McKinsey 2023 FT Recruitment

Hi there! :)

I wouldn't say it's necessarily a significant benefit to schedule your first-round interview earlier, especially since the window they give you is still within a month. If you were able to hear back for a first round, I wouldn't worry too much. It's always better to set an interview date that you're comfortable with (in terms of preparedness) than getting assessed earlier for the sake of chance. Most likely, they will ask you to choose a date before the second round of applications is reviewed, so you should be good! 

In terms of how quickly the process moves after first-round interviews: it really depends. I know some offices expedite, and you can hear back within three days (I know a handful of candidates who experienced this) to coordinate a second-round interview date (this would usually be within two weeks to a month). I've also heard stories of candidates who heard back for a second-round two weeks after their first round was conducted. Again, this depends on your school's relationship with the office, the office itself, and of course, your application. 

Don't stress too much about the timing of your interviews; rather, prioritize your casing skills! You'll do great! 

Best of luck :)