Pre-MBA Internships & Pre-MBA Programs

The summer before you start the MBA program, you may be focused on wrapping up your previous job or taking a break – or thinking about how to gain additional work experience to prepare for your future career. The pre-MBA internship is not an essential part of the MBA experience, but it can help you build experience, confidence, and a network in a particular area of business in preparation for your MBA internship. MBAs may also want to consider participating in a pre-MBA program, and opportunity to learn more about a company or industry, often through learning activities and networking.

  • Pre-MBA Internships – pre-MBA internships allow you to explore a new area of interest, or practice a skill set you know will be necessary for your next career step. These are more traditional internship experiences where you add value to the organization. They are student-sourced and often found through networking at early-stage and startup companies.
  • Pre-MBA Programs – these programs are often found in large companies and while a company may use these programs to interview and extend early offers, students typically don’t have a typical internship experience that includes doing work for the company. It’s more of a “day in the life” and “get to know us” style of event/program. Students may participate in several of these programs if they’d like as they tend to be shorter than an internship. Details on many programs are listed below and posted on the AdMIT website.

Step 1. Identify What Experience You Want to Gain and What Skills You Have to Offer
Knowing what you want and what you have to offer is critical for the pre-MBA program or internship search. In cases where the company will be creating an internship around what you offer, you must be able to speak to what the company needs and how you can add value.

Step 2. Update Your LinkedIn Profile
If you are seeking a pre-MBA internship, we encourage you to update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your admittance to MIT Sloan.

Below are some actions you can take:

  • Update your Headline to read: “MBA Candidate, MIT Sloan School of Management.”
  • Add MIT Sloan as your current employer with the title of “MBA Candidate.”
  • Add MIT Sloan to your Education section (include expected years of attendance, ex: 2026-2028).
  • Keep your profile up-to-date by adding an end-date to your pre-MBA employer. This will also let companies know you are available to work.
    Note: You can remove months from your employment dates.

We also recommend any updates to your profile to ensure it positions you well for the types of role you are seeking. Note: This can be an iterative process.

Pre-MBA Internships are not part of an existing job market; they are often unpaid opportunities that a candidate creates through proactive networking and relationship building. Recent MIT Sloan MBAs have created pre-MBA internships at early-stage and growing startup companies. Over the last two years, students completing pre-MBA experiences have found opportunities in: financial services, mobile payments/payment systems, software development startups, ecommerce, automation, AI, cleantech/energy, real estate, consumer healthcare, agtech, social ventures, digital media, and venture capital/private equity.

If you are targeting startup or growing companies, reach out to your personal, professional, and alumni contacts – including the MIT Sloan Alumni Network on LinkedIn – who are working at firms of interest to you. Let them know you’ve just joined the MBA program at MIT Sloan and would like to learn more about their experience at the company, and whether their organization has ever offered pre-MBA internship opportunities. Again, be sure you have a strong pitch for you can contribute to their organization.

Pre-MBA Programs and Events are listed below and you may find additional programs highlighted on the AdMIT website. The industries most likely to have pre-MBA Programs are consulting and finance, although opportunities also exist in other industries at companies with robust recruiting programs, such as large consumer products companies.

Important: If your pre-MBA experience results in an internship offer for Summer 2027 that you are being asked to accept or decline before career advising begins in Fall 2026, please contact us at mbacdoadvisors@mit.edu before making any commitments. A career advisor can help you consider your options for responding to the offer.

Pre-MBA Programs

This list is being actively updated for new opportunities as they become available in Spring 2026.

