IESE MBA

IESE MBA

IESE MBA
Ranking : #3

The IESE MBA is a globally renowned program consistently ranked among the top MBA programs worldwide, based in Barcelona, Spain, with additional campuses in Madrid and New York. Known for its rigorous 15-19 month full-time curriculum, IESE emphasizes leadership development, general management, and a strong global mindset. The program attracts a diverse international cohort and offers extensive career services, making it ideal for professionals aiming to accelerate their careers with a focus on ethical leadership and global business impact.

IESE MBA – Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered some of the most common queries applicants have about this prestigious full-time MBA program

  • Yes, IESE offers merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid. Indian applicants are encouraged to apply early and submit all required documents to be considered for scholarships

  • IESE offers extensive career support including personalized coaching, recruitment fairs, internship placement assistance, and access to a global alumni network, helping graduates secure roles in top multinational companies

  • Yes, IESE has partnerships with leading business schools worldwide, allowing MBA students to participate in global exchange programs and international study trips to broaden their business perspective

  • Many Indian alumni pursue careers in consulting, technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, leveraging IESE’s global connections and strong ties with multinational corporati

IESE MBA - Class Profile

A Truly Global and Diverse MBA Cohort

IESE Business School’s full-time MBA program brings together a dynamic and internationally diverse group of professionals. With 85% international students and a broad range of academic and industry backgrounds, the program fosters leadership, ethical decision-making, and global collaboration. IESE attracts ambitious professionals aiming to accelerate their careers across consulting, finance, technology, and general management.

  • Class Size: Over 400 students
  • Women in Class: 40%
  • Average Work Experience: 5.4 years
  • Average Age: 29 years
  • International Students: 85%
  • GMAT Acceptance Range:
    • GMAT Focus Edition: 545 – 715
    • Previous GMAT Version: 580 – 750
  • Previous Professional Experience:
    • 45% Corporate Sector
    • 30% Financial Sector
    • 25% Consulting
  • Geographic Origin of Students:
    • 24% Asia
    • 20% North America
    • 20% Latin America
    • 16% Europe (excluding Spain)
    • 15% Spain
    • 5% Middle East & Africa

IESE MBA – Basic Program Information

The IESE MBA is a flexible, globally recognized full-time program designed to develop ethical leaders prepared for global business challenges over 15 to 19 months.

  • Program Duration: 15–19 months (Full-Time MBA)
  • Tuition Fees: €110,000 (Total for the full program)
  • Estimated Living Expenses: Approximately €1,500/month, totaling around €32,000–€38,000 for the program duration
  • Total Estimated Cost: €142,000–€148,000

IESE MBA - Employment Report (Class of 2025–26)

Graduates of the IESE MBA program continue to achieve exceptional career outcomes, solidifying its position among the top MBA programs globally in terms of international job opportunities and return on investment.

  • Average Post-MBA Salary: Approximately €100,000 (~$105,000), reflecting a significant return on investment.
  • Job Offer Rate (3 months post-graduation): 94%
  • Top Hiring Sectors:
    • Consulting – 47%
    • Finance – 18%
    • Corporate Management – 10%
    • Marketing & Sales – 14%
    • Operations & Logistics – 7%
    • Information Technology – 1%
    • Other – 3%
  • Top Hiring Regions:
    • Europe (excluding Spain) – 24%
    • Spain – 15%
    • Asia – 24%
    • North America – 20%
    • Latin America – 20%
    • Middle East & Africa – 5%
  • Top Recruiters: McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, Amazon, Google, Citi, Novartis, Pepsico, Uber, Adidas, AB InBev
  • Alumni Network: Over 66,000 alumni in 180+ countries, offering access to a powerful global network.

IESE MBA Program Deadlines & Intakes

Applications for the September 2026 intake (Class of 2028) will open in August 2025.

  • Round 1: Application deadline – September 25, 2025
  • Round 2: Application deadline – January 9, 2026
  • Round 3: Application deadline – March 12, 2026
  • Round 4: Application deadline – May 8, 2026*

*Round 4 is open exclusively for EU passport holders or visa-exempt candidates.

