Totally agree with other folks here. MBA is definitely not a pre-requisit for joining MBB, while it does provide you with an extra application window.

MBB normally has 2 large recruiting window, 1 for graduate (joining as associate) and 1 for MBA (join as consultant). If you are one of these W cohorts then you benefit from their formal recruitment window and normally more open headcounts.

However with your experience you can always apply as an experienced hire. To increase your chance you might need to re-think about the level (e.g. normally 9 years of experience means case lead/manager, but given you are not from consulting, joining as a consultant or even a senior associate might be more likely) and lower your expectation.

You should start with re-working your cv, as I often see this to be a main weak point when it comes to experienced applicants.

Hi there,

I agree with the other answers - you can absolutely switch to MBB without an MBA.

Moreover, why not try first, and if you fail, THEN do an MBA? You may as well take a shot now before you spend 2 years and a few hundred k!

In terms of optimizing your odds, you should do the following:

1) Network extensively

2) Get your resume/CV into the best shape possible

3) Get started casing now so that you can take a slow-and-steady approach and be ready to ace the interview when it does come.

Best of luck!

Its totally doable without MBA for someone like you with plenty of work experience in the bag. Dont think about doing an MBA just "to get into MBB". You must have a strong desire & good reason to learn, fill skills gap and steer your career through the MBA.

I think you need to get your CV reviewed, network with people in your target company & assess where you stand. Have a clear story- what are your functional skills and which industry you are exprienced in?! How will you build on these and be a successful consultant?

While MBB is great, dont ignore the likes of BIG4, Accenture.

Hi, if your first goal is strategy consulting I recommend applying directly to tier1&2. If things go wrong I would then look for a good MBA

Best,
Antonello

Hi!

Wow, complex situation but also lots of potential. 

I see you received already lots of useful responses, but for candidates who are still looking into the topic, I'm sharing here an additional resource you might find helpful:

• Expert Guide: Are MBAs worth it?

Good luck!
Cristian

Hi! Having an MBA is not a crucial point if you are planning to apply to MBB. There are a lot of coaches and candidates who got offers without having MBA. Though it is widely assumed that candidates with MBA are more preferable by the companies, I would say that other things play much more role: your professional skills, networking strategy e.t.c

I'm an ex-McKinsey myself, so if you have further questions, feel free to PM me.

Best,

Gaurav

You definitely don't need an MBA to join MBB (I don't have one, and I will be joining one of the MBB's soon). If you already interact with consultants from MBB as a client, you can develop these relationships further so you can request a referral when you feel ready to interview. If they like you and your work, they might be happy to help. You only need one referral/firm. I suggest preparing for cases and fit while you network.

This is for NAMR, rules and etiquette may be different for your location and your company so please be aware that my advice may not apply directly.