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McKinsey & Company Interview Questions, Process, and Tips for Freshers

Updated 3 Mar 2025

Top McKinsey & Company Interview Questions and Answers for Freshers

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McKinsey & Company Interview Experiences for Freshers

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45 interviews found

Interview Preparation Tips

Round: Resume Shortlist
Experience: The company looks for exceptional performances in the resumes. They want to have people who are good on all fronts and are exceptional in a few things. So tailor the resume accordingly and bring out all the spikes that you can put forth.
Tips: They usually have a resume making workshop where they tell about their expectations from the resumes. Make full use of that workshop.

Round: Interview
Experience: I appeared for 4 interviews in total. Each interview had case study as well as HR questions. It is very important to engage the interviewer in a conversation and remain confident throughout the interview.
Tips: Show the interviewer that you are really passionate about whatever you have done.

General Tips: Pre-Placement Preparation

1) Selecting sectors or companies
Select your group of target companies and sectors. You should realize what your interests are and what kind of job would suit you, and according to that you should prepare a list of companies that you are going to focus on primarily. This list should not be too narrow that you have too few companies to target and not too broad that you end up sitting for every company visiting the campus.

2) Attending PPTs
The PPTs and the workshops organized by the companies form a key input in the decision process of choosing the companies. Be attentive during the PPTs and note key points mentioned – like the profile, compensation structure and the contacts of the people (especially alumni) in the company. This helps a lot during the preparation for the particular company.

3) Resume
The best way to start the preparation for the interview process is to start by making a list of all things that you have done in your life. This list should contain every small and big thing that you have done. Once the above list is made, make a master resume out of the list by retaining all the important things and putting them into formal language. The smaller works can be kept for narrating during interviews. If your master resume is properly made then preparing company tailored resume becomes very easy. After the master resume is done, it is time to make sector/company specific resumes. Every sector must have different resumes and, if possible, also make the resume specific to every company. Take feedback from your friends and seniors and make necessary adjustments.

4) Communication skills
You can make a GD group and conduct regular GDs to help you prepare for the GDs. In fact, also ask your friends to conduct mock interviews and record these interviews. You will actually come to know what to do and how you react during the interviews.

5) Written Tests
If you are targeting companies that take CAT-like aptitude tests, then prepare for them by solving some CAT papers. These tests just check practice and someone who has been preparing will definitely have an edge over a person who is not in touch.

6) HR Interviews
Make a list of the commonly asked HR questions and then prepare answers for them. Do not learn the answers by heart but make sure you know the important points that you want to mention for each question.

7) Case Interviews
The best way to prepare for a case interview is to form groups and solve case studies interactively as you would do in an interview.

8. CSE Preparation
For the CSE companies, I brushed up basic data structures and algorithms as well as C/C++ and Java. Other than that, I also glanced through Operating Systems, Compilers, Networks and databases. Make sure that you understand the basic concepts behind these things as well as particular details of popular implementations of each of these systems.
College Name: IIT KANPUR

Top McKinsey & Company Business Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

Q1. Growth of cars vs growth of motorbikes - which would grow faster in % terms? A: Economic factor the main reason to go for bikes. Shift from lower middle to upper middle, increasing growth rate for cars more than for bikes
View answer (1)

Business Analyst Interview Questions asked at other Companies

Q1. You have 10 boxes of balls (each ball weighing exactly10 gm) with one box with defective balls (each one of the defective balls weigh 9 gm). You are given an electronic weighing machine and only one chance at it. How will you find out which... read more
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Intern Interview Questions & Answers

user image Akhilesh Chauhan

posted on 22 Nov 2015

Interview Questionnaire 

7 Questions

  • Q1. Dicussion on projects in public sector
  • Q2. Case
  • Q3. How to control PDS kerosene leakages in petrol pumps?
  • Ans. 

    To control PDS kerosene leakages in petrol pumps, strict monitoring and enforcement of regulations is necessary.

    • Regular inspections of petrol pumps to check for leakages

    • Installation of proper equipment to prevent leakages

    • Strict penalties for petrol pump owners found guilty of leakages

    • Training of petrol pump staff on proper handling of kerosene

    • Encouraging consumers to report any leakages they observe

    • Collaboration betwee...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q4. A case on a hotel operating in losses. Made me calculate the profit margins for ‘Room’ & ‘Non-Room’ segments of the hotel followed by qualitative discussion on how to improve profitability
  • Q5. Extensive HR
  • Q6. Guess estimate on estimation of 1 year revenue for NEUFC (ISL team)
  • Ans. 

