5 Best Countries for MBA in 2024: Universities, Courses, Scholarships

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Are you considering pursuing an MBA degree? It’s a great choice for those looking to enhance their business knowledge and advance their careers. 

However, choosing the right country to pursue your MBA can be a daunting task. To help you out, we’ve done the research and found the top 5 countries for MBA:

  • USA
  • UK
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • Germany

As per India Today, around 8,50,000 Indian students are registered in these five countries, and most of the students have been engaged in MBA courses in recent years.

Having an MBA degree can significantly boost your career prospects with higher average salaries compared to master’s degree holders. According to recent data, individuals with an MBA earn around 17% more than those with just a master’s degree. 

In addition, recruiters have a higher preference for MBA graduates, with 91% of global recruiters hiring them compared to 74% who hired master’s degree graduates in the last years. 

This highlights the value of an MBA in today’s competitive job market, making it a wise investment for those looking to advance their careers. Scroll down and read more to get detailed information on the best countries for Indian MBA students to study in.

At a Glance:

Best Countries For MBAUSA
UK
Canada
Australia
Germany
Top UniversitiesHarvard Business School 
Warwick University 
HEC Montreal 
University of New South Wales Business School
-University Saarland
Top MBA Specialisation-MBA in business analytics
-MBA in Marketing
Average Tuition FeesINR 11L – INR 1Cr
Average SalaryINR 42L – INR 1Cr
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Why Do An MBA Abroad?

An MBA degree can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities, including top management positions in various industries.

It equips you with a broad set of business skills and knowledge, such as:

  • Leadership
  • Strategy
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Entrepreneurship

Pursuing an MBA also provides you with an excellent opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, gain exposure to different cultures, and learn from experienced industry professionals.

Here are some of the unique features of an MBA degree:

  • Provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices.
  • Offers networking opportunities with classmates, alumni, and industry professionals.
  • Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Enhances leadership and management skills.
  • Provides exposure to global business practices and cultures.
  • An MBA degree can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities.
  • Offers opportunities for internships and practical experience.
  • It can be pursued online or on campus, making it flexible for working professionals.

Best Countries for MBA for Indian students

If you are an Indian student looking to pursue an MBA degree, choosing the right country to study in can be a crucial decision. The country you choose can have a significant impact on your career prospects and overall experience. 

Here are the top 5 countries for MBA for Indian students:

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5 Best Countries for MBA in 2024: Universities, Courses, Scholarships

USA

For Indian students looking to pursue an MBA degree, the United States could be an excellent option. There are over 564 institutions in the USA offering MBA programs, making it a hub for business education. 

Moreover, according to the Open Doors Report released by the US Embassy & Consulates in India, the number of Indian students studying in the US has been increasing steadily, with a 35% increase in the past academic year, reaching an all-time high of 2,68,923 students.

Indian students make up more than a quarter of the total foreign students studying in the US, making the country a popular destination for higher education.

Here is the list of top 5 MBA Universities in the USA:

Universities Avg Tuition Fees
Harvard Business School INR 62L ($ 74,482)
Stanford Graduate School of BusinessINR 66.5L ($ 79,888)
Yale School of ManagementINR 68.5L ($ 82,290)
Columbia Business School INR 70L ($ 84,092)
MIT Sloan School of Management INR 70L ($ 84,092)
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate, and they may vary by course, specialisation and currency exchange rates.

Eligibility for MBA in the USA for international students:

  • A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • A competitive GMAT or GRE score
  • English language proficiency test score (TOEFL or IELTS)
  • Work experience (preferred but not mandatory for some programs)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Application fee

If you want to know more about the top MBA colleges in the USA. Click here to get the details.

UK

The United Kingdom is also a great option for Indian students seeking to pursue an MBA degree. With over 130 business schools offering MBA programs, the UK is a hub for business education. 

The requirements for MBA programs in the UK are less strict than those in Canada and the USA, making it easier for Indian students to gain admission. 

In the last year, over 38,000 students have enrolled in MBA colleges in the UK, and UK colleges rank in the top 10 of Financial Times’s top-tier business schools.

