Is MBB without MBA possible?

Question

I am really interested in MBB. I am even open to second tier strategy ie Ronald berger, strategy& etc. The difficulty is getting the interview. I even tried networking strategy taught to me by some coaches here and so far am not able to land an interview. Is it worth it to apply to a top MBA just to get a shot at an MBB interview? And is it even possible to get an interview with MBB if you don’t have experience with big companies or come from top MBA? I am also having a doubt on wether to just pursue an MBA just for consulting? Any advice is highly appreciated. Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Hello there,

Is it worth it to apply to a top MBA just to get a shot at an MBB interview?
Not necessarily. While top MBAs provide a structured recruiting pipeline, they are costly and time-intensive. Given your 12+ years of experience and a Master’s in Finance, you may already qualify for experienced hire roles at MBB or Tier 2 firms without an MBA. If consulting is your only reason for an MBA, it may not be the most efficient route.

Is it possible to get an interview with MBB if you don’t have experience with big companies or come from a top MBA?
Yes, but it depends on how you position yourself and the region you're applying to. In Europe, many consultants join with just a Master’s, whereas in the U.S., MBAs are more common. Without big-company experience, you need to emphasise:

Leadership & impact: As an NGO director, you’ve likely led teams, managed budgets, and driven strategy.
Industry fit: MBB has strong social impact and public sector practices, where your experience is relevant.
Networking & referrals: Reach out to MBB consultants in social/public sector teams to improve your chances.

I am also having doubts on whether to pursue an MBA just for consulting?
An MBA is a big investment, so only pursue it if it offers long-term value beyond consulting. If your primary goal is MBB, first try experienced hire routes, networking, and targeting Tier 2 firms. If these don’t work, then consider an MBA from a top school where MBB recruits actively.

Let me know if you need help refining your strategy!

Best wishes,
Johannes

Answer 2

Hello there,

Can you share more about your background so you can receive a more specific answer?

Best,

Mari

Answer 3

MBB without an MBA is definitely possible, though your path depends on your current stage:

If you're an undergraduate, target schools have established recruiting channels, but strong candidates from other schools do break in through aggressive networking and case preparation.

For experienced hires, industry expertise can be your ticket in - MBB values specialized knowledge they can sell to clients.

That said, a top MBA remains the most reliable path to MBB. The structured recruiting process gives you clear interview opportunities that are otherwise hard to secure. The success rates from M7/T10 programs are substantially higher.

For tier-2 firms like Roland Berger and Strategy&, the barriers are somewhat lower, but the fundamental approaches remain similar.

Consider an MBA if consulting truly aligns with your long-term goals, not just as a ticket to an interview. The investment is substantial.