Re-Applying to MBB after Round 1 Internship Rejection (MBA)

Question

I'm a first year student at an M7. I had my Round 1 interviews with 2 MBBs (Bain & BCG) and I didn't make it to Round 2. I had an off day (both were on the same day) and I couldn't perform as well as I knew I could.

Do I have a shot at re-applying for full time? I had heard that if you can't hack Round 1, it doesn't look good but I'm hoping there's more to the story. If it is an uphill battle, what can I do to maximize my chances of getting a second shot?

Answer 1

Hi there,

I'm sorry to hear about it.

First you need to find out your blackout period: you usually get an email stating the rejection and the time you need to wait before reapplying. If you didn't receive it, contact the HR.

Second, you need to show an improvement when apllying for the second time.

Update you CV and Cover Letter. Maybe have it proof-read by a professional.
Practice case solving and run interview simulations.
Consider getting a couple of sessions with an experienced coach, it'll save your time and give you a clear preparation strategy.

Hope it helps. Don't hesitate to write me if you have any questions left.

Cheers,

GB

Answer 2

Hey there,

Whenever you (re)-apply after a failed application (screening, aptitude test, or interviews) you need to make sure to show significant development in your resume since your rejection. Assuming you want to be hired straight out of university this means

New academic achievements (e.g., new degree, top of class achievements,...)
Experience abroad (career or university)
New job experience (internships, working student, project assistant,...)
New extracurriculars (leadership experience, NGOs, student clubs,....)

Usually, you are banned between 12 and 24 months from re-applying. Referrals can help both

shorten that time
increase your chances for a new invitation to the interviews

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 3

Hi,

You can still apply for full-time. Your chances are much higher if its a top school

The best way to make sure you get invited - ask your classmates (Former MBBs) to refer you to on-campus recruiter.

Best

Answer 4

Hi there,

Sorry to hear about your rejection. I firmly believe that the greatest accomplishments come from temporary defeat...so keep pushing!

Yes, you can still get a full time offer (I know plenty of people who have). In order to make sure this happens, make sure you:

Add a solid summer internship experience to your resume
Network extensively, and, ideally, get a referral
Deep-dive into what went wrong during your interviews and hire a case coach to help fix your weaknesses

Good luck!

Answer 5

Hello!

Don´t worry, because what you have heard is a legend.

For sure you can re-apply after the ban (usually 12-18 months). Given that you are a student, it´s worth to double check with HR, since probably in the next course you are already good to go

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 6

This is a myth. Although we state at every MBA recruiting event that a rejection for the summer programs does not have a negative impact for the full time applications, this keeps coming back. Don't worry: You can re-apply and your applciation will be considered without prejudice.

Answer 7

Hi,

I believe the other coaches gave you plenty of correct answers already.

If you want to succeed after a rejection you must improve your CV and experience. For example, working in a smaller consultancy might really help you with the next application round.

Hope this helps.

Best,

Antonello