Why You Should Apply for an MBA in the UK
- Leading business schools: According to the QS Global MBA Rankings 2023, the UK has 11 top-tier business schools. Graduates from these MBA programs are highly sought after by employers worldwide in various industries.
- Career opportunities: 37 percent of London Business School’s graduates and 36 percent of Oxford Saïd graduates secured positions in global organizations.
- Diverse and inclusive environment: UK business schools attract international students, bringing a global perspective to the educational experience. In Oxford Saïd’s MBA class of 2021, 92 percent of students came from 67 different countries, while Cambridge Judge’s MBA class of 2022 represented 46 nationalities.
- Accelerated program: Renowned UK business schools like Oxford Saïd, Cambridge Judge, Imperial College Business School, and Warwick Business School offer exceptional one-year MBA programs. These programs provide students with a faster route to enter the workforce, saving them time and money.
- Choice of several programs: Several MBA specializations are available in the UK. In addition to the typical finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship options, leading business schools provide excellent technology, consulting, social impact, real estate, and sustainability programs.
- High ROI: Considering the one-year duration of certain programs, which leads to lower fees in absolute terms, and higher recruiting statistics, on average, the overall return on investment (ROI) of MBA programs is better than that of some American counterparts. UK business schools actively organize career fairs, job interviews, and networking events to comprehensively support their graduates. This proactive approach leads to swift success in securing desirable positions with competitive salaries. Notably, in 2022, 94 percent of Cambridge MBA graduates and 91 percent of London Business School graduates secured employment within three months, boasting an impressive average salary package of £92,501.
- Top faculty: The faculty members of business schools in the UK are not only experienced educators but also accomplished business leaders. With doctorate degrees and a wealth of industry experience at renowned companies, they bring a unique blend of academic knowledge and practical insights.
- Lord Mervyn King is a former Governor of the Bank of England and a former Chairman of the Financial Services Authority. He is currently a Professor of Economics at the London Business School.
- Sir Richard Branson is a British business magnate and the founder of the Virgin Group. He is currently a Visiting Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Oxford.
What are the types of MBA programs in the UK?
This exploration into the UK’s MBA education system and its diverse programs aims to furnish prospective applicants with a clearer perspective, aiding them in making an informed decision aligning with their career aspirations and personal circumstances.
Full-time MBA: These one-year MBA programs are meticulously designed to provide a strong foundation in essential business principles while expanding your understanding of the broader societal impact of business. The curriculum is designed to challenge you, enabling you to delve deeper into your areas of interest and acquire the strategic skills necessary for a rewarding career. Throughout the program, you will be able to engage with a diverse network of professionals, collaborate with a wide range of students, and explore various career paths. You will learn from experienced faculty members and undergo a rigorous academic journey. These MBA programs are tailored for applicants with two to three years of work experience. If you are seeking a career transition, increased remuneration, and enhanced networking prospects, a full-time MBA program would be an excellent fit for you.
Part-time MBA: This model is ideal for individuals aspiring to harmonize work obligations while pursuing an MBA. Generally, classes are slated for weekday evenings and weekends, facilitating students to juggle their professional duties alongside their academic endeavors. Nonetheless, certain business schools might necessitate students to allocate a few days off from work for attending specific events. For instance, the Part time Weekend MBA program at Imperial College Business School requires approximately 32-46 days away from the workplace throughout their 21-month part-time MBA program.
Executive MBA: Specifically tailored for seasoned senior executives boasting a minimum of 10 years of professional experience, this program facilitates the pursuit of an MBA without interrupting ongoing work commitments. It resonates with individuals aspiring to transition their career trajectories or augment their acumen for elevated leadership roles. Typically spanning two years, these programs feature in-person classes conducted every weekend.
Global MBA: This program caters to applicants nurturing ambitions to helm businesses overseas or rival multinational corporations. Offering a distinctive perspective on international business dynamics, Global MBAs are full-time programs, potentially encompassing study-abroad or travel experiences. The UK’s business schools present comprehensive Global MBA programs, crafting a robust platform for international business engagement.
