MBB Ascent Application
Form

Exceptional candidates who are currently in the preparation phase for McKinsey, BCG and Bain applications are eligible to apply for the Ascent prograrm.

Successful applicants to the Ascent Program typically look beyong preparation advice, seeking to accelerate their career trajectory upon joining their chosen MBB firm and leverage the opportunity as a springboard for achieving long-term ambitions.

These individuals are a rare subset of MBB candidates who sit at the intersection of exceptional achievment, grounded empathy and future global leadership. They typically emobdy 5 defining qualities: 
1. Visionary impact: Track record of outsized success in all areas of life they have devoted their attention to​
2. Initiative-led ownership: Natural inclination towards taking personal ownership of collective outcomes and initiative via tangible actions
3. ​Innate curiosity: Natural desire to grow, learn more about themselves and the world around them​
4. Meaningful connection: Capacity to form authentic, honest and deep relationships with others​
5. Caring leadership: Has role modelled and inspired others to show care, kindness and respect across a range of challenging situations​.

We extend a warm welcome to individuals with these qualities to apply for the Ascent Program.

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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for the Ascent Program?

Candidates who are currently in the preparation phase for McKinsey, Bain and BCG applications are eligible for the Ascent Program.

Candidates are expected to be:

  • More than [2 months away] from their estimated interview date. The 10-week program is structured in a way that candidates consolidate both tangible and mental outcomes at the conclusion of the program. Disruptions and competing priorities in the middle of the program prevent candidates from achieving these outcomes.
2. What is the selection criteria for the Ascent Program?

Preparation baseline: Whilst there is no minimum pre-requisite of MBB preparation required for acceptance into the program, most candidates that we accept have completed some level of baseline preparation:

  1. Resume/CV: Finalised for submission
  2. Behaviorals: Completed the Core Program, or alternatively have 4 "interview-ready" stories in STAR format, covering (a) personal conflict resolution (b) resilience through hardship (c) inclusivity in leadership style and (d) rapid innovation and growth.
  3. Casing: Completed the CORE Program, or alternatively have done >15 cases with a variety of interviewer-led and candidate-led cases.

Character baseline: There is no single metric, objective or subjective, that distinguishes successful applicants. We look for individuals who, in our belief, have the foundations not just to join McKinsey, Bain or BCG but to truly excel during their time there and use that opportunity to achieve their broader career vision and ambition. Throughout our selection process, we look for 5 qualities:

  1. Visionary impact: Track record of outsized success in all areas of life they have devoted their attention to
  2. Initiative-led ownership: Natural inclination towards taking personal ownership of collective outcomes and initiative via tangible actions
  3. Innate curiosity: Natural desire to grow, learn more about themselves and the world around them
  4. Meaningful connection: Capacity to form authentic, honest and deep relationships with others
  5. Caring leadership: Has role modelled and inspired others to show care, kindness and respect across a range of challenging situations
3. When do applications for the Ascent Program open?

Applications for the Ascent Program cohorts are currently open. Candidates applying for earlier cohort dates will be considered on a rolling basis.

4. I received a referral to By Intuity from a former Ascent Program graduate or a member at McKinsey (EM+), Bain (Snr Mng+) or BCG (PL+). How should I indicate this on my application?

Please include in the relevant text boxes upon your application.

5. I was previously unsuccessful in my application for the Ascent Program. Can I apply again?

To maintain the integrity of the Ascent Program, By Intuity has a lifetime limit of 3 applications per candidate. Unsuccessful candidates must observe a minimum 12-month interval before they can re-submit an application. This ensures sufficient opportunity for the necessary growth of previously unsuccessful candidates to meet the standard of the program.

6. How should I best prepare for the Ascent Program selection process?

Whilst completion of the Core Program is not strictly necessary for acceptance in the Ascent Program, it is highly recommended for candidates who are seeking to establish a foundation for MBB preparation and the MBB application process. The majority of successful applicants in the past have used the contents of the Core Program to answer [pre-requisite questions].

7. Can I apply for the Ascent Program if my application for McKinsey, Bain or BCG was previously unsuccessful?

Yes. A previous unsuccessful MBB application does not disqualify you from the Ascent Program. We assess each candidate based on their current preparation, trajectory, and profile. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are genuinely committed to the process, we welcome your application.