Our 2024 Top Consulting MBA list offers insights into the best programs for aspiring consultants. To compile our list of top MBA programs that excel in preparing students for careers in consulting, we analyze industry-wide data and the correlation between specific programs and placement in MBB firms (either using the schools’ own data and/or external data sources like LinkedIn) . Our rankings include only MBA programs that are targeted by all three MBB firms, ensuring relevance and precision for prospective consulting professionals.
Consulting is a popular career choice for MBA graduates.
Since the early 1960s, MBA graduates have increasingly pursued careers in consulting, making the MBA and consulting fields deeply interconnected. The role of a consultant allows them to leverage the extensive knowledge and diverse skills acquired during their MBA program across various industries and business challenges. With their strong background in business fundamentals and problem-solving, MBA graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic field of management consulting, where these capabilities are essential for success.
Accelerated Career Growth and Exceptional Exit Opportunities in Consulting
Top-tier management consulting firms such as McKinsey, BCG, and Bain provide MBA graduates with a dynamic career trajectory, typically allowing ambitious professionals to advance to Partner level within six to eight years. This rapid progression contrasts sharply with more traditional corporate ladders, offering a swifter ascent to senior leadership roles. Moreover, consultants often exit the profession with a comprehensive portfolio of transferable skills and broad experience, equipping them to thrive in diverse roles across various industries and functions. This versatility opens up a wealth of senior executive-level opportunities outside of consulting, making a career in top consulting firms a strategically advantageous choice for MBA graduates aiming for high-impact roles in major corporations.
High Earnings for MBA Graduates
MBA graduates enjoy generous compensation packages. Consulting is one of the highest-paid post-MBA exits, and the median total compensation for a consultant at McKinsey, BCG, Bain, or other top-tier consulting firm is around U$220,000, including a US$30,000 sign-on bonus, which can be used as a tax-deductible tuition reimbursement. MBA hires can also expect rapid career progression, with the opportunity to be promoted to Engagement Manager – a role of significant responsibility – within just two years.
A competitive recruitment process
The MBB MBA recruiting process is highly intense and competitive, involving multiple on-campus events like coffee chats and dinners at target schools. After these preliminary events, MBB firms conduct in-person interviews during specific times. Candidates from top schools are expected to demonstrate exceptional polish and strong business acumen. The recruitment timeline is usually tight and structured, with internship applications due in November and interviews in January in the first year of your MBA. Second-year MBAs reapplying typically face interviews in August or September.