How flexible are MBB with start dates?

Question

Hi everyone, I'm a medic looking to transition into a consultancy role. I'm getting ready to apply to MBB. However I also have an offer for a masters in economics at UCL with a scholarship. I have to pay a £1000 deposit to secure my place on the MSc programme.

In an ideal world I would be able to press pause on the world, go do the MSc (mostly for personal interest reasons and also to add a bit more depth and dimension to my qualifications) and then come back to start a consultancy role.

I don't believe the MSc will alter/improve my chances significantly for my job application.

My plan is to accept the MSc (which starts in October), apply for jobs in the meanwhile and hope that if I get a role (as a first level expericenced-hire, e.g. associate level at McKinsey) I can ask for my start date to be next year. Does this sound viable?

Thank you in advance :)

Answer 1

Hi Dela,

Well done on getting into the master program in UCL! You'll love the life in central London :)

Usually MBB are quite flexible with the starting date. I don't know how long is your master program but in most cases they can extend starting date for maximum one year. However, bear in mind that if they urgently need your background for certain project, they may not be as flexible.

My suggestion is, during your chat with the recruiter, which usually happens after you pass the resume screening, explain your situation and ask him/her what would be the best way for you to proceed. Don't worry, MBB will not turn down the right candidate based on these small details.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Hi Dela,

I agree with Erica, usually MBB are quite flexible with the starting date as they are always hiring.

If your master is 12 months, you should be fine. Having said that, you can connect with the recruiter before your first round to confirm that and see if it makes sense to do the round as scheduled or if it is better to postpone it to later on.

Best,

Francesco

Answer 3

Hey there,

Yes, that sounds viable. McKinsey offers are - in most countries - valid for 12 months and in special cases can also be extended by a bit.

Enjoy your time in London!

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 4

Hi, I confirm MBB are flexible about the hiring period. I suggest explicitly talking about it with HR

Best,
Antonello

Answer 5

Hi Dela,

MBB should be flexible with start date so you should be safe here! Consider adding your Masters (with exp date) to your resume, and make sure to have open/honest conversations with HR during this procress.

Answer 6

Hi Dela,

Adding to the helpful comments, most of the consultancies in London recruit 1 year before taking in their candidates. So, if you apply this autumn and get an offer, you would very likely start to work next year in autumn.

Enjoy London!
Cheers