant and the competition is likely lower.
How easy is it to get a transfer? Depends on the firm, but it's always definitely possible, even when it's not easy.
You do need to wait for about 2 years until you can transfer. And you should use this time to already start working with Partners from the Middle East that could sponsor your transfer.
Best,
Cristian
