Can GPA 8.09 get passed screening round in Consulting Fellowship Program McKinsey?

Question

Hi everyone,

I'm really interested in applying to the consulting fellow program at MCK Southeast Asia, but I heard a rumor recently that they only invite or pass candidates with a GPA above 3.5/4 or 8.75/10 in the screening round. Can anyone confirm if that's actually true?

Here's the thing: in my academic system, we use a scale of 10 for GPA instead of the usual 4. In Vietnam, where I'm from, my GPA is 8.09, which is considered pretty good and classified as a distinction. But I'm not sure how that compares to the GPA requirements at MCK Southeast Asia.

Thanks a lot and looking forward to hearing from you real soon

Answer 1

To be fair, the criteria do differ from office to office and program to program.

Typically, no, the GPA would not be a make it or break it criteria and some offices don't even look at it specifically.

But I do know that there are certain countries and offices where the GPA means a lot and that they use it as the core way of differentiating candidates.

The reality is that you can't do anything about your GPA at this point. And not applying is like not even getting a shot at it.

So I'd recommend that you apply not only to McK but also to other firms that run similar programs. And that you develop an absolutely awesome application to ensure the probability of passing is high.

Here's a guide you might find helpful on how to do that:

Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Answer 2

Hi there,

Sorry but I have to disagree with Cristian here.

I've looked at the data and can tell you for a fact that these firms do have GPA cutoffs and GPA is directly and positively correlated to being invited to interview.

I can't tell you the exact cutoff (varies by firm, region, year, role, channel, etc.) but there is one.

That said, you can't change it - therefore, focus on what you can control (resume, networking, etc.)

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks

Application Tracker – Keep Track With This Free Template

Answer 3

Hi there,

GPAs are always considered in the local context.

McKinsey recruiters have a great understanding of the average GPAs of different institutions and programs in their region and they take this into account.

Hence, I would not worry about your chances!

Cheers,

Florian