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Why Study MBA?
Master of Business Studies (MBA) is one of the most sought-after degrees in today’s world; it’s a graduate-level degree that equips one with business skills and managerial decision-making. The degree enables you to accelerate your career, offer a lucrative package, transition to new industries in a managerial position, or even start your own business.
MBA as a degree is open to all; what we mean to say is it does not matter if you pursued medicine, law, or an undergraduate course in culinary arts; you can still attend a business school. However, most business schools want their students to have work experience. Some demand at least 3 years of it, and some at least 5, it varies from college to college.
Why Study an MBA Abroad?
There are plenty of reasons why pursuing an MBA from abroad can be a fruitful endeavor. Here is the list of key points.
1. Get acquainted with the global market
It is safe to say that an MBA from abroad gives you great international exposure, which helps you become acquainted with global markets, global brands, and companies. Living alone in a different city is an eventful experience.
2. Form a Global Network
An MBA from Abroad will be very eventful because, in your class, there will be someone from the United States, someone from Lebanon, and maybe someone from a Latin country; imagine the network you can build and the amount of exposure you will get from them, you can indeed be called a global citizen.
3. Unparallel Job opportunity
One of the main reasons to pursue an MBA from abroad is the unparalleled job opportunities it provides; for example, Cambridge offers individual summer projects or a company-based work placement.
Some top global recruiters across the globe are:
- JP Morgan
- McKinsey & Company
- Apple
- Microsoft
- Bain & Company
- Goldman Sachs
- Walt Disney
- Facebook
4. World-class Education
The faculty in these prestigious institutions are hands down one of the best in what they do, along with the top-class educators. You get a multidisciplinary approach, and the majority of the programs offered allow you to have a holistic MBA experience.
5. Enrichment of personality
An MBA from abroad will not only enrich your career prospects but will also help inculcate tremendous working ability, leadership skills, and communication skills.
6. Lastly, you will have hands-on experience
Western education is known for its hands-on experience, and MBA is one of the most real-world degrees. You should expect to go through real-life experience in the business world.
MBA in the UK for Indian Students
MBA in the UK can have a remarkable impact on Indian students, offering numerous personal, professional, and diverse cultural benefits. Business schools in the UK are frequently placed at the top of global rankings, known for their top-class education, and comprised of great faculty and infrastructure. It is a great place to enrich your life both professionally and personally.
The majority of full-time programs offered by universities in the UK typically span 12 months. In contrast, an MBA program in India generally lasts for two years. This makes pursuing an MBA in the UK a preferable option for those who wish to minimize interruptions in their professional careers.
Furthermore, a Graduate Visa allows students to work in the UK for up to two years, enabling them to gain international working experience.
An MBA in the UK also has a high return on investment, which means that you will be expecting more monetary gain than an MBA from India.
It can be beneficial to return to India with a UK MBA, especially if the school is internationally renowned. However, careful planning is necessary to match the MBA with professional objectives. An MBA in the UK can be a big step toward both career and personal development, provided the right school, networking opportunities, and scholarships are chosen.
However, let us answer the question in more detail.
1. Experience a different Culture.
Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to encounter a variety of cultures. In today’s multicultural state, it is crucial that you have an awareness of other cultural groups. Because of its diverse culture, the UK is the ideal destination for you to start your business.
2. Increase your network and credibility
An MBA increases your credentials in the world of business, and if you pursue it at top UK universities, you will have even better chances in the said things.
3. World-class education
Universities in the UK are ranked among the top 10 and top 50 regularly; if you ace your GMAT and college application, you can find yourself in Cambridge or London Business School. Wherein you get top educators and faculty with a world-class curriculum
4. Diverse Cohort
Because of the UK’s international reputation for academic achievement, candidates for UK MBA programs come from a wide range of nations.
A truly global atmosphere is created by the convergence of students from Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. Students gain an understanding of various business techniques and cultural viewpoints thanks to this global mix.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility criteria depend on the individual university. However, there are a few documents or criteria that do not change; for example, you will require an English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL, and secondly, you will require your undergraduate score/mark sheet. Your GRE or GMAT score.
Another thing to keep in mind is work experience. Most of the universities ask for at least 3 years of work experience for a full-time MBA and 5 for an Executive MBA.
To sum it up,
- A minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience
- A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- GMAT
- IELTS score of at least 6.0-6.5
- Letter of recommendation and SOP.
