Referral mechanics for MBA internships vary by firm, school and recruiting channel.

At some firms, consultants can submit or support referrals for internship candidates. At others, target-school recruiting is managed through a structured campus process where networking and internal advocacy matter more than a formal referral link.

Do not assume that finding a referrer lets you bypass your school's application process. Submit through the required channel and ask the consultant or recruiting team how referrals are handled for your specific role.

The practical goal is not to collect a referral badge. Build relationships with people who know your candidacy and can provide context if the office discusses applicants. For more detail, see the consulting networking guide.

My school process still required the campus application even when someone internally supported me.

I'd ask the alum how their office handles MBA interns instead of assuming the full-time process is identical.