Top Business Schools in the UK: Requirements, Top Courses & Tuition Fees

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Over 1,10,000 Indian students chose the UK for higher studies last year, making the country a top destination for business education. The UK is home to top business schools like London Business School and Oxford’s Saïd Business School, which offer programs that blend academic excellence with practical experience. These programs are designed to prepare you for a global career.

Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree or aiming for an MBA, UK business schools provide the knowledge and networks you need. 

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Plus, with post-study work opportunities, studying at one of the top business schools in the UK sets you on the path to success. Ready to explore the best options? Dive in.

10 Top Business Schools in the UK

Around 70% of MBA graduates from top business schools in the UK report that their specialization significantly boosted their careers. 

By focusing on practical skills, UK business schools prepare you to apply your expertise in real-world situations. 

Here is a quick overview table of the top business schools in the UK.

Best Business Universities in the UKTimes Higher Education Business Ranking 2024Average Annual Fees
University of Cambridge5INR 29.6L to INR 76.8L (£27K to  £70K)
University of Oxford5INR 38.4L to INR 64.7L (£35K to  £59K)
London School of Economics and Political Science11INR 29.3L (£26.7K)
UCL23 INR 28.5L to INR 62.5L (£26K to £57K)
University of Warwick26 INR 26.3L to INR 54.9L (£24K to 50K)
University of Manchester31 INR 31.8L (£29K)
University of Edinburgh56 INR 17.5L to INR 31.8L (£16K to £29K)
King’s College London64 INR 13.1L to INR 34L (£12K to £31K)
University of Nottingham75 INR 25L to INR 33L (£23K to £30K)
University of Reading79 INR 28.5L to INR 33L (£26 to £30K)

Here’s a more comprehensive look into the universities.

1. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, is among the best business schools in the UK for undergraduate studies. With over 18,000 students, including 4,000 international students from 120+ countries, it offers a global learning experience. 

Known for its unique college supervision and research excellence, Cambridge boasts over 100 libraries and a history of 92 Nobel Prize winners, making it a top choice for aspiring business leaders.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
MSt in EntrepreneurshipINR 43.2L (£39.6K)
Executive MBAINR 1Cr (£93.3K)
The Cambridge MBAINR 80.8L (£74K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7
TOEFL100

Notable Alumni

  • Stephen Hawking: Theoretical Physicist, Cosmologist
  • Charles Darwin: Naturalist, Biologist

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2. University of Oxford

Founded in 1096, the oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford, is among the best business schools in the UK for undergraduate studies. With 22,000 students, including 40% international students, Oxford offers a rich global experience. 

Its alumni network includes 26 Nobel Prize winners and 30 world leaders, solidifying its reputation as a top institution for academic excellence.

Top Courses

Course NameComplete Fees
Oxford Executive MBAINR 1.27Cr (£117K)
Oxford MBAINR 91.4L (£83.7K)
MSc Major Programme ManagementINR 63L (£57.7K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7.5
TOEFL110

Notable Alumni

  • J.R.R. Tolkien: Author, Philologist
  • Margaret Thatcher: Former Prime Minister

3. London School of Economics and Political Science

Established in 1895, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is regarded as one of the best universities for business management in the UK, especially in economics, politics, and law. 

With 16 Nobel Prize winners and 37 world leaders among its alumni, LSE attracts 9,600 students from 140 countries. It offers global partnerships and a prime location in central London.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
BSc ManagementINR 37.1L (£34K)
MSc ManagementINR 44.7L (£41K)
Global Master’s in ManagementINR 42.6L (£39K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7
TOEFL100

Notable Alumni

  • George Soros: Investor, Philanthropist
  • John F. Kennedy: Former U.S. President

4. UCL

University College London (UCL), founded in 1826, is one of the best universities for business management in the UK. With nearly 36,000 students from 150 countries and 29 Nobel Prize winners, UCL offers a diverse and innovative learning experience. 