Specialized MBA: Witnessing a surge in popularity over the previous decade, specialized MBAs cater to individuals seeking profound expertise in particular domains like entrepreneurship, technology, finance, healthcare, or non-profit management. These programs meld business studies with a focus on a specified area of interest. The UK offers Specialized MBAs in a gamut of formats—full-time, part-time, online, and in person—ensuring flexibility to align with diverse learning preferences and schedules.
1+1 MBA: Exclusively proffered by Oxford Saïd Business School, the 1+1 MBA is a two year, full-time program allowing students to procure a master’s degree from designated departments at Oxford University alongside a one-year MBA. The inaugural year is devoted to accomplishing the master’s degree in the chosen field, succeeded by a year concentrating on the MBA syllabus. This innovative structure empowers students to accrue specialized knowledge in their field of interest while honing broader business competencies through the MBA curriculum.
Prominent Business Schools for MBA in the UK
The UK’s esteemed stature as a global financial nucleus renders it an exemplary destination for MBA aspirants. Though the UK’s MBA programs recurrently feature among the global top 100, the plethora of over 100 business schools can render the selection process daunting. Some of the UK’s highly-rated business institutions in 2023 include:
1. Oxford Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Nestled in Oxford, England, this business school is an integral part of Oxford University. The one-year MBA program lays a sturdy foundation in core business tenets, enriched by modules elucidating the societal ramifications of business. The curriculum encapsulates nine core courses alongside a variety of electives delving into marketing, strategy, and organizational behavior. A blend of practical learning, case studies, and real-world applicability forms the essence of the program. The ‘Global Rules of the Game’ module delves into international norms and regulations orchestrating the global economy. Elective courses span a wide array of subjects, encompassing artificial intelligence, business history, and global strategy, thus allowing students to customize their MBA expedition. Oxford Saïd Business School extends the following MBA programs:
- One-year full-time MBA program
- 1+1 MBA: Two-year full-time program
- Executive MBA: 22-24 month part-time program
What makes Oxford Saïd business school different?
Oxford Saïd’s MBA program is one of the most rigorous in the world. The school also offers several unique programs, such as the Oxford 1+1 MBA, which allows students to earn a master’s degree in another subject before completing their MBA. Oxford Saïd has a strong alumni network that spans the globe. Alumni are always willing to help current students with their career goals. In the MBA class of 2020-21, 86 percent of graduates accepted an offer within six months despite challenging economic conditions brought on by the global pandemic.
How Has Oxford Saïd Business School Ranked?
- Times Higher Education, World University Rankings (2023): 1
- QS Top Universities in Business and Management (2023):9
- Financial Times* Global MBA Ranking (2023): 3 (in the UK)
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Most popular employment sector: Finance at 33 percent
- Employment rate: 86 percent
- Percentage of international students: 92 percent
- Percentage of female students: 48 percent
2. Cambridge Judge Business School
ituated less than an hour’s train ride from London, Judge Business School nestles at the core of the globally acclaimed Cambridge University. This quaint and unique city presents an engaging milieu for a 12-month journey through the MBA program. The symbiotic relationship between the University and the private sector has propelled the ascent and triumph of the ‘Cambridge Phenomenon.’
The MBA curriculum at Cambridge Judge is both academically rigorous and eminently practical, with a spotlight on fostering team skills. The program is an amalgam of workshops, seminars, lectures, small-group engagements, digital resources, and experiential learning. You have the liberty to choose from an array of elective courses termed “Concentrations,” which are thematic aggregates of courses and projects orchestrated for MBA students during the second and third terms. These concentrations encompass culture, arts and media management, digital transformation, health strategies, and social innovation. The school proffers the following MBA programs:
- MBA: One-year full-time program
- Executive MBA: 20-month part-time program
- Global Executive MBA: 20-month part-time program
What makes Cambridge Judge Business School different?
