McKinsey & Company

How the process runsFirm careers page, read Nov 6, 2026

1. 1ApplicationTypicalOnline application with resume. Networking often decides who is read closely.
2. 2Online assessmentStated by McKinseyMost consulting roles include Solve, a gamified problem-solving assessment the firm says needs no preparation.
3. 3First roundStated by McKinseyClient-facing candidates have personal experience interviews and problem-solving (case) interviews, and sometimes expertise interviews.
4. 4Final roundTypicalFinal round with more senior consultants or partners, harder cases, deeper fit questions.
5. 5OfferTypicalUsually within days of the final round.

Timing between stages shows on each program page once students report it. Firms change formats by year and office; the firm's own invite is the final word.

What it tends to weighStated, then typical

From McKinsey's careers site: For the PEI, pick experiences that mattered, explain your own role and lead with reasoning; for the case, practice the sample cases and tailor answers rather than use stock frameworks. Source

• Structured problem solving: a clear framework, hypothesis driven, adapted to the case.
• Case math done cleanly and out loud, and reading charts quickly.
• Stories about impact and leadership told with specifics, often probed in depth.

behavioral

6 questions

technicals

11 questions

modeling

4 questions