Retake SAT for MBB internship/recruiting?
Hi all,
I’m currently at a T5 public school and planning to recruit for consulting (MBB and Big 4). I’ve noticed past students have landed MBB offers from here, so I know it’s possible, but I want to make sure I’m positioning myself optimally.
I took the SAT back in 10th grade and scored a 1360, but I’ve since retaken several practice tests and consistently score in the 1500–1550 range. I know SATs aren’t always a major factor, but I've been scrolling throught this forum and noticed that firms like McKinsey supposedly ask for them.
Would it be worth the time and effort to officially retake the SAT to reflect my current ability... or is that unnecessary given I’m already in university with a 4.0 GPA, leadership, clubs, etc?
Would appreciate this forum's wisdom. Thanks!!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, retaking the SAT for MBB recruiting is generally unnecessary, especially if you already have a strong 4.0 GPA, leadership roles, and relevant extracurriculars. While firms like McKinsey may occasionally ask for standardized test scores, they evaluate candidates holistically. Your academic performance, work experience, and networking efforts will carry significantly more weight.
If your SAT score is not a glaring weakness (e.g., below 1200), it’s unlikely to be a dealbreaker. Instead, focus your energy on strengthening other aspects of your profile, such as case prep, networking, and showcasing leadership in consulting-related activities like case competitions or volunteer consulting projects. These efforts will have a much higher ROI for your recruiting success.
Sources: Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, 2019 APD MBB Full Time Recruiting, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, PE Recruiting Failure
i dont remember it being mandatory for consulting, many banks did ask though
Can confirm all MBB does ask for it on application
my bad - i'd copy what others said, a 1400+ should be fine.
so many people went test optional also, so it doesn't matter too much
If you think you won’t have to study much for it, go ahead and retake it. But no need if it’s going to distract you from more important things.
FYI I also thought about this with a 1480, decided it was fine, and am now at MBB. Anything 1400+ is probably fine
1400+ and you should be good!
I know a guy who had a 1460 SAT who got MBB, and a guy who had a 1550 SAT who did not even get a first round with MBB, both white males at targets.
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