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Do I Stand a Chance of Being Shortlisted When Applying to MBBs?

Hello,

I have a low undergraduate GPA (awarded in 2019), but I have two master's degrees in economics and business analytics from targeted schools with GPAs of 4.0 and 3.9, respectively. I also have three and a half years of experience, including one and a half years at a startup consulting firm and two years with an international organization in economic research analysis and advisory support. I am planning to apply to management consulting roles at MBBs. Given my low undergraduate GPA (below average), do you think my high master's GPAs will provide a competitive advantage and compensate for my undergraduate GPA? Do I have a chance of being shortlisted for a first-round interview?

Thank you.

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Top answer
on Jul 24, 2024
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: Do I have a chance of being shortlisted for a first-round interview?

Given the most recent GPA performance, I believe you could have a chance. The exact probability depends on:

  1. The rest of the application material (CV and Cover)
  2. Whether you have a referral or not
  3. When you apply (this year is not great in terms of hiring)

You can find more information on #1 and #2 (the main points under your control) below:

How to Get a Consulting Interview Invitation

Good luck!

Francesco

Florian
Coach
on Jul 23, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

It's not ideal but the specifics depend on the office, geography, and time that passed since you graduated/the experience you have collected since then. 

I would focus on networking and scoring a referral + making sure to show your experience on the resume in the best possible light (potentially through a professional review).

Cheers,

Florian

Udayan
Coach
on Jul 23, 2024
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience

After a point your undergrad GPA matters less than other factors. The 4 year point seems like it should matter less . At this point you should take advantage of networking to get a referral and invite to interview

Pedro
Coach
on Jul 25, 2024
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

At this point the undergraduate GPA is less relevant, both because you have new professional and academic achievements that provide a more recent picture on your real potential.

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