SAT Score MBB
So I am from Canada and was unable to take the SAT during college apps in 2021 (restrictions). Currently go to top 10 undergrad school in US, and about to apply to MBB firms. Saw that they ask for test scores. Will it be problematic that I don’t have an SAT score to submit? Wondering how much of a weight they put on this nowadays.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, not having an SAT score isn't necessarily a deal-breaker for MBB firms, especially given your unique circumstances with restrictions and the fact that you're attending a top 10 undergrad school in the US. Here's what you can do:
Highlight Your Academic Performance: Emphasize your strong academic record at your current university. MBB firms value high performers, so your GPA and any academic honors can speak volumes.
Leverage Your School's Reputation: Being at a top 10 undergrad school is advantageous. MBB firms recruit heavily from prestigious institutions, so your school's name carries weight.
Focus on Networking: As one non-target student who secured offers from 2/3 MBBs mentioned, networking is crucial. They had to network extensively, which can help overcome the lack of an SAT score.
Showcase Relevant Experience: If you have relevant internships, projects, or leadership experiences, make sure these are front and center on your resume.
Prepare for the Case Interviews: MBB firms place significant emphasis on case interviews. Excelling in these can help mitigate the absence of an SAT score.
Explain Your Situation: If asked, be ready to explain why you don't have an SAT score in a straightforward and honest manner.
Remember, firms look at candidates holistically, so while test scores are one aspect, they are not the sole determinant of a candidate's potential.
Sources: Non-target student with full-time offers to 2/3 MBB's. Ask me anything!, Non-target student with full-time offers to 2/3 MBB's. Ask me anything!, Lying about SAT score for PE Recruiting, Is the SAT important? Wall Street Says Yes., How important is your SAT score?
For UG recruiting MBB firms do care about SAT/ACT scores but if you have a legit reason for not having the score (which sounds like you do) they won’t hold it against you / ding you for it.
Fellow Canadian here. I'd probably leave a note somewhere if there's a box ex. "Anything you want us to know?" just in case. But your experiences and casing ability will matter much more.
We look at sat scores when screening for interviews. It does play a factor, it’s sort of a prerequisite. For example a student who has a perfect college gpa but with a 1100 sat score will get screened out unless they can explain the reason for the score (life circumstances, etc). 1500+ is ideal if you want to guarantee getting past the sat screening.
In my experience MBB firms don’t care, I don’t have my score listed on my resume and I’ve been able to secure a private equity internship, SA @ MBB and a FT @ MBB
Did you put your SAT score in your profile when they ask? I have a 1490 so I'm struggling to decide if that is good enough.
So you’re thinking about omitting a section they specifically ask for when you have a valid score? I wouldn’t do that. Also 1490 definitely good enough that you won’t get auto-screened out
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