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Interview process - Online and In Person

Hi there

I am interested in knowing about how MBB split interviews in terms of online and in person. I am targeting a few firms but will need to travel should I get an interview. Do they insist on being in person for all rounds?

Do the firms give relocation costs if you get the job?

Thank you

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Top answer
Mattijs
Coach
on Mar 11, 2025
Free 15m intro call | First session -50% | Bain Consultant | Hiring team | 250+ successful candidates

Hi,

The first test (e.g., Solve for Mckinsey) is typically online. For the first interview, it's depending on the office and on your location. It's best to directly align with the HR responsible of the office. Last round are typically in person. If travel is required, the firms typically reimburse those cost (transport, food and hotel). 

Good luck with your preparation.

Mattijs

Han
Coach
on Mar 11, 2025
Ex-Mckinsey EM| Experienced round 1 interviewer | Free 15mins intro call

Hi there, 

 

Usually only final rounds are in-person. But after pandemic they are very likely to be remote too, from my recent experience (as of EOY 2024). A lot of time, interviewers are also from different locations instead of from the local office you applied for. 

 

Always check with the recruiter during your first call with them, you can frame it as "just for me to better prepare myself, how would the interview process looks like from here?" And confirm if any traveling need to be planned ahead. 

 

Lastly, typical last rounds happen on Fridays. Since it is likely reimbursed, sounds like a weekend plan is settled? :) 

 

Good luck on your interview process!

Han

Alessa
Coach
on Mar 11, 2025
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | +200 individual & group coachings | feel free to schedule a 15 min intro call for free

Hey there 😊,

1️⃣ Online vs. In-Person Interviews at MBB

The format of interviews (online vs. in-person) depends on the office, role, and hiring stage. Here’s what to expect:

First Round Interviews:

  • Often conducted online (via Zoom or Webex) to make the process more efficient.
  • Some offices still offer in-person first rounds, but remote interviews are common, especially post-COVID.

Final Round Interviews:

  • Many offices prefer in-person for final rounds, especially in high-preference locations like Dubai, London, and Germany.
  • However, if you’re applying from abroad, MBB can accommodate a remote final round if necessary.

💡 Pro Tip: If travel is difficult, you can ask the recruiter whether an online option is possible, though in-person is preferred if feasible.

2️⃣ Do MBB Firms Cover Relocation Costs?

Yes, if you receive a full-time offer and need to relocate, MBB generally provides relocation support.

  • This can include a one-time relocation bonus, temporary accommodation, and sometimes assistance with visas and flights.
  • The amount varies by region and depends on factors like distance and office policy.

💡 Key Tip: If you receive an offer, ask the recruiter about specific relocation benefits—they are usually flexible, especially for international hires.

3️⃣ Final Thoughts

  • First rounds are often online, final rounds are mostly in person, but exceptions exist.
  • Relocation support is typically provided if you’re moving for the job.
  • If you need accommodation for remote interviews, talk to your recruiter—they are usually understanding.

Let me know if you need help preparing for your MBB applications! Best, Alessa 😇

Emily
Coach
edited on Mar 12, 2025
9 years in MBB Southeast Asia & China| 8 years as MBB interviewer | Free intro call

Hi there, 

You can totally ask for virtual interview if you need to. In fact, all my recruiting interviews (I am the interviewer) are online nowadays - seems to be the default in my region. Although personally I would prefer in person if I were the interviewee, but that's just more of a personal preference. 

Yes some of the firms does give relocation subsidies if you need to move country in order to join them - I had subsidies from both BCG and Bain before, though the amounts differ. You could always ask later when you get the offer. 

Best,

Emily

Pedro
Coach
on Mar 13, 2025
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

That really depends on the office.

For first rounds, they will usually be fine with online interviews. For final rounds, most will request you to do it in-person.

Regarding relocation, you can always ask for it. Not always applicable to entry level roles. But it is ALWAYS something you can try to negotiate on.

Florian
Coach
on Mar 14, 2025
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

In the U.S., most interviews are still virtual. Exceptions are mainly on-campus interviews and second rounds where the candidate is close to the office location.

If you get an offer, you should also get a generous relocation allowance.

Cheers,

Florian

on Mar 19, 2025
Ex-BCG Principal & Senior Recruiter in Germany | 300+ real recruiting interviews at BCG | Free 15min intro call

Hi there, 

first round (incl. test) is typically online. Second round is in person. Usually travel expenses as well as accomodation are reimbursed. Best to clarify with the respective HR contact person. 

Best, 
Sebastian

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