Applying to McKinsey a year after failing PST?

Question

I am currently applying to MBB for the second time. I initially applied a year ago, completely on a whim and knowing little about consulting in general. I was immediately invited to take the PST (with three days' notice) and failed it. I have an excellent record & CV, and spent the following year talking to consultants & working on consolidating my interview and maths skills (in addition to my day job).

How much do you think this will be an issue when re-applying?

Answer 1

Hi Anonymous,

standard ban in MBB is 2 years, but sometimes the period may be modified as 1 year or 6 months – as Vlad said, I would clarify that with HR. If you are flexible in terms of location, so far that you have to wait 2 years, an alternative to be considered earlier would be to apply in a different country with a referral.

Best,

Francesco

Answer 2

Hi,

It depends on what was your ban. It could be either one or two years. I recommend checking with an HR since the ban is different by country, role, etc.

Best!

Answer 3

Dear A,

Usually ban for re-applying is for 12-18 months.

But to be competitive enough you have to proove your professional development and show some relevant working experience that you gain for this period.

Also, I would strongly recommend you to apply with referrals.

Best,
André

Answer 4

Hi there,

Usually the ban period lasts 12-24 months. But I suggest to contact HR next time and discuss your current situation as the ban period can vary.

All the best,

GB

Answer 5

Hallo, in Deutschland wurde er laut HR in den meisten Büros abgeschafft und wenn, dann wird ein Test nur für bestim... (read entire answer)

Hallo, in Deutschland wurde er laut HR in den meisten Büros abgeschafft und wenn, dann wird ein Test nur für bestimmte Practices verwendet. Die Aussage war von September '15.

Answer 6

Typically, in depth screening is completed by the ACs / Consultants at the office that you are looking to apply to on... (read entire answer)

Typically, in depth screening is completed by the ACs / Consultants at the office that you are looking to apply to once you have made it past the initial filters. HR will assist... (read entire answer)

Answer 7

Let me take a crack at this (in English) since no-one has addressed this. Top consultancies typically want the best... (read entire answer)

Let me take a crack at this (in English) since no-one has addressed this. Top consultancies typically want the best people regardless of their background. Yes, some roles are... (read entire answer)