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MBA Courses Online

What is MBA?

MBA degree is a 2-year post-graduate degree that provides a working knowledge of key areas of business administration. While MBA studies were primarily offered at universities in the USA, it is now one of the most coveted degrees for aspiring students worldwide. In the 21st century, MBA offers various specialisation programs to students who can choose from Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA, Online MBA, Distance MBA or one year MBA to advance in their careers.

MBA Course Details


MBA courses typically follow a standard curriculum that is structured around core studies — each course includes an elective course that students opt for based on their areas of interest. 


Among the most sought-after specialisations have Human Resources. Business Analytics, Accounting, Business Law, Entrepreneurship, Digital Marketing, Supply Chain Management, and so on. In India, over 3700 colleges offer various specialisations in MBA. Each of these caters to different segments and enjoys huge demand worldwide.


Why MBA?

The demand for MBA has been on the rise consistently. Annually, over 2,00,000 candidates appear for the CAT exam, the most popular MBA entrance test. It includes three tenets: Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. Given the interest in GMAT, top Indian institutes also accept GMAT scores for admissions. Why is MBA demonstrating such high demand? How is an MBA helpful in securing a better career?

Let's get into the answers to the above questions. Here are a few benefits of pursuing an MBA:

Why online MBA

Why Pursue an MBA?

  • Development of managerial skillsMBA curriculum aims to provide knowledge through case studies on how to manage and run a company. The syllabus also covers accounting, investment management, leadership abilities, marketing, and finance, among other things. 
  • Different specialisations to cater to focused goals: MBA offers specialisations in various areas that help candidates to focus on a particular area of their interest. Finance, Human Resources, International Management, and Business Analytics are among the few specialisations offered by the MBA program. 
  • Better placement and remuneration prospects: Professionals are liable to immediate pay raises and employee benefits after securing an MBA degree. Most MBA colleges offer complete placement assistance to help students secure a job in their dream companies. The salary offered to an MBA graduate is much more than those without an MBA degree. 
  • Strong peer network: Apart from placement and salary, MBA institutions facilitate their candidate's valuable interactions with their peers and alums to share knowledge and bond. The connections provide good leverage when securing a job in a good company through referrals.
  • Shaping entrepreneurship skills: Candidates from a business background with valuable experience can start their businesses and put their knowledge to action. MBA provides the much-required confidence and exposure to become successful entrepreneurs.

Who Should do an MBA?

An MBA degree comes with many advantages, mainly if acquired from one of the prestigious institution. It helps in securing a high-paying managerial job and elevating one's career. Let's look at who benefits from pursuing an MBA degree:

  • Students who wish to work in an industry different from their graduation area vastly benefit from an MBA. Since the program accepts individuals from all backgrounds, it is a highly sought-after option for students hoping to switch to a new field.
  • Candidates aspiring to secure managerial positions and hoping to position themselves as decision-makers at top companies should opt for an MBA degree. 
  • People aiming for a commendable hike in their salary should opt for an MBA.

When to do an MBA?

While an MBA does not specify an age limit, students who pursue the degree are typically in their mid-to-late-20s. Ideally,

  • Candidates with 1-2 years of work experience should pursue MBA as the graduate degree can prove to be a game-changer in their careers. 
  • Students with 4 to 5 years of work experience can opt for an executive MBA degree.

Types of MBA

1. Online MBA

As the name suggests, the MBA program is offered through an online platform instead of a classroom. While the curriculum and duration of the platform remain the same for online and offline MBA, online MBA programs such as upGrad MBA courses are cost-effective and flexible when compared to offline MBA programs.

The most significant advantage of opting for an
upGrad MBA online course is the luxury of learning from one’s comfort zone without compromising on their existing commitments. Many renowned institutions provide online MBA programs. Aspiring students can make conscious decisions while keeping their interests and needs in mind.

Here are some advantages of pursuing an online MBA degree:

types of MBA

Why Online MBA?

  • Greater flexibility: Since an online MBA includes both synchronous and asynchronous learning, it allows for better time management, especially if you are juggling work responsibilities on the side.
  • No time constraint: The entire coursework is provided online, The course modules, assignments, and course sessions are available online and can be accessed from any part of the world. 
  • Wider peer network and global opportunities: Students from any corner of the globe are eligible to apply for an online MBA degree, and this allows connecting with peers across the world and have a wide network. 
  • Exposure to interactive multimedia tools: Similar to an offline MBA, an online MBA course provides exposure to many collaboration tools like Hootsuite, Woorank, and other interactive multimedia tools like Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet to provide candidates with practical exposure and an engaging learning experience.
  • More affordable: The online upGrad MBA opens doors to pursue an MBA at top B-schools worldwide at significantly lower fees—which is an undeniable upside where financial decisions are concerned.