IESE MBA - Application Requirements

To apply to the IESE MBA, candidates must submit a complete and well-prepared application that demonstrates academic excellence, career progression, leadership potential, and fit with IESE’s values and community. All materials must be submitted via the IESE online application portal by the chosen round deadline.

  • GMAT / GRE
    Submit a valid GMAT or GRE score. Competitive applicants typically have a strong performance on these tests. IESE does not have a minimum cutoff and accepts both exams equally.
  • Essays
    Applicants are required to submit one written essay, one optional essay (if applicable), and complete a Video Essay as part of the admissions process.
    • Essay Question 1 (Mandatory)
      What are your immediate career goal after graduation and your mid-term career goal 5–10 years after graduation? How will the IESE MBA program help you achieve them?
      (Word limit: 300 words)
    • Optional Essay
      What would you like to highlight about yourself or your journey which may have not been captured in your application?
      (Word limit: 300 words)
    • Video Essay (via Kira Talent platform)
      After submitting your written application and fee, you will receive a link to complete the video essay (within 24 hours).
      • The link expires within 48 hours.
      • Two video questions will be required.
      • Your application will be reviewed only after the video responses are received.
      • Ensure a professional setting, be concise, and respond authentically.
  • Letters of Recommendation
    IESE requires one letter of recommendation from someone who can provide insight into your professional achievements, leadership potential, and interpersonal skills. This is typically a current or recent supervisor.
  • Online Application Form
    Submit the IESE online application with accurate personal details, academic and employment history, essays, and other required fields.
  • Resume (Curriculum Vitae)
    Provide a 1-page resume that highlights your academic credentials, professional experience, key achievements, and extracurricular activities.
  • Transcripts and Diplomas
    Upload scanned copies of all university transcripts and degree certificates. Originals may be requested during the enrollment process.
  • English Language Proficiency
    Applicants whose undergraduate education was not in English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent scores to demonstrate proficiency.
  • Passport Copy
    A clear copy of your passport photo page is required for identification purposes.
  • Application Fee
    €150 (non-refundable). Your application will not be processed until the fee is paid.

Some of Our Students Who Got Admitted to Top MBA Programs

At LilacBuds, we don’t just guide applications—we empower transformations. Our personalized MBA admissions consulting has helped professionals from diverse backgrounds earn admits to top global MBA programs like INSEAD, LBS, Cambridge Judge, and HEC Paris, often with scholarships. Here's what success looks like:

The customized mentorship was invaluable. Lilacbuds helped me curate my resume, shape my story, draft essays, and prepare for interviews. There were always available and provided the right advice at every stage. Their support played a crucial role in securing my MBA admit.

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MBA Class of 2024 Admit

Rajiv’s expert guidance and personalized approach were key to my admission to a top 25 US MBA program. His insights on my essays helped me clearly articulate my vision and confidently present myself, elevating my entire application and boosting my chances of success.

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Top‑25 US MBA admit

The LilacBuds team helped me craft a standout application that truly reflected my journey. Their support across resume, essays, and interviews was timely, thorough, and encouraging. With their help, I secured an admit to Foster School of Business.

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Foster Business School, MBA Class of 2024

Rajiv sir’s personalized care and detail-oriented support built my confidence and refined my application. His encouragement during self-reflection made all the difference. I highly recommend him for dedicated mentorship and a stronger MBA application.

Mohit Malviya

Cornell Tech MBA (GMAT waiver + $15K scholarship)

Lilacbuds helped me transform the essay writing process into an engaging storytelling journey. They also supported me through loan assistance. Ultimately, I received an admit from Cornell Johnson with a $60K scholarship. Their mentorship was key to my success in the MBA application process.

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Cornell Johnson MBA with $60K scholarship

Thanks to LilacBuds’ expert guidance, I received offers from top US and Canadian MBA programs. Their support went beyond just applications—making the entire journey smoother, more strategic, and rewarding. I also received generous scholarship offers along the way.

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Cornell Johnson MBA (with $60K scholarship)