BCG vs Deloitte S&O: Strategy Consulting Compared
Updated January 2026·10 min read
Head-to-Head: BCG vs Deloitte S&O
9/10
Interview Difficulty
7/10
6/10
Work-Life Balance
6/10
9/10
Compensation
8/10
9/10
Prestige
7/10
9/10
Exit Opportunities
7/10
BCGDeloitte S&O
Quick Summary
Both Boston Consulting Group and Deloitte Strategy & Operations are excellent consulting firms with strong reputations. BCG is known for those who value innovation and ideas, while Deloitte S&O excels at those preferring implementation exposure. Your choice should depend on your career goals, preferred working style, and cultural fit.
Detailed Comparison: BCG vs Deloitte S&O
| Category | BCG | Deloitte S&O |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | MBB - top tier strategy | Big 4 Strategy - second tier |
| Interview Format | Candidate-led, Casey chatbot | Candidate-led, group case, Immersive |
| Compensation | $115K undergrad, $190K MBA | $100K undergrad, $175K MBA |
| Culture | Entrepreneurial, intellectual | More corporate, structured |
| Implementation | Strategy-focused | Strategy plus implementation |
| Career Velocity | Faster promotions possible | More predictable progression |
Key Takeaways
- Tier: BCG for prestige
- Interview Format: Both candidate-led; Deloitte adds group element
- Compensation: BCG pays 15% more
- Culture: BCG for startup feel; Deloitte more traditional
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose BCG if you...
- ✓Those who value innovation and ideas
- ✓Candidates seeking maximum prestige
- ✓People targeting top-tier exits
Choose Deloitte S&O if you...
- ✓Those preferring implementation exposure
- ✓Candidates valuing Big 4 stability
- ✓People interested in broader service lines
Interview Process Comparison
BCG Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Deloitte S&O Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Prepare for Both BCG and Deloitte S&O
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Start PracticingFrequently Asked Questions
Should I choose BCG or Deloitte S&O?
If you have both offers, choose BCG. The prestige, compensation, and exit opportunities are meaningfully better. Deloitte S&O is a strong fallback but BCG is the clear winner.
Is Deloitte Strategy harder than BCG to get into?
No. BCG is more selective with lower acceptance rates. Deloitte S&O is competitive but less so than MBB. BCG interview process is also considered more demanding.
Can Deloitte consultants transfer to BCG?
Yes, strong performers can lateral. You'll interview as an experienced hire, which can be harder in some ways. 1-2 years of Deloitte S&O experience is typically needed.
What's the pay difference between BCG and Deloitte?
BCG pays approximately 15% more at entry level and the gap widens with seniority. Over a typical consulting career, the cumulative difference can exceed $200K.