2. One-Year MBA

The one-year MBA program is designed for working professionals with over four years of experience who wish to take an MBA part-time or in distance mode. Like IIM Ahmedabad (MBA -PGPX), several top MBA colleges in India offer one-year MBA programs. One-year MBA programs offer multiple specialisation options for focused learning. The course is comprehensive and follows the curriculum of the 2-year program. Hence, students should remember that a one-year MBA is fast-paced and demands immense dedication and commitment.

3. Full Time (2-Year MBA)

Identifying career goals is essential for an MBA pursuit. Failing to do so will result in incomplete learning and networking during the MBA program. The benefits of pursuing a full-time 2-year upGrad online MBA course will be immense, but it is crucial to analyse all financial and career commitments before taking the plunge. 

A full-time upGrad online MBA course (2 years program) lasts for four semesters distributed across two academic years. The first year will cover the general course requirements, and then the second year gets deeper into the multiple disciplines, allowing candidates to choose their area of interest. A full-time upGrad online MBA course offers an invaluable opportunity to connect with ambitious, smart, and enthusiastic professionals with solid academic and professional backgrounds. 

4. Part-Time MBA (Executive MBA)

A part-time executive MBA is specifically designed for working professionals who wish to take a significant leap in their careers while focusing on their job simultaneously. The executive MBA (EMBA) duration is 15 to 24 months. Professionals with business/management experience are most suitable for the program. An EMBA program is a fast-paced expert-level MBA program primarily focused on enhancing leadership, critical thinking, and managerial abilities in working professionals.

MBA Admission Process

It should be divided into online, offline and distance

1. Online Admission Process

Applying for an online MBA is simple and straightforward. Here are detailed steps to initiate the upGrad MBA online course admissions process:

  • Step 1: Find your desired upGrad MBA course and fill out the application form online
  • Step 2: Undergo profile evaluation by the admissions team and get shortlisted
  • Step 3: Receive the offer letter
  • Step 4: Pay a caution and block your seat 
  • Step 5: Pay the balance course fees for your upGrad MBA course.

2. Offline Admission Process

  • Step 1: Register and appear for MBA entrance exam(s) — The fundamental step in process of MBA admission is the entrance test. MBA entrance exams can be of All India level like CAT, MAT, GMAT, or University levels like SNAP, XAT, and NMAT
  • Step 2: Undergo the shortlisting process by respective B-schools that consider test scores, academic records, work experience, etc.
  • Step 3: Appear for the final admission process which includes Group Discussion, Written Ability Test, and Personal Interview Assessments
  • Step 4: Receive the offer letter
  • Step 5: Pay course fees and secure your seat

3. Distance Admission Process

The admissions process for a distance MBA is based on your eligibility, the institute you are applying to, and the course duration you are applying for. A general 2-year MBA course requires a valid exam score (CAT, XAT, MAT, etc.), a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, and preferably work experience. Some colleges conduct their entrance exams.

  • Step 1: Appear for respective entrance exams.
  • Step 2: Visit the college's website and submit your application. (online and in-person applications are both accepted).
  • Step 3: An admissions committee will shortlist you based on your eligibility and entrance exam cut-off
  • Step 4: Receive an offer letter
  • Step 5: Go through the enrolment process

Skills Required for MBA

skills required for MBA

Below is a list of core skills that employers seek in MBA graduates:

  • Interpersonal skills: Also referred to as the soft skill tops the list of most wanted MBA skills, interpersonal skills include verbal & non-verbal communication skills, being assertive, listening skills, negotiating abilities, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Communication skills: This is another vital skill as MBA graduates deal with different types of people. MBA graduates must have impeccable communication skills to communicate effectively with their colleagues, clients, employers, etc., to have a hassle-free work environment, and also to deliver ideas effectively. 
  • Leadership skills: Managers are the vital force that builds and sustains a team and ensure smooth performance from all the team members. As MBA graduates are meant to occupy managerial positions, leadership skills are necessary
  • Devising and executing strategies: Planning and executing strategies are crucial for the success of any business venture. Strategizing a business is no simple deal since it involves a thorough knowledge of the business goals and also identifying & analyzing potential competitors.
  • Entrepreneur skills: MBA graduates must have good decision-making skills that are essential for the success of a business. As the MBA program covers the fundamentals of all aspects needed to run a business, MBA graduates develop good entrepreneurial skills. They are more likely to start their business ventures.

