Hi there,

it sounds like you have degrees from MBB target schools. Your GPA should be 3.6+ to not be a hindrance that would need to be compensated by other factors. However, the GPA aspect tends to lose relevance the longer it has been since your graduation.

Your previous job experience will matter a lot: 

• Can you show that you have acquired and demonstrated relevant skills that will be useful for MBB? 
• Do you have any industry/functional expertise that you can bring to the table to hit the ground running from Day 1?
• Did you work for companies that might be interesting clients for MBB?

The overall chances for joining MBB will be low given that less than 5% of applications are successful. The current economic environment makes it even more competitive as hiring has slowed down.

Your specific chances will depend on a lot of factors that go beyond of what you have shared here. So I would have to see your full CV to give a better assessment (and that would only cover the initial application document screening phase). After that you will still have to convince in the interviews for which you need to be well prepared. It therefore depends on how you prepare. If you are not well prepared for the interviews, your chances go to zero.

In general though, you should try to get an internal referral from someone at each firm you want to apply to. That will considerably increase your chance to go beyond the CV screen and get a shot at a first round interview. Also, if someone is willing to refer you, it means that your profile is perceived as strong enough to be interesting for the firm.

The level you join as an experienced hire can vary and will be influenced by your interview performance as well. The firm will typically tell you where they see you. Entry level does seem too low given 5 years of experience though.

Best of luck

Hi there, 

You have all your chances. I'd suggest crafting an engaging narrative about your work experience. Presenting your experience as unconventional could lead to misunderstandings. So consider seeking coaching to develop a persuasive 'work story' from your resume. 

1. Chances of Joining an MBB Firm

Your educational background from Ivy League and Oxbridge with strong academic performance is certainly impressive and aligns well with the typical profiles sought by MBB (McKinsey, BCG, and Bain) firms. While your career path might be untraditional, MBB firms often appreciate diverse experiences, as they bring unique perspectives and skills.

2. Joining Level

Regarding the level at which you might join:

Not Entry-Level: With five years of work experience and a master's degree, you are indeed overqualified for an entry-level position like Business Analyst or Pre-Associate at McKinsey. They might propose you an entry role as an Associate and if you perform well, a fast track to Engagement manager.

Experience-Hire Route: You'd likely be considered an "Experienced Hire." This category is for professionals who have gained significant work experience and can bring valuable industry knowledge or skills to the firm.

Next Steps:

Networking: Leverage your alumni networks and professional contacts. Networking is crucial in consulting recruitment, especially for experienced hires.

Tailored Application: Prepare your CV and cover letter to reflect your unique value proposition, highlighting how your diverse experiences can benefit the firm and its clients.

Case Preparation: Start preparing for case interviews. Utilize resources like "Case in Point," "Vault Guide to the Case Interview," and practice cases from MBB websites.

Fit Interview Preparation: Prepare for fit interviews by reflecting on your experiences, leadership qualities, and why consulting is the right choice for you now.

Seek Feedback: If possible, get feedback on your CV, cover letter, and interview techniques from current or former MBB consultants.

Apply Thoughtfully: Consider applying to multiple firms and offices to increase your chances. Different offices might have varying needs and might appreciate your unique background differently.

Hope that helps!

I seriously don't get it. 

Why would you think that with an ivy & oxbridge background you wouldn't be able to get a job in consulting? 

Of course you can. And having sampled other industries and firms in the meantime shouldn't be a liability, but an asset in the way you communicate it in your cover letter and during the interviews. 

You need a good application strategy and a good personal storyline. Have a look at the following material to get going on the first one:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Good luck!
Cristian

Hi there,

Don't worry, they have roles for people like you! JC/SA.

Get your resume professionally review.

Network a ton.

Get some consulting related experience (pro bono/experiential learning)

And apply to lots of firms.

If you don't get in, then consider an MBA.

Here's some reading to help!

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks
 

Application Tracker – Keep Track With This Free Template

Hi,

Hard to give a more specific POV without looking at your detailed CV - but here are some general thoughts:

• Broadly, the CV seems to be ‘okay’ - you went to a good school, had good grades and have brand name work expreience
• Story can always be crafted / built up tactfully and smartly - get some feedback and 3rd party POV on what could work for you
• 5 years probably you will join as a Senior Associate (in BCG terms). You may be able to negotiate for Consultant1 but depends on the office. Definitely you will not come in as Project Leader

For reference, BCG's progression is as follows

• Associate (2 years, fresh grad role) → Senior Associate (1 year, not all offices have this) → Consultant (2 years, post-MBA role) → Project Leader

Hope this helps!

Hi there,

Just to set up expectations, chances are very low for everyone :)

Being said that, you profile looks good to give it a try at MBB. I am a little unsure about your entry position since you have not that much professional experience (around 3-4 years). In some geographies they can consider your application as Associate or Junior Associate equivalent. 

Make sure you network in your region before applying to set your expectations.

Good luck!

Alberto

—

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

Hi there,

1) What are my chances for joining an MBB firm

A proper assessment would require to see your full CV/profile, so it is difficult to comment. If you want you can post it anonymized for some feedback. 

2) If I join, what level will I join? 

I assume you have around 3 years of experience. In that case, most likely Senior BA/Junior Associate (McKinsey) and Senior Associate (BCG/Bain), i.e., the positions between entry-level and post-MBA.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hello, 

The good thing is you have a chance to get into MBB! 

For the level question, they can always accomodate by making an intermediate “senior” level on entry level (e.g. senior associate BCG, Senior BA McK). 

Also depending on where you currently work, I wouldn't see it too much as a “step down” even if joining at entry level, given that if you do in 2 years you would be at MBA level (salary $200K+), so sometimes “one step back to jump 3 step forward!”. 

Happy to help! Best of luck, let me know if I can help :) 
Cheers, Nicolas Vilmin  

You have a chance to join as an experienced candidate at a pre-MBA level.