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Shall I apply for MBB for their graduate roles?

They have just been released the past 2-3 days. I am not sure if I should apply. I actually don't know much about consulting case interviews and haven't really prepped for them - I say this as I have watched a lot of videos, etc, but I can't seem to wrap my head around the major parts of it. I did try to over the summer but became quite ill and was in and out of the hospital so my 3 month summer wasn't helpful.

I've applied to BCG and McKinsey before (last year and this year) but have been rejected after the online assessment and for BCG for the summer internship early this year, I was rejected before the online assessment. I was told that part of the reason could be due to the fact that I applied very late in the process (several days before the deadline).

However, I am a weak candidate in the UK. My A Level grades are not great but I go to a strong semi-target (we get people into IB, MBB and other consulting firms, and big law firms).

My CV hasn't changed since my last application (cancelled internship in a different industry and due to illness so I don't know if this just means another automatic rejection).

I also have no idea how to prep for case interviews if I get that far. It has been a dream to work for MBB especially for one of the firms and I really don't want to ruin this chance. I haven't applied for Bain ever.

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Alessa
Coach
5 hrs ago
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG - feel free to schedule a 15 min intro call for free

Hey! 

I would advise you to go ahead and apply early, but ensure your resume is strong and explain any gaps (like illness) briefly in your cover letter. For case prep, start now with the basics (e.g., drills). Focus on structuring your answers and practice with mock interviews here on PrepLounge.

If you feel underprepared, consider applying to tier 2 firms first to build experience before reapplying to MBB later. Don't worry about past rejections; each application is a new chance, and firms value resilience. Good luck!

Alessa

Anonymous A
4 hrs ago
I am worried that explaining the gaps would raise question marks. I have been ill throughout university. I have had 2 internships though just not one this summer, committee position, worked for my consulting society on projects, do sports, and have done extracurricular stuff outside of university that have been recognised nationally/globally; however, my CV is just the exact same so if it wasn't enough then I don't know if it is enough now? I'm so far behind I'm not even sure what "drills" are. I have started case in point, will be then practising case studies and using online resources like youtube videos, etc. I may pay for casecoach if my university doesn't provide it and if I can afford it.
Mohamed
Coach
3 hrs ago
Ex-Kearney Dubai | Interviews with McKinsey, Kearney, Dalberg | 5+ years exp in Middle East & N America | Columbia grad

Hi there!

Earlier is always better — you've got nothing to lose!

I've been exactly where you are — it took me a few years to figure out how to sell myself to the consulting firms before I began getting interview calls and offers. I had the same fears you've got around "gaps in the CV" — I had plenty of those too because of various circumstances. Ultimately, it all comes down to the story you are able to tell the recruiters through your CV and cover letter. They're looking for specific qualities in the candidates — beyond just the numbers and fancy names.

I'll certainly be very happy to help you through the whole process, including planning your outreach and networking, looking through your CV and cover letters, and giving you an introduction to case interviews (when I first began looking at consulting jobs, I had zero knowledge or background and had to self-teach because I was already out of school by then, so I know exactly how you feel as a beginner!)

Feel free to reach out for a free 15-min intro call and we can figure out your next steps.

All the very best!

Anonymous A
3 hrs ago
Thank you so much! I'll PM you now
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