Eligibility Criteria for MBA Admission

The eligibility criteria might vary from one institution to another but there are a few common grounds that MBA admission is based on:

  • Students should have a graduation degree. Students in the final year of their bachelor’s program can also apply if they submit a provisional certificate.
  • A minimum of 50% mark in the bachelor’s degree is mandatory. Some institutions like IIT demand 60% while IIM demand 50%.
  • Students from reserved categories like OBC, SC, and ST are eligible for a 5% relaxation from the required cut-off marks in selected MBA colleges.
  • Some colleges expect candidates to have good XAT performance work experience and good academic performance. 
  • IIT Mumbai has made it mandatory for aspiring candidates to complete a 4-year graduation program and not 3 years. 
  • Likewise, IIT Kharagpur expects candidates to complete a 4-year graduation program or a master's in science, commerce, or economics.

MBA Entrance Exams

Here is a list of promising National and State Level MBA entrance exams for students looking to pursue management studies: CAT, KMAT, CMAT, MAT, XAT, NMAT, GMAT, MAH CET, TANCET, SNAP, PGCET.

MBA Without Entrance Exams

The top 100 business schools in India offer MBA admission without conducting any entrance exam. They encourage and mentor students to prepare for exams like MAT or ATMA. However, it is better to appear for entrance exams to secure MBA admission as B-schools ranked after the first 50 management schools offer only limited direct entries.

MBA Admission 2022-23

Although most top B-schools in the country have closed MBA admissions now, students can check out a few other reputed institutes, like:

  • International Management Institute, Bhubaneswar
  • Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune 
  • Christ University, Bengaluru
  • Asia-Pacific Institute of Management, Delhi
  • JK Business School, Haryana
  • Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow
  • Lloyd Business School, Noida
  • Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad.

Distance MBA

Distance MBA Admission 2022-23

Students aspiring for Distance MBA admission 2022 will have to clear entrance exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, etc. Some institutions have entrance tests of their own for admission. Institutes like Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) offer admission based on the test scores of national level exams while IGNOU conducts the OPENMAT exam for Distance MBA admission 2022.

Every institution has its own set of eligibility criteria for providing admission. However, some common criteria are to be fulfilled for the Distant MBA admission. They are:

  • Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in any discipline.
  • A minimum of 50% marks in 10th grade, 12th grade, and bachelor's degree.
  • Minimum cut-off marks in the entrance exams.

Distance MBA is a convenient option for those professionals who cannot take up a full-time MBA owing to career commitments. 

Top Distance MBA Colleges

There are four types of institutions offering Distance education & Distance MBA in India as identified by the Ministry of HRD under the guidance of the Government of India. They are as follows:

  • Distance MBA offered by the Open Universities of the State
  • Distance MBA offered by IGNOU (National Open University)
  • Distance Education Institutions (DEIs) with national-level recognition
  • Distance MBA offered by DEIs of state-level

Below is a list of top Distance MBA colleges:

University/Institute Name

Course Provided

UPES (University of petroleum and energy studies), Dehradun

MBA

Chandigarh University

MBA

IGNOU

MBA

Lovely Professional University (LPU)

PGDM/MBA

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning

PGDM

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management studies

PGDBM

IMT Ghaziabad

PGDM

SRM University, Chennai

MBA

Amity University

MBA/PGDM

MBA Syllabus/Subjects


The MBA curriculum is based on the specialisation students opt for. The subjects covered under respective specialisations are as follows:


MBA in Banking and Finance

  • Principles of Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Managerial Economics
  • Research Methodology for Management
  • Financial Reporting & Analysis
  • Operations Management
  • Marketing Management
  • Accounting Management
  • Organisational Behaviour
  • Corporate Finance
  • Quantitative Techniques for Management
  • Principles and Practices of Banking
  • Managerial Communications
  • International Business
  • Operations Research E-banking
  • Ethics and Moral Value
  • Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
  • Bank Marketing
  • Risk Management in Banks
  • Financial Markets and Services
  • Human Capital in Bank Management
  • Strategic Management
  • International Financial Management
  • Insurance Products and Management
  • Technology in Banking, CRM and Retail Banking

MBA in Marketing

  • Managerial Economics
  • Statistical and Quantitative Methods
  • Marketing Management
  • Global Business Management
  • Business Laws

MBA in Digital Marketing

  • Introduction to Marketing Strategies
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Brand Planning and Marketing
  • Digital Advertising
  • Business Planning
  • Web Analytics
  • Affiliate Marketing
  • eCommerce Marketing
  • SEO, SEM
  • Campaign Growth and Evaluation

MBA in Supply Chain Management

  • Management concepts
  • Business Research Methodology
  • Business Environment
  • International Logistics Management
  • Managerial Economics
  • Quantitative Methods
  • Shipping and Maritime Law
  • Financial Management Accounting

