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Best MBA Colleges in UK: Top 10 Colleges to Aim

Table of Contents

The best MBA colleges in UK are recognized for their exceptional academic standards, blending traditional business principles with modern management practices. These institutions typically offer one-year programs, which are shorter compared to the two-year standard in many other countries, making them an efficient choice for students looking to accelerate their careers.

The UK-based MBA curriculum mainly includes a mix of core business subjects, electives, and practical components (example- internships and group projects), allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their career goals. The MBA colleges there also boast a diverse international student body that provides a global perspective on business issues. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and networking opportunities, preparing students for leadership roles in an increasingly globalized business world.

MBA Colleges in UK: A Snapshot

Many programs from the top MBA schools in UK have strong connections with the industry. This enables students access to internships and job opportunities in leading companies globally. The combination of a compact program duration, diverse cultural environment, and strong industry links makes UK a popular choice for students seeking an MBA with a comprehensive and dynamic business education.

MBA Colleges in UK Program Duration Full-time MBA Tuition Fees Full-time MBA Average Salary Average GMAT
London Business School (LBS) 15-21 months £115,000 $112,000 700
Saïd Business School (University of Oxford) 1 year £117,080 £78,895 680
University of Cambridge Judge Business School 1 year £69,000 £75,198 690
Imperial College of Business 1 year £67,500 £68,000 666
University College London 16 months RMB 418,000 $43,000 680
Bayes Busienss School 12 months £69,000 £92,501 600
Warwick Business School 1 year £53,750 £70,746 670
Alliance Manchester Business School 18 or 15 months £48,000 $85,000 600
Business School • Durham University 12 month £37,500 $94,000 650
Lancaster University Management School 1 year £39,000 $45,799 600

 

MBA Colleges in UK: Best MBA Colleges in UK

The best MBA colleges in UK stand out for their exemplary blend of tradition and innovation in business education. These institutions are characterized by their rigorous academic programs, diverse student bodies, and strong industry connections. Renowned for their global perspective, these colleges offer a curriculum that is both academically challenging and practically relevant, designed to cultivate leadership and strategic thinking.

With a focus on real-world applications and a diverse international environment, these MBA programs from top MBA schools in UK are a gateway to advanced career opportunities and a global network of professionals.

 

1. London Business School (LBS)

#2 Business School in Europe -FT European Business Ranking 2023

best mba colleges in uk

London Business School MBA program is renowned for its flexible and customizable curriculum, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. The school is considered one of the best MBA colleges in UK. Their full-time MBA program spans 15 to 21 months and is distinguished by its global focus, with a diverse student body and opportunities for international experiences. The course prepares graduates for leadership roles in the global business arena.

Average GPA 7.5
Average Work-experience
2022-23
5 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024
£115,000
Average MBA Salary
2022
£90,789
Program Deadlines
2026
Friday 8 Sept, 2023
Wednesday 3 Jan, 2024
Monday 25 Mar, 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries
2022
Consulting 30%
Finance/Accounting 25%
FMCG/Retail/Luxury Goods/E-commerce 9%
Application Fees £200
Useful Links Alumni | London Business School
How to apply | MBA | London Business School

 

2. Saïd Business School (University of Oxford)

#1 University for record eighth year in a row -2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings

best mba colleges in uk

The Oxford Saïd MBA program at the Saïd Business School is acclaimed for its rigorous and holistic business education approach. This program typically lasts one academic year and is known for blending traditional business disciplines (focusing on ethical leadership and sustainable business practices). The MBA from this one of the top MBA schools in UK stands out for its focus on developing global business leaders who are prepared to address complex, real-world challenges with innovative and socially responsible solutions.

Average GPA GPA 3.5 or its equivalent
Average Work-experience 5 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024
£117,080
Average MBA Salary
2021/22
£78,895
Program Deadlines
2024-25
Wednesday 27 September 2023
Friday 5 January 2024
Wednesday 20 March 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries
2021/22
Finance 33.3%
Consulting 27.8%
Impact 6.1%
Global Industries 32.8%
Application Fees £150
Useful Links Oxford Experience Alumn | Saïd Business School
Oxford MBA | How to Apply

 

3. University of Cambridge Judge Business School

best mba colleges in uk

#2 University globally -QS World University Rankings 2024

An institute aged over 900 years, the University of Cambridge is one of the world's most prestigious research universities and the best MBA colleges in UK. The Cambridge MBA program is a transformative experience that is designed to empower future leaders to reshape global business and society. The 1 year Cambridge Judge MBA is known for its holistic approach, integrating a rigorous curriculum with practical experience. Here students gain over 400 hours of hands-on learning through real client projects.

Average GPA 3.15
Average Work-experience 6 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024/25
£69,000
Average MBA Salary £75,198
Program Deadlines
2023/24
29 Aug 2023
3 Oct 2023
8 Jan 2024
11 Mar 2024
7 May 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries Consulting 25%
Industry 42%
Finance 30%
Application Fees £165
Useful Links MBA Alumni Profile - The Cambridge MBA
How to Apply - The Cambridge MBA

 

4. Imperial College of Business

#3 in Europe and #6 in the world -QS World University Rankings 2024

best mba colleges in uk

The Imperial College London MBA program stands out by offering a unique blend of business acumen and cutting-edge technology insight within a one-year curriculum. Located in London (a vibrant start-up capital and global business hub) the program emphasizes personalized learning, global leadership experiences, and practical application of knowledge in innovation and technology. 

