First Forward
Employment type
Program
Location(s)
Boston | Chicago | Denver | New York | San Francisco | Washington, DC
Boston | Chicago | Denver | New York | San Francisco | Washington, DC
Description & Requirements
We invite second-year undergraduate students who want to build connections around the experience of being the first in their family to go to college or who identify with growing up in a lower socio-economic household to join our 1.5-day, in-person summit. This interactive program offers an opportunity to learn about strategy consulting, and connect with Bain mentors on a similar path.
Explore consulting with people who understand your path
Bain’s First Forward program gives an inside look at strategy consulting and what life at Bain is really like. During the summit, you’ll take part in immersive sessions, case discussions, and professional development workshops, all designed to help you grow your business and leadership skills.
This program is for students who are curious, driven, and excited to explore a new path. You’ll get a chance to explore what a consulting career could look like for you, strengthen your resume, personal brand, and connect with Bain professionals who share a similar background and journey.
You don’t need any prior business experience; just an openness to learn, a willingness to grow, and an interest in discovering what’s possible with the right support and community behind you.
Learn about strategy consulting through engaging sessions, a case simulation, and candid conversations with Bain professionals.
Engage in real case discussions that show you what it’s like to work on Bain teams solving big business challenges.
Build relationships with members of Bain’s First-Generation Low-Income affinity group through networking, small-group workshops, and social events.
Launch your future with empowering confidence and community
Develop your consulting skills by curating valuable resources and insights that directly support case teams and strengthen client impact.
Strengthen your resume, develop your personal brand, and learn practical skills to succeed in future recruiting and leadership opportunities.
Leave with a clearer understanding of how to navigate career pathways and how your unique perspective adds value in the consulting world.
How to apply for this program
This program is for sophomore (second-year) students who will complete a four-year undergraduate degree in the US by winter 2027 or spring 2028. It’s designed for those who are the first in their families to attend college or who identify with the experience of growing up in a lower socio-economic household.
Apply now
Applications for our First Forward program are now open and must be submitted by April 27, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT. When applying, you'll be asked to select up to three office preferences, as well as submit your:
- Resume
- Cover letter (optional)
- Educational Information
- Unofficial Transcript
- Test scores (if applicable)
After the application deadline, you'll be asked to submit responses to video prompts via HireVue, a video recording tool.
Frequently asked questions
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Who is eligible to apply to First Forward?
Sophomore/second-year students attending a school in the U.S. or Canada with an anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and Summer 2028 and want to build connections around the experience of being the first in their family to go to college or who identify with growing up in a lower socio-economic household.
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When and where will First Forward take place?
First Forward is hosted by the following U.S. Bain offices: Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York, San Francisco, and Washington DC. The in-person program will take place on May 28th & 29th.
Please apply only if you have a genuine interest in working in one of these offices. If you are open to more than one location, you may indicate that in your office preferences.
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What is the interview process?
There will be no formal interviews for First Forward. All applicants will be asked to answer several questions in a video format through the HireVue platform following the application deadline.
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Do I need to identify as both first-generation and limited/low income to engage with this program?
No. We recognize that not every student who identifies as a first-generation college student is of limited income. Likewise, not every student who identifies with the experience of growing up in a lower socioeconomic household will be the first in their family to obtain an undergraduate degree.
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How does Bain define first generation and low-income?
First Generation: will be first in your family to obtain a four-year degree
Low-income: Identify with the experience of growing up in a lower socioeconomic household
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Can I participate in First Forward if I was accepted into the BEL and/or CREW program?
If you’ve already participated in the BEL or CREW program, you’re not eligible for First Forward. However, if you were not accepted into BEL or CREW, we strongly encourage you to apply to First Forward!
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If I am not selected for First Forward, can I still apply to Bain in the future?
Absolutely, and we encourage it. If you aren’t selected for First Forward, please stay in touch and apply for an Associate Consultant Internship (ACI) opportunity in the summer prior to your third (junior) year.
You can find a full list of our virtual and on-campus events on your school page, or our Recruiting Events page.
