Studying abroad during fall

Hi there,

Q: I heard most interviews are virtual during fall, but will this be an impediment if I'm not in the States in person? Heard some firms like Big4 do interviews in person.

I believe you are asking to understand whether it makes sense to study abroad or not. I don’t think it makes sense to skip the exchange program for the possibility of an in-person interview, for the following reasons:

1. Even without considering the exchange experience itself, the exchange program should increase the strength of your CV (assuming the exchange university has a good brand name)
2. Most companies should be able to accommodate an online interview
3. In the "worst case" that they request an in-person interview (or that you prefer to attend in person), you might schedule all interviews close to each other and attend them at the cost of a return ticket, which should not be a big investment compared to the opportunity of the exchange experience

Good luck!

Francesco

Hey there ?

Great that you're planning ahead! You're right — most consulting firms, including MBB and Big 4, conduct their first rounds virtually in the fall. So, studying abroad shouldn’t be a big issue, especially if you're proactive about time zones and communication. Just be upfront with recruiters early on so they can accommodate your situation. For final rounds, some firms may prefer in-person interviews, but they’re usually flexible if you explain you’re abroad.

Let me know if you’d like help crafting a message to recruiters or planning your timeline! ✨

Best,
Alessa ?

Hello there,

Go forward, that’s a relevant experience to include in your CV. Most of the consulting firms do the interviews online and I believe those that do not, could open an exception based on your circumstances. You can always check with HR in advance to be more comfortable with your decision.

Have a great experience!

Best,

Mari

Hi there,

That's not a problem -> if they run interviews while you are abroad, they will do it virtually. You should not miss your exchange term because of that.

Cheers,

Florian

Hi!

• Studying abroad probably won't be a major issue for recruiting: Most consulting firms, including MBB and Big 4, conduct first-round interviews virtually and are very flexible if you're upfront about your situation. I pushed out my interview twice and then I pushed out my start date by 6months. It is possible.
• You shouldn't skip the exchange opportunity : It adds value to your CV, and in the rare case in-person interviews are required, you can plan a short trip back to the U.S. if needed (I highly doubt you will need to do this)

Good luck!

In general, companies right now are able to accommodate online interviews.