MBA in HR

  • Management Process and Organisation Theory
  • Entrepreneurship Development
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Human Resource Information System
  • Human Resource Planning and Development
  • Managerial Communication and Skill Development
  • Quantitative Techniques in Human Resource Management
  • Corporate Social Responsibility and Business Ethics
  • Economics of Human Resources
  • Cross Culture and International Human Resource Management

MBA in General Management

  • Principles of Management
  • Financial Management
  • Business Environment
  • Human Resource Management
  • Marketing Research
  • Leadership skills
  • Customer Relations Management
  • Business Fundamentals
  • Retail Management
  • International Business development
  • Basics of Accounting

Top MBA Specializations

MBA universities and institutions offer a broad range of standard specializations for students to pursue in India or abroad based on their interests. Some of the most lucrative MBA offerings are Business Analytics, Finance, Human Resources, Digital Finance & Banking, Operations Management, and International Business. Ideally, the choice of your specialization should align with your strengths and inclinations, factor in the pay scale, and the university you choose for your higher education. 

Let's explore the top MBA specializations briefly:

  • MBA in Finance:  MBA with specialization in finance is a top choice by those aspiring to become leaders in finance management, Corporate financial planning, Corporate acquisitions & mergers, accounting, banking, and so on. MBA in finance is primarily chosen by those candidates with commerce, science, engineering, or CA/ICWA/CS background. There is no upper age limit for MBA Finance admission. A full-time regular MBA program offers the choice of specialization during the second year of the course while the specialized MBA program facilitates this choice in the first year itself. It is important to decide whether to wait till the second year or go with a pre-decided specialization from day one.
  • MBA in Marketing: Marketing in MBA is the most sought-after specialization as the demand for MBA graduates with sales and marketing skills will never go out of demand. Candidates aspiring to hone their skills in consumer behaviour, sales management, product development, branding, market research, communication, advertisement, digital marketing, and so on opt for this specialization. Candidates highly skilled in mathematics, communication, marketing, reasoning, analytical, leadership, and problem-solving are ideal for this Marketing MBA program. Specialization in Marketing can be chosen in the second year of the full-time MBA program. 
  • MBA in Human Resource Management (HRM): Managing and retaining a talented human resource pool is a tough challenge for most companies, which makes this specialization more valuable. MBA in Human Resources is becoming more crucial every year in the corporate and industry sector. MBAs in HR are mainly hired to put their skills in hiring, managing, and retaining talented professionals. The primary focus of an MBA in HRM is to enhance the critical skills, knowledge and negotiating abilities of the candidates. These attributes are essential for becoming a successful HR manager. 
  • MBA in Systems and Operations: Organizational ability is the key to effective distribution and production. Specialization in systems and operations focuses on developing organizational strategy, planning, and supervising abilities to produce an effective output with the help of technology. Specialization in Systems and operations is consistently growing in demand with the rapid growth in the manufacturing and services sector in the country. A wide variety of industries like automobiles, engineering, heavy industries, iron, steel & other metal industries, chemical, services, etc., hire MBA graduates specialized in services and operations with a lucrative remuneration. 
  • MBA in General Management: A general MBA, also known as an MBA in general management (GM) is a program that offers a comprehensive study of all aspects of management. The curriculum of the program is designed in such a way that the first year of the program focuses on the overall management techniques and the second year focuses on the chosen area of interest. Students pursuing MBA in General Management learn all the essential management skills like critical thinking, reasoning, business, management, leadership, etc. It offers a wide range of prospects and career opportunities in comparison to specialized MBA programs. Candidates are offered the convenience to choose their electives, making the course more flexible and student-friendly.
  • MBA in Business Analytics: An MBA in Business Analytics helps students cater to industries extensively by adopting Big Data and Data Science technologies to stay ahead of the curve. The program teaches you to leverage data analytics and core management skills to effectively devise business strategies and help companies thrive on a global platform. Among the most lucrative opportunities, an MBA in Business Analytics introduces you to include Management Consulting, Growth Manager, Business consultant, Leadership Roles in Business Analytics, Sales, HR, Marketing & Finance, and Growth & Strategy roles.  

  • MBA in Digital Finance & Banking: With businesses increasingly subscribing to digital-first solutions by leveraging new-age technologies like AI and ML, Cryptocurrency, Managing Fintech Ecosystems, Financial Management and Valuation, Data Visualization in Finance, etc., there is a growing requirement for individuals who are proficient in developing game-changing finance and banking solutions. The BFSI industry offers working professional/business owners/entrepreneurs with an MBA in Digital Finance & Banking an opportunity to thrive in their careers by securing influential roles in financial and insurance sectors, Fintechs, and startups.

How to do an MBA in India?

