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Best 10 Business Schools and MBA degrees in the UK 2023

 

For international students pursuing MBA at the top business schools in UK is often a dream come true. Many UK colleges offer one-year MBA programs, which not only reduce the overall cost but also save time for candidates. However, turning this dream into reality requires hard work and strategic thinking. Given the limited number of seats available at the top business schools in UK, the acceptance rate tends to be low. Consequently, it becomes crucial for applicants to put in significant effort when crafting their applications. In this blog, we will explore and discuss the Best 10 Business Schools and MBA Degrees in the UK, providing valuable insights for prospective students.

 

Why Study MBA at Top UK Business Schools?

There are several compelling reasons to pursue an MBA at top UK business schools:

Excellent Reputation: UK business schools have a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality business education. Many of them consistently rank among the best in the world, ensuring that you receive a top-notch education.

Global Recognition: UK MBA degrees are recognized and respected globally. Holding an MBA from a prestigious UK business school can open doors to career opportunities around the world.

Networking Opportunities: Studying at a top UK business school gives you access to a diverse and talented cohort of classmates from various backgrounds and industries. This provides ample networking opportunities, allowing you to build valuable connections that can benefit your career.

Industry Connections: UK business schools often have strong relationships with leading companies and organizations. These connections can translate into internship opportunities, guest lectures by industry experts, and access to job placements, enhancing your career prospects.

International Perspective: The UK is a melting pot of cultures and offers a vibrant and diverse environment. Studying in the UK exposes you to different perspectives and global business practices, broadening your horizons and equipping you with a global mind-set.

Career Advancement: An MBA from a top UK business school can significantly boost your career prospects. The rigorous curriculum, combined with practical learning experiences and exposure to industry leaders, prepares you for leadership roles and opens doors to senior positions in various industries.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation: The UK has a thriving start-up ecosystem and is known for its entrepreneurial spirit. Many UK business schools offer resources, support, and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs, allowing you to explore and develop your business ideas.

 

MBA Acceptance Rates at Top UK Business Schools

The percentage of applicants a college accepts for admission is referred to as the acceptance rate. It is computed by dividing the number of applications that were granted by the total number of applications received. The acceptance percentage is 25%, for instance, if 100 applications are received and 25 are accepted by the college.

Acceptance rates for an MBA programme at the top UK business schools

  1. London Business School, University of London, Acceptance Rate: 25%
  2. Imperial College London, Imperial College Business School: 18%
  3. Said Business School, Oxford University: 17%
  4. Cambridge Judge Business School, Cambridge University: 30–33%
  5. Alliance University of Manchester’s Manchester Business School: 56%
  6. Exeter Business School at Exeter University: 6.7%
  7. Leeds Trinity University and Leeds University Business School: 77%
  8. University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Business School: 33%
  9. Cranfield School of Management, Cranfield University: 30%
  10. Birmingham University Business School, Birmingham University: 74%

Top 10 Business Schools and MBA Degrees in the UK 2023

 

Let’s have a look at top business schools in UK for MBA :

Top 10 Business Schools and MBA Degrees in the UK 2023

 

1. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is a renowned collegiate university comprising 39 colleges. It houses approximately 100 academic departments organized into four divisions: medical sciences, mathematical, physical and life sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Over the years, it has grown into one of the world’s leading business schools. Saïd Business School offers a wide range of degree programs in economics, management, finance, and law. For students seeking more flexibility, the school also provides in-person and online open-enrolment courses. The business school is located across two main sites. The Park End Street site boasts beautiful grounds and is primarily used for conferences, events, and functions. On the other hand, Egrove Park, situated just two miles from Oxford city center, offers a residential business meeting venue set in 37 acres of parkland. Saïd Business School is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and houses various initiatives and centers, including the Entrepreneurship Centre, the Creative Destruction Lab, and the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship. These resources further enrich the educational experience for students.

Fees & Expenses:
Tuition & fees INR 63, 90,821

Other expenses in 1st Year:
Hostel & Meals- INR 7,01,215
Study Costs- INR 84,860
Total- INR 7, 86,075

2. The University of Cambridge

The focus of the Faculty of Business and Management is the Cambridge Judge Business School. Students that attend the school are given a lot of instruction in business theory that they can apply in a range of professional contexts. The school supports social enterprise by encouraging its students to start new businesses and produce new goods. To make collaborations easier, the business school has formed ties with private-sector businesses. Business students have the chance to collaborate on business and research projects with the university’s partners. The adjacent incubators, science parks, and innovation hubs can also be utilised by students. The business school founded Accelerate Cambridge in 2012 to provide three-month initiatives to support innovative enterprises. Students who want to start businesses are provided advice on how to do it and how to grow it. The programmes offer regular mentoring as well as access to a shared workplace and are held during the fall, spring, and summer periods. The Entrepreneurship Centre, the Centre for Business Research, and the Psychometrics Centre are located at the business school.

1st-year tuition fees:
Tuition & fees INR 59,49,940

Other expenses in 1st Year
Hostel & Meals- INR 6,82,780
Textbooks- INR 48,770
Total- INR 7,31,550

3. London School of Economics and Political Science

Founded in 1895, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has emerged as a leading institution for social sciences worldwide. The Department of Management at LSE specializes in business and management, establishing itself as a renowned center for education and research in these domains. The department provides a diverse range of programs at various degree levels. The BSc Management degree caters to undergraduate students seeking to delve into the realms of business and management. For graduate students, there are numerous master’s programs available. Additionally, the department offers executive education programs designed to provide further training for working professionals.

Jointly managed by the Department of Management and the Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science, LSE’s Behavioural Lab for Teaching and Research serves as a dedicated facility for studying human behaviour in a controlled environment. This lab facilitates empirical research and experimentation in understanding and analysing human behaviour.

The Department of Management at LSE offers comprehensive academic programs, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the dynamic field of business and management.

1st-year tuition fees
Tuition & fees INR 33,73,323

Other expenses in 1st Year
Hostel & Meals- INR 5,73,633
Application Fee- INR 7,803
Total- INR 5,81,436

4. UCL

UCL (University College London) is structured into 11 faculties that offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses. The School of Management provides two undergraduate degree programs: BSc Information Management for Business and BSc Management Science. They also offer various master’s degree programs, including Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, and Management. Online courses, joint degree programs, and PhD degree programs are also available.

The School of Management focuses its research efforts on five primary areas: operations and technology, strategy and entrepreneurship, marketing and analytics, organizations and innovation, and finance, accounting, and economics. To support students in their career development, the School of Management has a dedicated careers consultant team that provides guidance and support. Additionally, the employer engagement team organizes networking events throughout the year, allowing students to connect with employers and gain insights into recruitment processes within their desired industries.

The employer engagement team has established partnerships with notable companies such as Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, Expedia, Facebook, PwC, and Unilever. These companies have participated in previous employer engagement programs, providing students with valuable opportunities for career insights. As part of these programs, students have access to employer-led CV checking, mock assessment centers, and mock interviews to enhance their preparation for future job applications and interviews.

5. University of Warwick

Warwick Business School is a department within the larger faculty of social sciences, founded in 1967. The school provides a range of programs for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD candidates. In addition to degree programs, there are non-degree education programs available for individuals and companies seeking professional development. Warwick Business School offers a foundation year program designed to develop the necessary skills for undergraduate studies. Students who successfully complete the Foundation Year can progress to one of the business or economics undergraduate degrees offered by the school. The main campus of Warwick Business School is located at the University of Warwick. Additionally, the university has a campus in London, providing further opportunities and resources for students.

1st-year tuition fees
Tuition & fees INR 44,81,963

Other expenses in 1st Year
Hostel & Meals- INR 7,02,288
Transportation- INR 37,455
Books and Materials- INR 50,721
Other General Expenditure- INR 2,70,674
Mandatory Trips Fee- INR 19,508
Total- INR 10,80,646

 

Can you pursue an MBA in the UK without having to take the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)?