Here is the list of top 5 MBA Universities in the UK:

Universities Avg Tuition Fees
Warwick University INR 56.5L (£ 53,750)
Imperial College Business School INR 71L (£ 67,500)
Cambridge University INR 72.6L (£ 69,000)
Oxford University INR 82.6L (£ 78,510) – INR 1.2Cr (£ 1,17,080)
London School of Business and Finance INR 1.2Cr( £115,000)
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate, and they may vary by course, specialisation and currency exchange rates.

Eligibility for MBA in the UK for international students:

  • A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
  • A minimum GPA of 2.1 or equivalent
  • A competitive GMAT or GRE score
  • English language proficiency test score (TOEFL or IELTS)
  • Work experience (preferred but not mandatory for some programs)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Application fee

Related Article: Top MBA Universities in the UK

Canada

Canada is also an attractive destination for Indian students seeking to pursue an MBA degree. With 41 universities offering MBA courses, Canada is a great option for those who want quality education and a multicultural environment.

According to the latest data, about 2L Indian students have chosen Canada as their study destination in recent years, making it a popular choice for higher education.

Additionally, Canadian universities are known for their high standards of education and research, making them a preferred choice among international students.

Here is the list of top 5 MBA Colleges in Canada:

Universities Avg Tuition Fees
HEC Montreal INR 36L (CAD 59,100)
Stephen J.R. Smith School of Business at Queen’s UniversityINR 67L (CAD 1,10,000)
York UniversityINR 72L (CAD 1,17,850)
Ivey Business SchoolINR 79.5L (CAD 1,29,800)
The Rotman School of Management INR 83.5L (CAD 1,36,410)
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate, and they may vary by course, specialisation and currency exchange rates.

Eligibility for MBA in Canada for international students:

  • A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
  • A competitive GMAT or GRE score
  • English language proficiency test score (TOEFL or IELTS)
  • Work experience (preferred but not mandatory for some programs)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Application fee

Related Article: Top MBA Colleges in Canada

Australia

Australia is another great option for Indian students looking to pursue an MBA degree. With 71 institutions offering MBA courses, it provides ample opportunities for students to enhance their business knowledge and skills. 

According to recent data by the Australian High Commission, more than 1L Indian students are currently studying in Australia, with 20,000 enrolled for an MBA degree

Interestingly, around 80% of students admitted for an MBA in Australia are international students, emphasising the country’s popularity among international students for higher education.

Here is the list of top 5 MBA Colleges in Australia:

Universities Avg Tuition Fees
Australian National University, ANU College of Business and Economics INR 26.3L (AUD 48,035)
University of New South Wales Business SchoolINR 45L (AUD 81,720)
University of Western Australia, UWA Business SchoolINR 47L (AUD 86,400)
University of Queensland, UQ Business SchoolINR 50L (AUD 91,421)
Melbourne Business School INR 58.5L (AUD 1,06,650)
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate, and they may vary by course, specialisation and currency exchange rates.

Eligibility for MBA in Australia for international students:

  • A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
  • Minimum GPA requirements vary by university (usually around 3.0)
  • GMAT or GRE scores (may be waived for some programs)
  • English language proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE)
  • Work experience (preferred but not mandatory for some programs)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Application fee

Germany

Germany is a top destination for Indian students throughout Europe. It hosts over 70 universities where international students can pursue an MBA degree.

According to the QS World University Rankings, 3 German universities have MBA programs ranked among the top 100 globally, a testament to their quality and relevance. 

In the academic year 2022/23, more than 42,000 Indian students have registered themselves in German universities, making them the biggest group of international students in the country. 

This number is the largest in the country, surpassing the number of students from China and Syria. This shows that German universities are getting increasingly popular among Indian students who want to pursue higher education.

Here is the list of the top 5 MBA Colleges in Germany:

UniversitiesAvg Tuition Fees
University SaarlandINR 11L (€ 12,000)
GISMA Business SchoolINR 16L (€ 18,000)
University of BayreuthINR 17.7L (€ 19,600)
SRH Berlin University of Applied SciencesINR 19.5L (€ 21,600)
Munich Business SchoolINR 29L (€ 32,000)
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate, and they may vary by course, specialisation and currency exchange rates.

If you want to know more about the top MBA colleges in Germany. Click here to get the details.