The MBA program at Cambridge Judge offers unparalleled networking opportunities both within and beyond the institution. A notable aspect of the Cambridge MBA is its emphasis on hands-on projects. These projects serve as channels to translate classroom learning into real-world scenarios, promoting collaboration with a diverse cohort, and engaging with clients across a variety of sectors. The Summer Term encompasses three mandatory team projects along with an optional one, providing invaluable experiential learning opportunities. 94 percent of the MBA class of 2023 secured employment, with an average salary package of £92,501.
Cambridge Judge Business School Rankings:
- Times Higher Education, World University Rankings (2023): 3
- QS Top Universities in Business and Management (2023): 8
- Financial Times* Global MBA Ranking (2023): 23
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Most popular employment sector: Finance at 30 percent
- Employment rate: 94 percent
- Percentage of international students: 95 percent
- Percentage of female students: 47 percent
3. London Business School
Situated in the heart of London and nestled beside a picturesque Royal Park, London Business School presents an inspiring environment that harmoniously melds academic excellence, the vibrant spirit of London, and a global perspective. The school extends pre-term courses, including accounting, finance, and statistics, which necessitate online preparation before embarking on formal classes on campus.
During the first term, foundational business courses such as Data Analytics for Managers, Macroeconomics for Managers, Microeconomics for Managers, and Strategy constitute the core curriculum. The second term pivots towards nurturing entrepreneurial opportunities, digital strategy, design-led innovation, financial reporting analytics, innovation, and technology strategy. Come the third term, students have the liberty to opt for core courses that resonate with their interests.
Boasting a repertoire of over 80 electives, London Business School unveils abundant opportunities for students to broaden their acumen and traverse various facets of the business domain. Completing 10 to 12 elective courses empowers students to fathom business intricacies better and brace for future career endeavors. The MBA program amalgamates lectures, workshops, seminars, group work, digital resources, and experiential learning, rendering a comprehensive and captivating educational escapade. The School proffers the following MBA programs:
- MBA: 15-21 month program
- Executive MBA London: 20-month program
- Executive MBA Global: 20-month program, a collaborative venture between London and Columbia Business School, USA
- Executive MBA Dubai: 20-month program
Why Choose the London Business School MBA?
LBS is acclaimed for its emphasis on global business, diverse student populace, and rigorous academic curriculum. 91 percent of the MBA class of 2022 secured employment within three months post-graduation.
London Business School Rankings:
- QS Top Universities in Business and Management (2023): 3
- Financial Times Global MBA Ranking (2023): 16
- Poets & Quants’ 2023: 5 out of ‘Top 50 MBAs for Entrepreneurship’ ranking.
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Employment rate: 91 percent
- Percentage of international students: 90 percent
- Percentage of female students: 37 percent
4. Imperial College Business School
Conveniently nestled in the bustling heart of London, Imperial College Business School provides ready access to the city’s financial hub. The Imperial MBA unfurls a high degree of customization, offering a selection of core modules paired with the option to delve into flex core modules and electives. Students are required to undertake two or more flex core modules from a range of offerings including Data Analytics and Visualization for Business, Design Thinking: Solving Complex Problems Through a Disruptive Mindset, Investment and Risk Management, and Macroeconomics Operations. Over 40 elective courses span various domains such as Analytics and Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Finance, Leadership and Organization, and Strategy. The school extends an optional Global Exchanges program, enabling students to augment their international exposure and network by engaging in specialized electives at one of their global partner schools located in Finland, France, China, Japan, Spain, Switzerland, and Argentina. The school proffers the following MBA programs:
- Full-time MBA: One-year duration
- Global Online MBA: 21, 24, 32 months via online platform
- Weekend MBA: 21 months part-time
- Executive MBA: 22 months part-time
What Sets Imperial College Business School Apart?
