McKinsey Game and Application

Hi there,

1) Is everyone who applied invited to take the game?

It depends. Depending on the application channel, they could do CV screening also after the test.

2) How long should I prepare to take the assessment?

If you are using a guide/prep material, I would recommend 5-10h, depending on the resource.

3) Is it easier to get into McKinsey if applied to a foreign country?

Usually it is easier to get an invitation (and thus an offer) if:

• You speak the local language
• You have working rights to work in that country
• You have some kind of connection with that country

In case you want to prepare for the game, you can check out the video simulation I created below:

▶ McKinsey PSG Solve Combo Guide

For any questions on the game please feel free to PM me, I will reply within 12 hours.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

I highly recommend Francesco's guide.

- Is everyone who applied invited to take the game? In some recruiting channels/regions/roles, yes. In others, no. For the most part, it's semi-screened. Regardless, if you get invited, do your best!
- How long should I prepare to take the assessment? Until you're ready. I personally recommend about a week. If you're using MConsultingPrep's resource you going to need much less total time.
- Is it easier to get into McKinsey if applied to a foreign country? Question doesn't make sense. Every country is a foreign country. So which of the 197 countries are you comparing? Ultimately, your performance is the most important AND your fit with that country/office (does your resume make sense there) is second, and finally, supply/demand of that country/region.

Hi!

Congrats on the invite! That's already a great first step. 

To take your questions one by one:

- Is everyone who applied invited to take the game?

No. Though it depends on the office / geography. Basically, the way it works for most offices is that they do a quick check to see whether based on your application docs you are relevant for the role. If yes, then they send you the test. Once you do the test they review the full application together with the test results and the decide whether to invite you to the actual interview or not. 

- How long should I prepare to take the assessment?

Whenever I work with candidates over a longer period of time I tell them to focus on doing cases because casing works on the same skills that the game is also testing. If you don't have the luxury of time (several weeks), then you can go for one of the guides that other platforms or coaches offer. 

- Is it easier to get into McKinsey if applied to a foreign country?

No. It might actually be harder depending on how competitive that office is. 

Good luck!
Cristian

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Hi,

there are actually some coaches on here who offer a specialized preparation program for this part of the McK application process. That basically addresses all of your questions. 
 

Best of luck

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the invitation from McKinsey!

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

• First of all, given the rather fundamental questions about the McKinsey Solve, I would highly advise you to reach out to an experienced coach who prepares McKinsey candidates, like I do.
• Moreover, while most applicants have to solve the McKinsey Solve, in the end, it does not really matter. What matters is that you have to solve it and therefore give your best to prepare for it.
• Lastly, occasionally, applying to a foreign office can be advantageous. However, competition is still intense, and you must demonstrate a strong fit with the office to which you're applying.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for the McKinsey Solve and your upcoming McKinsey interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen