Consulting Application Guide

The consulting application process is competitive, with firms looking for candidates who excel in problem-solving, structured thinking, and communication. Knowing what to expect at each stage will help you prepare effectively and maximize your chances of landing an offer. In this guide, we cover:

✅ Stages of the Application Process

📝 Interview Structure by Firm

📅 Typical Timelines & Deadlines

🎯 What Consulting Firms Are Looking For

Let’s dive in! 👇

📂 Stages of the Application Process

1. Application Submission 📝

Like any job application, the first step is submitting your resume, cover letter, and academic transcript. Some firms may also require short essay responses to assess your motivation and understanding of the industry.

A strong application highlights:

✔️ Demonstrated interest in consulting

✔️ Leadership and teamwork experiences

✔️ Problem-solving ability

👉 Need help crafting a standout resume? Check out our Consulting Resume Guide.

2. Online Assessments 🎯

If your application is shortlisted, you’ll likely be invited to complete an online assessment. The format varies by firm but typically includes:

💡 Logical reasoning and problem-solving questions

📊 Data interpretation and numerical reasoning

📝 Situational judgment tests assessing decision-making

Some firms also include a one-way video interview, where you're asked to respond to pre-recorded questions.

👉 Check out company-specific online assessment resources at GradIQ's Consulting Application Resources under the Online Assessments section.

3. Case Interviews 🧠

Case interviews are the core of the consulting hiring process. They test your ability to structure problems, analyse data, and communicate solutions clearly.

Expect case questions on:

📊 Market entry & growth strategy

💰 Profitability & cost reduction

🏭 Operational efficiency & process improvements

Some firms use interviewer-led cases (structured questioning), while others use candidate-led cases (you drive the approach).

👉 New to case interviews? Start with our Case Interview Guide.

4. Behavioural Interviews 🗣️

Consulting is a client-facing profession, so **strong communication skills and teamwork** are essential. Behavioural interviews assess how well you fit within the firm's culture and how you handle challenges.

Common topics include:

✅ Leadership experiences

✅ Handling ambiguity and setbacks

✅ Teamwork and stakeholder management

👉 Check out our Behavioural Interview Guide for advice on how to tackle behavioural interviews.

📝 Interview Structure by Firm

📌 MBB & Strategy Boutiques

Two rounds of interviews. Each round consists of:

• 🧠 Two case interviews

• 💬 One behavioural interview

First round interviews are with mid-level consultants while final round interviews are with partners.

📌 Big 4 (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG)

One assessment day, typically consisting of:

• 🤝 Group case interview where you collaborate with other candidates to solve a problem

• 💬 1-on-1 behavioural interview, usually with a consultant and a recruiter

📅 Typical Timelines & Deadlines

Strategy Consulting Firms

Recruit on structured cycles:

📆 Applications open: January-February

📆 Deadlines: March-April

📆 Offers: April-May

Big 4

Often have rolling deadlines or multiple intakes throughout the year.

👉 Stay up to date with application deadlines on GradIQ's jobs board.

🎯 What Consulting Firms Are Looking For

To succeed in consulting interviews, you need a mix of:

🧠 Structured Thinking & Problem-Solving

Can you break down complex problems and communicate solutions clearly?

📊 Business Acumen & Market Awareness

Do you understand how businesses operate and make decisions?

💬 Communication & Storytelling

Can you explain your thought process in a clear, engaging way?

👥 Collaboration & Leadership

Are you able to work effectively in teams and take ownership of problems?

👉 Want to know more? Check out our Successful Consulting Applicant Traits article.

🚀 Final Thoughts

Consulting interviews are challenging but highly coachable. With the right preparation, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Start early, practice case interviews, and refine your communication skills!

Ready to get started? Check out our full Consulting Interview Prep Hub for the best resources. 🎯