Candidates who have completed undergraduate courses (like B.com, B.A, B.SC, MBBS, and so on) are eligible to apply for an MBA program. Aspiring MBA candidates should have a minimum of 50% score in the bachelor’s program to apply for an MBA. However, renowned institutions like IIMs require a mandatory 50% mark for MBA admission in the bachelor’s program. A good score in the MBA entrance exam is a must. Candidates clearing the entrance exams will go to the GD (Group discussion) and PI (Personal Interview) levels. 

Applying for an MBA program is a long-drawn process. Here are the steps to follow to pursue an MBA in India: 

step by step MBA admission process Step-by-Step MBA Admission Process in India

  • Look up MBA Entrance Exams and Register:  Admissions at MBA schools in India commence in the first week of August/September and close by the end of November. During this window, students should register for national or state-level MBA entrance exams (CAT, NMAT, MAT, SNAP, XAT, etc) depending on their goals and choice of college/university. 

  • Appear for MBA Entrance Exam(s) on their respective dates.

  • Undergo the Shortlisting Process: Based on your exam scores, work experience, and other factors, you'll be eligible to apply at select universities around India.

  • Appear for Final Admission Rounds: These include Personal Interviews (PI) carried out by universities following Group Discussion (GD), Written Ability Test (WAT), and in some cases, Psychometric Test. Based on your performance in these rounds, you will be made offers from universities. 

Study MBA in India

Until the late 1900s, only universities in the USA offered MBA programs, while other countries believed in learning the business through jobs. The first college for MBA in Asia was set up in Calcutta, India, in 1953 called The Indian Institute of Social Welfare & Business Management (IISWBM). Since, over 3700 colleges have been established that offer a variety of specialisations in MBA to students looking to climb the corporate ladder. 

Here's an overview of the top cities that present lucrative career advancements opportunities for MBA aspirants:

Mumbai

Mumbai is among the top MBA destinations in India, with a sizable number of aspirants seeking admission to Mumbai universities for their quality of education. With course curriculums focused on various specializations, an MBA from Mumbai can open doors to the corporate world. Some of the best MBA colleges in Mumbai are: 


  • S P Jain Institute of Management and Research
  • K J Somaiya Mumbai
  • Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies
  • Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies
  • National Institute of Industrial Engineering

Delhi

Delhi offers numerous avenues for pursuing Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM) in International Business, Foreign Trade, and Business Economics, to name a few. Students can opt for any one of the following universities for a goal-oriented education: 

  • Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, New Delhi) (IIFT New Delhi)
  • Management Development Institute, Gurgaon (MDI Gurgaon)
  • Faculty of Management Studies, New Delhi (FMS New Delhi)
  • Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad (IMT, Ghaziabad)
  • International Management Institute, Delhi (IMI Delhi)

Kolkata

Kolkata is another popular destination for pursuing an MBA education for lucrative placements and growth opportunities. It is home to the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta which holds the #3 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position for MBA schools in India. Some highly ranked MBA colleges in Kolkata are: 

  • Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta (IIM Calcutta)
  • Management Development Institute, Murshidabad (MDI Murshidabad)
  • International Management Institute, Kolkata (IMI Kolkata)
  • Globsyn Business School, Kolkata (GBS Kolkata)
  • Praxis Business School

Chennai

With a world-class curriculum designed for focused learning and imparting problem-solving, research, and analytical skills, MBA colleges in Chennai are among the preferred B-schools in India. Among the top B-schools in Chennai are: 

  • Indian Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli (IIM Trichy)
  • Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA Chennai)
  • Graduate School of Business at KREA University
  • Hallmark Business School (HBS Tiruchirappalli)
  • ITM Business School, Chennai

Pune

Pune is known for its top-quality MBA education and excellent learning experience, making the city one of the preferred destinations for pursuing an MBA degree. Among the most reputed management colleges in Pune are:

  • Symbiosis Institute of Business Management
  • Pune University Department of Management Sciences
  • ICFAI Business School
  • Lexicon Management Institute of Leadership and Excellence
  • Dr DY Patil Institute of Master of Business Administration

Hyderabad

A prime location for students seeking an MBA education. The city is home to India's leading pharmaceutical and IT companies. Some of the Top MBA institutions in Hyderabad include: 

  • Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Visakhapatnam
  • Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Hyderabad
  • Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE) Hyderabad
  • Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Hyderabad
  • Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), Hyderabad

Bengaluru

Bangalore invites students from all over India to pursue an MBA through entrance exams like CAT, and XAT at reputed colleges like SIBM, and TAPMI respectively. Colleges like IIM Bangalore and RV Institute of Management in Bangalore are known to offer the best placement opportunities. 