Located in London, UCL is a leader in research and education across its 11 faculties, making it a top choice for aspiring business leaders.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
International Management BScINR 36L (£33K)
MSc ManagementINR 43.3L (£39.8K)
MSc EntrepreneurshipINR 43.4L (£39.8K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7
TOEFL100

Notable Alumni

  • David Miliband: Politician, Former MP
  • Alexander Graham Bell: Inventor, Scientist

5. University of Warwick

Established in 1965, the University of Warwick is one of the top universities in the UK for MBA programs. With 30 academic departments and a student body comprising 45% international students, Warwick excels in research and education. The campus features a vast library and a vibrant student life, with one of the largest student unions in the UK.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
BSc International ManagementINR 36.5L (£33.5K)
MSc ManagementINR 40.6L (£37.2K)
MBAINR 62.8L (£57.5K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7
PTE65

Notable Alumni

  • Chris Martin: Musician (Lead Singer of Coldplay)
  • David Beckham: Former Professional Footballer

6. University of Manchester

The University of Manchester, founded in 1824, is one of the top universities in the UK for MBA programs. It is known for its global impact and research excellence. With 44,000 students and 25 Nobel laureates, the university continues to lead in innovation and social responsibility. 

What’s more? The university ranks first in the UK and Europe for social and environmental impact, making it a top choice for aspiring business leaders.

Top Courses

Couse NameAnnual Fees
BSc (Hons) ManagementINR 34.4L (£31.5K)
MSc ManagementINR 34.4L (£31.5K)
MSc Business AnalyticsINR 37.1L (£34K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS6.5
TOEFL90

Notable Alumni

  • Sir Jonathan Bate: Professor, Literary Scholar
  • Benedict Cumberbatch: Actor

7. University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh, one of the best business universities in the UK, was founded in 1583. With 35,000 students and 20 Nobel laureates, it attracts students worldwide. Set in Scotland’s historic capital, it offers a rich academic experience.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
MA Business ManagementINR 30.5L (£28K)
Full-time MBAINR 47.3L (£43.3K)
Masters in ManagementINR 36L (£33.1K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7
TOEFL100

Notable Alumni

  • Alan Turing: Mathematician, Computer Scientist
  • Sir Walter Scott: Novelist, Poet

8. King’s College London

King’s College London (KCL), one of the best business universities in the UK, was founded in 1829. With over 27,000 students from 150 countries and 12 Nobel Prize winners, KCL offers solid global connections and a prime location in central London, making it a top choice for ambitious students.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
International Management BScINR 39L (£35.8K)
International Management MScINR 41.2L (£37.8K)
Executive MBAINR 59L (£54.3K) full fees

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7.5
TOEFL100

Notable Alumni

  • Charles Rennie Mackintosh: Architect, Designer
  • Sir David Attenborough: Broadcaster, Natural Historian

9. University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham, founded in 1881, is one of the top business schools in the UK and has over 40,000 students from 150 countries. Known for innovation, it was the first UK university to establish campuses in Malaysia and China. With five faculties, it has produced Nobel laureates, politicians, and Olympic gold medalists, offering a dynamic academic experience.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
International Management BScINR 10L (£9.2K)
International Business MScINR 35.3L (£32.4K)
MBAINR 35.3L (£32.4K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS6
TOEFL80

Notable Alumni

  • D.H. Lawrence: Novelist, Poet
  • Brian Cox: Physicist, Television Presenter

10. University of Reading

The University of Reading, founded in 1892 and home to 17,000 students from over 150 countries, is recognised as one of the top business schools in the UK. Its Henley Business School is triple-accredited and ranked among the top 50 globally. With beautiful campuses and a solid global presence, Reading offers a dynamic academic experience.

