I applied online. The process took 6 weeks. I interviewed at McKinsey & Company in Oct 2009
Interview
Application requires essay on leadership. First round has multiple-choice test and group case workshops. Second round has three one-on-one interviews, which include cases and formal experience interviews. Third, decision, round procedures vary by office. It's a real machine line. There are lots of opportunities to talk to many McKinsey consultants over the course of the process.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe a situation where you have exhibited leadership
First, there is a computer test screening. Then, you get invited for the first round interview, usually conducted by an AP. Then, for second round, you have two interviews with Partners. You get feedback quickly, less than a week between interview and feedback
3 stage interview with increasing seniority. Opportunity to prepare with current colleagues prior to interview which was useful. Straight forwards process, no big suprises if you prepare in advance but prep is needed
Prepared for assessment but did not make it through first stage. Not difficult but high pressured with time constraint. Lots of materials on youtube which can be used for reference