Here’s Why You Should Consider an EU MBA

IESE Business School recently topped our 2022-2023 International MBA ranking. Italy’s SDA Bocconi, IMD in Switzerland, and ESADE Business School in Barcelona all followed closely behind. Similar to their US counterparts, EU MBA programs have a lot to offer. There are, however, subtle differences that prospective MBAs should know.

Stacy Blackman, founder of Stacy Blackman Consulting, recently highlighted several factors potential applicants should consider when weighing the option of an EU MBA.

COST AND ROI

The biggest benefit of an EU MBA is the return on investment (ROI). Business schools in Europe typically take only one year to complete an MBA—whereas B-school in the U.S. usually take two years.

“For example, you can complete an MBA program at INSEAD in as little as ten months,” Blackman says. “Compared to a two-year or US MBA program, lower tuition and opportunity costs look enticing.”

JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN EUROPE

If you’re intent on working in Europe post-MBA, an EU MBA makes the most sense.

“Keep this fact in mind: INSEAD, LBS, and HEC Paris place less than 10% of graduates into US-based employment roles,” Blackman says. “Meanwhile, they place 50-to-66% of grads in Europe.”

EU MBA programs, Blackman says, are global in nature—even when compared to the most “global” US programs.

“They attract students who want a truly international experience with their education,” Blackman says. “They also attract professionals planning to work in Europe after their studies.”

LESS COMPETITION

While EU MBAs are no easy feat to gain admission into, Blackman says applicants may see better admissions odds for top EU programs relative to top US programs.

“Generally, EU schools are more open to having larger percentages of international students, particularly from Commonwealth countries (e.g., India),” Blackman says. “Meanwhile, US schools are more competitive for those with overrepresented backgrounds in the applicant pool.”

Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, P&Q

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