Best time of the year to apply for MBB at Consultant/Associate level

Wow, that's a huge question that only triggers more questions from my side. 

The biggest two are 

1. are you applying for a starting role or as an experienced hire

2. what region are you applying to

If you're applying for a starting / graduate role, you typically are forced to apply as part of cohorts in most geographies. If you apply as an experienced hire, you can apply at any point.

In terms of regions, it's best to check directly with the recruiter when they are reviewing applications for your target role. 

But as a role, it's best to apply when other people are not (with the exception of holidays). 

Here's also a guide with more tips on how to build your application strategy:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

It depends.

I know you want a clear/easy answer, but it depends on:

1. Role
2. Region
3. Recruiting channel
4. What referrals YOU have
5. Application deadlines
6. Your application readiness.

If there is a deadline, and applications are rolling, and you have a referral with a resume ready, then apply!

If you have networked and they have specifically told you no roles are available (e.g. some of MBB in Canada at the moment), then wait.

If you don't have a referral, your resume isn't ready, there are no application dates, then wait.

There are more permutations and combinations than this, but you get my point.

Most foolproof plan? Get a coach. We're here not just to help you pass the interviews but to optimize your chances of GETTING the interviews to!

Remember, networking is absolutely key as well.

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks
 

Application Tracker – Keep Track With This Free Template
 

The Most Common Pitfalls in Case Interview Preparation

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, I would highly advise you to keep in mind that while timing might contribute to your chances of securing a consulting offer, ultimately, that contribution will be very small. As such, focusing on your application files, a strong referral, and great interviewing skills will increase your chances a lot more.
• Moreover, the best time depends on the specific firm and country you apply to. For situations where hiring is done on a rolling basis, you might have a minor advantage applying at the beginning of the year because hiring quotas still need to be met. For situations with specific hiring dates, the precise time does not matter as long as you meet the requirements.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

You can find the consulting salaries report 2024 here!

Hi there,

Q: At what time of the year should I apply to have the highest chance? 

It depends on the recruiting process in your country.

Some countries have specific deadlines – if that’s the case you need to apply before that. If there is no deadline, you have the flexibility to choose.

If you manage to get a referral (strongly recommended), you can ask the person referring you if they have any suggestions. If an office is hiring a lot in a particular period, it makes sense to apply then. On the other hand, if an office is not hiring at all, it would make sense to wait a few months, in case you can be flexible.

You can find some tips on referrals below: 

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

A tip I once received from a recruiter:

The earlier in the year the better as hiring quotas tend to fill up over time. Given the current market situation, this seems to be even more relevant.

Then again, it also depends on the office as not every office and firm recruits on a rolling basis. In that case, you would need to look at the official deadlines or engage in networking with current consultants from the target office to get more insights!

All the best,

Florian

Hi there,

some geographies have fixed application timeframes so you have to adhere to those. Firms in countries like Germany typically recruit year-round. Here you want to be earlier in the year rather than later - the allocated positions they want to hire for will naturally fill up as the year progresses.

If you want to maximize your chances for an interview, you should definitely secure internal referrals before you apply. In addition, you should also be ~80% interview ready before you submit your application to make sure you will be in excellent shape for when the potential interviews get scheduled.

Best of luck

Application time has little impact on maximizing your interview chances as long as you do it within deadlines.

Networking, referrals and a solid CV and cover letter have much more impact on securing interviews. Prioritize those and apply as soon as possible.

Best,

Alberto

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

Honestly, the sooner the better. There's really no preferred time. It's ongoing… they use recruitment process speed + starting dates to make sure people are getting in at the right time for them.