CaseMentor
Your preparationStart practising

Entry routes

Consulting roles compared

The same title can mean different entry requirements across firms. Compare the published roles and interview guidance, then check the vacancy for your office.

Source check dates appear with each firm

CaseMentor is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the firms in these guides. Logos identify the companies discussed here.

McKinsey

Sources checked 14 October 2026

Areas of work

Generalist consulting · Implementation · Transformation

Roles and entry requirements

Early careerBusiness Analyst
A common consulting entry title. Eligibility depends on the office and your education and experience.

Consulting roles · Advanced professional degree candidates

Graduate degree / experiencedAssociate
The US advanced professional degree route typically hires Associates. Some offices also use Junior Associate.

Advanced professional degree candidates · UK undergraduate and advanced-degree entry roles

Interview guidance

For most client-facing roles, McKinsey describes personal experience and problem-solving interviews. Some positions also include an expertise interview. Solve is used for most consulting roles; the recruiter confirms the requirements.

Interviewing at McKinsey

Technical and internal roles can use different assessments. Follow the preparation information for your specific vacancy.

Before you apply

  • Check the office-specific degree rules before choosing Business Analyst or Associate.
  • Match your examples to the work described in the vacancy; a specialist application needs evidence of that expertise.
Official careers siteGuide and sources

BCG

Sources checked 14 October 2026

Areas of work

Business strategy · Client problem solving · Industry and functional expertise

Roles and entry requirements

Early careerAssociate
An entry route for graduates and early-career professionals in many offices. Local eligibility rules differ.

Associate opportunities in the UK · Mexico roles and recruiting guidance

MBA / advanced degreeConsultant
MBA and North American advanced-degree recruiting include Consultant pathways. Confirm your entry level locally.

London Business School recruiting · North American advanced degree candidates

Interview guidance

BCG describes interviews covering experience, skills and motivation alongside case interviews for client-facing roles. The published process looks at analytical problem solving and communication as well as how you work with others.

Consulting interview process

Assessments and interview rounds vary by location and programme. A country-specific process should not be treated as a global template.

Before you apply

  • Check whether your school has a dedicated application link.
  • Use the relevant local careers page to confirm the role, documents and eligibility.
Official careers siteGuide and sources

Choosing your route

Check degree criteria and experience requirements for the exact vacancy. If two roles appear plausible, ask recruiting which fits your background before submitting competing applications.

Each guide links to employer sources and local exceptions. This comparison covers application pathways; it does not describe a full promotion ladder.

Compare the cash components of two offers