Deferring MBB offer by 2 years

Question

Hello

If I interned with an MBB firm in MENA during the summer and received and accepted a return offer to join the the firm the following year after I graduate but I get an acceptance to a very prestigious two-years master's program, do MBB firms accommodate that or do I have to reapply later? This means I'll join the firm 3 years after my internship ends or 2 years after I finish my undergraduate degree.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi there,

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

First of all, and contrary to what some coaches have said, consulting firms do not automatically extend an offer simply because a candidate is interested in pursuing a master's degree. Such decisions are typically made on a case-by-case basis.
Moreover, I would advise you to focus on getting the internship offer first, doing exceptionally well in it and getting a return offer before considering future educational plans, such as a master's degree.
Lastly, please keep in mind that consulting firms sponsor both master's and MBA programs. Therefore, the scenario you have outlined may not be the best one either way.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hey there,

MBB firms can sometimes defer return offers, but it's on a case-by-case basis, office-by-office, region-by-region, and staff needs at the time (as well as how willing that office is to accommodate you). It doesn't hurt to ask, but at the same time you can explore deferring your masters program start date

All the best

Answer 3

I have seen offer deferrals work out for graduate school plans, but it's a very office-specific / context-specific decision. If I were in your shoes, I would push for a deferral of the admissions offer for the graduate program and instead get 1-2 years of experience at the firm you have an offer for.

That would make the graduate experience more rewarding once I had a better idea of my professional interest through a bit of trial and error on projects across industries and functions I'm interested in. Just my two cents!

Answer 4

hey!

Yes, MBB firms usually accommodate deferrals for prestigious master's programs. Inform them as soon as possible, and they’ll likely hold your offer until after you complete your degree.

Alessa

Answer 5

Hi there,

Congrats!

For such cases, exceptions are usually made - best to directly clarify with HR. They are the only ones who can provide you with accurate information.

All the best,

Florian