I applied online. I interviewed at McKinsey & Company in Aug 2013
Interview
Interviewed in 2013 August. Being a PhD candidate, I went through a Problem Solving Test (PST) which comprised of multiple math questions after reading a business case. The test is pretty intense but with enough amount of practice and attention to details, you could pass it easily. After the PST, there was a group interview, where I was put in a room with 5 other candidates. A consultant walked in to give us guidance on "how to do a case" but in actual fact, he asked us case interview questions about exhibits and each of us had to provide insights on the exhibit. It would be unfortunate if you are the last to be asked as there is really limited insights in one exhibit. However, they switch up the answering order for subsequent questions so it is fair for everyone. I was later called that afternoon to be informed that I did extremely well for my PST and I passed that screening round.
I was then invited to the first round interview where there were two interviewers. Each started with a behavioral interview and ended with a case interview. It was not super complex and you do not have to know complicated formulas. The calculations may have obscure numbers to work with. It is generally a pressure test and to see if you are "smooth".
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me what was your greatest achievement. This question is seemingly easy, but my feedback was that they are looking for something that is really impressive and engaging.
I applied online. I interviewed at McKinsey & Company (Riyadh) in Apr 2026
Interview
The interview process at McKinsey was highly structured and challenging. It consisted of case interviews and personal experience interviews, where I was assessed on my problem-solving approach, analytical thinking, communication skills, and leadership experiences. The case interviews required me to structure ambiguous problems, analyse quantitative information, and provide clear recommendations, while the personal experience interviews focused on examples of my past achievements, teamwork, and ability to overcome challenges. Overall, the process was rigorous but provided valuable insight into the consulting problem-solving approach.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
One of the key questions they asked me was a case interview question where I had to analyse a business problem, structure my approach, interpret data, and provide a recommendation. They also asked about my previous experiences, particularly situations where I demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
I interviewed at McKinsey & Company (‘Ushayrah, Riyadh Province)
Interview
Rigorous but fair questions - mostly case based. Two sets of interviews x 2 rounds. You only get invited back for the afternoon if you pass the morning round. They expect a high degree of mental math and creativity. Worth prepping for standard case interview style questions, using frameworks but able to adapt them.
I interviewed at McKinsey & Company (Washington, DC)
Interview
Long process with little to no communication, good folks though. Not too difficult just time consuming. Pulled out after the first round as I lost interest, but appreciated the opportunity to interview.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Prior experience and what I wanted out of the role