MBA Program Stats Annual Tuition: CHF97,500 Annual Tuition Non-Resident: CHF97,500 Acceptance Rate: 34% Full-Time Enrollment: 87 Average GPA: 3.5 Median GMAT: 680 Median GRE: 3.5 International: 98% Female: 36% Male: 64% Average Age: 29 What You Need To Know The IMD Business School based in Lausanne, Switzerland on Lake Geneva, calls their MBA a one-year leadership development program that aims to transform students’ careers. For those who want to stay local post-grad, top companies based in Switzerland that typically hire MBAs include Nestlé, Johnson & Johnson, McKinsey & Company, and BCG. MBA Dean Omar Toulan is confident that the program will develop leaders who challenge what is and inspire what could be while transforming organizations and contributing to society. The idea, he says, is to do it through reflective and responsible leadership. “Reflective and Responsible Leadership means that we don’t create leaders; we help develop skills & the ability to make tough/difficult decisions and communicate them. Today’s challenging environment places even more importance on the value of effective leadership. Addressing this challenge is at the core of IMD’s mission and our aim to foster the development of reflective and responsible leaders,” says Dean Toulan. Academics And Programs As a school that specializes in executive education, the IMD MBA is designed to give students a personalized leadership experience, developing students into responsible leaders who can sustainably impact society. A strong support system is provided through the 1:2 faculty-to-student ratio and 20 sessions with a psychoanalyst. This year, the MBA had an enrollment of 100 students, from over 40 nationalities coming with 3-8 years of work experience. As for curriculum, the personalized leadership development experience integrates classes, live business cases, personal coaching, and company projects across the globe. Students are assigned personal career coaches who help them understand their leadership style and find a suitable job after they graduate. Mentorship is a strong element; students are assigned alumni who can advise them in their career journey. The program learning journey is supported by four pillars – first, it focuses on developing reflective and responsible global leaders. Next is the experiential element of the program, where over 40% of learning takes place outside the traditional classroom, giving students actionable insights that they can directly apply. This personalized approach of the school aims to help students better understand what drives them and the environment they will best thrive in, while simultaneously learning the skills they need to bring sustainability to their careers. A focus on sustainability is a red thread throughout the program, with new experiential activities, labs, and debates as well as partnerships designed to develop students’ ability to make a positive impact. There are two one-week trips woven in to focus on engaging where the future is being shaped by visiting innovative tech hubs as a whole class and developing your global awareness. Another great experience unique to IMD is learning in the Innovation Lab and the Digital Analytics Lab, where students will have hands-on experiences developing their global awareness and learning how to navigate digital challenges. Aside from the curriculum, IMD invites guest speakers to share their insights and experiences with MBAs, hosts conferences and case competitions, and other events related to business, leadership, and innovation. A staple of the school is the IMD Global Challenge where teams of IMD MBA students tackle a real-life business challenge provided by a corporate partner. One of the B-School’s most popular events is the beloved MBAT – or MBA Olympics, where nearly 1,500 MBAs from over a dozen programs compete in sports and activities over three days. While IMD has smaller class sizes, the alumni are still incredibly supportive. “The IMD MBA alumni network is also smaller compared to other schools, but to me, they’ve been incredibly responsive, open, and helpful. In a way, it probably becomes more important to look out for each other when there’s only a handful of us,” says MBA Ayesha Fariz. Why Students Chose “With a class of 104 from 40 different nations with backgrounds ranging from a Sportswear designer to a doctor, the word ‘diversity’ takes a whole new meaning; the term ‘diversity of thought’ would describe it more accurately. Whether it’s working on group projects or going on discovery expeditions organized by the school, it is always a learning experience.” Shivam Chandra (‘22) “IMD offers a lot of introspection exercises throughout the Leadership stream, including the year-round Personal Development Elective in which we can voluntarily sign up for personal sessions with a psychoanalyst to get to know ourselves a little bit better. This was a turning point in my decision because I have always believed that to be the best business leader you can be, you really need to know yourself: what moves and drives you in and out of the workplace.” Maureen Pellicer (‘22) “It