1st Round Interview Travel Expenses?

I've always heard it was phone call(s), and then if they believed it was worth their while, they'd fly you out to their office for a final round.

I'd recommend to ask the HR about their costs coverage policy rather than guess: they can help you out if it's really costly to come. It's all negotiable, from my experience.

General policy depends on a firm, even within MBB some fly you over starting from the 1st rounds, while others state explicitly they don't spend money on you before you're in a serious consideration (e.g. 2nd round). I guess it also depends on the country/office.

I have never heard of a (reputable) company expecting candidates to pay for travel to interviews (irrespective of the round). That being said, you'd be surprised how disorganized big companies can be and the process for booking travel can vary across firms (I always had HR / assistant book things for me, was never sent a link to travel website). Just ask HR about arranging travel arrangements

I'd eat the cost even if they don't pay for it. you'll laugh at the cost of a plane ticket if you get the job

That's what I'm thinking. I told him to just pay for it and once it's over (whether he gets it or not), he can ask for reimbursement without it affecting the final outcome. One of his friends actually suggested he ask if they can do a phone screen first or even do the first round over the phone, but I think it's tough with consulting due to the case, notes, etc.

Oh well, I'm giving him my points anyway but I thought it was odd so I figured it was worth asking here. It's MBB, Southern US office.