Certainly, it is possible to pursue an MBA in the UK without the requirement of the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Several universities offer MBA programs in the UK that do not mandate GMAT scores. However, it is important to note that each university may have its own specific eligibility criteria for admission to its MBA programs. These criteria typically include factors such as letters of recommendation (LORs), essays, interviews, work experience, and academic proficiency. If you have more than five years of work experience, you may also explore options for executive MBA programs in the UK that do not require GMAT scores. Additionally, there are part-time and full-time MBA choices available, depending on the specific universities and programs. It is advisable to thoroughly research the admission requirements of each university to determine their specific criteria for MBA admission without GMAT.

 

Admission in Top business schools in the UK: Tips & Tricks

To enhance your chances of acceptance into MBA programs at UK colleges, it is crucial to gather all necessary documents and familiarize yourself with the general requirements of the business schools. Applying early to esteemed universities ensures equal consideration and helps meet the course’s minimum eligibility criteria. Maintaining a strong academic record is essential to appeal to the admissions committee.

To increase your likelihood of acceptance, consider the following advice. By following these recommendations, you can enhance your chances of being accepted into MBA programs at UK colleges.

  1. Prepare all required paperwork and fulfil the business school’s general requirements for your MBA application in the UK.
  2. Apply early to prestigious universities to ensure equal consideration and meet the course’s minimum eligibility requirements.
  3. Maintain a strong academic record that showcases your capabilities and appeals to the admissions committee.
  4. Aim for a GMAT score between 650 and 700, as this range may be of interest to the admissions committee.
  5. Submit one or two letters of recommendation from both academic and professional sources to provide a comprehensive overview of your work experience in the field.
  6. Craft a compelling statement of purpose that outlines your motivations for pursuing the degree and specifically choosing the university. Clearly articulate your interests and career aspirations to demonstrate your dedication and alignment with the program.

GMAT Waiver- Eligibility Criteria

Opportunities for admission to top UK universities for an MBA without GMAT requirements can be found, but meeting other eligibility criteria is usually necessary. These criteria commonly include:

Academic GPA: A minimum GPA of 6.0 (or its equivalent) in a bachelor’s program, preferably with a specialization in Business Administration (BBA)
Language Proficiency: Typically, a minimum score of 6.5 in the IELTS exam (or equivalent proficiency in other accepted language tests like TOEFL) is required. Higher scores are often advantageous for securing admission to prestigious institutions
Work Experience: Many universities expect applicants to have a minimum of two to three years of relevant work experience for admission into their MBA programs without GMAT scores
Application Components: In many cases, applicants are required to submit 1-2 MBA essays as part of their application. Additionally, a well-structured resume/CV and one or two letters of recommendation (LORs) are typically requested
Additional Requirements: Some universities may have additional eligibility criteria, so it is advisable for students to carefully review official websites before submitting their applications

Do you want to do your MBA in the UK? Contact our Manya-The Princeton Review experts, and we will assist you in locating the appropriate course and university, as well as guide you through the admissions process! Sign up for an individual session with us right away! Please hurry!

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FAQs

Is a UK MBA recognised globally?

If you pursue an MBA in the UK, you will get multiple options from the world’s finest business schools. Without a doubt, earning your MBA in the United Kingdom will boost your resume’s prestige and qualify you for jobs abroad.

What examinations are necessary for an MBA in the United Kingdom?

There may be numerous exams required for getting an MBA in the United Kingdom. These include the GMAT, which is required for MBA programmes at various UK educational institutions. 

However, not all schools require GMAT scores for admittance. They frequently need a minimum GPA of 60% or 6.0 in their bachelor’s programme, as well as 2-3 years of work experience and IELTS scores ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. As a result, some of the required exams include the GMAT, IELTS, and your undergraduate degree examinations.

What jobs are available in the UK after earning an MBA?

There is a strong job market for MBA graduates in the United Kingdom. The usual salary range for recently graduating students ranges from £35,000 to £65,000 per year. Human resources officer, investment banker, management consultant, and so on are all popular jobs.

Is work experience essential for admission to MBA degrees in the UK?

Work experience is necessary for admission to the best MBA programmes in the United Kingdom. Certain MBA programmes in the United Kingdom, however, do not require work experience as a prerequisite.

How much does an MBA cost in the United Kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, the cost of an MBA varies based on the degree and university. It often runs between £40,000 and £100,000 on average.

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