Eligibility for MBA in Germany for international students:

  • A bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • Competitive GMAT or GRE score (some universities may accept the CAT or MAT)
  • English language proficiency test score (TOEFL or IELTS)
  • German Language Certificate (Optional)
  • Work experience (preferred but not mandatory for some programs)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Application fee

Top MBA Specialisation Among The Best Countries For MBA

MBA programs offer a wide range of specialisations, allowing you to tailor your education to your specific career goals. It’s important to choose the right specialisation to ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your chosen field. 

Among the best countries for MBA, the most popular specialisations are 

  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Entrepreneurship 

These specialisations offer excellent career opportunities and are highly demanded by employers. It’s essential to research and choose the right specialisation that aligns with your interests and career goals. 

Here’s a table of the top MBA specialisations among the best countries for MBA:

MBA SpecialisationCourseAvg Annual Salary
MBA in business analytics-Business intelligence
-Data Analytics
-Computer programming
INR 50L – INR 54L
MBA in Information Technology-Financial Accounting
-IT Project and Operations Management
-Business Intelligence and Analytics
INR 54L – INR 8Cr
MBA in Finance-Financial Accounting
-Business Analysis and Valuation
-Corporate investment management
INR 50L – INR 75L
MBA in Marketing-Marketing Research
-Consumer Behaviour
-E-Marketing
INR 42L – INR 70.8L
MBA in Economics-Micro Economics Analysis
-Statistical Methods
-Principles of Management
INR 54L – INR 75L
Note: Salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by location, experience and currency exchange rate.

Scholarships In Best Countries For MBA

Indian students who are thinking about pursuing an MBA degree Abroad are probably concerned about the high costs of studying and living abroad. 

However, there’s no need to worry as there are many scholarships available to help you fund your studies and living expenses. These scholarships can help you get the best education without having to worry about any financial burden. 

Here are some of the top scholarships for MBA students abroad:

  • MIT Sloan School of Management MBA Scholarships
  • Harvard Business School Boustany MBA Scholarship
  • SARI Foundation Trust Scholarship
  • London Business School Fund Scholarships
  • Alberta MBA Scholarships
  • Rotman School Of Management Scholarships
  • Melbourne Business School-MBA Scholarships
  • Monash International Leadership Scholarship 

Want to know more about Scholarships for MBA Abroad?

MBA In India Vs Abroad

If you are considering pursuing an MBA degree, one of the critical decisions you must make is whether to do it in India or abroad. While studying in India can be cost-effective, pursuing an MBA abroad can give you a broader perspective and exposure to global business practices and cultures. 

The best countries for MBA, such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany, offer world-class education, excellent faculty, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Additionally, many top business schools in these countries provide internships, practical experience, and exposure to a wide range of industries, making them an ideal destination for Indian students. 

In India, to pursue an MBA, you must pass the Common Admission Test (CAT), while abroad, you must pass the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Some universities abroad also accept GRE scores instead of GMAT scores.

In India, work experience is not always required to apply for B-schools. However, 2-3 years of professional experience is generally recommended when applying to B-schools abroad, especially for top universities.

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison table of the key factors to consider when choosing the best country for an MBA degree. 

FactorsMBA In IndiaMBA In Abroad
Quality of educationGood Excellent
FacultyExperiencedRenowned
Networking OpportunitiesLimitedExtensive
Average CostINR 20,000 – INR 40LINR 10L – INR 1Cr
Course Duration2 years1 – 2 years
Average salaries per annumINR 3L – INR 20L INR 38L – INR 16Cr

Top Recruiters Among The Best Countries For MBA

When it comes to pursuing an MBA, choosing the right country is important not only to get a quality education but also to increase your chances of getting hired by top recruiters. 

The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School boasts a staggering 99% employment rate for MBA graduates, with a median salary of INR 1.2 crore ($1,55,000). 

Meanwhile, Harvard Business School reports a 95% employment rate for its MBA graduates, with a median salary of INR 1.5 crore ($ 1,75,000). 

These numbers demonstrate the high value of MBA degrees from these prestigious schools, making them attractive options for students seeking to advance their careers.

