MBB - Recruitment process

Hi there,
 

Given your experience—2+ years at a Big Four firm and 3 years in sales and account management—you are likely applying at the appropriate level for McKinsey (Associate), Bain (Associate Consultant), and BCG (Consultant). However, the exact level can depend on factors such as your specific role at the Big Four, your industry expertise, and how each firm evaluates your background.

Regarding the recruitment process:
    •    McKinsey: Typically involves a problem-solving assessment (PSA) or an online game, followed by two rounds of interviews (each with two to three case and personal fit interviews).
    •    Bain: May include an online assessment or case-based test, followed by two rounds of interviews that combine case studies and behavioral questions.
    •    BCG: Often starts with a potential online test (depending on the office), followed by two rounds of case and behavioral interviews.

Since you are based in KSA, your applications may be considered for the Middle East offices, where processes can vary slightly. I’d recommend connecting with consultants in these offices to get more insights. Let me know if you’d like further guidance!

Best,

Evelina

Below is an updated summary of the recruitment processes for each MBB firm in the Middle East, reflecting both your experience (five years in total, assuming no MBA) and the specific steps you can expect:

1. McKinsey – Junior Associate

Recommended Level: Junior Associate for candidates with substantial professional experience but no MBA.

Application Process:

1. CV Screening
   • Your background is reviewed to determine fit for a Senior Associate role.
2. McKinsey Problem-Solving Game
   • If your application passes the initial review, you will be invited to complete the problem-solving game.
   • No prior business knowledge or specific preparation is needed; it primarily evaluates your analytical and problem-solving skills.
3. Interview Process
   • Two rounds of interviews:
     • Round 1: Typically two interviews (40–50 minutes each), including a personal-fit portion (discuss your experiences, achievements) and a case study.
     • Round 2: Usually two to three additional interviews for deeper assessment, similar format (fit + case discussion).
   • You will also have time to ask questions about McKinsey or the specific office.

2. BCG – Senior Associate

Recommended Level: Senior Associate for candidates with multiple years of experience (and no MBA).

Application Process:

1. CV Screening
   • Your background is reviewed to determine fit for a Senior Associate role.
2. Online Cases Assessment (30 minutes)
   • If successful at the screening stage, you’ll take a short online case-based test.
3. Interviews
   • First Round: 1 interview, focusing on a case discussion plus some fit/behavioral questions.
   • Final Round: 2 interviews, both assessing problem-solving (via case) and cultural fit with more senior consultants or partners.

3. Bain & Company – Senior Associate Consultant

Recommended Level: Senior Associate Consultant (slightly more advanced than the entry-level Associate Consultant role).

Process (Typical Structure):

1. Application & Screening
   • Bain reviews your CV for relevant consulting or industry experience.
2. Assessment (Varies by Office)
   • Some offices administer short online tests or case assessments.
3. Interviews
   • First Round: Usually 1–2 case-based interviews plus fit questions.
   • Second Round: Additional case interviews, often with senior managers or partners, focusing on both problem-solving and leadership attributes.

Let me know if you need any further assistance—whether that’s refining your CV, preparing for case interviews, or navigating the application logistics. I’m here to help.

Hi there, 

The 3 positions you have applied are not at the same level. Associate position at McK = Consultant at BCG = Consultant at Bain. The AC at Bain is the entry level. 

Based on your experience, it might be a bit ambitious to go for Associate at McK and Consultant at the other 2 firms, as they likely would give some tenure "discount" for industry and Big 4 experiences. But you can try. Just be prepared that when you pass the interviews the firms might offer you 1 year lower. 

In terms of the process, it is pretty standard across the firms. You can find a lot info on PrepLounge platform. 

Best,

Emily

Hi there,

• Yes, you did apply to the right positions.
• All follow pretty much the same process in KSA (CV screening, recruitment test, 2 rounds of interviews with 2-3 interviews each, each with a case and a fit portion).

Recruitment tests

• McKinsey: Solve Game
• BCG: Online case
• Bain: SOVA assessment or TestGorilla (varies for different candidates)

Best of luck with your prep,

Florian

Hi there,

With your background — over 2 years at a Big Four firm plus 3 years in sales and account management — you're applying at the right level for MBB in the Middle East region.

Here’s how your level generally aligns:

• McKinsey – Associate
• BCG – Consultant (sometimes Senior Associate, depending on exact experience)
• Bain – Associate Consultant or possibly Consultant, depending on the office and role type

Your combined experience of ~5 years should put you just above the entry-level (post-undergrad) roles, but still pre-MBA level unless you've done one.

🔍 Recruitment Process (Middle East Offices – KSA, UAE, etc.)

📌 McKinsey (Associate)

• Online Assessment – Typically McKinsey Solve (formerly Problem-Solving Game)
• HR/Experience Interview – Initial screening round
• 2–3 Rounds of Case Interviews – Case + Fit combined, led by consultants and partners
• Timeline – Varies, but generally 4–6 weeks from first contact to final round

📌 BCG (Consultant)

• CV Screening
• Online Assessment – BCG Potential Test or similar, sometimes skipped
• 2–3 Rounds of Case Interviews – Business case + personal fit questions
• Possible Final Round with a Partner

📌 Bain (Associate Consultant or Consultant)

• Screening + HR Call
• Case Interviews – 2–3 rounds, often includes “interviewee-led” style
• Bain ME also places emphasis on fit and your motivation to join Bain specifically

💼 Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Highlight your problem-solving, leadership, and client exposure from your Big Four + sales roles
• Make sure your CV clearly reflects impact and results, not just responsibilities
• Network strategically with MBB consultants in the Middle East — referrals really matter here
• Begin case prep early — 1–2 months of focused practice can make a huge difference

Let me know if you’d like help with case prep resources or polishing your CV/cover letter for the region. Good luck on your journey to MBB!

Alessa