The acceptance rate for an internship at McKinsey is estimated to be less than 5%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 5 are accepted. The low acceptance rate is a reflection of the company's rigorous hiring process, the company's high standards and the large number of applications received. Getting an internship at McKinsey is the goal of many students and MBA candidates from around the world.
In fact, joining McKinsey involves one of the most competitive application processes, as less than 1% of applicants receive an offer. APD candidates may also consider applying for an associate or business analyst internship position based on their degree or work experience, generally for the summer before the penultimate year of their degree. Medical students, interns, and residents can apply up to two years before completing their degree. McKinsey was one of the first consulting firms to recognize the contributions of those without traditional business training and to actively recruit candidates with advanced professional degrees (APD).
For now, keep in mind that associate positions are one level above business analyst positions at McKinsey, although this may not be the case at other consulting firms due to the different denominations.
