2 Comments
 

Breaking into Big 4 consulting firms, including firms like Accenture, from a target school such as Ross can be competitive but is certainly achievable with the right preparation and strategy. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Target School Advantage: Being at a target school like Ross provides a significant advantage. These schools often have established relationships with consulting firms, which can lead to more on-campus recruiting opportunities and networking events. This direct access is invaluable and can increase your chances of landing interviews.

  2. Academic Performance: High academic performance is crucial. Consulting firms, especially the Big 4 and similar firms like Accenture, often look for candidates with strong GPAs. This is often seen as an indicator of your ability to handle the rigorous analytical work required in consulting.

  3. Relevant Experience: Internships or experience in related fields can be a significant boost. Whether it’s through summer internships, part-time roles, or relevant extracurricular activities, these experiences can provide practical skills and demonstrate your interest in the consulting industry.

  4. Networking: Leverage the alumni network of Ross and any connections you have or can establish in the consulting world. Informational interviews, attending company presentations, and connecting with recruiters and consultants can provide insights and increase your visibility to potential employers.

  5. Preparation for Interviews: Consulting interviews can be challenging and often include case studies and behavioral questions. Preparation is key, and there are many resources available, including books, online courses, and university career services. Practice case studies regularly and consider forming or joining a case interview study group.

  6. Utilize Career Services: Ross likely has a dedicated career services department that can provide additional support in resume building, interview preparation, and job placement. Make sure to utilize these resources.

By focusing on these areas, students from target schools like Ross have a structured path to follow which can lead to successful entry into Big 4 consulting firms and similar companies.

Sources: Pre-Admit Ross vs. Stern for Undergraduate-- About to be a freshman, Q&A - Left First Undergrad with Sub 2.0 GPA====>Booth MBA/"Tier 2" Consulting, What’s Harder? MBB or EB/BB, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Fuga unde sit et et. Nemo soluta libero libero consequatur error. Rerum itaque consequatur est illum accusamus. Veritatis doloribus ipsa illum nihil sint est velit. Repudiandae cumque qui cumque eaque cupiditate sint. Corporis facere accusamus et autem non nisi.

Reprehenderit ut quia aliquam voluptatem. Voluptate non aut accusantium repellendus ducimus perspiciatis. Illum maxime quo et vel earum vero.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Consulting

  • Boston Consulting Group 99.5%
  • Bain & Company 98.9%
  • McKinsey & Company 98.4%
  • Oliver Wyman 97.9%
  • LEK Consulting 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Consulting

  • Cornerstone Research 99.5%
  • Bain & Company 98.9%
  • Boston Consulting Group 98.4%
  • McKinsey & Company 97.9%
  • Oliver Wyman 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Consulting

  • Bain & Company 99.5%
  • Boston Consulting Group 98.9%
  • McKinsey & Company 98.4%
  • Oliver Wyman 97.9%
  • LEK Consulting 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Consulting

  • Partner (4) $361
  • Principal (30) $294
  • Director/MD (58) $274
  • Vice President (52) $246
  • Engagement Manager (114) $233
  • Manager (171) $173
  • 2nd Year Associate (185) $142
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (115) $135
  • Senior Consultant (355) $132
  • Consultant (642) $122
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (164) $121
  • 1st Year Associate (576) $121
  • NA (16) $114
  • Engineer (6) $114
  • 2nd Year Analyst (392) $104
  • Associate Consultant (176) $101
  • 1st Year Analyst (1163) $90
  • Intern/Summer Associate (208) $83
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (637) $68
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”