Average GPA At least 70% or CGPA of at least 8.0/10
Average Work-experience
2023-24
5 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024
£67,500
Average MBA Salary
2022
£68k
Program Deadlines
2024
25 September 2023
15 January 2024
18 March 2024
7 May 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries
2022
Finance 33%
Consulting 28%
Technology 23%
Other 16%
Application Fees £150
Useful Links Business School Alumni | Imperial College Business School
Full-Time MBA admissions - Imperial College London

 

5. University College London

best mba colleges in uk

Among top 10 universities worldwide for the 12th year running -QS World University Rankings 2024

The UCL MBA with Peking University is an internationally-focused program that offers deep insights into global management and business, (particularly in the context of China). Combining the expertise of UCL and Peking University, this program from one of the top MBA schools in UK covers key business disciplines and offers unique learning experiences in London and Beijing. 

Average GPA
2024/25
CGPA of 6.75/10 or minimum 55%
Average Work-experience Minimum 3 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024/25
RMB 418,000
Average MBA Salary $43,000
Program Deadlines
2024/25
16 June 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries Finance 26.4%
Technology 21.8%
Consumer goods/retail 12.6%
Application Fees £90 (Standard fee)
Useful Links UCL Alumni - UCL - University College London
The UCL MBA with Peking University | UCL School of Management


6. Bayes Business School

#2 in London, #5 in the UK, #27 in Europe -FT European Business School Rankings 2023

best mba colleges in uk

The Full-time Bayes MBA program, located in the heart of London, offers a 12-month journey of self-discovery and intense experiential learning. It is designed for early-career professionals and also for those seeking a career change or to start their own business. Among the best MBA colleges in UK, the MBA at Bayes Bayes Business School blends academic learning with practical application, featuring a diverse and global cohort, real-world projects, and integration weeks. 

Average GPA 3.4
Average Work-experience Minimum 3 years
Full-time MBA Fees £69,000
Average MBA Salary £92,501
Program Deadlines 24th September 2023    
5th November 2023    
7th January 2024    
11th February 2024    
24th March 2024    
12th May 2024    
16th June 2024    
Rolling applications
Top Post-MBA Industries General Management 17%
Consulting 14%
Strategy/Innovation 14%
Business Development/Sales 14%
Project Management 10%
Finance 10%
Application Fees £100
Useful Links Bayes Business School Alumni | Bayes Business School
Full-time MBA admissions | Bayes Business School

 

7. Warwick Business School

#11 Business School in Europe -FT European Business School Rankings 2023

best mba colleges in uk

A 12-month program focused on developing visionary leaders, the Full-time Warwick MBA combines academic rigor with practical experiences (including international travel and real-world projects). The program comes with top academics and personalized career support. Not only in Europe but among the best MBA colleges in UK, this MBA degree integrates a global network of over 56,260 alumni. An ideal program for those who are seeking career transformation and enhanced leadership skills.

Average GPA minimum GPA of 3.5
Average Work-experience 7 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024/25
£53,750
Average MBA Salary
2024/25
£70,746
Program Deadlines
2024/25
8 Oct 2023
14 Jan 2024
1 Apr 2024
19 May 2024
31 Jul 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries
2024/25
Consulting
Finance
Fintech
Technology, Media &Telco (TMT)
Application Fees £80
Useful Links Alumni | Warwick Business School
how to apply | Full-time MBA | Warwick Business School

 

8. Alliance Manchester Business School

#5 in UK and #15 in Europe -Bloomberg BEST B-SCHOOLS 2023–24

best mba colleges in uk

The Full-time Manchester MBA is a highly practical program, specially designed for ambitious professionals seeking transformative experiences. One of the standout features of the program is the opportunity to undertake three real consultancy projects, offering unparalleled practical experience for your CV. Pursuing an MBA from one of the top MBA schools in UK, students benefit from a global network of alumni and electives available at five international centers.

Average GPA at least 3.0-3.67/4 or 85%
Average Work-experience
2020
6 years
Full-time MBA Fees
2024/25
£48,000
Average MBA Salary $139,408 (3 years after graduation)
Program Deadlines
2024/25
Sunday 1 October 2023
Sunday 19 November 2023
Sunday 7 January 2024
Sunday 4 February 2024
Sunday 3 March 2024    
Sunday 7 April 2024
Sunday 5 May 2024
Top Post-MBA Industries Financial Services 20%
Technology 19%
Consulting 15%
Manufacturing 13%
Energy 10%
Application Fees £60.00
Useful Links Notable alumni | Alliance MBS
Application Process for Full-Time MBA Manchester | Alliance MBS

 

9. Business School • Durham University

#10 in UK -FT European Business School Rankings 2023

The Durham MBA program is designed to elevate careers by developing critical business and leadership skills. The program prepares students to thrive in a rapidly evolving global business environment which is a key factor in the modern world. This program merges theoretical knowledge with practical business experience that students can tailor to align with their career aspirations. Continuously updated to maintain relevance in the ever-changing business landscape, this MBA from one of the best MBA colleges in UK offers both a challenging and inspiring educational journey, aimed at empowering professionals to achieve their career objectives.