has been the proximate opportunity to learn from my peers who come from diverse career backgrounds (from flying planes to mining minerals from the earth’s core, and everything in between – consulting, fashion, sports, etc.) and have my paradigm constantly challenged. Also exciting is the potential reach of our network. We represent 39 nationalities from all the continents and know one another relatively well.” Oghosa Evbuomwan (‘22) “I feel privileged to be a part of the 2022 IMD MBA cohort, an incredibly diverse group of highly skilled individuals, each with a fascinating background and a story to tell. The best part of being in a small class with this group of classmates is the bonds that I have built. Indeed, the small class size makes a difference and gives us an opportunity to get to know each other well, but what was more fundamental was the attitude that people brought to IMD. IMD admits people who have leadership potential – people who are humble and reflective. This means that the students at IMD bring curiosity, and an open mind, facilitating relationship building, and creating bonds that will last a lifetime.” Bavly Obaid (‘22) “My motivation for choosing IMD is its eminent focus on leadership, digital competencies, entrepreneurship, and a strong global outlook as means of equipping future leaders who want to make a difference for the world’s challenges…New and innovative solutions are needed to build a future for humanity and the planet. Getting business cases to solve major societal challenges will require business leaders with interdisciplinary knowledge, a strong set of values and broad cultural insight. This is why I chose IMD Business School and is what I want to contribute to the people I work with.” Peter Holt Theisen (‘22) Read More Career Stats Compensation Statistics of IMD MBAs Compensation 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 Median Salary $ 114,720 $ 120,000 $ 113,000 $ 127,249 $ 112,949 Median Sign-On Bonus $ 25,162 $ 36,926 $ 28,123 $ 28,329 $ 23,588 Industry Choices of IMD MBAs Industry Sector 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 Consulting 39% 12% 27% 23% 22% Consumer Products 4% 4% 3% 16% 5% Financial Services 10% 8% 9% 5% 7% Manufacturing 13% 18% 21% 24% 22% Technology/Media 8% 17% 14% 12% 23% Nonprofit 4% 2% 2% Pharmaceutical/Healthcare 11% 29% 15% 5% 15% Chemicals/Energy 3% 6% 5% 7% 2% Other 4% 3% 2% 4% Real Estate 2% Transportation & Logistics 2% Retail 1% 6% Government 3% 1% Where IMD MBAs Went To Work Top Hiring Firms Boston Consulting Group Amazon Bain & Company Danaher McKinsey & Company ZS Lilly Arthur D Little Credit Suisse Deloitte Admissions For IMD From IMD Business School The IMD MBA 2022 marked the 50th anniversary of The IMD MBA – a one-year, full-time personalized and experiential learning journey where you gain the knowledge you need to maximize your career impact, succeed in a rapidly evolving world, and make a sustainable impact in your organization and society. Vision Throughout the year, you will develop reflective and responsible leadership skills and improve your ability to make complex and ethical decisions using a critical and holistic approach. Personalized leadership and career development coaching will leverage your unique experiences, help you understand your purpose and accelerate your success. Ecosystem Our campus is located in Lausanne, Switzerland, a thriving center for med-tech, neuro-tech, deep learning, and startups. In this innovative and global business environment, our MBA gives you the opportunity to connect with thought leaders and world-renowned organizations. Surrounded by lakes, vineyards, and mountains, Switzerland is the leading country for innovation and is also a leading global FinTech hub. Numerous multinational companies have chosen to base their headquarters in this vibrant region, from the traditional finance and banking sectors to pharma and luxury goods as well as industry leaders such as Cisco, Nestlé, Philip Morris and Medtronic. About 9,000 executives, from multinationals around the world, choose IMD to continue their learning development. The intimate nature of the MBA program will see you build strong bonds with your fellow students and become part of this lifelong international network and alumni community. The Program Over one year, you will master the essential knowledge and skills needed to bring sustainability to organizations and your career. The experiential element of the program – which includes innovation and digital analytics labs, global expeditions and longer-term project work with real startups and multinationals – will give you actionable business insights that you can apply directly. Guiding your learning journey, our diverse and experienced faculty bring a wide spectrum of backgrounds, talents and cultures into each class, and can address your individual viewpoints due to our 1:2 faculty MBA ratio. Entrepreneurial The IMD MBA has a long-held emphasis on entrepreneurship, developing the ability to be agile and to apply an entrepreneurial mindset to complex challenges. Aside from being a part of the core