How to Break Into Consulting from a Non-Target University

Consulting has a very elitist image that stems from the 1930s when consulting firms would only hire graduates from target universities like Harvard, Oxford and Cambridge.

Times are changing and the consulting talent pool is diversifying but can you really become a consultant from a non-target university?

The short answer is YES! 

Here’s how to maximise your chances of being recruited into consulting from a non-target background.

Earn Strong Grades

It goes without saying that you should try to get the best grades that you can. This is true of everyone but particularly non-target universities where the ‘brand name’ of the university might not carry so much weight. 

Gain Relevant Experience

More important than the grades you got or where you got them is the experience you have. 

Consulting recruiters look for experience in the following categories:

• Problem solving

• Analysis

• Critical thinking

• Leadership

• Team work

Examples of experiences that will make your application stand out:

• Job in a startup

• Founding your own startup

• Internships at a consulting firm or strategy department of a non-consulting firm

• Society leadership role e.g President or on the committee

Attend Networking Events

Most consulting companies either attend university careers fairs or host their own networking events where you can meet recruiters and people currently working at the firm. 

Make sure you’ve researched the firm ahead of attending and be prepared with plenty of questions to ask them. 

Try to attend as many of these events as possible. This will help build your network so be sure to grab the name of anyone you’re chatting to and add them on LinkedIn if it’s appropriate to do so. 

Consulting Skills over University Name

It’s absolutely possible to become a consultant even if you’re not at a traditionally ‘target’ university. Consulting firms are increasingly realising that great consulting talent can be found everywhere. That said, applying the advice in this blog will make your consulting application stand out.