Also known as a Master of Business Administration, an MBA is a postgraduate degree that offers an in-depth understanding of the different aspects of business management. The program is designed to help you develop skills in accounting, marketing, finance, and business.
According to a study, 71% of B-School graduates were either ‘very satisfied’ or ‘fairly satisfied’ by the impact of the postgraduate degree on their career. These promising numbers have encouraged the youth to pursue an MBA. It promises better opportunities and higher salaries.
Find everything you need to know about MBA in this guide.
Why study an MBA abroad?
Many Indian graduates want to pursue their MBA at a foreign university. Studying abroad comes with the added advantage of having exposure to people from various nationalities. Here are a few reasons why studying MBA at a foreign university can be beneficial:
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Global Exposure and Cultural Learning
An MBA abroad allows Indian students to interact with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds, enhancing their global perspective and fostering cross-cultural communication skills. This is invaluable in today’s interconnected business environment.
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Quality Education and Advanced Curriculum
International MBA programs often feature cutting-edge curricula and teaching methodologies, integrating real-world case studies, industry projects, and the latest business trends. Institutions abroad emphasize innovation and critical thinking, preparing students for global challenges.
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Better Career Opportunities and Networking
Graduating from a globally recognized institution enhances employability, offering access to multinational companies and top-tier internships. Networking events and alumni connections also open doors to international job markets.
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Varied Specializations
International MBAs provide access to unique specializations such as global supply chain management, luxury brand management, and sustainable business, allowing students to tailor their education to niche industries.
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Immersion in a Global Business Hub
Studying in countries like the USA, UK, or Singapore places students at the heart of global business hubs. They gain firsthand exposure to international markets and business practices, which helps in understanding global business dynamics.
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Higher Earning Potential
An MBA from a reputed international institution often results in better starting salaries and long-term earning potential compared to domestic MBAs. This is due to the high demand for globally trained professionals.
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Broader Worldview and Personal Growth
Living and studying abroad fosters independence, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability. These personal growth opportunities are highly valued by employers and enrich an individual’s life experience.
Popular trending MBA courses
Let’s learn about MBA popular trending courses:
MBA in Finance | Focuses on financial management, investment strategies, and corporate financial planning, preparing students for roles in banking, investment, and financial consulting. |
MBA in General Management | Combines data analytics and business strategy to derive insights, helping companies make data-driven decisions. |
MBA in Consulting | Offers a comprehensive overview of business functions, equipping students with leadership and strategic skills applicable across industries. |
MBA in Marketing | Covers supply chain, logistics, and production management, emphasizing efficient business processes and operational excellence. |
MBA in Business Analytics | Prepares students to address business challenges by providing advisory services to organizations on strategy, processes, and technology. |
MBA in Operations | Focuses on high-level decision-making and competitive analysis, equipping students to drive long-term organizational goals. |
MBA in Strategy | Explores market research, consumer behavior, branding, and digital marketing, aiming to create effective marketing strategies. |
MBA in Information Technology | Combines IT and business management, preparing professionals to manage technological innovations and digital transformations in organizations. |
Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility criteria for an MBA are listed below:
- Candidate must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- Candidate must have a GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. (This can vary according to the university).
- Candidates having work experience of 3 to 5 years have an added advantage. However, some colleges don’t mandate this.
- Candidate must have letters of reference.
- Candidate needs valid GMAT or GRE scores.
- Candidate needs IELTS or TOEFL scores to show their English proficiency.
Documents required
Studying for an MBA at a university abroad is different from studying in your own country. Even though every business school has its requirements, most international universities ask for the same documents. These documents are as follows:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Student resume
- Reference letters
- Academic transcripts
- Letter of intent
- Valid ID proof (Passport, Aadhar card, etc)
- Visa
MBA Application Process
Does enrolling in an MBA program at a foreign university feel scary? Don’t worry, we have made it easier for you. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to find admission to some of the top business schools in the world:
Step 1: Research and Choose Your Business School
Identify MBA programs that align with your career goals, budget, and location preferences. Consider rankings, curriculum, and alumni networks.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare essential documents such as your resume, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL).
Step 3: Take the GMAT or GRE
Register and prepare for the GMAT or GRE, as these scores are often critical for admission to top business schools.
Step 4: Submit Applications
Complete the online application forms, attach the required documents, and write compelling essays to showcase your goals and strengths.
Step 5: Ace the Interview
Practice for interviews, which may include video or in-person formats, focusing on your motivation, career trajectory, and program fit.
Step 6: Await Admission Decisions
After submission, patiently wait for acceptance letters be ready to confirm your enrollment and start preparing for the program.
Types of MBA programs
Before being admitted to MBA programs, you need to decide what type of MBA you want to pursue. Let us discuss about MBA types and what each of them entails:
Type | Duration | Who is it for |
Full-time MBA | 2 years | Ideal for recent graduates who want to get a head start in their careers. |
Part-time MBA | 3 years | Ideal for working professionals who want to learn new skills or boost their careers. |
Distance MBA | 1 to 2 years | It is ideal for working professionals and individuals with limited time and resources. |
Online MBA | 2 years | Ideal for people looking to pursue an MBA without leaving their jobs. Also, for people who want to enroll in an MBA program from universities far away. |
Executive MBA | 1 to 2 years | Ideal for full-time working professionals who want to scale up their skills. |
Integrated MBA | 5 years | Ideal for people looking to pursue a bachelor’s and master’s degree at once. This course is a combination of BBA + MBA. |
GMAT Exam Dates in India
GMAT Exam Cities | Exam Dates |
Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Nagpur, Indore, Surat, Pilani, Mysore, Hyderabad, Manipal, Guwahati | · 2024 November: 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
· 2024 December: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 · 2025 January: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 · 2025 February: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 · 2025 March: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 · 2025 April: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
Fee structure and application deadline of top MBA colleges
Let’s learn about MBA fees and application deadlines of some of the leading business schools across the globe in the table given below:
College | Application Deadline | 2024-2025 Tuition Fees | |||
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International Scholarships for MBA Students
Some of the top business schools in the world offer scholarships to students based on merit. Apart from this, if you are an Indian student, aiming to pursue your MBA degree from a foreign university, there are several scholarships that you can avail of. Here is a list about MBA scholarships:
- Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship
- JN Tata Endowment for the Higher Education of Indians
- Columbia Business School: The Board of Overseers China & India Fellowships
- Rhodes Scholarship- MBA
- OGS Scholarships for International Students – MBA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does an MBA promise a secure future?
One factor about MBA that guarantees a secure future is that the course teaches you future-ready skills. Apart from business knowledge, you also learn skills like critical thinking, digital literacy, problem-solving, collaboration, etc. – which are highly appreciated by employers.
What are the different MBA specializations?
The best part about MBA is you get to choose the specialization of your choice. Some popular MBA programs are MBA in Marketing, MBA in Finance, MBA in HR, MBA in IT, etc.
What are the top business schools?
Some of the popular business schools across the globe are The Harvard Business School, Stanford University, University of Chicago, London School of Business, etc.
Is IELTS mandatory for studying MBA in foreign university?
To study in a foreign university, you need to show your English proficiency. For this you can either show your IELTS or TOEFL marks. But either one of them is mandatory.
Which entrance exam should I take to study MBA in universities abroad?
To study MBA in a foreign university, you should appear for the GMAT examination. It is globally accepted. You can also appear for the GRE.