Hi!

First of all, sorry to hear that things didn't work out on the first go. That tends to happen sometimes and it's amazing to see that you're going for it again. 

In terms of your eligibility for applying again, do reach out to HR and clarify it with them. Theoretically, if you have around one year since your previous application, you should be eligible once again to apply. 

Check out this article on how to build an application strategy for consulting roles:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Good luck!
Cristian

Hey there,

It is great that you're proactive and strategic in your approach. Here's my take on your concerns:

Referrals vs. economic climate: While referrals are valuable, it's important not to overstate their importance. In your case, the lack of first-round interviews seems more likely to be influenced by the economic situation rather than the absence of explicit referrals. A lot of great resumes did not make the cut and some firms implemented a hiring stop even lasting into 2025. Your resume and background are strong enough to get through screening without a referral.

Reapplication strategy: It's certainly feasible to reapply, I think. I recommend directly talking to consultants and HR staff at the firms you're interested in. This will not only give you clearer insights into the current recruiting situation and how your unique circumstances fit in, but it may also open doors for potential (indirect) referrals.

Bridging the gap: In the interim, if you are not continuing your education, focus on securing a strong and reputable job with skills that are relevant for consulting (e.g., leadership, analytics). Consider roles in industries adjacent to consulting, which could later leverage your transition into MBB or other consulting firms. This experience should not just bridge the gap until you reapply but also add to your profile's strength and represent something that you would enjoy doing.

All the best with your plans,

Florian

Hi,

Sorry to hear about this stressful experience. What tends to happen a lot in an uncertain economic environment is that companies want to minimize spend on resources and being an international student, the sponsorship element can work against you in some instances.

That being said, you do have a great profile and will be a good fit for many roles. At this point, you need to optimize for a good job not the perfect one - find some roles at consulting firms (MBB or others) that are hiring now (you can reach out to HR and ask about timelines) and do your best to get in there (networking, being proactive and talking to alums etc.).

If you get into MBB that is great, if not, you can always transfer post an MBA or even after 2-3 yrs of working as an experienced hire.

Best,

Udayan

Hi there,

First of all, I'm sorry - last year was rough (here's to 2024 being better!).

You *should* be able to. It'll depend exactly on the role + region + firm, but, ultimately, get networking!

Networking will improve your odds AND tell you when deadlines are for each firm (which role to apply to, etc.).

Get a big list (40+ firms) and work through them. You've got this!

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks
 

Application Tracker – Keep Track With This Free Template

Hi there,

Sorry to hear about the previous rejections. In terms of your question:

Q: I'm wondering if I'll get auto-rejected because now it will be the application cycle for May 2025 graduates 

If the requirement for the position is to be a senior, you could be rejected due to not fitting that if you just apply online.

You can consider the following:

1. Ask your internal contacts if they can refer you directly for full time outside the standard recruiting for seniors
2. If that doesn’t work, check with HR if there is any opening given your profile
3. If that doesn’t work, find an intermediary job in between and apply once you fit the criteria for one of the positions

Good luck!

Francesco