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Can I apply for the BA role at McKinsey even though I graduated ?

business analyst McKinsey & Company recent graduate
New answer on Mar 16, 2023
5 Answers
1.2 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Mar 14, 2023

Hello,

I recently graduated with my Masters degree in Industrial Engineering, and I am currently working as an implementation consultant in the supply chain space.

I interviewed with McKinsey last year but unfortunately didn't make it through. I'm confused about whether I'm eligible to reapply for the BA role again this coming summer (as they have the recruiting McKinsey Connect event planned for campus students).

Will the process be different for someone who has already graduated? Any insights will be appreciated.

Thanks!

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Hagen
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replied on Mar 15, 2023
#1 Bain coach | >95% success rate | interviewer for 8+ years | mentor and coach for 7+ years

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

  • First of all, in general, you can still apply for a Business Analyst position at McKinsey. However, since I do not know your background in detail, I would highly advise you to reach out to the recruiter and inquire about the appropriate position to apply for since you might also be eligible for the next higher one. The overall application process, however, will always be the same for the same level.
  • Moreover, given the tight economic situation, I would highly advise you to ensure that you reapply with the best possible application, including polished application files and a strong referral.
  • Lastly, I would advise you to work on the weak spots that got you rejected last year since chances are high your interviewers will take specific care of those areas.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

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Ian
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replied on Mar 14, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

Yes you can! That said, it does depend on the # of years of work experience that you have in terms of which exact role you apply for. 

The process will be different in that you can't apply via school recruiting (that channel is no longert available to you). You need to apply “normally” as an experienced hire.

Make sure to network! This with both tell you for what role to apply *and* increase your chances of being invites to interview.

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Cristian
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replied on Mar 15, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Hi there, 

Yes, you can still apply as a BA. 

But my recommendation would be to discuss your experience directly with the recruiter and go with their recommendation as to what role might fit best. Some offices have something in between BA and Associate (a Junior Associate role or Senior Business Analyst) so this might be an option for somebody with some work experience. 

You can also have this sort of chat with people who are already in your target office. Here's a guide on how to leverage these sorts of coffee chats How to network and get referrals

Best,
Cristian

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Francesco
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replied on Mar 16, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

1) I interviewed with McKinsey last year but unfortunately didn't make it through. I'm confused about whether I'm eligible to reapply for the BA role again this coming summer 

If the ban period passed, yes, you can apply again.

2) Will the process be different for someone who has already graduated? Any insights will be appreciated

After you graduate the main difference is that normally you cannot apply for an internship anymore. If you applied for full-time before, the interview process should be the same. If you took the PSG Game, the score will usually be valid for one year, after that you will have to take the test again.

Best,

Francesco

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Florian
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replied on Mar 15, 2023
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets

Hi there,

You will start at McKinsey as a BA if you have a Master's degree and less than 3 years of working experience.

Hope this helps!

Cheers,

Florian

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Hagen gave the best answer

Hagen

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