Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Interview Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Interview process and evaluation criteria London

I intend to apply for BCG/Mckinsey in London

Bachelor graduate from German business school and work since Spring 2018 for a Malaysian based PE in Mumbai, India. Most of my colleagues are ex-BCG and I have received two referrals that are now passed onto Senior Partners in London.

In Germany, the attention given towards grades is quite high. Since my undergrad grades are certainly not representing the standards set by the majority of applicant and current consultans, I wonder to what extend grades play a role for London. Does the referral and extensive work experience (2.5 years that include M&A and PE) outweigh bad grades?

Also, if anybody could share some insight on the interview process and certain evaluation criteria, that would be very helpful.

3
3.2k
18
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Eugene
Coach
on Jul 01, 2019
Ex-BCG Project Leader, experienced coach, flexible - always there for frequent informal calls between sessions

Hi Anonymous,

BCG process: 

  • First round: Two interviews, standard fit+case
  • Second round: Two interviews with more senior folks, fit+case but slightly less predictable

Evaluation criteria (for cases): 

  • Case structure: MECE? Deep enough? (at least 2, but ideally 3-4 levels)
  • Drill down: Systematic? Use of microstructures? Transitions between branches good? Driving the case or following the interviewer?
  • Maths: Accurate? Identified ways to simplify?
  • Creativity: Popcorn thoughts or structured brainstorming? How far can the candidate be stretched? (give me 3 more ideas, give me 2 more ideas etc.)
  • Wrap-up: Ability to concisely summarize the recommendation, 'executive' presence etc.

Happy to chat more - let me know!

-Eugene

Vlad
Coach
on Jul 01, 2019
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

The grades don't matter - you are already referred by the senior partners.

Best

Deleted user
on Sep 02, 2020

Dear A,

Since you have been reffered by a senior partner, you will skip the CV screening, so grades doesn't matter. 

Best,
André

0
Similar Questions
Consulting
How Does the Referral and Interview System at McKinsey Work?
on Jul 19, 2024
Global
4
1.5k
Top answer by
#1 rated McKinsey Coach
37
4 Answers
1.5k Views
+1
Consulting
Rejection at Bain
on Oct 28, 2024
Global
5
1.4k
Top answer by
Hagen
Coach
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience
72
5 Answers
1.4k Views
+2
Consulting
Will getting a referral matter if I previously did not make it past screening?
on Apr 26, 2025
Global
9
200+
Top answer by
Thabang
Coach
Ex-McKinsey Consultant | McKinsey Top Coach & Interviewer | Special Offer: Buy 1 Session Get 1 Free (Limited time!)
13
9 Answers
200+ Views
+6
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
Thanks for your feedback! Your opinion helps us make PrepLounge even better.