Here are some of the top recruiters among the best countries for MBA:

CountriesTop Recruiters
USA-Google
-McKinsey & Company
-BCG
-Bain & Company
-Amazon
UK-Deloitte
-PwC
-EY
-KPMG
-HSBC
Canada-TD Bank
-RBC
-Scotiabank
-Deloitte
-KPMG
Australia-Commonwealth Bank
-ANZ
-PwC
-Allianz Global investors
-Barclays
Germany-McKinsey & Company
-BMW
-Siemens
-Bosch
-Deutsche Bank

Final Thoughts

Pursuing an MBA from one of the best countries for an MBA can be an excellent investment in your future. The USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany are all great options, providing you with top-quality education, networking opportunities, and exposure to global business practices.

If you are an Indian student looking to pursue an MBA degree abroad, it’s essential to do your research and understand the admission requirements, visa processes, and other formalities. 

LeapScholar is a great resource that can help you with guidance on studying abroad, IELTS preparation, visa assistance, and more.

So, don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back from pursuing your dream of an MBA degree. Leap and explore your options today.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Which country is best for MBA for Indian students?

    A. The best country for Indian students to pursue an MBA degree would be the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, or Germany. These countries have top-ranked business schools and offer excellent opportunities for career growth. Additionally, the USA and UK have a large number of Indian students enrolled in their MBA programs.

  • Q. Which country is best for MBA in finance?

    A. The USA is one of the best countries for MBA in finance. With over 564 institutions offering MBA programs, the US is a hub for business education. Some of the top business schools in the world are located in the US, such as Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, and Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. These schools offer comprehensive education in finance, preparing graduates for successful careers in the field. 

  • Q. Is an MBA degree from Abroad worth it for Indian students?

    A. Yes, pursuing an MBA degree abroad can be worthwhile for Indian students. It can help enhance their business knowledge and provide them with better job opportunities and higher salaries. Additionally, it can offer exposure to different cultures and networking opportunities with industry professionals. 

  • Q. Which are the best countries for MBA in Europe?

    A. There are several European countries that offer excellent MBA programs for international students. Some of the best countries for MBA in Europe include the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Spain. These countries have highly-ranked business schools with a diverse range of specialisations and excellent career prospects for graduates.

  • Q. What are the different kinds of an MBA degree?

    A. There are several types of MBA degrees, including full-time MBA, part-time MBA, executive MBA, and online MBA. Full-time MBA programs are the most traditional and immersive, while part-time MBA programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Executive MBA programs are designed for senior-level executives, and online MBA programs allow students to study remotely.

  • Q. What are the top MBA specialisations for Indian students abroad?

    A. The top MBA specialisations for Indian students abroad include finance, marketing, consulting, and entrepreneurship. These specialisations can help students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a successful career in their chosen field.

  • Q. What are the top MBA colleges in the world?

    A. There are several top MBA colleges worldwide, but the most renowned ones are Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, Wharton School, and London Business School. These colleges offer world-class MBA programs with excellent faculty, high-quality education, and extensive industry exposure.

  • Q. Which are the best countries for MBA in HR?

    A. The USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia are some of the best countries for MBA in HR. These countries offer top-ranked MBA programs with specialisations in human resources management. Students can gain valuable knowledge and skills in HR management, organisational behaviour, and employee relations, among other areas.

  • Q. Which country has the highest value for an MBA degree?

    A. The USA has the highest value for an MBA degree compared to other countries. Individuals with an MBA degree in the United States earn around 17% more than those with just a master’s degree. Recruiters also have a higher preference for MBA graduates as compared to master’s degree graduates in recent years.

  • Q. Is it easy to get a job after an MBA?

    A. Getting a job after an MBA can be easier than having just a bachelor’s degree. However, it also depends on various factors, such as your skills, experience, and the job market. An MBA degree can give you the necessary skills and knowledge to advance your career.

  • Q. Do the best countries for MBA offer scholarships to Indian students?

    Yes, many universities and countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany offer scholarships to Indian students pursuing an MBA degree. These scholarships are usually merit-based and aim to attract talented students to their institutions. Some of the top MBA scholarships abroad are MIT Sloan School of Management MBA Scholarships, Harvard Business School Boustany MBA Scholarship, SARI Foundation Trust Scholarship and London Business School Fund Scholarships.

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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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