    Estimated revenue for NEUFC (ISL team) for 1 year

    • Revenue depends on various factors like ticket sales, sponsorships, merchandise sales, etc.

    • Previous year's revenue can be used as a reference point

    • Assuming an average revenue growth rate of 10%, the estimated revenue for NEUFC for 1 year could be around X amount

  • Answered by AI
  • Q7. General HR

Interview Preparation Tips

Round: Case Study Interview
Experience: Went by the distribution of kerosene across various nodes & analysed issues. Discussed measure to control it at retailer points (Consumer data digitization, mapping to Aadhar card in the future, etc) as well as at wholesaler points (this is where the bulk of kerosene was lost). Overall, had a good discussion.

Round: Case Study Interview
Experience: Somehow became nervous while doing the initial calculations. Realized it & took a step back to form an income statement of the hotel & broke it into ‘Room’ & ‘Non-Room’ segments. Found out that ‘Non-room’ segment is under heavy losses. Discussed ideas to improve it. I think this interview did not go well. Did not get a good response from Suveer.

Round: Guesstimate Interview
Experience: Broke NEUFC revenue into components (Stadium sales (Tickets+food), Merchandise, Sponsorships, Broadcast revenue, Player transfers, etc). Guesstimate for only the stadium sales for the whole tournament. I think this was the cracker I was waiting for. Interviewer seemed very much impressed.

Round: HR Interview
Experience: Very dis-interested person in front. Did not try to make an eye contact with me. Working with something while I was giving my ‘Tell me about yourself’. After I finished he took a 30 second pause looking down. I had absolutely no idea what was going on. Then he suddenly asks me what is so special about me? Probably my response was satisfying for him and he asked me whether I had any questions for him or not. Then we discussed about his experience at Mck.

General Tips: Never ever panic in the interview. Always keep a smile on your face & answer confidently. While doing your case practices, do take time out to introspect for at least half an hour before sleep every day. This will help you build strong HR answers.
Skills:
College Name: IIM Lucknow

Top McKinsey & Company Intern Interview Questions and Answers

Q1. You own an e-commerce website which sells jewellery, fashion products and apparel majorly for women. You have spent a good amount on marketing the site but still are in losses. Now you have to make a strategy to earn profits. Basically an i... read more
View answer (2)

Intern Interview Questions asked at other Companies

Q1. Case. There is a housing society “The wasteful society”, you collect all the household garbage and sell it to 5 different businesses. Determine what price you will pay to the society members in Rs/kg, given you want to make a profit of 20% ... read more
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Intern Interview Questions & Answers

user image Amrita Singh

posted on 22 Nov 2015

Interview Questionnaire 

4 Questions

  • Q1. Round 2:A case based on tackling the problem of Anemia in India (assuming the role of the Prime Minister of India)
  • Q2. A case based on market entry of a firm into India (basic structure required).HR questions on why consulting?Long term goals?
  • Q3. Generic HR
  • Q4. Simple guestimate to estimate the size and revenue of Apple I phone 6 in India

Interview Preparation Tips

Round: Case Study Interview
Experience: If you were the Prime Minister of India how would you tackle the persistent problem of anemia.(key pointers- conduct a pilot, rope in the rural local leaders as they are very strong opinion leaders)

Round: Case Study Interview
Experience: A well reputed pharma firm wants to enter the indian market.Chart out the structure for the same.Decision on whether to manufacture locally or import from the host nation.Slight costing structure figures were given with basic calculations required.

General Tips: Just be confident.Being yourself is the key.Do not try to lie to impress the panel.Honesty is highly appreciated.Be clear on why consulting.Practice as many cases (in a formal structure and environment).Note the feedback and continuously work on the same.
Skills:
College Name: IIM Lucknow

Top McKinsey & Company Intern Interview Questions and Answers

Q1. You own an e-commerce website which sells jewellery, fashion products and apparel majorly for women. You have spent a good amount on marketing the site but still are in losses. Now you have to make a strategy to earn profits. Basically an i... read more
View answer (2)

Intern Interview Questions asked at other Companies

Q1. Case. There is a housing society “The wasteful society”, you collect all the household garbage and sell it to 5 different businesses. Determine what price you will pay to the society members in Rs/kg, given you want to make a profit of 20% ... read more
View answer (8)

Intern Interview Questions & Answers

user image Arpit Vinayak

posted on 22 Nov 2015

Interview Questionnaire 

9 Questions

  • Q1. What were your biggest learnings from the work experiences in all companies/ profiles you worked for/ in
  • Ans. 

    My biggest learnings from work experiences

    • Importance of effective communication in a team setting

    • Adaptability and flexibility in handling different tasks and challenges

    • Time management and prioritization of tasks

    • Building strong professional relationships and networking

    • Continuous learning and skill development

  • Answered by AI
  • Q2. Need to reduce the waiting time in the OPD of a hospital. How would you do it
  • Q3. Why MBA after such work experience?
  • Ans. 

    An MBA will enhance my skills and knowledge to advance my career and achieve my long-term goals.

    • To gain a deeper understanding of business operations and strategy

    • To develop leadership and management skills

    • To expand my professional network and gain exposure to diverse industries

    • To pivot my career towards a new industry or function

    • To achieve my long-term career goals

    • Example: I have worked in marketing for several years a...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q4. Short quantitative problem on variable/ fixed expenses of a hotel
  • Ans. 

    Variable expenses of a hotel are costs that change with occupancy levels, while fixed expenses remain constant.

    • Variable expenses include housekeeping, laundry, and guest amenities.

    • Fixed expenses include rent, property taxes, and insurance.

    • As occupancy levels increase, variable expenses will also increase.

    • Fixed expenses can be spread out over a larger number of guests, reducing the cost per guest.

    • Understanding the diffe...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q5. Qualitative case: How would you reduce the setup cost of a hotel company?
  • Ans. 

    To reduce setup cost of a hotel company, focus on optimizing procurement, outsourcing non-core activities, and utilizing technology.

    • Optimize procurement by negotiating better deals with suppliers and using bulk purchasing

    • Outsource non-core activities such as laundry, landscaping, and maintenance to reduce staffing costs

    • Utilize technology to automate processes and reduce manual labor, such as implementing self-check-in ...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q6. Tell me about yourself
  • Ans. 

    I am a highly motivated individual with a passion for learning and a strong work ethic.

    • I have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

    • I have completed several internships in software development

    • I am proficient in programming languages such as Java and Python

    • I am a quick learner and enjoy taking on new challenges

  • Answered by AI
  • Q7. Biggest failure in life (from the McKinsey test)
  • Ans. 

    My biggest failure was not standing up for myself in a toxic work environment.

    • I allowed my boss to belittle and undermine me in front of colleagues.

    • I didn't speak up when I was given unfair workloads and deadlines.

    • I didn't seek help or support from HR or colleagues.

    • I eventually became burnt out and had to leave the job.

    • I learned the importance of setting boundaries and advocating for myself in the workplace.

  • Answered by AI
  • Q8. What would your suggestions be to the PM Narendra Modi on making the recently launched MadeInIndia Campaign successful
  • Ans. 

    To make MadeInIndia campaign successful, PM Modi should focus on improving infrastructure, promoting innovation, and encouraging exports.

    • Invest in building world-class infrastructure to support manufacturing and exports

    • Promote innovation and R&D to improve product quality and competitiveness

    • Encourage exports by providing incentives and reducing trade barriers

    • Collaborate with industry leaders to identify and address cha...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q9. Guesstimate the no. of iPhone 6 that would be sold in India post the upcoming launch
  • Ans. 

    Around 1 million iPhone 6 units may be sold in India post launch.

    • Sales will depend on pricing and marketing strategies

    • Apple has a loyal customer base in India

    • Competition from other smartphone brands may affect sales

    • Previous iPhone models have seen good sales in India

    • Demand may be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas

  • Answered by AI

Interview Preparation Tips

Round: Guesstimate Interview
Experience: 1) Suggested things around SEZs, substituting imports (focus on specific sectors), etc
2) Reached a very large no of 30MM over the quarter. Hence was not good overall.

Round: Case Study Interview
Experience: Very specific case, data specific. Recently executed by the partner. Discussed the current work schedule of the doctors and suggested ways around reducing waiting time: incentives for taking appointments, etc.

General Tips: 1) HR answers are important. Take time to prepare well.
2) Some interviewers tend to get very friendly, to make you comfortable and talk about things you shouldn’t, don’t lower your guard/ be too friendly.
Skills:
College Name: IIM Lucknow

Top McKinsey & Company Intern Interview Questions and Answers

Q1. You own an e-commerce website which sells jewellery, fashion products and apparel majorly for women. You have spent a good amount on marketing the site but still are in losses. Now you have to make a strategy to earn profits. Basically an i... read more
View answer (2)

Intern Interview Questions asked at other Companies

Q1. Case. There is a housing society “The wasteful society”, you collect all the household garbage and sell it to 5 different businesses. Determine what price you will pay to the society members in Rs/kg, given you want to make a profit of 20% ... read more
View answer (8)

McKinsey & Company interview questions for popular designations

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Intern Interview Questions & Answers

user image Fern Sharma

posted on 25 Nov 2015

Interview Questionnaire 

6 Questions

  • Q1. Why consulting?
  • Q2. How has IIML been so far
  • Ans. 

    IIML has been an enriching experience so far.

    • IIML has provided me with a rigorous academic curriculum.

    • The faculty at IIML is highly knowledgeable and experienced.

    • I have had the opportunity to interact with diverse and talented peers.

    • The campus infrastructure and facilities are top-notch.

    • IIML has also offered various industry interactions and guest lectures.

    • I have been able to participate in extracurricular activities a...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q3. Case : Single screen cinema suffering losses in Listed all the revenue and cost streams. It was a cost side problem as everything was done internally with 100 employees for food vending, maintenance etc
  • Ans. 

    The single screen cinema is facing losses due to internal cost issues.

    • Revenue streams: ticket sales, concessions (food and beverages), advertising

    • Cost streams: employee salaries, food vending expenses, maintenance costs

    • Examples of revenue streams: ticket sales revenue, revenue from selling food and beverages, revenue from advertising partnerships

    • Examples of cost streams: salaries of employees involved in food vending a...

  • Answered by AI
  • Q4. What advice will you give my 8 year daughter?
  • Ans. 

    Be kind, curious, and never stop learning.

    • Always be kind to others and treat them with respect.

    • Stay curious and never stop asking questions.

    • Embrace learning and try new things.

    • Believe in yourself and never give up.

    • Be patient and understanding with yourself and others.

    • Take care of your health and well-being.

    • Have fun and enjoy the journey of life.

  • Answered by AI
  • Q5. Long term plans?
  • Q6. What do you think the role of partner is in the firm?

Interview Preparation Tips

Round: HR Interview
Experience: Spoke about committee and ABG experience. Linked why consulting with experience in analytics

Round: HR Interview
Experience: Advice:
Let her follow her dreams. There is no ultimate success. You choose your own path. She is lucky enough to be born in a family where all the resources will be provided to her to follow her passion. All she needs is great guidance and freedom of thought.
Long term :
See myself as a partner in McKinsey in 8 years

General Tips: 1) Prepare Why Consulting? Long term plans and Why McKinsey questions well
2) Involve the partner as much and take pauses while solving the case. No need to rush
3) Stick to the structure that you have been following with your case group
Skills:
College Name: IIM Lucknow

Top McKinsey & Company Intern Interview Questions and Answers

Q1. You own an e-commerce website which sells jewellery, fashion products and apparel majorly for women. You have spent a good amount on marketing the site but still are in losses. Now you have to make a strategy to earn profits. Basically an i... read more
View answer (2)

Intern Interview Questions asked at other Companies

Q1. Case. There is a housing society “The wasteful society”, you collect all the household garbage and sell it to 5 different businesses. Determine what price you will pay to the society members in Rs/kg, given you want to make a profit of 20% ... read more
View answer (8)

Get interview-ready with Top McKinsey & Company Interview Questions

McKinsey & Company Interview FAQs

How many rounds are there in McKinsey & Company interview for freshers?
McKinsey & Company interview process for freshers usually has 3-4 rounds. The most common rounds in the McKinsey & Company interview process for freshers are One-on-one Round, Coding Test and HR.
How to prepare for McKinsey & Company interview for freshers?
Go through your CV in detail and study all the technologies mentioned in your CV. Prepare at least two technologies or languages in depth if you are appearing for a technical interview at McKinsey & Company. The most common topics and skills that interviewers at McKinsey & Company expect are Accounting Operations, Accounts Payable, Communication Skills, Excel and Expenses.
What are the top questions asked in McKinsey & Company interview for freshers?

Some of the top questions asked at the McKinsey & Company interview for freshers -

  1. Growth of cars vs growth of motorbikes - which would grow faster in % terms? A:...read more
  2. You own an e-commerce website which sells jewellery, fashion products and appa...read more
  3. Puzzle: You have lost your wallet containing 500 rupees. There is a similar wal...read more
How long is the McKinsey & Company interview process?

The duration of McKinsey & Company interview process can vary, but typically it takes about less than 2 weeks to complete.

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McKinsey & Company Interview Process for Freshers

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