Top Courses

Course NameAnnual Fees
BSc International Business and ManagementINR 27.5L (£25.2K)
Masters in ManagementINR 31.1L (£28.5K)
Executive MBAINR 43.2L (£39.6K)

English Requirements

TestScore
IELTS7
TOEFL100

Notable Alumni

  • Ken Follett: Author
  • Kate Adie: Journalist, Author

Admission Requirements at Top Business Schools in the UK

If you’re aiming for one of the top business schools in the UK, getting your application right is essential. The process is simple, but it demands attention to detail. Most universities use the UCAS platform, which allows you to apply to multiple schools at once. While this makes things easier, you’ll need to ensure all your paperwork is in order and submitted on time.

Here’s a quick look at the steps.

  1. Sign up on the UCAS platform
  2. Complete your application forms
  3. Upload the required documents
  4. If needed, attend an interview
  5. Pay the application fee [INR 16K to INR 22K (£150 to  £200)]
  6. Submit your application

Required Documents

When applying to one of the top business schools in the UK, you’ll be asked for several important documents. These include the following.

  • Official academic transcripts such as high school diploma
  • A strong CV or resume
  • Two to three letters of recommendation
  • A well-written statement of purpose
  • Any work experience certificates
  • Proof of financial capability
  • English language test scores (such as IELTS or TOEFL)

Visa for Studying at Top Business Schools in the UK

The UK is an ideal destination for students, with a 99% acceptance rate for student visas. Once you’re admitted to one of the top business schools in the UK, you’ll need a student visa. 

Here is a quick overview of the type of visa, along with the cost and processing time.

Visa TypeVisa CostVisa Processing Time
Student VisaINR 53.4K (£490)3 weeks

Top Business Schools in the UK: Scholarships

If you’re looking to study at one of the top business schools in the UK, scholarships can make a big difference. 

The British Council Great Scholarships offers 198 scholarships each year, with a total budget of £2.6 million, in partnership with 40 UK universities.

Here are some of the major scholarships available for international students.

Scholarship NameAward
London Business School ScholarshipsUp to £78,500 (INR 86L) 
Oxford Saïd Business School Foundation ScholarshipsUp to £30,000 (INR 33L) 
Cambridge Judge Business School ScholarshipsUp to £15,000 (INR 16.5L) 
Imperial College Business School ScholarshipsUp to £25,000 (INR 27.4L) 
Warwick Business School ScholarshipsUp to 50% of the tuition fees

Job Opportunities after Studying from Top Business Schools in the UK

With 33.23 million people employed in the UK and a 74.8% employment rate, the job market is thriving. Employment rose by 150,000 last year, offering solid prospects for graduates from the top business schools in the UK to step into a growing market.

Here is a quick overview of the top jobs available after studying at top business schools in the UK.

Job RoleAverage Annual Salary
Investment BankerINR 26L (£23.6K)
Financial ManagerINR 52L (£47.4K)
Chief Technology OfficerINR 98L (£89.2K)
Marketing DirectorINR 79L (£72K)
Management ConsultantINR 70.7L (£64.4K)

Why Study at the Top Business Schools in the UK?

Did you know? In the year ending March 2024, 116,455 Indian students received sponsored UK study visas, accounting for 26% of the total. 

Choosing to study at one of the top business schools in the UK presents a wealth of benefits, from obtaining a world-class education to enjoying an outstanding quality of life. 

Here are a few benefits of choosing to study at the top business schools in the UK for higher studies.

Top Business Schools in the UK: Requirements, Top Courses & Tuition Fees

1. Prestigious Qualifications

UK business schools offer globally recognised qualifications, such as MBAs and MScs, which employers highly value. Graduating from these programs positions you as a leader in your field, opening doors to top roles in global organisations.

2. Global Business Hub

The UK is one of the world’s leading financial and business centres, home to global corporations and startups alike. Studying in the UK gives you access to an international network and opportunities to connect with industry leaders, enhancing your career prospects.

3. Strong Job Prospects

The UK boasts a robust job market, with 75% of people aged 15 to 64 employed, which is above the OECD average. Graduating from a top business school not only equips you with a prestigious education but also opens doors to exciting career opportunities, whether you choose to stay in the UK or venture abroad.

