When Is the Best Time to Reapply to MBB After Rejection?

Hello there!

MBB have a cooling off period of 6-12 months, 12 being the standard. That being said, if you fail the CV screening phase, either your CV was not properly crafted, or you lack the experiences required to be considered for the consultant position. My hypothesis is the first issue, feel free to send your CV for a free evaluation. If it is the second, you will be able to use this time in your favor, engaging in activities that will give you the chance to create impact (within your current work, volunteering, in social clubs, sports, etc.).

Best,

Mari

Hi,

Generally, the cooling-off period is between 6m and 12m. 

Assume it will be 12m.

I'd use this time to do two things:

1. Strengthen your CV: 

• Clear, chronological layout
• Bullet points to highlight the action and then numerical evidence
• Ensure consistency in verbs, tenses etc. 

2. Begin your case prep:

• Start off by reading through what cases entail
• Explore on prep lounge https://www.preplounge.com/en/case-interview-basics 

You’re currently in the ban period for all three MBB firms, so you’ll need to wait before reapplying.

That said, check with recruiters—some offices are now doing just a 6-month ban if the rejection happened at the resume screening stage.

If Bain and BCG rejected you after screening, chances are there’s something off in your resume or cover letter—either in how they’re written or in the relevance of your experience.

Ask a consultant friend or coach to review them with you. It’s a small effort that could make a big difference.

Best,

Alberto

—

Explore my latest case inspired by a real MBB interview: Chic & Stitch - Fashion Market Expansion

I'm sure you know that most firm in most regions have a one year freeze following an application. I would take that as a rule of thumb.

If you want to apply before that, it's possible, they do make exceptions sometimes, but you need to check this with the recruiter. This would mean for instance applying after 6-9 months instead of 12. You should reach out to the recruiter, explain that you are keen to apply again, you feel like you've made significant progress and that you have a much better chance now. 

Aside from this, apply to other firms and make sure that you get referrals for them to increase the chances of passing screening.

Best,
Cristian

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear that, but keep in mind that the global consulting market is currently not in the most ideal position. The rejection rates are higher than usual. Re your points:

• MBB usually expects a 12-month gap between applications after a rejection, especially after Solve or CV screening, so reapplying now would likely be too soon.
• Use this time to strengthen your CV, gain some consulting experience (even Tier 2), and prepare thoroughly, then reapply early next year with a stronger profile and ideally a new referral to boost your chances.

Best of luck!

Hey there 👋
Thanks for sharing all that — your drive really comes through 💪 Reapplying to MBB is definitely possible, but timing matters ⏳

General rule: wait 12 months from the stage where you were rejected — not the application date. This gives you time to grow your profile and show improvement 🔄

Since you’re in a great prep phase now, use this time to:

• Apply to Tier 2 firms (great experience + name on CV)
• Build a stronger story (new job, new skills, etc.)
• Reconnect with potential MBB referrers closer to your reapp window 📆

Let’s plan your personalized reapply timeline and prep strategy in coaching 💬

Best, Alessa