Imperial College Business School, situated in London—a key economic nexus—offers MBA students invaluable exposure to accomplished business leaders through consulting assignments, innovation projects, internships, and engagement with their industry-sponsored research centers and industry advisors. Practical international projects such as the Global Experience Week furnish avenues to explore and navigate new business terrains.
Imperial College Business School Rankings:
- QS MBA Ranking 2023: 21
- Financial Times Online MBA 2023: 3
- QS Online MBA Ranking 2023: 2 in Europe
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Employment rate: 88 percent
- Percentage of international students: 78 percent
- Percentage of female students: 43 percent
5. Alliance Manchester Business School
Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), affiliated with The University of Manchester, stands as a distinguished institution in the domain of business and management within the UK. Nestled at the core of the university’s campus in Manchester, a city acknowledged for its significant influence in the UK, AMBS presents a rich milieu for academic exploration and professional growth.
The school introduces its MBA program as a “Build Your Own” MBA, ensuring a solid core curriculum while availing the flexibility to venture into fields of personal interest. Among the avenues for exploration are global study tours and internships.
Upon acceptance into the MBA program and following the payment of the reservation fee, enrollees gain access to the Manchester MBA Preparation course online. A 15-hour endeavor, this course unveils insights into the Manchester study experience, furnishes guidance on academic assignments, and instills an understanding of the “Learning by Doing” ethos.
The curriculum is structured to bolster your acumen and skills through core courses like Leading and Managing in a Global Environment, Exploring Management Decision-making, Strategy and Competition, Business Accounting and Finance, and Operations and Marketing. Furthermore, the program incorporates four Applied Learning Projects: Non-profit Consultancy, Mergers and Acquisitions, Commercial Business Consultancy, and International Business Consultancy.
The international electives within the MBA curriculum are orchestrated through a blended learning paradigm, incorporating intensive workshop residencies (typically spanning three days) that foster networking and collaborative learning with senior candidates from Global MBA programs.
Known as the “Manchester Method”, the pedagogical approach at Alliance Manchester Business School champions group work, practice-based learning, and reflection. The school extends the following MBA programs:
- Full-time MBA: 15-18 months full-time
- Global MBA: 18-24 months part-time
- Global Executive MBA: 18 months part-time
What Sets Alliance Manchester Business School Apart?
The full-time MBA at Manchester is lauded as one of the world’s most practical MBA programs. A 106 percent average salary uptick is reported three years post- graduation. The program further enriches the learning landscape by integrating three consultancy projects with real clients, offering a hands-on learning milieu.
Alliance Manchester Business School Rankings:
- QS Online MBA Ranking 2023: 5 in Europe
- QS MBA Ranking 2023: 41
- Forbes Best International Business School: 7
- Financial Times Global MBA Rankings 2023: 5th in the UK, 13th in Europe, and 46th in the world
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Employment rate: 92 percent
- Percentage of international students: 90 percent
- Percentage of female students: 45 percent
What is the Cost of an MBA in the UK for International Students?
While MBA programs are highly sought after, they can be expensive for international students in the UK. It is important to understand the costs associated with MBA programs in order to align your academic and financial goals. Out of the 217,610 students enrolled in Business schools, 193,570 are from non-EU countries.
| University Name | Course | Duration | Tuition Cost |
| Oxford Saïd Business school | MBA | One year | £71,440 |
| Executive MBA | 22-24 months | £106,540 | |
| Oxford 1+1 MBA | Two years | £71,440+ the cost of chosen master’s degree | |
| Cambridge Judge Business School | MBA | One year | £64,000 |
| Executive MBA | 20 months | £78,800 | |
| Global Executive MBA | 20 months | £86,600 | |
| London Business School | MBA | 15-21 months | £109,700 |
| Executive MBA | 20 months | £119,900 | |
| Imperial College Business School | Full-time MBA | One year | £61,500 |
| Global online MBA | 21, 24, or 32 months | £45,700 | |
| Weekend MBA | 21 months | £53,500 | |
| Executive MBA | 23 months | £69,000 | |
| The University of Manchester | Global part-time MBA Global MBA Finance Accelerated | 24 months 18 months | £37,700 (Paid in 4 installments) |
| Global Executive MBA | 18 months | £41,500 (Paid in 3 installments) |
Disclaimer: All figures provided are from 2023/24 and will change over time. International students should verify if part-time education meets the visa requirements.
