MBA in Europe: Top Colleges, Fees, and More

Europe is at the top of its business education game by offering a large variety of MBA (Master’s of Business Administration) programmes of excellent quality. With around 4,000 European universities and colleges to choose from in over 30 different countries, Europe has always been one of the most sought after study destinations for international students. Out of them, the business schools in Europe are a top choice for MBA aspirants. The best business schools in Europe immerse learners in the real world of business through curriculums that focus on career goals and individual needs. 

If you are looking to explore a world of endless possibilities, the best MBA colleges in Europe will indeed serve your purpose. In this blog, we have discussed the top MBA colleges in Europe with fees, rankings, best programs, and their admission requirements.  

Check out an overview of some of the top European business schools offering English-taught MBA degrees, according to prestigious European business school rankings.

How to Select the Best MBA College in Europe For You

Choosing the college or university that offers the best MBA in Europe can be a confusing task. So, let us first simplify the process of selecting the best business school for MBA in Europe or any other country by looking at some tips below:

• QS Ranking: The QS World University Rankings speak volumes about universities, their programs, culture, achievements, etc. These rankings offer a fair idea of the overall quality of education and future prospects that you may expect from a specific university or college.
• Tuition Fees: After checking the rankings and the course-related details, do also check the studying costs that the particular university charge. After all, cost is a big factor for all study abroad aspirants, and keeping a track of it beforehand will help you manage your finances better.
• Location: Who doesn’t want to live in the place of their choice while studying at a foreign university? The location of your university plays a vital role in determining the overall experience of studying abroad. Hence, don’t forget to research the place and surrounding areas of your university to avoid any confusion later.

Top MBA Colleges in Europe

 An MBA degree is the door to a plethora of opportunities in your career. Hence, choosing the best college is vital to your overall growth and success. Listed below are the best business schools in Europe along with their QS Global MBA Ranking 2022:

HEC Paris

HEC Paris is amongst the best business universities in Europe with a history of 130 years of excellence. Till date, it has been continuously attracting students who are highly talented, ambitious, innovative and open-minded. HEC campus is located just outside Paris and has a special reputation for MBA. An MBA from HEC is custom-designed for young managers with 6 years of work experience.  

London Business School

Located in the vibrant city of London, London Business school is considered to be the best for MBA colleges in Europe for Indian students. The school offers prestigious MSc., MBA and EMBA programs in the domains of finance, management science and operations, marketing, organizational behavior, strategy, and entrepreneurship. The London Business School has a reputation of producing the best graduates. 

IE Business School

Located at an urban campus in Madrid, IE Business School is another top MBA college in Europe for Indian students. It comprises of a faculty of more than 500 top-notch  professors and students from around 128 countries. Apart from offering highly regarded MBAs, the IE Business School also offers graduate degrees in Management, Finance. The multicultural environment is another attractive factor at this European business school. 

INSEAD 

An MBA at INSEAD is a multicultural experience offering life-changing perspectives to over 80 different nationalities through three campuses located in Asia, Europe, and Middle East. As one of the best business schools in Europe, INSEAD works on the ideals of intellectual freedom and rigorous teaching and research. It firmly believes in the dominant role of business as a driving force for improving people’s way of life.

IESE Business School

A discussion about top business schools in Europe is incomplete without the mention of IESE Business School. It offers some of the top MBA programs in Europe and operates as a part of University of Navarra. The curriculum here is devoted in producing business leaders who are capable of making a long lasting impact in the society. You may also customize your course with a choice of electives, internships and exchange programs. 

Esade Business School

Esase Business School is amongst the best MBA colleges in Europe with a glorious history of more than fifty years. The primary mission of this school is to train students to become self aware and highly competent professionals. It promotes education, research and practical training with a firm adherence to academic excellence and intellectual rigour. If you are looking for the best MBA program in Europe. 

Oxford University (Saïd Business School)

An MBA from Saïd Business School is a prestigious degree that is offered with a view to producing global world leaders. It offers top MBA programs in Europe that consist of an intensive series of theoretical teachings, seminars, and group projects. Saïd Business School also offers an Executive MBA program that encourages students to engage in various intensive and challenging experiences.