10 Best MBA Colleges in the UK for Indian Students
MBA Schools | QS Global Rank 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. London Business School | 5 | 4 | 16 | 8 |
2. Cambridge (Judge) | 7 | 9 | 28 | 31 |
3. Oxford (Said) | 18 | 18 | 23 | 22 |
4. Imperial College | 19 | 20 | 37 | 34 |
5. Warwick | 30 | 36 | 46 | 43 |
6. Alliance | 47 | 49 | 55 | 57 |
7. Edinburgh | 58 | 64 | 66 | 69 |
8. Cranfield | 68 | 82 | 68 | 95 |
9. Durham University Business School | 72 | 101-110 | 88 | NR |
10. Leeds | 101-110 | 101-110 | NR | NR |
London School of Business
London School of Business is among the top business schools in the world, offering a top-class MBA program. The program is designed in such a way that it provides the necessary skills, along with practical know-how, to lead a successful career in business.
Located near Regent’s Park on Baker Street, it is just a short journey from London’s iconic financial district.
QS Ranking 2025 | 4 |
University Type | Public |
Location | London |
Requirements |
TOEFL (iBT) 110 GMAT 600 – 780
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarships |
|
Oxford (Said)
Apart from leading the world in world-class Humanities-oriented courses, Oxford also has a first-tier MBA program. Its MBA is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of business, and it adds to it by providing ample opportunity to connect with Oxford alumni and grow in business.
QS Ranking 2025 | 18 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Oxford |
Requirements |
GRE 160 (Verbal and Quantitative)
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship |
|
Cambridge
If you mention Oxford, there is no way you are not mentioning Cambridge. According to QS University’s global ranking, Cambridge has secured 9th place and is second in the United Kingdom.
Cambridge offers impeccable placement opportunities; over 90% of MBA graduates are employed within three months after their MBA.
Cambridge’s elective courses also allow students to create a curriculum according to their needs and vision.
QS Ranking 2025 | 9 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Cambridge |
Requirements |
IELTS 7.5 TOEFL (iBT) 110 GMAT 630-740
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship |
|
Imperial College London
Imperial College London’s program is structured around four pillars: Analytical Skills, business fundamentals, global perspective, and organizational and Leadership skills.
The MBA program offered allows students to excel in the business world by providing a hands-on learning experience and global perspective.
QS Ranking 2025 | 20 |
University Type | Public |
Location | London |
Requirements |
IELTS 7.0 TOEFL (iBT) 100 GMAT 600 GMAT 156 (Verbal) 158 (Quantitative)
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Manchester (Alliance)
Located in Manchester, the MBA program offers a transformational learning experience, it engages the students in such a way that they become well-equipped to handle global challenges. Manchester University’s MBA program is also a great choice for people who aspire to become socially responsible leaders. The program spans 15 or 18 months.
QS Ranking 2025 | 49 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Manchester |
Requirements |
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship | Inspirational Leadership Scholarship |
Warwick
Warwick University is constantly ranked among the top 10 Universities in the UK. Its MBA program also ranks among the top ten in the UK. Warwick provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of the business world. Its alumni network has over 56,000 individuals spanning over 171 countries. One could only imagine the networking opportunities that the program and university provide.
Warwick also understands the need for global exposure and hence provides a platform for the same by offering opportunities for students to study overseas.
QS Ranking 2025 | 36 |
University Type | Public |
Location | London |
Requirements |
|
Average Fees Per Year | Full-Time MBA: INR 74,22,000 |
Scholarship |
|
Durham University Business School
Durham University’s world-class MBA program offers its students a comprehensive understanding of the business world. Known for its top faculty and accomplished researchers.
Durham attracts a wide range of electives in its MBA program, creating a holistic development of its students. Since its cohort consists of people from diverse cultural backgrounds, a student is assured of having a great environment in which to learn and perform.
QS Ranking 2025 | 78 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Durham City |
Requirements |
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship |
|
Cranfield
Cranfield’s MBA program emphasizes practical, real-world learning and leadership development; the program spans 12 months and is designed to transform your career by offering international exposure through a study exchange option. It also offers an extensive alumni network.
Cranfield’s MBA is consistently ranked among the top MBA Programs in the UK, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education related to management and business.
QS Ranking 2025 | 82 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Cranfield |
Requirements |
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship |
|
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s full-time MBA, which spans over 12 months, provides you with an excellent opportunity to grow rapidly in just over a year. It is aimed at individuals who are looking to enhance their career and level of business understanding.
The program is designed to equip students with real-life skills so that they can adjust to the fast-paced and dynamic world of business. It also allows students to network with industry professionals and alumni, further solidifying their chance to a better career.
QS Ranking 2025 | 64 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Edinburgh |
Requirements |
IELTS 7.0 TOEFL (iBT) 100 GMAT 600
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship |
|
Leeds University
Leeds MBA is a highly sought-after, one-year intensive MBA program; it aims at accelerating students’ professional growth and preparing the aspirants for senior management roles.
since it’s a one-year-long program, students will be given hands-on, real-life experience working on contemporary and dynamic organizational problems. Leeds also offers a diverse MBA cohort, which will help in building a diverse profile.
