In the US the best B-schools like Stanford Graduate School of Business, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan School of Management, Columbia Business School, UC Berkeley Haas School of Business and Kellogg School of Management are renowned for their academic quality, strong industry connections and proximity to hotspots like Silicon Valley and Wall Street. The UK provides highly respected choices such as London Business School (LBS) and Cambridge Judge both with excellent international placements and multicultural student populations.

In Europe institutions such as INSEAD, HEC Paris, IESE Business School, IE Business School, Esade Business School and SDA Bocconi School of Management provide internationally renowned programs with deep concentrations in innovation, leadership and international business. Several of these programs offer flexible learning options such as one-year MBA options and the possibility to study across various campuses globally.

These leading MBA schools abroad not only provide an enriched academic experience but also usher in high-paying jobs, global mobility and long-term career development. Their global alumni network allows students to make lifelong professional contacts. Regardless of the candidate's objective to work in a leading consulting firm, invest in banking, start a startup or head a multinational corporation these organisations offer the platform, expertise and aid necessary to excel on a global scale.

Leading Business Schools Abroad

People intending to pursue an MBA abroad have a plethora of prestigious business schools to select from in nations such as the US, UK and Europe. These prestigious schools have internationally recognised programs and admit entrance tests like the GMAT, GRE and others. They are renowned for their quality education, global exposure and good placement records. Following are some of the best global business schools along with their location and the exams they accept for admission:

Top MBA Colleges Abroad Along With Their Duration, Fees, Entrance Exams and Other Details 

1. Stanford Graduate School of Business

Stanford Graduate School of Business empowers students to bring their ideas to life through the teaching of effective leadership and innovative problem-solving. It is world-renowned for its flagship programs such as the two-year MBA, one-year MSx, PhD, part-time Stanford Ignite in innovation and entrepreneurship and Executive Education. Its programs are designed to transform students profoundly and equip them to make a difference in people, companies and the world. 

The school brings high-achieving students together with experienced faculty from Stanford's seven schools, successful graduates, Silicon Valley professionals and international business leaders. Courses are held at the state-of-the-art Knight Management Centre featuring adaptable learning spaces, leadership labs and group work space as well as hosting prominent forums and events.

• Location: California, United States

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: $2,71,542 for single students & $3,25,854 for married students

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE

• Duration: 2 Years

• Type: Private 

2. Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

Established in 1881 in Philadelphia, the Wharton School is a world-leading business school offering first-class MBA, undergraduate and doctoral programs. Renowned for its rigorous focus on finance, entrepreneurship and international business Wharton is also famed for its groundbreaking research and powerful alumni connections. Its demanding academic culture and leadership-centred curriculum attract highly driven students from all over the world making it the top choice for those in pursuit of business excellence. 

• Location: Philadelphia, United States

• Program Name: MBA

• Fees: $2,64,808

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GRE

• Duration: 2 Years

• Type: Private 

3. Harvard Business School

Harvard Business School (HBS) founded in 1908 and situated in Boston, Massachusetts is among the greatest business schools in the world. It is renowned for its extremely selective MBA program, advanced doctoral degrees and executive education programs. HBS is famous for employing a case-based teaching approach that immerses learners in actual business dilemmas. 

Its world-class faculty recruited from a variety of backgrounds, contributes global perception and knowledge to the learning environment. The school searches for applicants with a good academic background and leadership abilities and puts emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship and social responsibility. With an enormous worldwide alumni network HBS is still a leader in business education.

• Location: Philadelphia, United States

• Program Name: MBA

• Fees: $2,64,808

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GRE

• Duration: 2 Years

• Type: Private 

4. MIT Sloan School of Management

Founded in 1914 in Cambridge, Massachusetts MIT Sloan School of Management is a leading business school in the world. It is renowned for fostering innovation, applied learning and close industry connections. MIT Sloan has programs like the MBA, Executive MBA and other advanced Master's degrees. The school emphasises entrepreneurship and fosters a global perspective, drawing the brightest students worldwide and keeping close contact with business and research communities.