Cambridge University (Judge Business School)

Cambridge Judge Business School’s MBA program here is based on up-to-date thinking from academia and professional practice. It focuses on equipping the learners with both theoretical and experimental learning. Overall, CJBS is one of the best colleges for MBA in Europe and a powerhouse for inspiring, researching and contributing to the practical needs of the market.  

Imperial College London (Imperial College Business School) 

The Imperial College Business School offers advanced MBA programs that are designed to produce leaders for the technology-driven world. As one of best business schools in Europe, it offers various full-time and part-time MBA programs. The advanced curriculum opens doors to endless opportunities for learners in the field of business, management, and entrepreneurship. 

Bocconi University (SDA Bocconi School of Management) 

SDA Bocconi School of Management is the last but not the least in the Europe best MBA colleges list. It is a non-profit business school that sees its economic balance as a mean to achieve a long-term cultural independence. SDA Bocconi invests in the personal development of students by giving them different opportunities to carry out meaningful roles in its governance and management systems.
Admission Requirements for MBA Colleges in Europe
The needs and requirements for admission at best business schools in Europe vary with the universities and MBA course you choose. Some basic requirements asked by the good MBA colleges in Europe are:

• Undergraduate Degree
• GMAT or GRE Score
• Work Experience
• Language Requirements
• Passport & Visa

Let us now take a closer look at the eligibility for MBA colleges in Europe for Indian students:

Undergraduate Degree

All applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree from a recognized institute.  A GPA score of 3.0 – 3.5 on a scale of 4.0  or a score of 60 % or higher should be your target for top universities. Original transcripts required. 

GMAT or GRE Score

The top MBA colleges in Europe have made it compulsory for the students to have decent GMAT or GRE scores. The GMAT score varies depending on the type of MBA program and university you choose. The general scores are:

• GMAT – 650 or above
• GRE – 160 (Verbal and Quantitative)

Work Experience

Another important requirement to study at the best management colleges in Europe. Minimum 3 years of professional work experience in the relevant field is a must at the time of application. However, not all universities have a mandatory requirement, but it is always preferred.

Language Requirements

The English proficiency test is mandatory to apply at best MBA colleges in Europe for Indian students. Minimum scores as per the tests are:

• IELTS – 6.0 – 7.5
• TOEFL – 110
• DET – 115 – 125 

Passport and Visa

A valid passport and student visa are a must for all international students to study any course at any university in Europe. Do keep in mind to apply for your visa at least 3 months prior to the expected date of travel.

Documents Required For MBA Colleges in Europe

Admission to the best business universities in Europe requires a set of documents. Some of the common document requirements are mentioned below:

• Transcripts of all educational qualification
• CV or Resume
• LOR or Letter of Recommendation
• SOP or Statement of Purpose
• Scorecards of IELTS/TOEFL
• Scorecards of GMAT/GRE
• Work experience certificate
• Proof of Funds 

So that was all about the top MBA colleges in Europe. It is necessary to gather all relevant data before applying for an MBA in Europe. So, analyze the information above and make the best decision.

Ready to study an MBA degree in Europe?

We hope that this article gave you a little overview of European business schools and their MBA programmes. However, not all of the excellent schools of management have been mentioned here. Make sure you check out more than 800 MBA programmes offered in Europe in order to find the best one for you.

Affordable Countries to study an MBA in Europe in 2022

Countries like Greece, Poland, Portugal and Spain are not only naturally beautiful but offer some great options for students pursuing higher education degrees like an MBA. These countries also have friendly locals and affordable living prices, which makes them appealing to international students.

Greece

To give an introduction about Greece – it’s rightly called the “Land of the Gods”. This Mediterranean country with astounding World Heritage sites and stunning beaches will make a student’s lifestyle even more enjoyable. The locals are very friendly and the local food is pretty cheap. Greece also has a thriving nightlife for students who want to let loose during the weekends!

Cost of Living

• Rents per month:  240 – 450 EUR
• Local food: 5 EUR
• Monthly public city transport: 30 EUR
• Basic dinner for two: 15-20 EUR

Poland

The country has traditions of academic education going back to 1364. A modern and dynamic country, Poland places a lot of focus on quality education. Over the last year, the country has grown more popular among international students. Poland has over 400 universities and more than 800 programmes are taught in English. Poland is safe and the quality of life is good as well which makes it one of the best countries to consider studying abroad.

