McKinsey vs BCG: Which Consulting Firm is Right for You?
Updated January 2026·10 min read
Head-to-Head: McKinsey vs BCG
9/10
Interview Difficulty
9/10
5/10
Work-Life Balance
6/10
10/10
Compensation
9/10
10/10
Prestige
9/10
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Exit Opportunities
9/10
McKinseyBCG
Quick Summary
Both McKinsey & Company and Boston Consulting Group are excellent consulting firms with strong reputations. McKinsey is known for those who thrive in structured environments, while BCG excels at independent thinkers who like to drive. Your choice should depend on your career goals, preferred working style, and cultural fit.
Detailed Comparison: McKinsey vs BCG
| Category | McKinsey | BCG |
|---|---|---|
| Interview Format | Interviewer-led cases with structured PEI | Candidate-led cases with conversational fit |
| Online Assessment | Solve Game (ecosystem simulation) | Casey Chatbot + Pymetrics |
| Culture | More formal, "one firm" global approach | More entrepreneurial, office-specific culture |
| Compensation | Slightly higher base at senior levels | Competitive with stronger bonus culture |
| Specialization | Strong in operations, org, and digital | Known for strategy and growth work |
| Exit Opportunities | Strongest brand recognition globally | Excellent PE/VC and startup exits |
Key Takeaways
- Interview Format: McKinsey for structured thinkers; BCG for independent drivers
- Online Assessment: Both require specific prep; Casey is more case-like
- Culture: BCG for those who value local autonomy
- Compensation: Roughly equivalent; negotiate based on offer
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose McKinsey if you...
- ✓Those who thrive in structured environments
- ✓Candidates targeting C-suite or public sector
- ✓People who value global mobility
Choose BCG if you...
- ✓Independent thinkers who like to drive
- ✓Those interested in strategy and innovation
- ✓People who value office culture fit
Interview Process Comparison
McKinsey Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
BCG Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Prepare for Both McKinsey and BCG
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Start PracticingFrequently Asked Questions
Is McKinsey harder to get into than BCG?
Both have similar acceptance rates (under 1%). McKinsey receives more applications due to brand recognition, but BCG is equally selective. Success depends on fit with each firm's interview style.
Which pays more: McKinsey or BCG?
Compensation is nearly identical at entry levels (~$115K base for undergrad, ~$190K for MBA). McKinsey may edge slightly higher at senior levels, but bonuses and signing offers can vary by office and negotiation.
Should I choose McKinsey or BCG for private equity exit?
Both are equally respected for PE exits. BCG has a slight reputation advantage in growth equity and VC, while McKinsey's brand carries in traditional PE. Your deal experience matters more than firm name.
What's the main difference between McKinsey and BCG interviews?
McKinsey uses interviewer-led cases where they guide you through specific questions, plus a deep-dive PEI. BCG uses candidate-led cases where you drive the analysis, with more conversational behavioral questions.