Hi there,

Let me just say that, while it's possible, it is incredibly risky.

It doesn't look great to leave MBB after such a short period, and it will not be easy to get back in after a gap. This is especially true if you're not leaving to do an MBA.

If you really really have to move to the US, tell your company. Let them know that you really have to move or else will be forced to quit. Only do this if you are indeed prepared to quit, but at least you're giving them a chance to transfer you!

Hi,

A few points to note to begin with

• I personally think that your concern about leaving MBB in 1 year is a valid one. I have recruited many ex-MBB folks and 1 year is often deemed insufficient or definitely a red flag. It does not rule you out - you have to have a good reason or you are likely to get into Tier 2 quite easily.
• I also know that MBB does not allow international transfers (typically) if you have not worked there for at least 2 years as a policy so this is not uncommon. Even personal reasons do not work here
• Lastly, I can tell you that getting a US work visa right now is almost impossible - processing times are extremely long and rejection rates are very high. This is unlikely to change in the near future from what I can see

So what can you do?

1. The least risky outcome is to finish out the 2 years (or close to 2 years) and then ask for a transfer to the US which should be more doable post covid
2. Finish out the 2 years and apply to go to school in the US - please note a Masters Program in the US is NOT a recommended approach for MBB. There are too many masters programs at top schools which are filled with international students trying to get into MBB and they are not feeder programs. MBA at top 10 school , JD from top 5, MD or PhD from top 10 are the most realistic entry points into MBB.
3. Apply to do an MBA at a program right now which offers a Jan 2021 cohort (e.g., Columbia Business School) - in my opinion this is the best type of Masters you can aim to do if you absolutely must come to the US now

All the best,

Udayan

(edited)

Hi there,

The process you are presenting seems convoluted.

You may indeed move out from MBB, do a Master, and move in. However you may also:

1. Insist on lobbying internally, in particular if you have a good performance and relationship with the outside office, for a transit. It may take a bit of time, but probably less than applying and doing a full-time master in the US).
2. Create a network in the US, and use it to apply for an MBB while at your current office

If you want to transit and do a master, an MBA would definitely help more than a non-business master, plus provide better backups.

The main constraint with all the mentioned options is the visa and the related possibility of sponsorship.

Best,

Francesco

Hi, yes, you would have chances. However, I would recommend trying to move there internally, by building a relationship with some senior consultants of the target office

Best,
Antonello

Hello!

I have seen multiple questions lately in the Q&A regarding doing masters, which one to choose, MBA vs. MiM, which schools to choose (both in US and Europe).

I joined McK after finishing my master in Architecture (totally not related field of study, and still), and I am doing an MBA in MIT atm. Happy to talk about this, and also happy to guide you with MBA applications, something that I have been doing lately. 

Feel free to PM! Cheers, 

Clara