Analysis Group – Ignite@AG: Fuel Your Future

  • Learn about a career in economic consulting. Four-day in-person experience for incoming MBAs provides externs with the opportunity to apply analytical skills, tackle a mock case, shadow an associate, receive interview coaching, and network with AG consultants and leaders.
  • Application Deadline: May 8th, 2026

BCG Unlock

  • BCG Unlock is a summer learning program designed to introduce incoming MBA students to the people, perspectives, and experiences that make BCG unique. Through a series of virtual sessions, participants gain an early look at consulting while building skills and expanding their network ahead of the fall recruiting and internship season.
  • BCG Unlock programming is optional and fully virtual, making it easy to participate alongside summer internships or full-time work while exploring what a future at BCG could look like.
  • Application Deadline: Monday, May 18th, 2026

BCG Empower

  • BCG Empower is part of the broader BCG Unlock experience and co-hosted by our Black@BCG, Latin@BCG, and Indigenous@BCG networks, which are open to all BCGers. It is designed for incoming MBA students who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing BCG’s values through leadership, workplace efforts, or community involvement. Through a mix of informational sessions, case preparation exercises, and networking opportunities, participants will connect with BCG consultants across our host networks, strengthen problem-solving skills, and gain insight into consulting and life at BCG.
  • BCG Empower begins with engagement in the summer, followed by opportunities to connect in person during the fall. To be considered, register for BCG Unlock and indicate your interest in BCG Empower within the BCG Unlock registration form by Monday, May 18, 2026.

BCG International MBA Receptions for Newly Admitted Students

  • Newly Admitted MBA Reception for one of BCG’s non-U.S. offices this spring and summer. Over the next few months a number of BCG’s offices in Asia Pacific, EMESA, and Mexico will be hosting these receptions. Some will be virtual, others will be in-person, so please be sure to check the event description when registering. This is a great opportunity for you to connect and learn more about the BCG office in your home country as well as network with future MBA colleagues.
  • Registration open now, events span May to Aug 2026

BCG Brazil Pre-MBA Summer Consultant

  • The Pre-MBA Summer Consultant position at BCG Brazil is tailored for professionals with at least five years of experience who have recently secured admission to an international MBA program. The role involves working on strategic projects across industries, leveraging analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills to deliver impactful solutions. Candidates will collaborate with diverse teams, manage key workstreams, and engage with senior stakeholders. BCG offers a supportive environment focused on mentorship, global exposure, and professional growth, making this an excellent opportunity for those looking to advance their consulting careers before starting their MBA studies.
  • Application Deadline: March 20th, 2026

BCG PreMBA Internship Discovery Program, Argentina

  • The Pre-MBA Internship Discovery Program at BCG in Argentina is designed for individuals considering a future MBA and a career in consulting. Interns will work on real client projects, develop analytical and leadership skills, and gain exposure to management consulting. The program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and professional growth in a collaborative, inclusive environment. Ideal for those seeking hands-on consulting experience before pursuing an MBA.
  • Application Deadline: April 3rd, 2026

BCG PreMBA Internship Discovery Program, Chile

  • The Pre-MBA Internship at BCG in Chile is designed for individuals interested in management consulting and business strategy. Interns will join real client projects, develop analytical and leadership skills, and gain exposure to consulting methodologies. The program is ideal for those considering an MBA or consulting career, offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional growth in a collaborative environment.
  • Application Deadline: April 3, 2026

BCG PreMBA Internship Discovery Program, Peru

  • The Pre-MBA Internship at BCG in Peru is designed for individuals interested in management consulting and business strategy. Interns will join real client projects, working alongside experienced consultants to develop solutions and drive organizational change. The program emphasizes analytical thinking, teamwork, and leadership development, making it ideal for those considering an MBA or a consulting career. Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree or be currently enrolled, and demonstrate strong problem solving, communication, and collaboration skills. This internship offers hands-on experience, professional growth, and exposure to a dynamic, supportive consulting environment.
  • Application Deadline: April 3, 2026

BCG PreMBA Internship Discovery Program, Colombia

  • The Pre-MBA Internship Discovery Program at BCG in Colombia is designed for individuals preparing to pursue an MBA and interested in management consulting. Interns will join real consulting teams, participate in case analysis, and develop core consulting skills such as business strategy, stakeholder communication, and leadership. The program offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to BCG’s collaborative culture, making it an excellent foundation for a consulting career.
  • Application Deadline: April 3, 2026

Bain – ExperienceBain

  • ExperienceBain is a virtual pre-MBA program for incoming first-year MBA students at eligible schools. This summer, get an early introduction to management consulting at Bainbefore you arrive on campus.
  • To register, you must be admitted to an MBA program beginning in Fall 2026 at an eligible school*. Students enrolled in dual-degree programs, such as MD/MBA or JD/MBA, are also eligible. If you have your MBA school email address, please use it to register. If not, you may update your profile later this summer.
  • Registration Deadline: Sunday, May 3, 2026, to receive updates and access to programming beginning in early June. 