Source: University websites
In addition to the tuition fees, the cost of living plays an essential role if you plan to study in the UK.
| Expenses per month | Approximate monthly costs |
| Accommodation | On campus: £907 Off-campus: £926 |
| Travel within the country | £121 |
| Food | £281 |
| Health and insurance | £470 per year* |
| Study material and stationery | £80 |
| Entertainment | £269 |
Source: Living costs | University of Oxford
Cost of living in London | Imperial Students | Imperial College London
Disclaimer: All figures are subject to change.
What Scholarships are Available for International Students Pursuing an MBA in the UK?
International students pursuing an MBA in the UK have access to various scholarship opportunities. However, the availability of scholarships may vary depending on the university and program you choose. To learn more about scholarships for international students, contact the financial aid or scholarship office of the university.
Some popular scholarships are:
| Scholarship | Details |
| Executive MBA Director’s Awards Offered by: Oxford Saïd Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: A range of partial awards, up to a maximum of £30,000, contributing towards course fees. Eligibility: All Executive MBA applicants are eligible Application: You must submit a complete Executive MBA application and upload a supporting statement (maximum 400 words) in the ‘Funding’ section by the deadline to be considered. |
| Forté Foundation Fellowships for Women Offered by: Forte’ Foundation in top Business Schools in the UK. | Type: Merit based. Value: £30,000 towards course fees Eligibility: Open to female candidates Application: You must submit a complete Executive MBA application and upload a supporting statement (maximum 400 words) in the ‘Funding’ section by the deadline to be considered. |
| Oxford Executive MBA Scholarships for Women in association with the 30% Club Offered by: Oxford Saïd Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: Covers 50 percent of the course fees. Eligibility: Open to female candidates Application: You must submit a complete Executive MBA application and upload a supporting statement (maximum 400 words) in the ‘Funding’ section by the deadline. |
| The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships Offered by: Oxford Saïd Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: Course fees and a grant for living costs of at least £17,668. Eligibility: You must be applying to start a new graduate course at Oxford. Intending to return to your country of ordinary residence once your course is completed. Application: By the deadline, candidates must: • submit a complete MBA application • upload the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships Statement form • tick the ‘Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Click on the program checkbox in the ‘Funding’ section of the program application. |
| The Skoll Scholarship Offered by: Oxford Saïd Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: Course fees and a partial grant for living costs. Eligibility: Scholarships are awarded to candidates with a strong track record in social entrepreneurship and who intend to continue creating positive social impact after their studies. Application: You must submit a complete MBA application and the Skoll Scholarship essay document. This can be found in the ‘Funding’ section of the MBA application form. |
| The Laidlaw Scholarships Offered by: Oxford Saïd Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: Scholarship amounts range from £31,000 – full MBA course fees Eligibility: Open to female candidates. Application: Submit a complete MBA application and complete the scholarship application form in the ‘Laidlaw’ section of the MBA application. This section will be visible to female applicants only. |
| Rewley Scholarships Offered by: Oxford Saïd Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: A range of partial awards, typically up to £20,000, contributing towards course fees. Eligibility: All MBA applicants are eligible. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| The Cambridge Judge Dean’s Scholarship for Outstanding Academic Achievement Offered by: Cambridge Judge Business School | Type: Merit based. Value: Three awards of up to £15,000 each. Eligibility: For candidates with outstanding academic achievement in undergraduate studies. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you provide in your MBA application form to determine if you are eligible for the scholarship. |
| Wider Cambridge: The Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Professional Diversity Offered by: Cambridge Judge Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: Five awards of up to £32,000 each. Eligibility: Candidates from arts/entertainment/media; healthcare and pharmaceuticals; energy; public sector; beyond-profit; social enterprise. Other sectors may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you provide in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| The Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Entrepreneurs Offered by: Cambridge Judge Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: Three awards of up to £15,000 each. Eligibility: Outstanding candidates who have founded their own company or organization. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you provide in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| The Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Technology Advancement Offered by: Cambridge Judge Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: Three awards of up to £15,000 each. Eligibility: Outstanding candidates working in the technology sector or a technological innovation and advancement role. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| Lady Meherbai D. Tata Education Trust Scholarship Offered by: London Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: Variable Eligibility: Indian women graduates from a recognized Indian University with a strong academic record. Application: Education Grants – Tata Trusts |
