Should I do the GMAT before applying to MBB?

Question

Is it worth doing the GMAT and getting a good score before applying to the MBB firms? I do not intend on going to business school anytime soon but was wondering if studying for the GMAT and getting a 700+ would aid my application at the MBB firms.

Answer 1

It's not worth it.

As in, the GMAT is a very small component of your CV.

By comparison, you'll have a much bigger impact by getting expert feedback on your CV rather than investing in preparing for the GMAT and retaking the test.

Recruiters don't invite people to interviews because of GMAT scores.

GMAT scores are typically just a way for filtering candidates in a more transparent and quick way for MBA or MiM programs, less so for interviews.

Instead, recruiters want to get a sense of whether you have a long-term interest in consulting and consultant-like skills.

You might also find this guide helpful if you're preparing your application at the moment:

Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Answer 2

In my opinion, ideally that should not have an impact on your candidature - because simply getting a GMAT score is not leading to anything that is useful for the Consulting Firm.

At best, preparing for the GMAT can help you be more prepared for some of the Problem Solving Tests in screening stage.

Answer 3

Hi there,

Q: Is it worth doing the GMAT and getting a good score before applying to the MBB firms?

I would not recommend preparing for the GMAT just for the consulting application itself – that time could be better spent on case prep, networking to get referrals and improving your application material.

However, if you are planning to eventually do an MBA and you have time now, it could be a good investment for your future MBA application, as you might not have much time to prepare for it while you work.

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 4

Hi there,

Out of most elements to optimize

Education
Work experience
Leadership and initiatives
Time spent abroad

GMAT ranks very far back in terms of relevance. The GMAT is a gatekeeper for some activities that have an impact, e.g., it allows you to go for a prestigious program and university.

If that's your goal then go for it. But going for it for the GMAT's sake itself makes no sense.

All the best,

Florian

Answer 5

Great idea… if you want to get the GMAT out of your way, since when working in consulting, it is actually hard to take the time off to properly prepare.

If this is to get a job in consulting. Not irrelevant, but close, and would be a pure waste of time. The opportunity cost vs. focusing on more relevant areas of your CV is high.

Answer 6

GMAT has no bearing on your application process. The biggest impact comes from going to a target school, having a high GPA, being an active participant in clubs/societies, past work experience, volunteering activities and other achievements (e.g., sports)

Answer 7

Typically, in depth screening is completed by the ACs / Consultants at the office that you are looking to apply to on... (read entire answer)

Typically, in depth screening is completed by the ACs / Consultants at the office that you are looking to apply to once you have made it past the initial filters. HR will assist... (read entire answer)

Answer 8

Let me take a crack at this (in English) since no-one has addressed this. Top consultancies typically want the best... (read entire answer)

Let me take a crack at this (in English) since no-one has addressed this. Top consultancies typically want the best people regardless of their background. Yes, some roles are... (read entire answer)

Answer 9

This is a great, great question... that I suspect no-one can systematically answer :) Unless you have spent significa... (read entire answer)

This is a great, great question... that I suspect no-one can systematically answer :) Unless you have spent significant time working for or with all three, how can you truly com... (read entire answer)