While a large majority of recruiting for McKinsey, Bain, and BCG happens directly from campus, firms are doing more and more experienced hiring each year.

Experienced hiring varies by firm, role, and office, so it is important to confirm with the appropriate recruiter that you are applying for a role where they are actively hiring in that location.

The best times to apply as an experienced hire are July/August and in the new year. We typically see a spike in experienced hire recruiting in January. Experienced hire recruiting is done when there is a need for talent, so networking is a great way to find out if you are applying at the right time. Needs will vary by firm and office.

Additionally, Bain sometimes has another application deadline for experienced hires for the Consultant level role (post-MBA, PhD or over 4 years of relevant work experience) in January. It will be posted on their firm website. This occasionally happens in the spring instead, and it only happens when there is a need. This January or Spring deadline does not apply to Bain’s Associate Consultant (AC) level role (undergraduates, Master’s (non-MBA), or experienced hires with less than 4 years of work experience).

All of this being said, the need for experienced hires can change quickly, so candidates should check with a recruiter first before applying to an office since not all offices at all firms will add experienced hires every year. The majority of experienced professional hiring happens for specialized roles so it is great to look out for other non-generalist roles as well if you have a specialized background (e.g. digital, healthcare, private equity, technology, etc.)

To find out more, read out article on Transitioning to Consulting as an Experienced Professional.

What to Do If You Miss the Consulting Application Deadlines