QS Ranking 2025 | 67 |
University Type | Public |
Location | Leeds |
Requirements |
|
Average Fees Per Year |
|
Scholarship |
|
Job Opportunities After MBA in the UK
Job Title | Top Recruiters | Average Salary/ Year |
---|---|---|
Human Resources Manager | Service Works Global | INR 53,01,000 (GBP 50,000) – INR 74,21,000 (GBP 70,000) |
Program HR Manager | Amazon UK Services Ltd. | INR 53,13,000 (GBP 52,000) – INR 84,82,000 (GBP 80,000) |
Manager- People- Consulting | KPMG | INR 85,88,000 (GBP 81,000) – INR 96,48,000 (GBP 91,000) |
Global Development Program Leader | Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies | INR 65,73,000(GBP 62,000) – INR 79,52,000 (GBP 75,000) |
Practice Economics Manager | Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP | INR 48,77,000 (GBP 46,000) – INR 98,60,000 (GBP 93,000) |
Jobs in the UK after MBA in Global Banking and Finance
Job Title | Top Recruiter | Average Salary/ Year |
---|---|---|
Finance Analyst | Amazon | INR 37,11,000 (GBP 35,000) – INR 67,85,000 (GBP 64,000) |
Finance Consulting Manager | PwC | INR 58,31,000 (GBP 55,000) – INR 1,28,28,500 (GBP 121,000) |
Leveraged Finance Associate | RBC | INR 63,61,000 (GBP 60,000) – INR 86,94,000 (GBP 82,000) |
Financial Management Associate | Citi | INR 72,09,000 (GBP 68,000) – INR 1,15,56,000 (GBP 109,000) |
Manager- Finance Integration & Separation | KPMG | INR 47,71,000 (GBP 45,000) – INR 7,84,55,000 (GBP 74,000) |
Jobs in the UK after MBA Marketing
Job Title | Top Recruiter | Average Salary/ Year |
---|---|---|
Equity Portfolio Specialist | Morgan Stanley | INR 1,63,27,000 (GBP 154,000) – INR 1,65,39,000 (GBP 156,000) |
Business Intelligence Manager | JPMorgan Chase Bank | INR 49,83,000 (GBP 47,000) – INR 75,28,000(GBP 71,000) |
Field Marketing Manager | Dunkin’ Brands | INR 26,51,000 (GBP 25,000) – INR 96,48,000(GBP 91,000) |
Client Success Specialist | McKinsey & Company | INR 1,16,62,000 (GBP 110,000) – INR 1,22,98,000 (GBP116,000) |
P&L Controller | Microsoft | INR 85,88,000(GBP 81,000) – INR 99,66,000 (GBP 94,000) |
MBA Scholarships and Financial Aid in the UK
1. Commonwealth Masters Scholarships.
- Offered by UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- To applicants belonging to lower and upper middle class.
- Citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country.
- Undergraduate hons. degree of at least upper second class (2:1).
2. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships.
- Covers accommodation, living expenses, tuition, and international fares.
3. Chevening Scholarships
- Must be a citizen of Chevening- eligible country or territory.
- Requires 2 years of work experience.
FAQ on MBA Colleges in the UK for Indian Students in 2025
1. What is the cheapest MBA in the UK for international students?
Ans. University of Wales Trinity offers a one-year MBA for £7,800, and the University of Bolton Offers an MBA program for £9,720. There are others as well. One must visit individual colleges’ websites; however, with scholarships, the amount can be significantly lower.
2. Is the UK good for MBA?
Ans. Yes, the UK is considered a great place for an MBA cause of its diversity, learning environment, and world-class academic infrastructure.
3. How do I get an MBA in the UK from India?
Ans. Fulfill the basic requirements like a valid ID and an undergrad degree from a recognized board, and then score according to the university you want to go to.
4. Is work experience required for an MBA College in the UK?
Ans. Yes, you generally require work experience to attend an MBA program in the UK. However, there are certain colleges that do not look for work experience, such as Anglia Ruskin University and Cardiff University.
5. Is IELTS required for a UK MBA?
Ans. If you are applying from a country wherein English is not the first language of communication, you are required to take an IELTS score.
6. Is an MBA in the UK worth it for Indian students?
Ans. For Indian students, an MBA in the UK is worthwhile if they attend a well-regarded university (such as LBS, Oxford, or Cambridge) and want to further their careers and gain international exposure. In addition to being shorter (one year), UK MBA programs offer a two-year post-study work visa and great networking opportunities. However, one should carefully examine the high costs, competitive work environment, and visa issues. The investment may be justified by scholarships and fit with your professional objectives.
Author
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Yatharth is the co-founder of Rostrum education. He pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Mathematics and Statistics from London School of Economics and Political Science. He has worked with leading educational consultancies in the UK to tutor students and assist them in university admissions.
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