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Referral for interview

MBB
New answer on Nov 24, 2020
7 Answers
2.1 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Dec 18, 2019

I currently have a 3.0 GPA but received a heavy referral from a partner at an MBB after doing a mock case with them. What are the chances of getting an interview even though I have a low GPA?

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Francesco
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Dec 19, 2019
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Anonymous,

I helped some people with a similar GPA who managed to get MBB invitations after a partner referral – I would say chances are quite high.

The interviewers will probably ask the reason for your low GPA (even if you omit it they will probably ask for a number), thus you should prepare a good answer for it.

Best,
Francesco

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Clara
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Dec 19, 2019
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

You will for sure get the interview, where most liketly they will ask you to explain what is the reason for your GPA. Make sure you have this question super prepared.

As we commented other times, MBB review applications in a holistic way. It should not be a deal breaker if you can justify it, and particularly if you do a good interview.

HOpe it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

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Antonello
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Dec 18, 2019
McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi,
I recommend to omit it in your CV, only the final graduation grade is requested in it. With a partner referral you should be invited.

Best,
Antonello

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Gaurav
Expert
Content Creator
updated an answer on Nov 24, 2020
Ex-Mckinsey|Certified Career Coach |Placed 500+ candidates at MBB & other consultancies

Hi there,

Don't worry a lot. You have a referral, so it means you will have an interview. I suggest you prepare a strong explanation of your low GPA if they ask.

Do you need any further help?

All the best,

GB

(edited)

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Vlad
Expert
replied on Dec 19, 2019
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

Partner referral guarantees you an interview

Good luck!

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Udayan
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Dec 19, 2019
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /6 years McKinsey recruiting experience

Typically when a partner puts in a referral with HR the candidate is always invited to a 1st round/screening interview at the minimum

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Luca
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Dec 18, 2019
BCG |NASA | SDA Bocconi & Cattolica partner | GMAT expert 780/800 score | 200+ students coached

Hello,

If you have a partner referral you will be invited for sure and there is no need to declare your GPA in your CV.

Good luck with your interviews!

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