Cost of Living:

• Rents per month:  300 – 400 EUR
• Local food: 4 EUR
• Monthly public city transport: 21 EUR
• Basic dinner for two: 15-25 EUR

Portugal

Portugal is a land of amazing weather, lovely cuisine, fine wine and stunning beaches. Portugal is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe! The low living costs and affordable tuition fees make Portugal one of the best countries in which to study in Europe.

Portugal also offers a lot of grants and government-funded scholarships to both EU and non-EU students.  In order to be eligible for a grant, you must apply to a university that is recognised by the Portuguese Ministry of Education. Most grants are given to Masters students.

The cost of living per month can vary between 500 EUR to 800 EUR. This covers rent, food, public transport etc.

Cost of Living:

• Rents per month:  350 – 530 EUR
• Local food: 2-4 EUR
• Monthly public city transport: 36 EUR
• Basic dinner for two: 15 EUR
• Plus, 1st Sunday of each month, students have free access to numerous museums in Porto.

Spain

Spanish people are known to be extremely hospitable and easy-going. It’s also the most tourist-friendly country in the world! The warm sunny weather, a plethora of cultural activities and natural beauty make Spain one of the most amiable places for International students. While attending business school here do make sure to immerse yourself in the lovely Spanish culture – admire Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces, including Park Guell and Sagrada Familia, walk along Barceloneta Beach, while in Madrid, you can visit The Royal Palace of Madrid, Prado Museum, Las Ventas Bullring and more.

The best part of studying in Spain as an international student is that they offer a large number of English taught MBAs as well. However, you will learn the Spanish language inevitably as you live here as a student. This is also a major plus point and can help you in your business career!

As for admissions, usually, proof of English or Spanish proficiency and a high school or a Bachelor’s graduate certificate is sufficient.

Cost of Living:

• Rents per month:  1000 – 1200 EUR
• Local food: 10-15 EUR
• Monthly public city transport: 49 EUR
• Basic dinner for two: 31 EUR

Germany

Germany has remained consistently at the top of many lists for the past three years, and rightly so. It sits at number 2 with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the whole of Europe, at 3.6%. Offers job security, great affordable housing, travel connectivity and safety. If you have vocational qualifications, plus some understanding of the German language, great news the chances of gaining employment are high for you. With chemicals (BASF), engineering (Volkswagen Group, BMW, Bosch), electronics (Siemens) and telecoms (Telekom) on the rise, job opportunities are looking good.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands has one of the highest life expectancies, good quality water and air, high education standards and unemployment at only 4.4%. An increasingly large amount of the population can speak English and German with some even speaking Spanish and French, so communication shouldn’t be too much of a problem here

Its major cities, particularly Amsterdam, have proven that despite their relatively small size, the flourishing start-ups and inventive culture are what matters. The new start-up culture is giving young and excited entrepreneurs an opportunity to not only showcase their talents but also thrive, thanks to the backing of the government and its funding.  Those of you who have recently graduated can even apply for temporary one-year contracts. Industries with shortages of professionals include scientific services, engineering, healthcare, business and teaching. Salaries average at roughly 56 000 Euros with a 40-hour working week.

Norway

Despite not being an EU country we included Norway, as it is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Schengen passport-free zone. This, therefore, assures individuals from the country have the same freedom of movement rules as all the other EU member states.

Norway has been named the most prosperous country to live in due to its strong economy, whilst also being rated the best for a good work-life balance. It has even topped the UN human development index.

It is a country that offers great intercultural experience, short working weeks and an excellent healthcare system, plus mesmerizing nature attractions.

Norway never shies away from adopting new technology and being innovative, therefore this country can offer a good income with great career prospects for the future.

Unemployment rates average at roughly 4.7%. Norway’s thriving industries include petroleum and gas (Statoil), fishing, finance (Nordea) and chemicals (Norsk Hydro). With construction, nursing and engineering industries are currently on the rise. Recently as an increasing amount of business is conducted in English, having a good knowledge of both written and spoken Norwegian –not necessarily fluent, provides better access to work opportunities. Salaries can go up to a whopping 65 000 Euros annually, with a 40-hour working week.

