Kearney, Strategy&, and similar tier-2 consulting firms are just below MBB at IIM ABC and offer 95% similar exit opportunities after 2-3 years. The AMA host explicitly confirmed: "95 percent same as mbb" for exits. At IIM Ahmedabad's Rs 35.22 LPA average, MBB pays Rs 35-40 LPA while Kearney/S& pay Rs 30-35 LPA entry, so pay delta is 10-15%. Exit opportunities: both tiers lead to PE/VC/startup leadership roles at year 3-
- The only real gap is brand pedigree for US MBA applications and for first-lateral into US/UK markets. For Indian career trajectories, the ROI difference between MBB at Rs 35 LPA and Kearney at Rs 32 LPA at IIM A fees of Rs 27.5L is under 6 months payback difference. Practically, if you have MBB shortlist don't reject it for Kearney; if you don't have MBB, Kearney/S& are equally fine. The strategic advantage of non-MBB consulting: less travel pressure, slightly better WLB, and still Rs 60-80 LPA compensation at 5 years. Check your eligibility at collvera.com/eligibility