  • Symbiosis Institute Of Business Management (SIBM Bengaluru), Bengaluru
  • Institute Of Management-Christ University (IMCU), Bengaluru
  • Department Of Management Studies, Indian Institute Of Science (DMSIIS), Bengaluru
  • Xavier Institute Of Management & Entrepreneurship (XIME) Bengaluru
  • M.S Ramaiah Institute Of Management (MSRIM), Bengaluru

Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad is another city in India that is known for high-quality MBA education and placement opportunities. It is well-known for IIM Ahmedabad, and AICTE Approved Colleges like MICA, and EDII for PGDM certifications. Some of the top MBA institutions in Ahmedabad are:

  • Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA)
  • MICA Ahmedabad
  • IRMA Anand
  • Institute of Management, Nirma University (IMNU), Ahmedabad
  • Adani Institute of Infrastructure Management (AIIM) Ahmedabad

Students can also consider cities like Indore, Kozhikode, Raipur, Trichy, and Nagpur which are home to reputed MBA colleges and universities for pursuing world-class MBA education. 

Study MBA Abroad

Getting an MBA from an international business school is a popular choice among students in India, given the networking opportunities and all-round growth potential in international education. Let's look at some of the benefits of pursuing an MBA from a foreign country:

Why study MBA abroad

  • Higher salary packages: The US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland are some of the most sought-after countries for students eyeing an MBA degree. It is a known fact that certifications from recognised B-schools at these locations attract higher salary packages than Indian B-schools.

  • Lucrative career opportunities: Students can land high-end CXO positions or pursue entrepreneurial roles at some of the top firms worldwide. 

  • Extensive networking and collaborating prospects: An international MBA exposes you to fellow students from diverse backgrounds having extensive experience and varied skill sets in their respective fields, which unveils the potential for promising collaborations.

  • Acquire practical know-how: Students are taught advanced management skills applicable to the world platform and are exposed to new-age business problems.

It should be kept in mind that some of the top universities globally require a minimum of 3 to 4 years of experience for MBA programs. This is in addition to the 4-year bachelor degree in a relevant field from a recognized university.


Students aiming to pursue an MBA from abroad can appear for GMAT and GRE tests, which are held on a rolling basis and students are allowed to pick their preferred exam dates based on their convenience and readiness. Below are the requirements for the top four overseas MBA destinations:


  • The UK: Students require a minimum of a 3-year bachelor's degree and 3 years of managerial experience to pursue an MBA in the UK. 

  • The US: Students should have completed 16 years of education in total and a bachelor's degree. To pursue an executive MBA, one must have 2 years of working experience.

  • Canada: Most universities in Canada ask for a 4-year bachelor's degree in a recognized field. However, some B-schools also require a minimum of 3 years of managerial experience.

  • Australia: Depending on the university one chooses, one must possess managerial experience of 2 to 3 years in addition to a 3 to 4-year bachelor’s degree.

MBA Colleges Ranking

Before students pick a university from which to pursue MBA, it is essential to review the respective college's international accreditations, course curriculum, worldwide ranking, scholarship programs, cost of study, amenities, etc. 

Here are some  top MBA colleges to consider when deciding your career path:

Best MBA Universities Worldwide 2022-23:

  • Stanford Graduate School of Business
  • Harvard Business School
  • University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) 
  • HEC Paris 
  • MIT (Sloan) 
  • London Business School

Best MBA Universities in India 2022-23:

  • Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (#1 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position)
  • Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (#2 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position)
  • Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (#3 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position)
  • Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (#4 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position)
  • Department of Management Studies IIT Delhi (#5 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position)

Best Online Indian MBA Universities 2022-23:

  • Deakin Business School (DBS) 
  • Liverpool Business School (UK's Top B-School)
  • Chandigarh University (#45 NIRF Ranking 2021 Position)
  • Jindal Global Business School (University Institute of Eminence by UGC | E-learning excellence from QS IGAUGE)
  • IMT Ghaziabad (India's Top B-school)

MBA Jobs & Placements

Career Options after MBA

There is a wide range of lucrative opportunities available to MBA students who can pursue high-end managerial roles at top companies worldwide. Among the top career options available to MBA graduates are:


  • Investment Banking: A highly sought-after role among MBA graduates is that of an investment banker, where they remain at the forefront of an organisation, managing their financial models and investment plans. Investment banking falls under financial services alongside the lucrative job roles of portfolio management and investment analysts. Skilled personnel in this field earn an average salary of ₹9,25,104 per year.
  • Management Consulting: Another popular choice among MBA students in management consulting where individuals are responsible for resolving in-organization challenges. Management consultants earn an average salary of ₹11,90,108 per year. 
  • Data Analytics: Given the rapid growth in data usage worldwide, there is a huge demand for data analysis and management officials in data analytics. Students with an MBA in the respective field can influence decision-making in retail, eCommerce, etc, and are paid an average salary of ₹4,55,970 per year.
  • Entrepreneurship: More and more MBA graduates are opting for entrepreneurship roles today, given an MBA provides an all-around knowledge of business and management and makes aspirants future-ready. An average entrepreneur earns ₹ 13,00,000 per year.
  • Human Resource: Human resources managers implement policies and procedures centered around employees of an organization, and are thus indispensable for any company. The average human resource salary is ₹6,95,703 per year.

