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''The most important tip is to be yourself during the interview.  We want to get to know you –your aspirations, what you are passionate about, and why consulting interests you.'' Wendy, Senior Recruiter, Montréal Office
Interview Process - How You Think Is More Important Than What You Know

Our recruiting process is designed to provide you with an idea of the intellectual challenge of consulting, the opportunity to learn what consultants do, as well as to give you a chance to shine through the use of a diverse set of evaluation tools. You will meet experienced consultants and have a chance to exercise your problem solving and interpersonal skills. It is important that we have a good picture of you and that you have a clear idea of what joining McKinsey means.

The process consists of three phases: screening, first round, and final round (these may vary slightly depending on your educational and/or professional background). Those who demonstrate the highest potential for success in each phase will be invited to participate in the subsequent one.

Screening
Depending on your background, you may be asked to take one of the following screening tests:

  • Multiple choice problem solving test. It is a 70-minute test, with no calculators allowed. The option exists to take it in French or in English. The problem solving test is designed to simulate the sorts of analysis we do and does not require any specific business knowledge or mathematical ability beyond secondary school.
  • For some candidates there may be a telephone discussion in which your fluency in French will be assessed, prior to an invitation to interview. All candidates are required to be fluent in French (we define fluency as being able to lead a business meeting in French as well as being able to read and write).

First-Round Interviews
The first round consists of two separate 50-minute interviews on the same day with McKinsey associates and engagement managers. You may also take a 60-minute problem solving test. For some groups of candidates, this test may be conducted as an initial screening stage prior to the Round 1 interviews.

You are typically informed within 48 hours whether you will be invited to the final round.

Final Round Interviews
The final round consists of four separate interviews on the same day with Principals and Associate Principals.

Receiving an Offer
Typically, we will contact you with our decision within 48 hours of your final interview. Once you have received an offer, we would be happy to arrange another office visit. This way, you will be able to meet more McKinsey people and get an even better idea of what life at our office is like. We will stay in touch with you and will be available to answer any questions you might have.

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