• Location: Cambridge, United States

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: $1,68700

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE

• Duration: 2 Years

• Type: Private 

5. London Business School (LBS)

London Business School founded in 1964 and situated in the UK capital is one of the leading international business schools in the world renowned for its MBA, Executive MBA and Master's in Management degrees. The school has a worldwide standing in emphasising finance, entrepreneurship and innovation. With students from diverse global backgrounds LBS provides a multicultural learning environment. It is also renowned for its robust connections with organisations and business giants offering students precious exposure and opportunities within the corporate world.

• Location: London, United Kingdom

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: £119,950

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE

• Duration:  15 Months - 21 Months

• Type: Public 

6. HEC Paris

Established in 1881 just outside of Paris, HEC Paris is a globally recognised business school that enjoys a reputation for excellence in management training. The school is particularly renowned for promoting innovation, leadership and entrepreneurial mindsets in its MBA, executive and specialised programs. Featuring a multicultural student body and close ties with international firms, HEC Paris offers a stimulating and competitive environment that appeals to ambitious students worldwide.

• Location: France 

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: €102,000 (January Intake) &  €99,000 (September Intake)

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GRE

• Duration: 12 Months (January Intake)  & 16 Months (September Intake)  

• Type: Private 

7. Cambridge Judge Business School

Cambridge Judge Business School which is affiliated with the University of Cambridge is a world-class business school renowned for its emphasis on innovation, practical impact and scholarly excellence. It has expanded since its foundation in 1991 to provide top-ranked MBA, Master of Finance and Executive MBA programs. Situated in the midst of Europe's leading tech hotspot, Silicon Fen it offers unparalleled entrepreneurial networks and industry connections. Diverse students, outstanding faculty and a solid international reputation make Cambridge Judge set the stage for future leaders to drive positive change in business and society.

• Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: £74,000

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE

• Duration: 1 Year

• Type: Public 

8. Columbia Business School

Columbia Business School established in 1916 and situated at the centre of New York City is particularly famous for its Master's, MBA and Executive MBA programs. The institution utilises its location by providing students with superior opportunities for networking and professional development particularly in finance, leadership and innovation. With a robust international perspective, it has students representing numerous countries and backgrounds. Columbia is also known for its innovative research and close industry ties making it very appealing to top candidates. The school's admission is extremely competitive, a reflection of its excellence.

• Location: New York, United States

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: $137,571 in First Year (2-7% fee increase in 2nd year).

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GRE/GMAT/Executive Assessment

• Duration: 20 Months (August Intake) & 16 Months (September Intake) 

• Type: Private 

9. IE Business School

Founded in 1973 in Madrid, Spain IE Business School is renowned for its MBA, Executive MBA and Master's in Management offerings. The school is particularly renowned for its emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation. Being a diverse and international community of students IE provides flexible study opportunities through online education which allows it to cater to students across the globe. It also has close industry connections which provide students with immense opportunities for networking and building their careers. Due to its excellent reputation, IE welcomes highly capable candidates from around the world through a highly competitive application process.

• Location: Madrid, Spain

• Program Name: International MBA

• Fees: €82,300 (For both 11 & 15 Months)

• Entrance Exam Accepted: ieGAT (IE Global Admission Test)/GMAT/GRE tests

• Duration: 11 Months and 15 Months 

• Type: Private 

10.  IESE Business School

IESE Business School founded in 1958 in Barcelona, Spain is reputable for its MBA, Executive MBA and executive education. The school emphasises values-based leadership, encourages students to lead with ethics, innovation and entrepreneurship. Having campuses in various cities across the globe IESE provides a global learning experience as well as close connections with multinationals. It employs the case method to equip students with practical problem-solving skills. The admissions procedure is very selective. Hence, attracting the best applicants from a variety of backgrounds.