curriculum, you will also spend your first few months at IMD working in teams with local startup ventures to help them develop their business plan, financial model and marketing strategy. Global From day one, you will be immersed in a global world. Your classmates alone bring a wealth of cultural insights, typically representing around 40 nationalities, with additional experience of working outside of their home country. During the program, you will work on global cases with international professors; travel around the world together exploring key innovation hubs during your Discovery Expedition; work with top management of multinationals for your 8-week International Consulting Projects; and you will meet and negotiate with top international recruiters. Sustainability Our program includes a sustainability framework designed to equip you with the critical thinking skills that all leaders will need in the future when it comes to the impact of our actions on society. These skills will help you to improve your ability to make difficult and informed decisions that will impact your future career in a complex and rapidly evolving world. IMD MBA Participants Each year we put together a select group of globally-minded students who want to make a difference. They pull together to get the most out of this intense year; they trust and help each other; they open their networks to each other; they graduate with bonds that last a lifetime. The diversity and cultural experience within the class will help you to unlock your full potential. Statistically, on average students have between 3 to 8 years of work experience, the majority are in the 25-32 age bracket, they speak multiple languages, and they have all demonstrated their potential through their achievements, responsibilities, and work progress. They join us because they aspire to more. They want to develop, to play a role in a global world, to invest a year to build on their experiences. They want to let purpose power their future. Career Development Our Career Development Center will help you to continue your trajectory and meet your short and long-term career aspirations. Workshops, panel discussions, and guest speakers are organized to develop a solid foundation of essential skills, while networking, talent forums, and company presentations open up new opportunities. You will also work with an individual career coach to better understand what drives you and develop a personalized professional strategy. Our Career Development team collaborates closely with both the recruiting companies and our students to help you make connections that will lead to informed career decisions in a global world. An Executive Alumni Network After graduating, MBA alumni maintain strong ties to their classmates, while also benefitting from the wider global alumni network of over 100,000 executives. Classes return to the IMD campus year after year to celebrate their annual reunions or meet in different locations around the world. Alumni clubs in over 40 countries organize networking events and update learning experiences, and our MBA graduates are active in volunteering their ongoing support around the world. They help potential applicants through the decision process, mentor current candidates, take part in simulated interviews, and even frequently return as recruiters themselves. We are proud of the ties that we maintain with them. Admissions To find the right group for each class, our Recruitment and Admissions team offer various application possibilities throughout the year. When assessing candidates, we look for leadership potential, international exposure and outlook, solid intellectual ability, strong career progression, interpersonal skills, integrity, and a desire to learn and contribute. All applicants with a strong profile are invited for further assessment, either virtually, on campus in Lausanne, or at specific international locations. These assessment days allow us to really discover what makes you unique, while allowing you to experience our teaching style and to assess our fit with your goals. IMD is committed to fostering the growth of diversity in the program and in the business world. Our scholarships seek to generate qualified applications from candidates who have something to offer to the class and society by reducing the financial barrier for those with potential, drive, and passion. We encourage you to reach out to your regional advisor to ask any questions you might have, or to join one of our Admissions and Finance chats. Conclusion: Let purpose power your future. If you’re driven to own your career direction, develop as a leader, and create a positive and lasting impact: apply now. Read More Essay Questions For IMD IMD does not require MBA application essays Student Features For IMDMeet IMD Business School’s MBA Class Of 2022Meet IMD Business School’s MBA Class Of 2021The "Magic 90" at IMD in Switzerland lives up to its reputationMeet IMD’s MBA Class Of 2020'Mighty 90' beats pandemic and raises the bar in surreal yearMeet the MBA Class of 2023: Kriti Bakshi, IMD Business School"Improving delivery of better-quality healthcare by embracing technology”2023 MBA To Watch: Amanda Tan, IMD Business School“Life-long Disneyland and West End musicals fan who is always up to play team sports”2023 MBA To Watch: Sarah Mumbi Ndegwa, IMD Business School“A development finance professional living out her humanity through her career”2022 MBA To Watch: Carla Venter, IMD Business School“Outgoing South African with a love for people, numbers, barbeques, adventure, red wine, and chess”2022 MBA To Watch: Anou Sewonu, IMD Business School"Anou embodied many qualities with his collaborative, caring, reliable, and positive attitude"2022 MBA To Watch: Campbell John Brown, IMD Business School“Father of two, hoping to raise my children as adventurous, happy, global citizens”2021 MBAs To Watch: Haichen Liu, IMD Business School “A brave and ambitious woman, ready to overcome and learn from all of life’s challenges”2023 Best & Brightest MBA: Craig Ian Plaatjes, IMD Business School“An empathetic and multifaceted individual who is analytical yet creative and constantly strives for excellence”2022 Best & Brightest MBA: Harita Byluppala, IMD Business School“Ever curious, adventure- seeking poetry lover who wants to use technology to make this world equitable”2021 Best & Brightest MBAs: Ruchi Senthil, IMD Business School“Fiercely loyal, dependable, ambitious career woman and a warm-hearted mother to a naughty 4-year-old” School FeaturesMeet IMD’s Distinguished MBA AlumniIMD MBAs are working in all industries across the world, like a Marvel cast of superhero business leaders2022 Best 40-Under-40 MBA Professors: Peter Vogel, IMD Professor Vogel has energized the Family Business Center, bringing the topic into the heart of the IMD MBA2021 Best 40-Under-40 Professors: Ina Toegel, IMD'Ina brings into the classroom a mix of three things that make her an exceptional professor: creativity about how to engage students in learning, deep research expertise, and an infectious energy' MBA Watch For IMDMBA Watch is where thousands of MBA applicants not only get to tell their story but have John A. Byrne, MBA admissions coaches and our audience, assess their odds of admission and get help to improve their chances of getting in!Mr. Indian Banking Leader13 years in the Banking and financial services industry all in Fortune 500 companies (two of them).Mr. Future Large CorpA dedicated and committed leader from armed forces background, focused on leading teams to success by taking initiatives and collaborating with cross-functional teams through strong communication skills.Mr. Future Brand ManagerHi there.Mr. Sports BI AnalystI am a BI analyst and social media coordinator for a sports analytical startup that didn't make it big.Mr. Gap Year To IMDExperienced software developer with 9+ years of international experience working for startups and large tech companies in India and Silicon Valley.Mr. Good GMAT, Bad GPASo, I know I'm an odd case for top MBA programs but covid destroying my industry has given me a chance to chase my dreams.Mr. Tech LeaderI am a technology project leader with a background in mechanical engineering and I have worked as an individual technical contributor for over 11 years.Mr. Pro Commercial BankerI AM A PROFESSIONAL COMMERCIAL BANKER WITH AROUND 04 YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE IN A MAJOR NATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANK NAMED J&K BANK LTD.Ms TennisI am a hardworking, ex- tennis player from Mexico City.Mr. Golfing Sr. AnalystI currently work with The DE Shaw Group as a Sr. Rankings Data For IMD Global Rankings 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 Poets&Quants 5 4 5 4 6 Financial Times 11 11 10 5 10 The Economist 9 9 8 7 12 BusinessWeek 1 1 5 7 5 Forbes 1 1 1 2 2 News Coverage For IMDAt IMD, Experiential Learning Starts Before AdmissionTips on how to prepare for the assessment days at IMD and what to expect when you score an invitationMeet IMD Business School’s Distinguished Alumni: Tracy LiangMeet IMD Business School’s Distinguished Alumni: Stephanie HurryMeet IMD Business School’s Distinguished Alumni: Pasha PourfallahMeet IMD Business School’s Distinguished Alumni: Mohammad Andita RafiMeet IMD Business School’s Distinguished Alumni: Julia NeubauerMeet IMD Business School’s Distinguished Alumni: Daniel SkirtonA New Winner Tops Our 2022-2023 International MBA RankingIESE unseats INSEAD as the top international MBA program--by a technicalityIMD’s President On Weathering The Pandemic With InnovationIMD President Jean François Manzoni explains how the pandemic unleashed unprecedented innovation at the European business schoolIMD Plans To Grow MBA Enrollment & Seek Younger StudentsLong an intimate MBA haven for the 30-plus student, IMD is increasingly targeting the 20-something crowdWhy Now Is A Great Time To Apply To IMDPlus five essential tips for your IMD applicationIMD Enlarging Its MBA Cohort & Extending App DeadlinesA change in its hybrid format during COVID informed the decisionFor These Jittery MBA Applicants, It’s The Ultimate Game Of ThronesAt IMD, candidates go through a grueling Assessment Day