| iSchoolConnect Scholarship Offered by: London Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: Variable Eligibility: Open to all successful applicants Application: Home – ischoolconnect |
| SARI Foundation Trust Scholarship Offered by: London Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: 100 percent of tuition fees Eligibility: All successful MBA applicants Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| BK Birla Scholars Program Offered by: London Business School (funded by Aditya Birla Group) | Type: Merit-based Value: Up to full fees Eligibility: Candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and uphold the ideals of integrity, dedication, and service to humanity in honor of the legacy and values of BK Birla Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| Carlsson Family Scholarship Offered by: London Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: £20,000 Eligibility: All successful women MBA applicants. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| Dean’s Impact Scholarship Offered by: Imperial College Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: £20,000 Eligibility: Candidates demonstrating impact and achievement in the five key areas listed below. • Entrepreneurship • Technology and Innovation • Sustainability • Social Impact • Leadership Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| Imperial Excellence Scholarship Offered by: Imperial College Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: Up to £10,000 Eligibility: An excellent application demonstrating academic merit, strong professional or internship experience, a clear career plan, and leadership potential. Application: No additional application is required. The admissions committee uses the details you supply in your MBA application form to determine eligibility. |
| Imperial Global Online MBA Women’s Scholarships Offered by: Imperial College Business School | Type: Merit-based Value: £15,000 Eligibility: All successful female Global Online MBA program applicants are eligible to apply for this award. Application: A video assessment along with the Global MBA application is required for this scholarship. |
| Sainsbury Management Fellowship Offered by: Royal Academy of Engineering | Type: Merit-based Value: £50,000 for a full-time MBA Eligibility: Engineers who want to pursue an MBA at the top business schools in the UK. Application: Applications should be made via the Royal Academy of Engineering Sainsbury Management Fellowships (raeng.org.uk) |
| Commonwealth Master’s scholarship Offered by: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission | Type: Need-based Value: A Commonwealth Scholarship covers fees, approved fares, and personal maintenance. Eligibility: Indian students pursuing master’s degrees in the UK are eligible. Application: Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships – Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (fcdo.gov.uk) |
Source: University websites
Disclaimer: All figures are subject to change.
Top MBA Programs and Specializations in the UK for International Students
MBA programs in the UK are widely recognized for their excellence and rigorous curriculum, preparing students for successful careers in various fields. Pursuing a full-time MBA is a valuable investment that equips you with essential skills to navigate the ever-changing and expanding global business landscape.
The top MBA specializations available in the UK are:
MBA in Consulting: This program is specifically designed for individuals aspiring to build careers in management consulting. It provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers key areas such as strategy, marketing, finance, operations, and data analytics. Upon graduation, potential career roles for graduates include management consultant, strategy consultant, and marketing consultant.
| UK colleges offering “consulting” specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
| London Business School | 6 |
| Cambridge Judge Business School | 15 |
| Oxford Saïd Business School | 19 |
| Alliance Manchester Business School | 22 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
MBA in Finance: The finance specialization within the program provides in-depth knowledge and skills in managing money and investments. The curriculum encompasses essential topics such as financial analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and risk management. Graduates with this specialization can pursue various roles, including investment banker, portfolio manager, financial analyst, risk manager, corporate finance manager, financial consultant, and analyst.
