Last Updated on August 12, 2023 by Oluwajuwon Alvina

Are you an international student? Are you interested in learning more about Executive Mba? Do you get overwhelmed by the amount of conflicting information you see online? If so, you need not search further because you will find the answer to that question in the article below.

To get more information on Executive Mba You can also find up-to-date, related articles on Collegelearners.

Executive MBA (EMBA) is a 1-year postgraduate degree course in the field of Business Administration. Executive MBA is offered for a period of 15-18 months by some colleges. EMBA is meant for working professionals as it focuses more on the subtle details of business and less on the theory.

Candidates who wish to pursue the Executive MBA course must be graduated from any stream with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks, with a minimum working experience of 5-10 years. 

All About Executive MBA

This is a postgraduate course that focuses on business and is specially meant for working professionals with extensive experience. It is designed essentially to educate job seekers, managers, entrepreneurs, technocrats and other business leaders.

Executive MBA programs rely heavily on teamwork with a strive to achieve a common goal. Students pursuing this course from the top MBA colleges in India get to study management topics like Marketing, Human Resource Management, International Business, and Microfinance. The course curriculum also introduces them to Strategic Management and Executive Communication.

The course is best suited for those who have good IT skills, aptitude skills, analytical skills and experience in the management field.

Why study Executive MBA?

• A Management Degree along with a long experience in the field will provide a huge jump in salary and position for the student.
• Executive MBA holders do not need placements, they will get jobs anyway. It is upto the individual which sector he wants to go or which company he wants to choose. 
• With such long experience in the field, they are ready to lead. With a proper EMBA degree they become better leaders and better managers. 
• Consultancy projects play a key part in EMBA programs in offering opportunities for them to get familiar with an industry. Students can apply an EMBA program’s team/consultancy projects to their own companies, solving major issues and challenges for their employers.
• The average salary after completing executive MBA ranges from INR 30 Lakhs to INR 40 Lakhs. 

EMBA average annual fees charged ranges from INR 4 to 15 LPA. Candidates also have an option to pursue the EMBA course  through Distance mode of learning. IGNOU, NMINS, IMT etc are some of the top colleges offering Distance EMBA.

After successful completion of the Executive MBA course, candidates can work as Sales Executive, Brand Executive, Communications Manager, Quality Control Manager, Customer Support Executive. The average Executive MBA salary ranges from INR 9-15 LPA in India. Students who wish to pursue this course abroad can also pursue Executive MBA in Harvard Business School or at Stanford University. 

Executive MBA: Course Highlights

EXECUTIVE MBA

FEE PAYMENT OPTIONS

Please note: Non-payment of fees may lead to cancellation of Admission.

ADDITIONAL NON-TUITION FEE CHARGES (NON-MANDATORY)

SCHOLARSHIPS

SP Jain, in its endeavour to encourage meritorious students to excel further in their academic and career paths, is inclined (without any commitment) to offer scholarships to selective candidates joining its Executive MBA program.

There are various levels of scholarships granted based on a holistic view of the candidate’s profile.

Please note that scholarships are not granted for living costs, transportation, insurance, visa costs, registration, books, activities or other fees.

Scholarship decisions take place through a comprehensive, holistic review process.

• MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS

There are various levels of scholarships granted. Scholarships are awarded based on the candidate’s academic performance, work experience expertise, position at the workplace, diversity and interview performance.

CGPA Requirements

Students who earn scholarships must maintain a required GPA and abide by the Code of Conduct during the program. Details will be shared in the offer letter.

• DIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS

Candidates from underrepresented countries or regions may qualify for special international scholarships, to provide a truly global learning experience.

Students who earn scholarships need to meet the Code of Conduct requirements. Details will be shared in the offer letter.

Please Note: Students can avail only one category of scholarship at a time. All decisions by Admissions will be final.

Executive MBA Costs vs. Benefits

As one such candidate, your choice in the Executive MBA program is critical. You want a globally competitive program that will allow you to advance your career. Ideally, you also want it to be flexible enough to allow you to keep your job. 

Thankfully, today’s best EMBA programs are designed to help you achieve just that. They offer accelerated programs to suit the busy schedule of working executives.

Typically, the courses take a more applied approach and focus on developing:

• Business acumen 
• Organizational leadership 
• Industry-specific knowledge

Some programs even offer online or hybrid formats. This gives you more flexibility, and thus more balance between your work, school, and personal life.

But, an Executive MBA can also be a costly venture. Tuition from a top-ranking program averages north of $100,000. And although the courses are accelerated, they often run for up to two years.

Choosing to pursue an EMBA is a big decision and a considerable investment. With so much on the line, it’s only reasonable that you should wonder if the degree is worth it.

In this article, we’ll explore the different features of an EMBA. We will also take a look at their value and potential for return on investment to help you make the right decision.

How Much Does an Executive MBA Cost?

When considering an EMBA, an institution’s reputation is critical. And as you will find out below, the cost of a program rises along with an institution’s reputation.

Average Cost of an EMBA

According to a survey conducted by Ivy Execs, the average cost of an EMBA in the U.S. is $75,000. 

The average cost of an EMBA from a top tier program amounts to almost twice that, averaging at about $133,000. For example, an EMBA from:

• The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania costs $210,900 for a 24-month program.
• Booth School of Business at The University of Chicago costs $194,000 for a 21-month program.
• Berkeley-Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley cost $159,900 for a 19-month program.
• The Columbia University Business School costs $208,680 for a 24-month program.

