Bain CREW Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Bain CREW (Connecting and Resourcing Empowered Women) Program is a groundbreaking initiative by Bain & Company that aims to inspire and empower young women interested in consulting careers. Designed to provide mentorship, professional development, and an inside look into the consulting world, the program is an exceptional opportunity for undergraduate women to kickstart their consulting journey.

If you aspire to join the Bain CREW program, this guide will walk you through every step of the process, from understanding the program's benefits to crafting a compelling application and succeeding in your journey.

What is the Bain CREW Program?

The Bain CREW program is specifically designed for female undergraduate students who are exploring consulting as a potential career path. With a strong focus on diversity, leadership, and empowerment, the program offers participants a chance to learn from Bain’s consultants, gain professional insights, and build lasting connections within the consulting community.

This initiative goes beyond traditional internship programs by addressing gender imbalances in consulting. Bain CREW provides women with the tools, skills, and mentorship to navigate the industry’s challenges while empowering them to thrive in leadership roles.

Key Features of the Bain CREW Program

• Mentorship Opportunities: Participants are paired with Bain consultants who provide personalized guidance, career advice, and insights into the consulting profession. This mentorship often extends beyond the program, helping participants stay connected with Bain’s professional network.
• Professional Development Workshops: These workshops focus on developing critical skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking. Participants also receive hands-on practice solving business cases, preparing them for future consulting challenges.
• Networking Events: Participants interact with Bain professionals and other like-minded women in a supportive environment. These events foster connections that can open doors to future career opportunities.
• Exposure to Bain’s Culture: Gain a first-hand experience of Bain’s inclusive and collaborative work culture, renowned for prioritizing its people and fostering professional growth.
• Interview for an internship opportunity: At the end of this program, you will have the opportunity to interview for an Associate Consultant Intern position.

Why You Should Join the Bain CREW Program

The Bain CREW program is not just an introduction to consulting, it’s a transformative experience that equips participants with the skills, confidence, and network needed to excel in their careers. Here’s why joining this program can be a game-changer for your future:

1. Learn from Industry Experts: One of the program’s biggest draws is the opportunity to connect with experienced Bain consultants. These mentors provide real-world advice, answer questions about consulting, and guide participants on how to succeed in this demanding yet rewarding field.
2. Develop Essential Skills: Consulting is a competitive and challenging industry. Bain CREW equips participants with essential skills like problem-solving, analytical thinking, and professional communication that are critical for success.
3. Expand Your Network: Networking is vital in consulting, and the Bain CREW program offers unparalleled access to Bain professionals, alumni, and peers. Building these relationships early can significantly boost your future career prospects.
4. Enhance Your Resume: Adding a prestigious program like Bain CREW to your resume signals to recruiters that you’re serious about consulting and already have exposure to the industry’s demands.
5. Gain Confidence in Your Career Path: If you’re exploring consulting as a career option, the program provides invaluable insights into the profession, helping you make an informed decision about whether consulting aligns with your long-term goals.

Eligibility Criteria for the Bain CREW Program

To be considered for the Bain CREW program, candidates need to meet specific eligibility requirements. Knowing these criteria ensures you can tailor your application effectively.

• Female Undergraduate Students: The program is open to women and female-identifying students currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in their sophomore (second) year at a four-year institution in the US or Canada. This focus aims to support underrepresented groups in consulting. 
• Academic Standing: Candidates are typically in their sophomore or junior year of undergraduate studies. This ensures participants have enough time to explore consulting before graduating.
• Strong Academic Record: A competitive GPA is essential to demonstrate your ability to meet the intellectual demands of consulting. Most successful applicants are high achievers in their academic pursuits.
• Interest in Consulting: Demonstrated interest through coursework, case competitions, internships, or extracurricular activities related to problem-solving or leadership is highly valued.

How to Apply for the Bain CREW Program

Applying to the Bain CREW program requires thoughtful preparation. Below is a step-by-step guide to crafting a standout application.

Step 1: Research the Program

Before starting your application, dedicate time to understanding the Bain CREW program’s goals and benefits. Visit Bain’s official website, attend informational webinars, and read success stories from past participants.

