Polygraph in MBB Application

Question

Hi,

I am wondering whether MBB firms use a polygraph to check the candidate's background info (at the application stage or even later) or not.

Answer 1

A polygraph is most often used by the police as a tool to check the truth behind what a suspected criminal is saying. It is never used in any professional setting. If you have lied about something on your resume, I suggest you alter it because if it does come to light at a later stage it can have a strong negative impact on your whole career.

Udayan

Answer 2

One of the Bs actually do! I got an offer and eventually I couldnt get away with financing my undergrad studies on meth cooking.

What a strange world we live in.

Answer 3

You can be certain that if they would, you'd know about it ;)

Answer 4

LOL! I wish they did, 95% wont get in :).

On a serious note, they dont.

Answer 5

No, MBB firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) do not use polygraph tests at any stage of their hiring process — those are generally limited to certain government, law enforcement, or high-security roles, and even then their use is controversial. MBB firms will verify your background through standard means like reference checks, academic and employment verification, and possibly criminal record checks if relevant, but there’s no lie detector involved.

Answer 6

Ha! I've been on here a while and still love that I can see original questions arise. Don't worry, your secrets are safe ;)

Answer 7

Hi, I confirm it is never used during consulting interview

Best,
Antonello

Answer 8

Ha I have never heard of this before so I think the answer is a solid no

Answer 9

Hello!

This made me smile.

Not at all! The background check is actually done before and by other companies, that basically check that you didn´t lie in the big aspects (education, job, dates)

Nothing to worry about.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara