Consulting Q&A – Ask Questions about Your Career

In this overview, you will find all the questions asked so far by the PrepLounge community. Anyone can ask questions and write answers. Our coaches are also happy to share their expertise. If you like an answer, give it an upvote so that it rises to the top. Here you can also find our guidelines and FAQs for the Consulting Q&A.

How does the Consulting Q&A work?

Anyone can ask a question
Anyone can write an answer
Upvotes let answers rise to the top
Sort by
Last Activity
Newest question
Newest answer
Answer upvotes
Most views
Most relevant
Limit Selection
Answered
Your Tag Subscriptions

Will joining a T2 hurt my career path pre-MBA?

MBA Application Advice MBB T2
Most recent answer on Mar 21, 2024
The best answer (on Mar 20, 2024) is from:
Benjamin
Expert
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
Benjamin
Expert
gave the best answer on Mar 20, 2024
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
Hi, If your goal is to in the long-term, grow in the consulting industry, then i would say its probably better to stay in your current role now and craft a strong story, especially if you are aiming for a top-MBA.  Bran ... (read entire answer)
8
Answers
152
Views
81
Total Upvotes
on Mar 21, 2024 on Mar 21, 2024
Last Activity

T2 USA vs Bain Riyadh Summer Associate

Bain Bain & Company Career Advising MBB Multiple offers offer decision riyadh T2 USA
Most recent answer on Mar 05, 2024
The best answer (on Jan 31, 2024) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Jan 31, 2024
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Congrats on the options (and the baby)! :) Honestly, you can't really go wrong with either of them.  What I'd do is think about which one is more aligned with my long-term plan.  Where do you see yourself with your wife ... (read entire answer)
10
Answers
330
Views
136
Total Upvotes
on Mar 05, 2024 on Mar 05, 2024
Last Activity

Postponing Starting date 2-3 months

T2
Most recent answer on Feb 29, 2024
The best answer (on Jan 11, 2024) is from:
Yuval
Expert
free 30 min consultation call | 1st try offer from BCG and McK | BCG Associate | 100+ hours of coaching sessions
Yuval
Expert
gave the best answer on Jan 11, 2024
free 30 min consultation call | 1st try offer from BCG and McK | BCG Associate | 100+ hours of coaching sessions
Congrats on the offer! From my experience, the consulting industry really emphasizes the professional development of their candidates, employees and Alums. Add to that the fact they usually hire in cycles year-round, it ... (read entire answer)
9
Answers
214
Views
79
Total Upvotes
on Feb 29, 2024 on Feb 29, 2024
Last Activity

Moving from MBB in emerging market to T2 in developed market

MBB T2
Most recent answer on Feb 18, 2024
The best answer (on Feb 18, 2024) is from:
Benjamin
Expert
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
Benjamin
Expert
gave the best answer on Feb 18, 2024
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
Hi, Would need more specifics on your personal situation to give a more informed perspective, but here are some general thoughts: “Transfer within MBB isn't likely to ever happen” I understand that market is tough now a ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
755
Views
40
Total Upvotes
on Feb 18, 2024 on Feb 18, 2024
Last Activity

LGBTQ+ on-line webinar on CV

CV screening MBB T2
Most recent answer on Jan 13, 2024
The best answer (on Jan 10, 2024) is from:
Florian
Expert
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Florian
Expert
gave the best answer on Jan 10, 2024
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Hi there, Generally, I advise my clients during a resume review to not add any event participation to their resume unless it is linked to a real achievement. (even if it is a very exclusive event). For instance, if it w ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
215
Views
34
Total Upvotes
on Jan 13, 2024 on Jan 13, 2024
Last Activity

Background Check in the Middle East after accepting offer

background check Middle East T2
Most recent answer on Oct 31, 2023
The best answer (on Oct 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
In short, (you're not going to like this answer), it depends :) It depends on the firm and the office. Typically, you provide them with the information through your application.  Then they hire an external provider to d ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
404
Views
22
Total Upvotes
on Oct 31, 2023 on Oct 31, 2023
Last Activity

Economy - Current Prospects for MBB & Big 4 Applications (US - Northeast)

and Bain Applications BCG Big 4 Hiring freeze? Should I apply now and wait? MBB McKinsey reapplication T2
Most recent answer on Jul 31, 2023
The best answer (on Jul 30, 2023) is from:
Andi
Expert
BCG 1st & Final Round interviewer | Personalized prep with >95% success rate | 7yrs coaching | #1 for Experienced Hires
Andi
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 30, 2023
BCG 1st & Final Round interviewer | Personalized prep with >95% success rate | 7yrs coaching | #1 for Experienced Hires
Hi there, sorry to hear that your role was impacted and happy to share my thoughts on this.. How drastic is the hiring slowdown? Varies significantly across firms, but in the US, the major consultancies are facing a sig ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
543
Views
60
Total Upvotes
on Jul 31, 2023 on Jul 31, 2023
Last Activity

Relevant Internships for Undergrad Consulting Recruiting

entry level MBB mbb big4 recruiting T2
Most recent answer on Jul 25, 2023
The best answer (on Jul 23, 2023) is from:
Hagen
Expert
#1 Bain coach | >95% success rate | interviewer for 8+ years | mentor and coach for 7+ years
Hagen
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 23, 2023
#1 Bain coach | >95% success rate | interviewer for 8+ years | mentor and coach for 7+ years
Hi there, I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question: First of all, yes, the internships you've completed are most likely relevant. The experience and skills gained through these internships, such as underst ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
328
Views
48
Total Upvotes
on Jul 25, 2023 on Jul 25, 2023
Last Activity

Offer from T2 wishing to apply MBB before start

and Bain BCG London MBB McKinsey T2
Most recent answer on Jul 22, 2023
The best answer (on Jul 11, 2023) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 11, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi there, 1) I think I have realistic chances to get to the MBB interview stages (I have before) but was wondering if this makes sense to do now. If you have not signed with the Tier 2, there is nothing wrong with apply ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
440
Views
25
Total Upvotes
on Jul 22, 2023 on Jul 22, 2023
Last Activity

MBB/Tier 2 hiring season in Singapore

London MBB Singapore T2
Most recent answer on Jun 09, 2023
The best answer (on Jun 06, 2023) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Jun 06, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Hi there, The most important line is: “I'm looking to make the move back to Singapore (citizen, so no visa issue) in consulting (entry level) as I think it best aligns with my long term career aspirations (T10 US MBA).” ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
622
Views
65
Total Upvotes
on Jun 09, 2023 on Jun 09, 2023
Last Activity

T2 Firms - Italy

ATKearney Oliver Wyman T2
Most recent answer on May 30, 2023
The best answer (on May 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on May 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi there,  Since there's no official ranking for this, I'd actually recommend that you connect directly with consultants from these firms to understand more about their work and their perception of the industry. This is ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
484
Views
59
Total Upvotes
on May 30, 2023 on May 30, 2023
Last Activity

Best firms for internal transfers?

MBB mbb big4 officelocation officetransfer recruiting T2 transfer
Most recent answer on May 02, 2023
The best answer (on Apr 22, 2023) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Apr 22, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Hi there, In general, it's McKinsey > BCG > Bain. Of course, it really depends on exact office, role, timing (economic etc), and your individual situation. In general, the bigger and more international the firm, t ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
805
Views
42
Total Upvotes
on May 02, 2023 on May 02, 2023
Last Activity

MBB/ T-2 Dubai

dubai MBB Middle East recruiting T2
Most recent answer on Apr 25, 2023
The best answer (on Apr 25, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Apr 25, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi there,  Based on my network, only Bain Dubai has a freeze at the moment and only for generalist roles.  All other offices and MBBs are still recruiting. Some of my candidates are already in the interviewing stages at ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
608
Views
26
Total Upvotes
on Apr 25, 2023 on Apr 25, 2023
Last Activity

What are good internships to have to recruit for full-time consulting positions (undegrad-level)?

mbb big4 recruiting T2 Undergraduate
Most recent answer on Apr 19, 2023
The best answer (on Apr 16, 2023) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on Apr 16, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi there, 1a) Would positions in product/project management at early-stage startups be good experience or do consulting firms prefer to see big brand names on one's resume?  In general, this could work. Many people that ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
471
Views
65
Total Upvotes
on Apr 19, 2023 on Apr 19, 2023
Last Activity

Can a graduate from a target US university recruit for Middle East offices?

MBB mbb big4 Middle East recruiting T2 target school
Recent activity on Apr 18, 2023
The best answer (on Apr 18, 2023) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on Apr 18, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi there, 1) Aim to recruit full-time for middle east offices. How feasible can that be? Have you ever heard of students in the US doing a similar move? Yes, I have coached candidates who have done it. 2) I have a coupl ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
677
Views
75
Total Upvotes
on Apr 18, 2023 on Apr 18, 2023
Last Activity

Applying to MBB full-time after internship rejection

full-time MBB T1 & T2-Beratungen T2 waiting period
Most recent answer on Nov 18, 2022
The best answer (on Nov 07, 2022) is from:
Florian
Expert
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Florian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 07, 2022
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Hi there, You are usually banned 12-18 months after a failed internship application in MBB. Your T2 internship will help you with your re-application though. Try to get one more significant improvement in your resume th ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
1.0 k
Views
48
Total Upvotes
on Nov 18, 2022 on Nov 18, 2022
Last Activity

Accepting an offer while waiting to hear back from other firms - bad etiquette?

cancelling offer Interview Scheduling MBB Multiple offers T2
Most recent answer on Apr 01, 2022
The best answer (on Apr 01, 2022) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Apr 01, 2022
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Hi there, I'm sorry but how can you possibly think it's not bad etiquette? You just said the MBA program said it was bad etiquette, that HR would not be happy (and you could get blacklisted), and I'm sure you understand ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
1.2 k
Views
40
Total Upvotes
on Apr 01, 2022 on Apr 01, 2022
Last Activity

Each Firm's Entrance Assessments / Written Tests - List

Accenture and Bain BCG Big Four - Strategy Deloitte KPMG McKinsey Oliver Wyman strategy& T2
Most recent answer on Oct 03, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 01, 2021) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 01, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Hi there, I love this organization here and the way you're approaching this! I can tell you're going to make a great consultant :) Now, here's where I'll tell you you're over-engineering this. I totally and completely u ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
2.0 k
Views
3
Total Upvotes
on Oct 03, 2021 on Oct 03, 2021
Last Activity

Interviews for MBB/Big4/T2 (US) - Virtual or In-person?

1st round interview Big Four - Strategy Interview Scheduling MBB T2
Most recent answer on Sep 24, 2021
The best answer (on Sep 21, 2021) is from:
Sofia
Expert
Top-Ranked Coach on PrepLounge for 3 years| McKinsey San Francisco | Harvard graduate | 6+ years of coaching
Sofia
Expert
gave the best answer on Sep 21, 2021
Top-Ranked Coach on PrepLounge for 3 years| McKinsey San Francisco | Harvard graduate | 6+ years of coaching
Hello, In my experience working with candidates applying to MBB this cycle, it seems like a lot of offices are conducting both 1st and 2nd round virtually. However, you are totally right in pointing out that things are ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
1.6 k
Views
37
Total Upvotes
on Sep 24, 2021 on Sep 24, 2021
Last Activity

Pre-MBA GMAT Relevance for Reapplication

Australia GMAT MBB pre-mba reapplication T2
Most recent answer on Jan 01, 2021
The best answer (on Aug 27, 2020) is from:
Udayan
Expert
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience
Udayan
Expert
gave the best answer on Aug 27, 2020
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience
Hi, I looked at the progress you have made in the last two years. There definitely is a lot of it but I am afraid the person that told you the progress isn't enough is right. The people you are competing with have go ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
1.3 k
Views
6
Total Upvotes
on Jan 01, 2021 on Jan 01, 2021
Last Activity
1 - 20 of 21 results
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely