Thinking of applying to a graduate role in consulting? Stay on track and ahead of the game with our bright guide to the application timeline.
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September - November
The beginning of the academic year is a crucial time to start making applications for your graduate job in consulting. Graduate schemes tend to close their applications in mid-November, but some are earlier, so make sure you have a note of all the deadlines. Aim to get your applications in as soon as possible. Even if an application deadline is advertised, firms may close applications early if they have achieved their target, so you could lose out by hanging around. Graduate recruiters have said that many of their strongest applications come from those who apply early, so make sure you're one of them.
December - February
The winter months are when you can expect to be invited to interview and assessment centre stage. To prepare for these, read up on the firm you are applying to, and make sure you have a thorough understanding of case study questions and how to answer these. Check out the wide range of Bright Network advice articles on the types of behaviours and skills interviewers will want to see from you. Although you will have various deadlines looming at university, make sure you set aside time to fully prepare for interviews, and have a think about precisely why you are such a great fit for the role.
March - May
Spring time of your final year will be a particularly busy term, filled with exam preparation and impending deadlines. If you are still looking for a role at this time, consider smaller, boutique consulting firms, like Hymans Robertson, who often look for graduates at a later stage in the academic year.
Summer months
When summer comes around, keep your ear to the ground about any opportunities that are coming up. If you have been unsuccessful in finding a graduate role thus far, follow various organisations on social media in case they re-open applications. Apply to work experience opportunities that will help you develop your commercial awareness and analytical skills, as these will boost your CV and prove particularly useful in a consulting environment.
If you are lucky enough to have secured a consulting role at this time, put your feet up and make the most of the summer months, before the hard work begins…
Excellent graduate opportunities are available at a wide range of consulting firms including McKinsey, Deloitte and PA Consulting. Be sure to check their websites and make a note of key deadlines for applications.
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