| Top UK business schools offering Finance specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
| Oxford Saïd Business School | 7 |
| London Business School | 12 |
| Cambridge Judge Business School | 15 |
| Warwick Business School | 28 |
| Imperial College Business School | 33 |
| Alliance Manchester Business School | 46 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
MBA in Information Management: The program includes comprehensive coursework in information systems, data analytics, business intelligence, and project management. Students gain a solid foundation in these areas, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in roles such as information systems analyst, data analyst, and business intelligence analyst. These career opportunities align with the specialization and allow graduates to apply their expertise in managing and analyzing data, implementing information systems, and driving business intelligence initiatives.
| Top UK business schools offering Information Management specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
| Oxford Saïd Business School | 5 |
| London Business School | 9 |
| Alliance Manchester Business School | 11 |
| Warwick Business School | 15 |
| Imperial College Business School | 31 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
MBA in Marketing: The marketing specialization in this program provides a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses vital areas such as market research, consumer behavior, branding, advertising, and public relations. Students gain a profound understanding of the strategies and techniques employed in effectively creating and promoting products and services. Graduates with this specialization are well-equipped for diverse roles in the marketing field, including marketing manager, brand manager, advertising manager, and customer relationship manager.
| Top UK business schools offering Marketing specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
|---|---|
| Aston Business School | 17 |
| Leeds University Business School | 22 |
| Kent Business School | 30 |
| Southampton Business School | 40 |
| Glasgow (Adam Smith) Business School | 43 |
| Imperial College Business School | 46 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
MBA in Operations Management: The operations management specialization in this program offers students a thorough understanding of supply chain management, logistics, quality control, and lean manufacturing principles. Through coursework and practical experiences, students acquire the skills to optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and maintain quality in operations. Graduates with this specialization are prepared for diverse career prospects, including roles such as operations manager, supply chain manager, logistics manager, and quality control manager.
| Top UK business schools offering Operations Management specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
|---|---|
| Nottingham University Business School | 15 |
| Imperial College Business School | 23 |
| Warwick Business School | 29 |
| Cranfield School Of Management | 38 |
| Glasgow (Adam Smith) Business School | 44 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
MBA in Technology: The technology specialization focuses on managing technology and its business impact. The program covers business strategy, technology management, and data analytics. Graduates can pursue roles such as technology manager, data scientist, software engineer, product manager, and business analyst.
| Top UK business schools offering Technology specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
|---|---|
| Oxford Saïd Business School | 3 |
| London Business School | 7 |
| Birmingham Business School | 31 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
MBA in Entrepreneurship: This specialization focuses on creating and managing new businesses. The program covers business planning, marketing, finance, and operations. Graduates with this specialization can pursue careers as entrepreneurs, business owners, venture capitalists, angel investors, startup advisors, or business consultants.
| Top UK business schools offering Entrepreneurship specialization | QS World Ranking 2023 |
|---|---|
| Imperial College Business School | 3 |
| Cambridge Judge Business School | 4 |
| Oxford Saïd Business School | 7 |
| London Business School | 18 |
| University of Edinburgh Business School | 21 |
| Aston Business School | 31 |
| Warwick Business School | 34 |
| Alliance Manchester Business School | 39 |
Source: QS world ranking 2023
Disclaimer: The rankings are revised every year
What are the Intake Periods and Deadlines for MBA Programs in the UK?
The MBA programs in the UK typically have three intakes: winter/spring in January, fall/autumn in September, and summer intake in May.
Fall Intake: The fall intake is the most popular time to start an MBA in the UK. Business schools offer their main programs during this intake. Due to the high volume of applicants, competition for this intake is intense. Applications typically open from December to July, and admissions for this intake occur from February to May. The session usually begins in September. Many MBA programs, both full-time and executive, start in the fall, providing students with the opportunity to receive the maximum number of available scholarships.
