Bachelor's Degree Grade Weight in MBB selection process

Question

Goodmorning everyone,
I would like to know how much the bachelor's degree mark weighs compared to the master's degree in the MBB selection process. In the master's degree in Engineering at the Politecnico di Milano I obtained the highest marks (110/110), while in the Bachelor the mark is lower (98/110).

Is there anyway the possibility that my CV is considered, or is the bachelor mark too penalizing? Do they use algorithms that a priori discard marks below a certain threshold or are they in any case supplemented by any experiences abroad, rather than particular achievements?

Thank you for your attention,

Answer 1

Hi C.,

It can be an obstacle since a lot of MBB do pay attention to grades.

In your case, I think it's already a plus that your Master's degree grade is higher than the Bachelor's, meaning you've improved over the years.

Experience abroad / internships / extra skills - good idea, will definetely make your CV look better.

Last but not least, have your CV and Cover Letter checked by a professional and network on getting referrals.

Feel free to DM me your CV or if you need any further advice.

Hope it helps,

GB

Answer 2

Hi,

GPA is an important screening element for MBB.

In your case, your academic performance shows an upward trend from Bachelor to Master level, which is definitely an equally important factor for the consultancies.

It is hard to tell whether there exists an automatic threshold that rejects/accepts candidates, but I can tell you with confidence that the success of your application depends on plenty of additional considerations and relevant experiences.

I supported a lot of candidates to obtain offers from MBB in Italy. Do not hesitate to contact me for more info on how to structure a solid prep plan, from networking to case and fit interview preparation.

Best,

Antonello

Answer 3

Hi there,

If you are applying to the Milan office, the lower bachelor grade may be an issue for McKinsey. For BCG and Bain, if you have a strong referral you should be fine as they are more flexible, in particular considering you got 110 in your master.

Hope this helps,

Francesco

Answer 4

Hello!

I went to POLIMI too :)

Both are great ones, so do include them without issues. Furthermore, POLIMI is a target school, so you are in the safe side.

There is plenty of alumni that can help you with referrals.

Best,

Clara

Answer 5

Hi,

If you have a strong Masters - that's a huge plus. Your Bachelor's does not look bad as well. I would not be concerned at your place

Best

Answer 6

Hi there,

In general, there is the benefit of "recency bias" where having better accomplishments/grades more recently can override worse grades earlier.

Of course, the Bachelor marks may still be too penalizing. However, the best way around this is to network as much as you can to get a referral to the office. Other than that, you may as well try to apply...what's done is done!

Answer 7

Hi,

It depends, a low undergrad mark can be counterweight with referal, high standardized test result (e.g. GMAT), strong graduate mark.

Best,
Iman