McKinsey vs KPMG Strategy: The Prestige Gap
Updated January 2026·10 min read
Head-to-Head: McKinsey vs KPMG Strategy
9/10
Interview Difficulty
6/10
5/10
Work-Life Balance
6/10
10/10
Compensation
7/10
10/10
Prestige
5/10
10/10
Exit Opportunities
6/10
McKinseyKPMG Strategy
Quick Summary
Both McKinsey & Company and KPMG Strategy are excellent consulting firms with strong reputations. McKinsey is known for maximum career optionality, while KPMG Strategy excels at transaction advisory interest. Your choice should depend on your career goals, preferred working style, and cultural fit.
Detailed Comparison: McKinsey vs KPMG Strategy
| Category | McKinsey | KPMG Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Power | Universally recognized gold standard | Less known strategy practice |
| Focus Areas | Full strategy spectrum | Transaction advisory, restructuring |
| Compensation | Industry-leading | 25% below McKinsey |
| Interview Process | Interviewer-led, PEI, Solve | Varied by office |
| Selectivity | Under 1% acceptance | 5-10% acceptance |
| Exit Quality | Opens all doors | Limited to certain paths |
Key Takeaways
- Brand Power: McKinsey dominates in brand
- Focus Areas: Different specializations
- Compensation: McKinsey pays much more
- Interview Process: McKinsey more standardized
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose McKinsey if you...
- ✓Maximum career optionality
- ✓Strategy generalists
- ✓Those seeking top brand
Choose KPMG Strategy if you...
- ✓Transaction advisory interest
- ✓KPMG network leverage
- ✓Those building toward MBB later
Interview Process Comparison
McKinsey Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
KPMG Strategy Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Prepare for Both McKinsey and KPMG Strategy
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Start PracticingFrequently Asked Questions
Is KPMG Strategy comparable to McKinsey?
No. KPMG Strategy is a smaller practice within a Big 4, significantly below McKinsey in prestige, compensation, and exits. The gap is larger than with other Big 4 strategy arms.
How much less does KPMG Strategy pay?
Approximately 25% less than McKinsey. This is a larger gap than most Big 4 strategy comparisons. Total compensation difference is substantial over a career.
Can KPMG Strategy get you to McKinsey?
Possible but difficult. KPMG Strategy is less recognized than Deloitte S&O or Strategy& for lateral moves. You'd need exceptionally strong performance and likely MBA as a bridge.
When would you choose KPMG Strategy over McKinsey?
Rarely. Perhaps if you have specific interest in transaction advisory work, strong KPMG relationships, or need location flexibility that McKinsey doesn't offer. Otherwise, choose McKinsey.