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Choosing to pursue an MBA program is a big decision, and one of the most critical factors to consider is whether the investment in terms of money, time and effort is worth it. IESE Business School in Barcelona, Spain, is a highly ranked MBA program that draws students from all over the world.
In this blog, we will explore the question, "Is IESE MBA worth it?" by examining its benefits, job prospects, fees, return on investment (ROI), and other factors.
Benefits of Studying IESE MBA
- Global Network: IESE Business School has a vast global network of alumni who hold top positions in various industries. As an IESE MBA student, you will have access to this network which can be valuable for career opportunities and professional development.
- Experiential Learning: The IESE MBA program places a significant emphasis on experiential learning. The school offers various hands-on learning opportunities including consulting projects, case studies, simulations and internships. This approach helps students develop practical skills and apply them to real-world situations.
- Personalized Development: IESE Business School provides a personalized development plan for each MBA student. This plan helps students identify their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. The school then provides tailored support to help students achieve their personal and professional goals.
- Diverse Community: The IESE MBA program attracts students from various backgrounds and nationalities. This diversity creates a vibrant and dynamic community that fosters cross-cultural understanding, collaboration and learning.
Year-on-Year IESE MBA Average Salary Trends
| Year | Average Salary |
| 2021 | €106,000 |
| 2020 | €104,800 |
| 2019 | €106,100 |
| 2018 | €104,200 |
| 2017 | €98,600 |
| 2016 | €96,700 |
IESE MBA Average Salary
The IESE MBA program boasts an impressive average graduate salary of €87.613, as reported in the 2021 employment report. This is significantly higher than the average salary earned by MBA graduates from many other top-tier business schools. It is important to note that the salary may vary depending on various factors, such as the job profile, location, work experience and industry.
Sector-wise, Consulting offers the highest average salary of €93.981, according to the same report. The second highest-paying sector is Technology, with an average salary of €86.051. The third highest-paying sector is Industry, with an average salary of €82.235. Finally, Finance, which is considered one of the most popular sectors among MBA graduates, has an average salary of €83.998 at IESE. The report also highlights that the salary figures are inclusive of bonuses which can vary depending on the sector and the company.
The high average salaries at IESE indicate the strong reputation of the business school among employers. The MBA program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to excel in their chosen careers. Graduates are highly sought after by top companies and they often secure prestigious roles in sectors such as consulting, finance and technology.
IESE MBA vs Its Competitors
When it comes to top MBA programs, IESE is often compared to its competitors such as Harvard Business School, Wharton School, and London Business School. While each of these programs has its strengths, IESE stands out in several ways. For one, IESE has a truly global perspective, with a diverse student body and faculty from over 30 countries.
For one, IESE has a truly global perspective, with a diverse student body and faculty from over 30 countries. Additionally, IESE's emphasis on ethical leadership and social responsibility sets it apart from other programs.
IESE also has a strong focus on entrepreneurship, with its Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center supporting students and alumni in starting their own businesses. Finally, IESE's location in Barcelona, Spain provides unique opportunities for students to learn about the global economy and business environment.
IESE MBA Fees
The cost of the IESE MBA program is a substantial investment that many students need to consider. As stated earlier, the total cost of the program is €99,500, which includes a non-refundable commitment fee of €3,000 that is necessary to secure a spot in the program.
The tuition fee is divided into two parts. The first installment of €7,000 is payable upon acceptance into the program, and the remaining amount is split into two payments over the two-year course duration - €39,750 for the first year and €49,750 for the second year.
IESE MBA Jobs & ROI
IESE MBA graduates have access to a wide range of job opportunities in various industries, including consulting, finance, technology, and healthcare. The school has a robust career services team that provides career coaching, networking opportunities, and job search resources to help students secure their dream jobs.
The ROI of IESE MBA is high, with graduates earning some of the highest salaries in the industry. According to Forbes, IESE MBA ranks 5th globally in terms of ROI, with an average salary-to-debt ratio of 7.7. This means that graduates can expect to earn 7.7 times their debt within five years of graduation.
How is IESE MBA Good for Indian Students
IESE MBA is an excellent choice for Indian students looking to pursue an MBA program. The program has a diverse student body, with students from over 60 countries. This provides Indian students with a unique opportunity to learn about business in a global context and develop a strong network of contacts around the world. Here are some points which makes the IESE MBA Program a worthwhile investment for Indian students:
- Global Exposure: Studying at IESE MBA provides Indian students with a truly global experience, as it offers a diverse cohort of students from around the world, international faculty, and a chance to study in Europe, Asia, and North America through its various partnerships.
- Network: IESE MBA has a vast alumni network that Indian students can leverage, not only for career opportunities but also for entrepreneurship and business ventures.
- Career Opportunities: IESE MBA has a strong career services department that helps students connect with top recruiters from around the world, including India. Its strong reputation in the business world also provides Indian students with a competitive advantage in the global job market.
- Entrepreneurship: IESE MBA has a robust entrepreneurship program that helps students develop their entrepreneurial skills and provides them with the resources and networks needed to start their own businesses.
- Diversity and Inclusion: IESE MBA is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, which makes it a welcoming and inclusive environment for Indian students who may have concerns about cultural differences.
This provides Indian students with a unique opportunity to learn about business in a global context and develop a strong network of contacts around the world. The program also offers several scholarships and financial aid options for Indian students.
IESE MBA Rankings
IESE MBA has consistently been ranked among the top MBA programs in the world by various ranking agencies. In the Financial Times 2021 Global MBA Rankings, IESE was ranked #2 in Europe and #8 in the world. The Economist’s 2021 MBA rankings also placed IESE at #1 in Europe and #5 in the world.
Additionally, in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2022, IESE was ranked #2 in Europe and #9 in the world. The QS rankings are based on factors such as employability, entrepreneurship and alumni outcomes, return on investment, thought leadership, and diversity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the IESE MBA program offers a promising return on investment with high average salaries, excellent job opportunities and a strong reputation among top business schools. While the program may not be suitable for everyone due to its high fees, it is definitely a worthy investment and worth considering for those looking to advance their careers in the business world.