4. Research Excellence

The UK is home to some of the world’s leading business schools, known for their cutting-edge research and innovation. These institutions consistently rank among the best globally, providing a learning experience that is both rigorous and relevant. 

Studying at top business schools in the UK boosts your credentials and opens doors to competitive roles, offering a world-class education and strong career prospects.

Ready to take the next step towards studying at one of the top business schools in the UK? Leap Scholar is here to help you every step of the way. From selecting the right university to guiding you through visa applications and SOP reviews, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started on your journey—connect with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What makes the UK a top destination for business education?

A. The UK is a top destination for business education because it offers shorter program durations, strong job prospects, and the chance to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. The top business schools in the UK are known for their academic rigour, global connections, and innovative approaches to teaching.

Q. What are the top business programs for undergraduates in the UK?

A. The top business schools in the UK, such as LSE, Oxford, and Cambridge, offer some of the best undergraduate business programs in the world. These programs provide a strong foundation in management, finance, economics, and entrepreneurship, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Graduating from these programs opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in various industries.

Q. What are the admission requirements for top business schools in the UK?

A. Admission to the top business schools in the UK generally requires official academic transcripts, a CV or resume, letters of recommendation, a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP), and proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL). You will also need to provide financial documents showing you have the means to cover tuition and living expenses.

Q. How do I apply to top business schools in the UK?

A. You can apply to the top business schools in the UK through the UCAS platform, which allows you to submit applications to multiple universities through a single portal. The application process includes completing forms, uploading required documents (like transcripts and letters of recommendation), and paying the application fee, which ranges from INR 16K to INR 22K (£150 to £200).

Q. Which UK universities offer the best business management programs?

A. The best business management programs are offered by the top business schools in the UK, such as Oxford Saïd Business School, Cambridge Judge Business School, and the London School of Economics (LSE). These institutions are globally recognised for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong industry connections.

Q. What is the average salary after graduating from one of the top business schools in the UK?

A. Graduates from the top business schools in the UK can expect to earn competitive salaries. For example, roles such as Chief Technology Officer or Marketing Director can offer salaries up to INR 98L (£89.2K) annually. The exact salary depends on the industry, location, and level of experience. Still, UK business school graduates generally command higher wages due to the reputation and quality of their education.

Q. How many international students study at the top business schools in the UK?

A. The top business schools in the UK attract a large number of international students every year. For instance, over 10,000 Indian students have chosen to study in the UK, joining a diverse and vibrant community of students from more than 150 countries. This diversity creates a rich learning environment and fosters global connections that can benefit students throughout their careers.

Q. Which are the top business schools in the UK?

A. The top business schools in the UK include the University of Cambridge (Judge Business School), the University of Oxford (Saïd Business School), and the London School of Economics (LSE). These schools are globally recognised for their excellence in education, research, and industry engagement. Graduating from any of these institutions offers a distinct advantage in the global job market.

Q. Why should I choose to study business at one of the top business schools in the UK?

A. Studying business at one of the top business schools in the UK offers a unique combination of academic excellence, shorter program durations, and strong job prospects. UK business schools focus on practical learning, giving you the chance to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges.

Q. What are the top MBA programs in the UK?

A. The top MBA programs in the UK are offered by renowned institutions such as Oxford Saïd Business School, Cambridge Judge Business School, and London Business School. These programs are recognised worldwide for their leadership training, global perspective, and strong alumni networks. An MBA from one of these schools equips you with the skills and connections needed to excel in a competitive business environment.

Q. How long does it take to complete an MBA at one of the top business schools in the UK?

A. Most MBA programs at the top business schools in the UK take just one year to complete. This shorter program duration allows you to quickly return to the job market, equipped with new skills and knowledge. It also helps reduce the overall cost of the program compared to the two-year MBAs offered in other countries.

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