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

Seeking Advice on Career Path

europe MBA MBB Middle East tier1
Most recent answer on Mar 09, 2024
The best answer (on Mar 08, 2024) is from:
Dennis
Expert
Ex-Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe
Dennis
Expert
gave the best answer on Mar 08, 2024
Ex-Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe
Hi there, if you want to pursue a career in consulting, then gaining experience in “niche consulting” is still better than no consulting experience. Of course you shouldn't linger at this firm for too long if your ambit ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
105
Views
65
Total Upvotes
on Mar 09, 2024 on Mar 09, 2024
Last Activity

Top MBA application

MBA MBB
Most recent answer on Dec 31, 2023
The best answer (on Dec 30, 2023) 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 Dec 30, 2023
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
Hi, Here are some thoughts based on my own experience applying + observations of my friends Key things to do Figure out specifically is needed for the Wharton & Harvard applications. This will include deadlines, mat ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
250
Views
55
Total Upvotes
on Dec 31, 2023 on Dec 31, 2023
Last Activity

BCG Final Round Decision - Yay or Nay

BCG MBA MBB
Recent activity on Dec 06, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 28, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 28, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! Sorry to hear the interviews didn't go according to your expectations, but also don't read too much into them - it often happens that candidates are harsher with their self-assessment than the interviewers would be. ... (read entire answer)
11
Answers
727
Views
97
Total Upvotes
on Dec 06, 2023 on Dec 06, 2023
Last Activity

Reapplying after 1st round of MBB interviews

BCG Case Interview MBA MBB Interview McKinsey case interview reapply rejection roles
Most recent answer on Dec 06, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 28, 2023) is from:
Dennis
Expert
Ex-Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe
Dennis
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 28, 2023
Ex-Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe
Hi there, of course your suitable entry level at a consulting firm will be dependent on your prior experience. With close to 4 years of industry experience, you would no longer be considered for an entry-level consultan ... (read entire answer)
10
Answers
286
Views
77
Total Upvotes
on Dec 06, 2023 on Dec 06, 2023
Last Activity

General Advice for Consulting Pivot Strategy

Advice Career Advising career change graduate program Master MBA MBA Application Advice recruiting visa visa issues
Most recent answer on Dec 01, 2023
The best answer (on Aug 27, 2023) 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 Aug 27, 2023
Ex-BCG Principal | 8+ years consulting experience in SEA | BCG top interviewer & top performer
Hi there, Here are my thoughts: However, I am not sure if I will get into the top programs with my short work experience This concern is legitimate Currently, your age and experience is below the average at top bschools ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
369
Views
21
Total Upvotes
on Dec 01, 2023 on Dec 01, 2023
Last Activity

IESE vs HEC Paris for MBA

MBA MBA Experience MBB
Most recent answer on Dec 01, 2023
The best answer (on Dec 01, 2023) is from:
ALEXANDRE
Expert
FREE INTRO I exMcKinsey EM I exKearney consultant I High Success Rate I Official Coach for HEC (160 coachees in 2022/23)
ALEXANDRE
Expert
gave the best answer on Dec 01, 2023
FREE INTRO I exMcKinsey EM I exKearney consultant I High Success Rate I Official Coach for HEC (160 coachees in 2022/23)
Hi, I think these 2 MBAs are at the top in EU. You should also consider other factors such as the country you want to go, the culture you prefer, etc. Cheers, Alexandre
8
Answers
578
Views
55
Total Upvotes
on Dec 01, 2023 on Dec 01, 2023
Last Activity

MIM with full ride scholarship or MBA?

master in management MBA MBB
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Apr 11, 2021) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on Apr 11, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi there, If your goal is MBB, I would recommend the following: Apply to MBB after undergrad if applicable (in some countries you need a Master to apply) If rejected, go for the fully-paid MIM (choose the option ... (read entire answer)
9
Answers
1.7 k
Views
91
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

MBA Candidate Applying for MBB Firms

MBA
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! That's a great question.  Sharing with you a resource that might help you understand how to approach the MBA school selection process but also challenge you on the assumption of whether or not you need such a progra ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
1.8 k
Views
8
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Executive MBA sponsorship by MBB

Executive MBA MBA Sponsorship
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! It depends on the firm, but it tends to be more unusual for people to go for an MBA once they're past Associate.  Realistically, many people get an MBA in order to get into consulting, so there's little reason to ge ... (read entire answer)
8
Answers
1.9 k
Views
28
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

IE Global Online MBA opionions?

BCG McKinsey and Bain business school MBA MBA Experience
Recent activity on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! Actually, I worked with several candidates who have been part of the program, and they were all top-notch. So I have only good things to say.  Don't assume though that you do need an MBA program. Here's how to figur ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
2.0 k
Views
15
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Top 10 MBA Programs

MBA
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! Different grad schools have different requirements, and some weigh heavier on what you did beyond academic grades. In short, it's hard to tell. You need to research each of them and ideally speak with a couple of pe ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
1.9 k
Views
15
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Executive MBA (EMBA), Ivey Canada

MBA MBA Experience
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! The best way of finding out would be to connect with students who are there now or have just recently graduated. An honest conversation with them is going to be worth more than any other resource.  Sharing with you ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
2.0 k
Views
10
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Differences between 1 year vs 2 year MBA ?

harvard insead lbs MBA stanford
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! This is a great networking question - I'd ask people who graduated from each of the programs. Also, check what's in the curriculum for each of them.  Lastly, you might find it useful to also go through this resource ... (read entire answer)
4
Answers
2.1 k
Views
14
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Undergrad in Business vs MBA

MBA undergraduate business degree
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! These are great questions.  I've put together an article a few months back that actually touches on most of them: Expert Guide: Are MBAs worth it? Hope you'll find it helpful. Best,Cristian
6
Answers
2.2 k
Views
18
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

MBA vs MiM

master in management MBA
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! Great question - I'm actually touching on it with the following article: Expert Guide: Are MBAs worth it? Hope you find it helpful! Best,Cristian
4
Answers
2.3 k
Views
9
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

When do consulting firms start looking at soon-to-be MBA grads??

MBA
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! If you're in an MBA program, always start by asking your Careers Centre. They usually compile already lots of useful info so you don't need to build it all yourself from scratch. Then try to fill in the gaps on your ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
2.6 k
Views
12
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

MBB application success chance without MBA

BIG3 MBA
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Jun 03, 2021) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on Jun 03, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi there, You can definitely apply without an MBA – there are zero downsides compared to not applying at all. Worst case, you may opt for an MBA if you get rejected. Given you lack strong brand names in the CV, I be ... (read entire answer)
8
Answers
2.9 k
Views
104
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Offer for MBA at Non-prestigious

business school MBA
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! It depends from firm to firm, but in McKinsey, for instance, they do expect it to be from a top school. Otherwise, they are unlikely to fund it.  Sharing with you also a resource on how to think about the MBA school ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
3.0 k
Views
15
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

MBA Academic Experience and why MBB love MBAs ?

MBA MBA Experience
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! This is a great list of questions.  I'm actually touching on most of them over here: Expert Guide: Are MBAs worth it? Hope you find it useful.  Good luck!Cristian
6
Answers
3.2 k
Views
16
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

What are the best MBA programs?

MBA university
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi! I totally empathise with the confusion on the topic. It's very difficult to form an opinion from the outside.  You can start from the following resource that will give you a thinking framework around how to select a ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
4.1 k
Views
17
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity
1 - 20 of 178 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