First round of screening - how to know if you didn't make cut?

Question

Hello!

I submitted an application to both BCG and McKinsey last February 17 via their corresponding online portals and got email confirmations from both that my applications have been received. I was wondering:

1. How long does it usually take before you find out whether you've made it to the next round of the application process.

2. In the case that you don't make it, will they email you to inform you that you didn't pass the screening? Or do you just have to manually check the website to see your application status.

3. My application status in the McKinsey website is indicated as "closed" - does this mean I did not pass the initial screening?

For context, I'm from South East Asia and have applied to the SEA offices. I'm a newly licensed MD, having just graduated from medical school last year. My university is one of the target schools of the MBB firms in my country at least. Not to sound too overconfident, but I actually had my resume (and cover letter for BCG) edited by several consultant friends of mine + invested in an editing service by one of the more reputable MBB prep websites, so I thought I had a pretty good chance of at least passing the resume screening. Honestly quite anxious right now and just want to confirm with the folks here if at this stage, is it still a bit early to expect a response? or should I even expect a "rejection" email in the first place since it's the first screening?

Thank you so much!

Answer 1

Hi there,

Usually up to one month – the exact timeline depends on the office and recruiting pipeline
Yes they will inform you also in case of rejection
Not necessarily – in any case they will notify you about the outcome

In terms of your last comment: a great CV is definitely a must, but the #1 thing that can help you to land an invitation is a referral. You can find more on that at the link below:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/hey-everyonehope-all-is-well-3176

Best,
Francesco

Answer 2

Hello!

Congrats on applying, this is the 1st step for everyone, and it was back in the day for the current senior partners :)

Don´t worry too much yet, since it can take weeks for them to process.

Furthermore, think that sometimes they don´t inmediately move everyone through the funnel, but wait and move them in "badges".

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 3

Hi A!

Yes, it can take some time to process these applications. I'd say typically between 2 and 4 weeks, though exceptions are possible. And yes, you should expect a rejection email if you should not get accepted.

For now, I would give them some time. If you don't hear within 4 weeks, it's fair to reach out to HR and ask about the progress.

Hope this helps.

Answer 4

Hi there,

agree with what Henning said: wait it out just a bit longer, the process always involves a mail.

I wanted to add regarding the time it takes: Most companies have your application reviewed within days. However, sometimes they have an official "minimum processing time" before they give you feedback, e.g. 10 days. That is because they want to ensure that you feel that they have checked you're application thoroughly.

So - hold on tight, best of luck!

Torben

Answer 5

Hi there,

Yes, it does take some time for a company to process one’s application. It typically takes from 1 to 4 weeks, exceptions are possible. In case of rejection, you will be notified.

If you do not hear from them after 4 weeks, it would be fair to contact their HR and ask about the progress.

Hope that helps!

GB

Answer 6

Hi there,

You should indeed expect a rejection email (though it doesn't always happen). That said, it's still too early to say (it has only been 2 weeks!

Wait another 2 weeks before reaching out to HR. Even then, they may just have not gotten to your resume yet!

Answer 7

Hi, it usually takes up to 2 months in this period. However, I recommend do not hesitate texting/calling HR and do not worry about othering them: they are there to help

Best
Antonello

Answer 8

Did you apply via a referral or just online? If you did not apply via a referral I highly suggest reaching out to folks in the firms you applied to and ask them to refer you even though you have already applied. This can often prompt HR to expedite the process.

Answer 9

Hey there,

1. Nowadays up to a month is possible with changes in recruiting timelines and COVID

2+3. They should, however, I had a guy contact me recently from South America after he applied and he faced the same issue. Never heard back from McK and the application was closed (and he was not invited to the PSG). Shoot me a message if it is different for you - curious!

Kind regards,

Florian