3-4 Week Decision Timeline (McKinsey)

Question

Hi all -

I have been informed by HR that the timeframe for me to get an answer after my final round will be 3-4 weeks. I wanted to check if this is typical for ExpHire track and confirm that it is not relative to my performance.

I completely understand that scheduling with partners can be complex, but this window feels longer than expected and makes me wonder if I might be on a potential waitlist.

Any thoughts on this?

Answer 1

Hi there,

If there’s a 3-4 week window it’s possible that they’re interviewing several candidates over a multi-week window before deciding who they extend offers to.

That being said, the reasons behind these timelines tend to be pretty opaque, so it doesn’t pay to worry too much. It could be any number of reasons not related to your performance / waitlisting.

Best of luck.

Answer 2

Hi there,

This timeframe is within the usual range, no need to worry about it. Also, your performance is yet to be evaluated within this window so it couldn’t even be the case.

Fingers crossed!

Best,

Mari

Answer 3

hey!

Yes, 3 to 4 weeks is quite typical for experienced hire roles at McKinsey. It does not necessarily reflect performance or mean you are on a waitlist. Timelines often depend on team fit discussions and offer approvals. Hang in there, it’s normal.

Alessa

Answer 4

It's rather long, but not unusual.

Different offices use different timelines for different roles in different recruitment cycles.

If they already clarified the timeline, I would use this as guidance.

I know the weight is frustrating (I waited for about 2 weeks after my final with McKinsey), but see if there's anything useful that you can do in the meantime, like pushing your other applications.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 5

Hi,

I think it's best not to dwell too much on this : things could be happening internally that have nothing to do with you.

What I would do:

After 4 weeks, if you don't hear back - follow up.
Focus on other applications for the time being - the job market is tough at the moment and you should keep your ball rolling.

Good luck and, happy to chat :)

Answer 6

If HR gave you a specific date for the decision, my guess is they’re wrapping up interviews with other candidates to fill a limited number of spots.

This is not a rejection.

But at this stage, there’s nothing more you can do. Just wait it out and be ready for whatever comes next.

Good luck!

Alberto

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

Answer 7

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on going through the entire application process with McKinsey!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

First of all, unfortunately, no one can seriously answer the question whether this is normal or not, but I can confirm that the lead time does not depend on a candidate's performance.
Moreover, the recruiter will explicitly inform you if you are on the waitlisted, so there is no need to worry about that. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you hear back soon and with good news.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting company.

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

Best,

Hagen