Average GPA minimum GPA of 3.4
Average Work-experience
2022/23
7 years
Full-time MBA Fees £37,500
Average MBA Salary
2024/25
$94,000
Program Deadlines
2024/25
15/11/23
21/02/24
17/04/24
12/06/24
Top Post-MBA Industries
2021/22
Consulting 21%
Financial Services inc. Accounting 18%
Technology 10%
Energy/Utilities 10%
Application Fees £60
Useful Links Alumni and friends - Durham University Business School
How to Apply and Application Deadlines - Durham University Business School

 

10. Lancaster University Management School

#63 in Europe -FT European Business School Rankings 2023

best mba colleges in uk

The Lancaster University MBA program equips students with the required business and management skills, emphasizing responsibility, sustainability, and inclusivity. The curriculum of the program is dynamic and integrates theory with practical examples and live cases. One of the key features of this program is practice-based learning, including action-learning Challenge Modules, company visits, and guest lectures, (fostering responsible decision-making in complex environments). Lancaster University is considered among the very best MBA colleges in UK.

Average GPA a minimum GPA of 2.5
Average Work-experience
2021/22
6.8 years
Full-time MBA Fees £39,000
Average MBA Salary $45,799
Program Deadlines Rolling basis
Top Post-MBA Industries
2012/13
Other 23%
Consulting 22%
General Management 22%
Finance/Accounting 18%
Marketing/Sales 8%
Operations/Logistics 7%
Application Fees £40
Useful Links LUMS Alumni - Lancaster University
MBA applications and funding - Lancaster University

 

Conclusion

To summarise, best MBA colleges in UK offer a unique blend of rigorous academic training, practical business insights, and a global perspective. This allows students to gain the maximum potential required in the modern global business & management world. UK is an attractive option for students seeking to accelerate their careers in the global business arena.

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Abhyank Srinet
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Abhyank Srinet, the founder of MiM-Essay.com, is a globally recognized expert in study abroad and admission consulting.His passion lies in helping students navigate the complex world of admissions and achieve their academic dreams. Having earned a Master's degree in Management from ESCP Europe, Abhyank's expertise in data-driven marketing strategies has driven growth for some of the most competitive industries. As the founder of MiM-Essay.com, he has helped thousands of students get into top business schools with a strong emphasis on research, shortlisting, and applying to schools from a single platform. His dedication to education has also led him to create MentR-Me, a free-to-use social platform that simplifies the study abroad process for students, while providing universities with a powerful recruitment tool. As a leader in the field of admission consulting, he is constantly researching and implementing the latest strategies to ensure that his clients receive the best possible guidance. He leads the Business Development and Digital Marketing side of both companies, and has grown both ventures to 7 figure revenue.His unique insights, experience, and dedication to his clients make him a valuable resource for anyone seeking to advance their education or career.
Why MBA colleges in UK offer 1 year programs?

The major reason why the best MBA colleges in UK offer one-year programs is a reflection of the country's educational philosophy (basically it values depth, intensity, and efficiency in learning)

The standard MBA degrees there are filled with rigorous, condensed curricula providing comprehensive business and management training with no extended commitment required by longer programs. Not to mention ita both practical & cost saving.

Which are the top 3 MBA schools in UK?

Yes, there are scholarships and financial aid options available for Indian students. Many UK

The 3 top MBA schools in UK, as consistently ranked by various educational platforms are; London Business School, Oxford's Saïd Business School, and Cambridge's Judge Business School.

These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, global outreach, and strong alumni networks.

Are MBA colleges in UK better than India?

Whether the best MBA colleges in UK are better than those in India can depend on various factors. Such as the individual's career goals, industry focus, and preference for global exposure.

UK-based colleges often provide a more international perspective, diverse cohorts, and shorter program durations (for instance the standard duration of schools offering MBA there is mainly 1 year). However, Indian MBA colleges are also highly respected, especially within the Indian and Asian business contexts.

Do UK schools ask for IELTS for MBA program admission?

Yes. Most UK schools require non-native English speakers to prove their proficiency in English through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The required score can vary between institutions but it generally ranges around 6.5 to 7.0 overall.

Why should I choose MBA colleges in UK?

Top MBA schools in UK are not just good but have several unique advantages:

  • Course Duration: Most MBA programs in the UK are one year long, providing an intensive learning experience.
  • Global Perspective: The MBA programs in UK colleges have a strong international focus (both in curriculum and student composition).
  • Cultural Diversity: Pursuing the best MBA colleges in UK exposes students to a multicultural environment, enhancing their global business understanding.
  • Networking Opportunities: Proximity to a city like London and other European business centers offers unparalleled networking. Not to mention career opportunities with some global leading companies.
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