Winter Intake: This is the secondary intake with fewer programs available. As a result, there is less competition due to fewer applications. Applications open from September to November, admissions occur from June to September, and the session begins in January. There are limited scholarships available for applicants during this intake. Most global MBA programs start in the winter intake.
Summer Intake: Few universities offer this intake. For example, the full-time MBA program at the University of Bedfordshire in 2023 starts in June. There are limited program options available, resulting in minimal competition. Applications for the summer intake are open from October to November. Admissions take place in January and February, and the summer session begins in May. The number of scholarships available during this intake is the least.
MBA admissions typically involve multiple rounds, which vary across different business schools.
- Round 1: This is usually the earliest round, with application deadlines falling in the early fall or late summer.
- Round 2: This round generally has application deadlines in the winter.
- Round 3: The deadlines for Round 3 typically fall in the spring. It is the final round for many MBA programs. Some business schools may have up to four rounds.
How to Plan Your Application to the UK
Assuming that you are applying for the Fall intake in 2024:
| Timeline | Activity |
|---|---|
| April to September 2023 | Begin the process of selecting a university by creating a list of potential options and gathering important details such as admission requirements and application deadlines. |
| June to December 2023 | Prepare for standardized tests such as GMAT/GRE and IELTS/TOEFL, depending on the program requirements of the chosen universities. |
| August to December 2023 | Work on your essays and start collecting other documents like transcripts and letters of recommendation. |
| August to December 2023 | Complete and submit the application forms for the chosen universities, including all required documents. Prepare for interviews if necessary. |
| April to July 2024 | Apply for education loans and scholarships. Wait for responses from the universities. Once you receive offers, carefully consider them and choose the one that aligns best with your goals and aspirations. |
| June to August 2024 | Apply for a UK student visa using the offer letter from the selected university. |
| July to August 2024 | Book your flight tickets and plan your journey to the UK. |
What are the Application Requirements for MBA programs at UK Business Schools?
UK business schools offer a web-based application form to make the application process easy and convenient. The application requirements for international students applying for an MBA in the UK vary from school to school. It’s important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Here are some general requirements for admission to MBA programs:
- Undergraduate Degree: All applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.5/4.0 (or the international equivalent). You will be asked to upload your university degree academic transcripts/mark sheets to the online application form. It is not necessary to have an undergraduate degree in business or management. Official translations are required if the original transcripts are not in English. Certain business schools may consider exceptional candidates without academic qualifications but with a high GMAT or GRE score.
- Work Experience: Most business schools require a minimum of two to three years of full-time work experience, detailed on a one-page CV. They look for evidence of career progression, international exposure, and leadership potential. The average work experience for MBA classes in top schools is around five to six years.
- GMAT or GRE Score: Review the specific requirements of your preferred schools regarding GMAT/GRE scores. While most UK business schools don’t ask for a minimum score, a score of 650 or above is considered competitive. For GRE, a verbal score of 160 and a quantitative score of 160 is considered competitive. Some schools may offer waivers for exceptional candidates with strong academic performance and quantitative skills.
- Written Essay: Applicants are required to submit a written essay to analyze communication skills, leadership potential, and analytical skills. The word limit for the essay varies from school to school.
- Online Video Assessment: Some business schools require an online video assessment to get a sense of the applicant’s personality and ability to think on their feet.
- References: Most business schools require two professional or academic references that can comment on your academic or business acumen.
- English Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required. Applicants must take a recognized English proficiency test such as IELTS/TOEFL, unless they have completed their studies at an English-teaching institution or have worked in an English-speaking country for two years.
- Application Fee: Application fees vary from school to school, with an average fee of around £100.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, usually conducted virtually.
For more guidance and assistance with MBA applications, consider reaching out to The Red Pen, a consulting service that specializes in higher education consulting.