Top Recruiters

Among the top recruiters of MBA graduates as per the GMAC report are Fortune Global 100 companies that encompass healthcare, finance, HR, energy, and consulting industries. Some globally recognized companies that constantly hire MBA graduates are Amazon, McKinsey, JP Morgan, Google, Deloitte, Accenture, Microsoft, TATA Consultancy, Cognizant, Wipro, and Infosys, to name a few.

In addition, for-profit public companies and large corporations have a considerable requirement for MBA graduates. Even smaller companies, non-profits, and promising startups actively seek MBA graduates to acquire leadership in their industries. 

Salary after MBA

MBA graduates stand to earn higher salaries than individuals with bachelor's degrees — which is one of the primary reasons why students opt for higher education after amassing necessary work experience. Based on the specialisation students choose, the starting salary of an MBA graduate in India ranges between INR 5.5 LPA to 22 LPA or more. High-end salaries are usually offered to graduates from top colleges like IIM. Thus, as you can see, there’s a wide range in the starting salary of MBA graduates. 


On the other hand, the average annual MBA salary for graduates in the US is about $115,000. However, depending on the industry, the salary can go as high as $138,000 - 47,000 annually.  It's worth mentioning that an MBA significantly accelerates growth potential and helps professionals climb up the corporate ladder faster.
To know more information on salaries in India and abroad,  visit our salary in India and salary abroad pages.
 

Employment Areas

MBA graduates can pursue high-profile jobs in various fields, including investment banking, finance, entrepreneurship, management consulting, product management, human resource, etc. Here are the top sectors for MBA graduates to seek employment opportunities: 

  • Business Analytics
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Banking and Finance
  • Human Resources
  • Information Technology and Systems
  • Private Equity
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Healthcare
  • Retail
  • International Business
  • Supply Chain
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    MBA Courses Fees

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    Global MBA LJMU + IMT-G Certification | 18 months

    INR 4,50,200*

    Global MBA Deakin + IMT-G Certification | 24 months

    INR 5,50,000*

    Global MBA | GGU | 15 months

    INR 7,04,016*

    PGDM | BIMTECH | 24 months

    INR 2,75,000*

    Accelerated Management Program | 6 months

    INR 2,75,000*

    upGrad's Job Linked Program from IMT Ghaziabad

    INR 2,50,000*

    MBA from O.P.Jindal Global University

    INR 1,50,000*

    Advanced General Management | 11 months

    INR 1,50,000*

    MBA from Atlas SkillTech University

    INR 10,45,000*

    MBA (Global) | 12 months

    INR 4,00,000*

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    Frequently Asked Questions about MBA Courses

    What are the basic requirements of admission to an MBA course?

    Candidates must perform on several eligibility criteria to get accepted into an MBA course. These requirements include a bachelor’s degree, CAT/GMAT/ GRE certification, resume, essays, recommendation letters, work experience, and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) if applying for MBA abroad. 

    These are the basic requirements for admission to an MBA course, but conditions often vary according to institutes. 

    What are the highest-paid streams in MBA?

    MBA is known to open doors for diverse lucrative opportunities. However, it is natural for some streams to perform better than others, given the changing market trends and emerging demands. In recent years, MBA streams such as Finance, Management, Entrepreneurship, Information Technology, Marketing, and Healthcare Management are the highest-paid MBA streams. A successful career in any given stream would ensure your chances of reaping exponential monetary benefits.

    Is prior work experience necessary to pursue MBA?

    No. It is not mandatory for candidates to have prior industry experience to get admission to MBA courses. However, candidates with work experience comparatively perform well than ones without it. Experienced people are prone to receive better career opportunities after accomplishing the degree. Hence, you can consider working for 1-2 years to gain industry experience before getting your MBA degree. 

    Which are the most popular countries to pursue MBA?

    According to statistics, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Germany are considered the top 5 places to pursue an MBA degree. Fortunately, you can attain an MBA from the leading nations of the US and other countries through online education portals like upGrad!

    Who are the biggest recruiters for MBAs in India?