Tip: Research Bain’s culture and initiatives such as sustainability, diversity, and innovation. Mentioning these aspects in your application shows that you’ve done your homework and share Bain’s values.

Step 2: Craft a Strong Resume

Your resume is the first impression recruiters will have of you, so it needs to showcase your qualifications effectively. Highlight your academic achievements, leadership roles, internships, and extracurricular involvement.

Example: Instead of writing “Participated in case competitions,” write “Led a team of four in a case competition, developing a growth strategy for a tech start-up that won first place among 20 teams.”

Step 3: Write a Personalized Cover Letter

Your cover letter provides the space to tell your story, explain your interest in the Bain CREW program, and highlight your unique qualifications.

• Why Bain? Share specific reasons why you admire Bain’s mission and culture.
• Why You? Use examples to demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Show Personal Connections: If you’ve interacted with Bain professionals at an event, mention these experiences to showcase genuine interest.

Example: “My experience leading a women’s leadership summit at my university aligns with Bain’s mission to empower women through initiatives like the CREW program. I look forward to bringing the same enthusiasm and dedication to Bain.”

Step 4: Submit a Complete Application

Double-check that your application includes all required materials, such as your resume, cover letter, and any additional documents requested. Submitting your application early allows time for corrections if needed.

Additional documentation such as:

• Unofficial transcript
• Test scores (if applicable)
• Office Preferences

Tips for a Strong Application

Making your application stand out requires careful attention to detail and strategic emphasis on your strengths.

Showcase Leadership and Initiative

Bain values candidates who have demonstrated leadership and the ability to take initiative. Highlight experiences where you’ve led teams, organized events, or spearheaded projects.

Example: “Led a community outreach program that recruited 50 volunteers, increased engagement by 60%, and raised $5,000 for local charities.”

Align with Bain’s Values

Familiarize yourself with Bain’s mission of delivering results, fostering collaboration, and empowering individuals. Show how your personal and professional values align with Bain’s goals.

Highlight Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving is at the core of consulting. Mention situations where you analyzed challenges, identified solutions, and achieved measurable results.

Be Authentic

Avoid exaggerating your achievements or using overly formal language. Let your personality shine through in a professional manner.

Use Metrics to Quantify Achievements

Instead of generic statements like “Managed a team,” use specific metrics such as “Managed a team of 10 volunteers, achieving a 30% increase in project efficiency.”

Why Bain

The question of "Why Bain?" is likely to arise in various contexts, such as during your video interview, in casual discussions with a Bain employee, or at the conclusion of the CREW program. It’s crucial to have a well-thought-out response prepared, as this question can significantly impact you receiving a call back for a full time interview

Why Bain is Committed to Empowering Women

The Bain CREW program reflects Bain’s broader commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in consulting. Bain recognizes the need to increase representation of women in leadership roles and is actively addressing these gaps through initiatives like CREW.

By participating in this program, young women not only gain access to professional opportunities but also contribute to a larger movement of empowering future female leaders. Bain’s dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace makes it an ideal environment for growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need consulting experience to apply?

No, prior consulting experience is not required. Bain CREW is designed to introduce women to the consulting field, making it ideal for those new to the industry.

What if I’m not sure about a career in consulting?

The program is an excellent opportunity to explore consulting as a career option. Participants gain valuable exposure to consulting without any long-term commitments.

Are international students eligible?

Eligibility varies by location. Check Bain’s official website for country-specific details.

Who is eligible to apply to the CREW program?

Sophomore (second-year) women pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution, with an expected graduation date of winter 2026 or spring 2027. Non-US or Canadian citizens are also eligible, provided they are currently attending or will attend a university in the US or Canada at the time of the program.

Do I need to have any prior experience in consulting to participate?

No, you don’t need any prior experience to be accepted into the CREW program

What is the interview process like?

There are no formal interviews. Instead, all applicants will be asked to answer 3 questions in a video format following the application deadline.

Once the application deadline has passed, applicants will receive a link to complete their video essay. Applicants will have 5 days to complete this and this link is typically sent the following day after the application deadline has passed, although this may vary depending on offices

There are three types of questions you should expect to be asked: resume questions, motivational question and behavioral questions.