Bain – Building and Supporting Excellence (BASE)

  • BASE is a pre-MBA program for incoming first-year MBA students interested in learning more about management consulting, exploring a career at Bain, and connecting with members of our Black at Bain (BAB) and/or Familia at Bain (FAM) affinity groups. 
  • To apply, you must be admitted to a full-time, two-year MBA program beginning in Fall 2026 with an expected graduation date of 2028, have an interest in connecting with members of our Black at Bain (BAB) and/or Familia at Bain (FAM) affinity groups, and plan to explore consulting opportunities with one of our U.S. Bain offices. Non–North American citizens are eligible if they are enrolled in an MBA program in the United States or Canada at the time of the program.
  •  Application Deadline: Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PT

ClimateCATALYST is a dynamic pre-MBA experience designed to give incoming MBA students a head start on careers at the intersection of business and climate. Hosted by ClimateCAP—a global network spanning 50+ leading business schools—ClimateCATALYST brings together hundreds of future MBAs from top programs around the world to build climate fluency, explore career pathways, and connect with peers and industry leaders.

  • Registration: Open Now
  • Event Date: July 21-23, 2026

Kearney – MBA Boot Camp Summer Associate 2027

  • The Kearney Consulting Boot Camp presented by Black@Kearney and co-presented by Hispanic Origin and Latin American (HOLÁ) Network aims to provide newly admitted MBA students, starting in the Fall of 2026, with two days of learning about the firm, networking with Kearney consultants and other incoming MBA candidates, and participating in practice case interviews. This will feature speakers from Black@Kearney and HOLA Network. Any newly admitted student enrolled in their first year at a competitive MBA program is welcome to apply. Select Boot Camp participants will be invited to interview for 2027 Summer Associate positions. 
  • Application Deadline: Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 11:59pm CT.
  • Intro to Kearney Webinar: April 24, 2026, Sign up link here: http://kearney.recsolu.com/app/collect/event/q35BXpY79Ve9hMuGIqsvDA

Google MBA Summer Series: Available online and on-demand for incoming students targeting Finance, Strategy, and PM roles.

L.E.K. Consulting – Bridge Pre-MBA Program

  • This program is designed to introduce incoming full-time MBA students to the world of strategy consulting, particularly for those who may have had limited access or familiarity with the field, and to support L.E.K.’s ongoing commitment to Belonging@LEK. The program will feature virtual sessions on problem-solving, case interviews, and the consulting lifestyle, as well as opportunities to connect directly with L.E.K. Consultants and senior team members. The program is open to all incoming MBA candidates, regardless of background or prior experience in consulting. By expanding access to industry knowledge and mentorship, L.E.K. Bridge reflects the firm’s continued commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive community where everyone can thrive.
  • Application Deadline: May, 18, 2026
  • Program Dates: June 23-24, 2026 (virtual)

McKinsey Early Access

  • For incoming members of the MIT Sloan Class of 2028 with the opportunity to being to get to know our firm, our people, and our work.
  • McKinsey Early Access (MEA) will introduce you to consulting at our firm before you start business school. Our goal? To help you determine if a career as a consultant is for you. The program will help you build relationships with our colleagues, and network with peers from MBA programs across the United States. You’ll enter your MBA program as part of a supportive, diverse, and mentorship-driven community that you can continue to benefit from—and support—once you start classes and enter the fall recruiting season. Interested in learning more about consulting? Join us this summer and connect with other problem solvers, entrepreneurs, and creative minds.
  • Application Link
  • Application Deadline: May 11, 2026

