How to Prepare MBB Application Materials

 

Most MBB applications require the following:

 

• Resume

 

• Cover Letter

 

• Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, MCAT, or LSAT, if applicable)

 

• Unofficial Transcripts

 

• Office Preferences

 

Resume

 

Your resume is the most critical component in determining whether you receive an interview. Spend several days refining it and seek feedback from peers, career centers, or consultants you know.

 

Follow these key tips:

 

• Keep it one page long and remove unnecessary details if needed

 

• Begin each bullet with a strong action verb in past tense to highlight achievements

 

• Include metrics or numbers to quantify accomplishments

 

• Balance quantitative skills (e.g., data analysis) and qualitative skills (e.g., teamwork, leadership)

 

• Avoid technical jargon, unclear acronyms, and buzzwords

 

• Prioritize work experience, especially at well-known companies

 

• Add personal interests to make your resume more engaging

 

Need professional help? Check out our resume review and editing service.

 

Cover Letter

 

A strong cover letter can help borderline candidates secure an interview. To craft an effective cover letter:

 

• Address it to the appropriate MBB recruiting team members

 

• Open with a powerful first sentence summarizing your expertise and experience

 

• Emphasize why you're a great fit for MBB

 

• Keep it concise but substantiate your claims with concrete examples

 

• Conclude with a short, compelling statement and a call to action

 

• Avoid repeating your resume. Use the cover letter to connect your experiences to the firm’s culture and needs.

 

Test Scores

 

Some applications require self-reported test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, MCAT, or LSAT). You do not need to submit an official score report. You typically only need to enter your numerical scores and sub-score breakdowns.

 

Unofficial Transcripts

 

For certain programs and positions, MBB may request an unofficial transcript showing your coursework and GPA. This does not need to be an official transcript from your school, a PDF downloaded from your school’s website is sufficient.

 

Office Preferences

 

All applications require you to list your top three office preferences. These choices are not binding, but you should select locations where you'd genuinely like to live.

 

You’ll be asked to assign weights to your preferences, totaling 100% (e.g., 70% New York, 20% Boston, 10% Dallas). However, keep in mind that MBB typically considers candidates only for their top-choice office.

 

What to Do if You Miss an MBB Application Deadline

 

Missing an MBB application deadline can be disappointing, but there are still steps you can take:

 

1. Reach Out to a MBB Recruiter

 

Your first step should be contacting a MBB recruiter. While deadlines are important, recruiters may offer guidance, consider your application, or inform you of alternative opportunities.

 

When reaching out:

 

• Be professional and courteous in your communication

 

• Briefly explain your situation and express your continued interest

 

• Ask about potential flexibility or future application opportunities

 

2. Explore Other Programs and Firms

 

If you can’t apply to a specific MBB program or position, consider applying to other consulting firms (e.g., Tier 2 firms) with similar opportunities with different deadlines.

 

3. Prepare for the Next Recruiting Cycle

 

Use the extra time to strengthen your application:

 

• Gain relevant experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer roles in consulting-related areas like data analysis, project management, or strategic planning

 

• Network with consultants and MBB alumni to gain industry insights and potential referrals

 

• Enhance your skills by taking courses in business strategy, analytics, and communication

 

• Prepare for interviews by practicing case and behavioral interviews using prep books, online forums, and mock interviews

 

• Stay informed about MBB by following its latest insights, reports, and industry trends

 

By taking these steps, you’ll be better positioned for the next recruiting cycle and future opportunities.

 

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