Switzerland

Switzerland like Norway is not part of the EU, but it hasn’t stopped EU citizens from dashing to this stunning country. It has been ranked number one in the HSBC list ‘for a career abroad’. The country offers a brilliant balance combining both high earning prospects with a healthy lifestyle. Despite all this, we couldn’t score this lovely scenic country higher than the 5th slot and this is because of its rigorous and fierce competition. Partly due to its size but also because the workplace is saturated with well-educated and highly skilled professionals. This gives them a job unemployed rate of only 3.3%. However, this does not mean they aren’t willing to take foreigners on. In fact, there are opportunities for highly skilled graduates in areas such as engineering and technology (ABB), banking and financial services (Credit Suisse), and pharmaceuticals (Roche), even if you speak only English. With salaries almost double (even triple in some cases) than that of most European countries, an average salary could go up to a staggering 105 000 EUR per 45 hours a week.

Scandinavian countries

These countries are famous for its free education in many fields. In Finland, for example, the Tampere University of Applied Sciences offers master of Business Administration in International Business Management taught in English, taught for three semesters (one and a half years) and with no tuition fees required. Additionally, the Centria University of Applied Sciences, in cooperation with the Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences, also offers an MBA in International Business Management running for two years, and with no tuition fees.

However, if you are an international student not from the EEA (European Economic Area) looking to study an MBA in Finland (in a language that is not Swedish or Finnish) you will need to take into account that in 2017 the legislation will change in this aspect and you might have to pay around $1,500 per year to study your course. But do not panic, Finland is still one of the best places to study in the world.

In Norway, studying in university is free of all charges for any student – it will not depend on your level of study or on your nationality. The University of Stavanger offers a wide range of MBA courses in many fields, again with no tuition fee, but you have to take into account the payment of a NOK 750 registration fee per semester, as well as the living costs in Norway, which are quite high, and for which you will need around NOK 100,000 per year.

The University of Agder, on the other hand, offers an MSc in Business Administration in various specializations running for two years for which there are no tuition fees to be paid, although a registration fee of NOK 800 (€100) is required. The University of Agder also recommends, in the line of the University of Stavanger, that the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund estimates that the cost of living for a student is of around NOK 9,750 monthly, including accommodation, although it would be possible living with less depending on the circumstances and accommodation chosen.

Finally, the Norwegian School of Economics in Bergen lists an MSc in Economics and Business Administration with six possible specializations (in Finance; Economics; Energy, Natural Resources and the Environment; International Business; Marketing and Brand Management; and Strategic Management), and with the duration of two years, as the ones above. Again, there is no tuition fee to be paid by any student, apart from the semester fee of NOK 800 (€100).

When applying to study for any programme in Norway you should take into account that, although there are no tuition fees, the Government will oblige you to certify that you have a minimum amount of money to cover your living expenses, a figure that is determined by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). For the 2015/2016 academic year, the amount of money that you would need to document is of NOK 100,920

Consider an Affordable MBA Abroad

As we have seen above, studying abroad doesn’t have to break the bank. Instead, save money by applying for grants and scholarships as well to reduce your costs. Countries such as Greece and Poland are especially great as not only are the cost of living so low, but the people are warm and friendly. The education system is great in these countries and you won’t have to worry about language as well as all the courses are taught in English. Studying abroad makes a student global, pushes them out of their comfort zone and also helps develop character as they get to be in touch with various cultures. Studying an MBA in Europe will not only help you with all of the above but also help you to be in touch with worldwide economics which can help you in your business career.

Conclusion

That was our list of the top 5 countries in Europe to get a job. It is key to visit all the countries you are considering moving to, several times in order to make adjusting to the country a little easier. Compare living costs and try to make friends before you even get there. Apply for all the necessary documents your host country and employers will require, by checking your official government websites. Practising the language as often as you can, trust me you will thank yourself. The final and most important one is to get your health and malpractice insurance, this will save you a whole load of unnecessary hassle. Make sure you carry out all the relevant research and make the most educated decision based on that.

FAQ’s

• Are business schools in Europe good?

A degree from the best MBA colleges in Europe is a great investment for a career in business and management. Besides, they also offer a plethora of courses and specializations for MBA in Europe.

• Is work experience required to study at top business schools in Europe?

Yes, work experience of minimum 5 years is necessary for studying at best business universities in Europe.

• What are the top business schools in Europe?

Apart from the ones mentioned above, other good MBA colleges in Europe are:

• ESSEC Business School
• EDHEC Business School
• Copenhagen Business School
• EMLyon Business School
• EU Business School