If I mess up an interview with Mckinsey, will there be disadvantages for next application?

This is a myth. Many candidates hesitate to apply for summer internships, fearing it might hurt their chances during full-time recruitment. However, this is not true. If you apply for an internship and don’t receive an interview invite, it’s a valuable signal that your profile may need improvement, giving you time to enhance it before applying again. Even if you perform poorly in the internship interviews, firms typically won’t hold it against you, as they recognize you have time to grow and prepare for your next application.

The only exception is if serious concerns arise during the internship interview process, such as ethical issues or perceived dishonesty or behavioral issues (being disrespectful). These could negatively impact your future applications.

Thanks 
Ashwin 

Hey!

It typically doesn't have a long-term negative impact on your future applications, especially if you apply again after some time. McKinsey HR often mentions that they keep applications on file for a certain period (usually around a year), but they also understand that candidates can improve over time, especially with more experience. If you perform poorly in one round, you can still reapply, and it’s not necessarily seen as a disadvantage. It’s important to take feedback, improve, and reapply when you're more prepared. Just ensure that you’ve reflected on the experience and addressed any areas for growth.

Good luck! Alessa :)

No, but there are advantages if you perform well but are still rejected. In such cases, you may be marked as a “see-later” candidate, meaning they’ll likely contact you again once the ban period ends.

Best,

Alberto

Hi there,

No - a new application will be treated without previous failure in mind. I also failed my first McKinsey internship application, then received the full-time offer the year after.

What is important is that you demonstrate significant improvements on the resume (they want to see how you have developed, basically not the same profile should apply again); referrals also help.

All the best,

Florian

Hi there,

if you do get rejected during a recruiting process, there will be a subsequent 12-18 months ban period. After this period, you can apply again. The important thing is to exhibit additional relevant experiences or qualifications that you obtained during that timefrime. A first unsuccessful application will not negatively affect your following applications.

Best of luck 

If by messing up you mean a lackluster performance on case and/or fit portion without any other serious concerns (e.g., showing up late, being disrespectful), they will not hold that over you. 

Should you need and get a second chance, it’s smart to show growth on the resume and on the interview part you underperformed on the previous cycle. 

If you’re concerned about your readiness, I’d ask for more time if possible and consider working with a coach. Happy to chat through options with you. 

Hey there,

Each round of interviews looks only at your performance in that specific round. So performance from a previous application will not harm you nor help you when you re-apply again

All the best