    Financial and consulting services firms are the biggest recruiters for MBAs in India. The country has also witnessed a growth in FMCG companies like Hindustan Unilever, ABInBev, Coca-Cola, and P&G for recruiting MBAs. Also, industrial corporations like Tata, Reliance, and Aditya Birla Group are extensively hiring MBAs for their leadership development programs and general management roles.

    Can somebody who has never studied management pursue MBA?

    MBA programs are open for candidates with a broad range of academic foundations. Since MBA is a Master’s program, you only need a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline to apply. So, although you have never studied management, you can still pursue MBA.

    What’s the difference between an MBA and an EMBA?

    The MBA is a master’s level program that presents a comprehensive range of core general management abilities and knowledge. It focuses on imparting skills related to finance, marketing, sales, etc., which are essential for business. Students can also choose elective courses that suit their interests. Usually, MBA is a full-time program. There is no age limit, and one can pursue MBA even in their 40s.

     

    Executive MBA (EMBA) is geared towards more experienced executives who might not have had the opportunity to pursue an MBA before. Compared to MBAs, many EMBAs receive financial assistance from companies. Many individuals pursue an EMBA to achieve a promotion instead of switching careers.

    How do online MBA courses function?

    Communication skills are the core of all online MBA programs. Excellent communication skills make learning all aspects of an online MBA course easy. Online MBA courses don’t have on-campus requirements. The entire work must be submitted online through email, with attachments like an Excel spreadsheet or a Word document. 

    The mentor conducts the online classes as per the prescribed schedule. Students can ask doubts in the dedicated live sessions or leave their doubts as comments for mentors. In the end, the online examination is conducted, and students' results and certifications are released online.

    Which are the popular MBA specialisations?

    Some of the popular MBA specialisations include MBA in General Management, MBA in Finance, MBA Marketing, MBA in Business Analytics, MBA in Consulting, MBA in Entrepreneurship, MBA in HR, and MBA in International Business.

    What are the key factors to consider before selecting an MBA specialisation?

    Firstly, students should have an MBA specialisation they are passionate about. They must evaluate diverse choices and choose the one as per their area of interest. Going through the specialisation’s specifications, learning methods and cross-verification of the institute’s curriculum is another important factor to consider. Researching the previous placement reports and internship exposure is also essential. 

    It is crucial to check the MBA fee structure because it must match your budget. Make sure the specialisation you choose gives you a decent ROI

    What are the steps to getting admission for MBA?

    Here are the steps to getting admission for MBA:

    • Apply for the entrance exam and appear for it.
    • Results declaration of entrance exam
    • Release of cutoff by the institutes
    • Apply for the Institute
    • Shortlisting candidates for the GD/PI rounds
    • Announcement of the final merit list and a waiting list

    Which tests do the government conduct for MBA admission?

    The government also conducts tests for admission in the MBA government colleges and private MBA colleges in the state. These tests are-

    • Gujarat common entrance test (GCET)
    • University of Hyderabad’s CET (UOHYD) exam
    • Cochin University Science & Technology (CUSAT) exam
    • Rajasthan Management Aptitude Test (RMAT)
    •  Karnataka Management Aptitude Test (KMAT) exam
    • Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET) exam

    What is an MBA in financial management, and why to choose it?

    One of the most preferred MBA programs is MBA Finance. Students choose it to acquire leadership skills in the areas like Financial Management, Accounting, Corporate Acquisitions & Mergers, Corporate Financial Planning, and Banking and Financial Management.

     

    Those students who want to excel in a finance management career after completing graduation in Science, Commerce, Humanities, or have completed CS/CA/ICWA, or belong to an engineering background, can choose MBA in Finance course. There is no particular qualification bar to pursuing MBA in financial management.

    How to assess different MBA rankings?

    The publications specialised in business and accrediting institutions update business schools' rankings as well as program-specific rankings each year. Although the ranking systems vary, the crucial criteria are the average GMAT scores of the accepted candidates, years of experience at the institute, and the international class profile. Also, the teacher-to-student ratio is a decent indicator of the level of classroom interaction during lectures or seminars.

    What is the GMAT test?

    GMAT (Graduate Management Assessment Test) is a standardised test acknowledged by the Graduate Management Admission Council. It is approved as an official admission requirement by MBA providers and accredited business schools globally.

    What are the available MBA funding options?

    The most common MBA funding option is Corporate sponsorship. MBA graduates and business schools highly recommend this option. Other private organisations interested in students' academic profiles and willing to recruit them after graduation can offer them partial or full sponsorship. This option includes an individual agreement between the funding company and the applicant. Note that it doesn’t include any formal agreement with the business school.

    Depending on the available funding, some business schools provide merit-based scholarships to a few applicants. Commonly, it covers a part of the tuition fee. The application process is defined separately from the admission application for obtaining a merit-based scholarship.