BCG vs Oliver Wyman: Strategy Consulting Comparison
Updated January 2026·10 min read
Head-to-Head: BCG vs Oliver Wyman
9/10
Interview Difficulty
8/10
6/10
Work-Life Balance
6/10
9/10
Compensation
8/10
9/10
Prestige
7/10
9/10
Exit Opportunities
8/10
BCGOliver Wyman
Quick Summary
Both Boston Consulting Group and Oliver Wyman are excellent consulting firms with strong reputations. BCG is known for generalist strategists, while Oliver Wyman excels at fs career focus. Your choice should depend on your career goals, preferred working style, and cultural fit.
Detailed Comparison: BCG vs Oliver Wyman
| Category | BCG | Oliver Wyman |
|---|---|---|
| Firm Type | MBB generalist | FS-focused boutique |
| Case Style | Candidate-led, creative | Candidate-led, math-heavy |
| Compensation | MBB rates | 10-15% below BCG |
| Industry Breadth | All industries | FS, aviation, risk |
| Intellectual Capital | Henderson Institute, publications | Specialized FS research |
| Global Reach | Larger global footprint | Strong in key FS centers |
Key Takeaways
- Firm Type: Different positioning
- Case Style: OW more quantitative
- Compensation: BCG pays more
- Industry Breadth: BCG for variety
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose BCG if you...
- ✓Generalist strategists
- ✓Innovation/digital interests
- ✓Broad career options
Choose Oliver Wyman if you...
- ✓FS career focus
- ✓Quantitative backgrounds
- ✓Risk/insurance interests
Interview Process Comparison
BCG Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Oliver Wyman Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Prepare for Both BCG and Oliver Wyman
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Start PracticingFrequently Asked Questions
Should I choose BCG or Oliver Wyman?
BCG for maximum optionality; Oliver Wyman if you're certain about financial services. BCG brand and exit options are stronger overall, but OW is excellent for FS-specific paths.
BCG or Oliver Wyman for hedge fund exits?
Both can lead to hedge funds. OW's quantitative reputation and FS focus may help for certain quant-oriented funds. BCG's brand is broader. Either works for HF recruiting.
How do BCG and Oliver Wyman cases differ?
Both are candidate-led, but OW cases typically have more calculations and financial modeling. BCG cases are broader strategy. OW is known as the most math-heavy major firm.
Is Oliver Wyman prestigious?
Yes, within its tier. OW is top-tier boutique, well-respected especially in financial services. It's not MBB prestige but is recognized by sophisticated employers and opens strong doors.