• Location: Barcelona, Spain

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: €110,000

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE

• Duration: 15 Months or 19 Months 

• Type: Private 

11. INSEAD

INSEAD established in 1957  is situated in Fontainebleau, France. It is renowned for its highly ranked MBA, Executive MBA and Master's programs. The institution is well-known for its global orientation and receives students from different countries and cultures. INSEAD particularly prioritises entrepreneurship and innovation. Its two-campus system provides students with a true global learning experience while its extensive network of relationships with multinational corporations provides excellent career and networking prospects. INSEAD's admission process is highly competitive and therefore draws talented students from across the globe.

• Location: Fontainebleau, France

• Program Name:  MBA 

• Fees: €103,500 (August Intake) & €107,600 (January Intake) 

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GRE

• Duration: 10 Months (For both January & August Intake) 

• Type: Private 

12.  Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley Haas School of Business which is a part of the University of California, Berkeley is among the oldest and most renowned business schools in the U.S. Praised for its rigorous academic program and emphasis on leadership for a purpose Haas educates students to think boldly, act with integrity and lead with empathy. With intimate class sizes, highly ranked MBA programs and a firm belief in diversity and inclusion Haas provides a tight-knit, inclusive learning environment. The institution is also known worldwide for its innovative research and distinguished faculty featuring two Nobel laureates. With more than 45,000 alumni in 80+ countries, Berkeley Haas empowers students to make lasting connections and meaningful careers.

• Location: Berkeley, United States

• Program Name: MBA (Full-time) 

• Fees: $85,406 (First Year)

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GRE

• Duration: 2 Years 

• Type: Public 

13.  SDA Bocconi School of Management

SDA Bocconi School of Management founded in Milan, Italy in 1971 is among Europe's leading business schools. It provides world-class programs such as the MBA, Executive MBA and specialised master's programs blending academic rigour with hands-on learning. A part of Bocconi University, the school has the "triple crown" accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA) and is recognised for its innovation, sustainability and diversity focus. With a state-of-the-art campus in Milan and international presence SDA Bocconi educates students from across the globe to lead and thrive in today's fast-changing business world.

• Location: Milano, Italy

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: € 82,000

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GRE

• Duration: 12-15 Months (September Intake)  

• Type: Private 

14.  Esade Business School

Esade Business School with headquarters in Barcelona and campuses in Sant Cugat and Madrid is an internationally recognised school with a strong reputation for business world contacts and academic excellence. Globally recognised for internationalism and innovative pedagogy Esade commits to developing whole persons and responsible leadership based on values such as integrity, diversity, justice and sustainability. 

With triple crown accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA) and a range of programs from full-time and executive MBAs and business master's degrees, Esade offers an excellent, internationally focused education. Its lively campus life and energetic city location in Barcelona only add to the student experience with an ideal combination of academics, culture and individual development.

• Location: Barcelona, Spain

• Program Name: MBA 

• Fees: €78,500

• Entrance Exam Accepted: Esade Admission Test/GMAT/GRE

• Duration:  12, 15 or 18 Months 

• Type: Private 

15.  Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management

Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management based in Evanston, Illinois is ranked among the world's best business schools with its emphasis on strong leadership, global orientation and teamwork. Established in 1908, Kellogg has a variety of programs ranging from the full-time MBA, one-year MBA, Executive MBA, Evening & Weekend MBA, MBAi (emphasising AI), MMM (dual MBA and MS in Design Innovation), JD-MBA and PhD programs. It also possesses international EMBA alliances with the best universities in Hong Kong, Germany, Canada and China. Kellogg focuses on leadership, innovation and practical impact drawing a diverse student population with impressive academic and professional credentials. Through steady top rankings, particularly in marketing and an influential global alumni network, Kellogg equips its graduates to succeed in industries including consulting, technology and finance.

• Location: Evanston, United States

• Program Name: MBA

• Fees: $86,370 (First Year)

• Entrance Exam Accepted: GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE score

• Duration:  2 Years

• Type: Private