McKinsey Inspire

  • For incoming members of the MIT Sloan Class of 2028 with the opportunity to being to get to know our firm, our people, and our work.
  • We are thrilled to introduce Inspire 2026 , a program co-hosted by our Black, Hispanic and Latino, and Indigenous networks for incoming US MBA students. During the event, attendees will connect with members of our host affinity networks, which are open to all McKinsey colleagues interested in joining. Participants will explore career opportunities in consulting and enhance their problem-solving and leadership skills. Attendees will gain insights into our work, culture, and people, and learn how we aim to foster inclusivity within our firm, for our clients, and in society at large. Through interactive activities, case workshops, panels, and networking events, you will learn about our work, culture, and people, and hear examples of how we strive to make our firm, clients, and society at large more inclusive and equitable. You’ll get to know peers and McKinsey colleagues during the program and through a series of interview preparation and connectivity sessions afterwards.
  • Application Link
  • Application Deadline: May 11, 2026

Amazon Japan Pre-MBA Dinner Event 

  • Amazon Japan is hosting a premium Pre-MBA Dinner Event for candidates starting their MBA programs this fall. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about MBA Internship career opportunities at Amazon, hear directly from our VP, Directors, and MBA alumni, and explore the various MBA roles available across our Stores, Operations, and Finance businesses.
  • Event Details:
    • Date: Friday, June 19, 2026
    • Time: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM JST
    • Location: Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower, 36F (In-person, Tokyo)
    • Language: Japanese & English
    • Eligibility: Bilingual pre-MBA candidates starting programs in fall 2026, eligible for internship opportunities in May–September 2027
  • What to Expect:
  • Panel Discussion with VP & Directors — “Building Future Business Leaders: MBA Careers and Leadership Growth at Amazon” — real career journeys from MBA to Director, and practical advice on how to succeed.
  • Alumni Seminars — Small-group rotating sessions (20 per group) with alumni from Corporate, Operations, and Finance. Presentations + open Q&A.
  • Positions & Interview Prep — Learn about available roles and how to best prepare for Amazon’s interview process.
  • Dinner & Networking — Connect with leaders and alumni in a relaxed setting.
  • Registration Deadline: Friday, June 12, 2026

Community Resources

Communities offering employer engagement and professional development opportunities.

Reaching Out

Reaching Out MBA’s mission is to increase the influence of the LGBTQ+* community in business by educating, inspiring, and connecting MBA students and alumni. We invite you to join us and engage with students, alumni, and professionals throughout the year. Reaching Out MBA uses the “+” as part of LGBTQ+ to intentionally embrace all individuals who are working towards building communities of inclusion, respect and belonging, including allies of the LGBTQ community and those who are not fully represented by the letters LGBTQ.

Forté

For over twenty years, Forté has expanded access and opportunity to business education and professional development, including launching hundreds of thousands of women into fulfilling careers. We help the talented, qualified members of our community achieve success in their careers – whether that means earning an MBA, discovering career paths in various industries, developing essential business skills, or connecting with recruiters at leading companies.

MBA Veterans

Founded in 2009, the MBA Veterans Network® is a professional networking and advocacy organization dedicated to connecting military veteran students and alumni of the world’s top-ranked universities with employers who value their elite academic credentials, military leadership abilities, and limitless career potential.

National Black MBA Association

National Black MBA Association® (NBMBAA) advances underrepresented professionals by providing unparalleled access to career development, economic empowerment, and educational opportunities. We champion merit, intelligence, and excellence with accessibility, leveraging our networks, resources, and power to drive systemic change. The National Black MBA Association® (NBMBAA) is the leading global catalyst for career advancement and economic empowerment of underrepresented professionals.

Tech Week

a16z presents Tech Week 2026: bringing together the top founders, companies and funds around the globe.

Boston (NEW!) – May 26-31
New York – June 1-7
San Francisco – October 5-11
Los Angeles – October 12-18