With tuition fees like these, you’d be remiss not to wonder if your investment will be worthwhile.

Thankfully, you’d be pleased to learn that it often is. 

According to a 2017 survey by the EMBA Council, the average EMBA student’s salary is $172,498. This saw an increase of about 14% after graduation taking the average income to about $197,719. 

This sizable increase in pay means that you will see a return on your investment soon.

“Graduates can expect to earn a bonus for obtaining their degree and an average salary of $164,845. With a significant jump in income, EMBA graduates are able to quickly pay off any loans and completely cover the cost of going back to school in less than two years.”

Dan Scalco, Contributor Huffpost

We also learn that 41% of EMBA students receive a promotion after graduation, and 52% saw an increase in responsibility.

However, an Executive MBA from a traditional program is not always feasible. Thankfully, there are more accessible options through online programs. These offer candidates a more flexible, digital-first, and remote-friendly alternative. 

Some of these are affiliated with long-standing top tier business schools. While others are from accredited independent schools like Quantic School of Business and Technology. 

It’s important that you understand the nuances of the different programs available to you, so we’ll do our best to shed light on all your best options.

The Quantic program is based on a proprietary pedagogy developed in collaboration with professors from elite institutions like Georgetown, and Insead Business School.

This helps make elite business education more accessible. Especially considering we charge modest tuition of $9,600 for this program.

Consider the following cost comparison between Quantic and other top-tier programs:

Executive MBA Scholarships

According to the EMBA Council:

• 20% of EMBA students have full scholarships from their employers. 
• 34% of EMBA students have partial scholarships from their employers. 

The remaining 46% are self-sponsored. But they often have access to financial aid or tuition assistance.

In addition, 59% of the institutions that offer EMBA programs offer their candidates scholarships and fellowships.

Clearly, despite the high tuition of an EMBA, you have options to help offset some of the costs. Be sure to check with your employer and school to determine those options. 

This is key information that will determine your return on investment.

At the Quantiac school, we also offer scholarships to eligible candidates.

However, unlike most institutions, we don’t have a separate application process. You will be considered based on your application and notified along with your admission decision.

If your employer wishes to sponsor you, we also offer means and resources for employer-funded reimbursement.

What Are the Benefits of an Executive MBA?

Executive MBAs come with many benefits, including:

#1: New Networking Opportunities

An EMBA brings together a diverse group of people from different fields. It also gives candidates access to an international student and alumni community.

These give a foundation to expand your professional network across the globe. Alumni communities, for instance, help overcome some of the networking challenges executives face.

Additionally, most programs offer an international experience option. According to a 2018 Executive MBA Council survey, 93.2% of the programs offer international trips. Some programs even offer global topics as elective and concentrations.

#2: New Challenges and Learning Experiences

After a few years of working and moving up the ladder in an industry, you develop skills in your discipline. An EMBA curriculum is designed to help refine these skills and turn them into expertise.

It also gives insight into the most pressing factors affecting business today. You will also get to learn accounting and financial acuity.

These are skills that will help catapult your career forward. Moreso if you are looking to move into an executive leadership role.

#3: An EMBA Helps You Become a Better Leader

Most EMBA curriculums include business coaching and leadership training. These help you learn about your managerial style, making you a more effective leader.

Other leadership skills you can expect to learn from an EMBA program include:

Analytic Thinking 

You will learn how to dissect and understand different areas of business. This helps you develop critical knowledge in your field, enabling you to make more educated decisions.

Problem-Solving Skills 

As you work and learn at the same time, you can apply the knowledge you gain in real-time. The program encourages you to analyze your environment and use your newly acquired skills to solve any issues.

Confidence 

An EMBA program will help you build confidence in your knowledge. This will come in handy if you are looking to break off and start a business of your own. Or even looking to get into C-level management.

Communication 

This is one of the most critical skills, especially for those in leadership. An EMBA equips you with the tools to communicate within your business environment.

#4: Better Earning Potential

As an EMBA graduate, you can expect to see a salary increase much sooner than you would with a regular MBA. 

On average, you can expect an increase of about 13.5%, according to a 2019 Executive MBA Council survey.

It also indicates that you are 53% more likely to receive more responsibilities. And 40% more likely to get a promotion.

In addition to these, an online facility like Quantic also comes with a few added advantages. These include:

#1: Student Peer-To-Peer Learning

You will have access to a group learning platform. Here, they can receive class exercises, interact, and build each other’s knowledge.

#2: Executive MBA Student Network

This refers to a platform where you will be able to interact with other students and alumni. Here, you will be able to exchange ideas, grow your networks, and even take part in events.

#3: Group Projects

In the Quantic program, you will get to work in groups on several projects throughout the program. You will also work on a final project where you will get a chance to showcase your newly acquired knowledge.

#4: Optional In-Person Weekend Conferences

These conferences offer an opportunity to meet and network with classmates and alumni. The conferences span multiple days and happen four times every year around the world.

Previous locations have included: Copenhagen, Seattle, Singapore, and Washington, D.C.

#5: Full-Time Job Placement

An EMBA will also afford you specific opportunities after graduation. This is because certain programs offer networking and career support to graduates.

Who should study EMBA?

• Executive MBA promises a high MBA salary for individuals who have the required MBA skills. Individuals with high leadership capabilities should have a try with EMBA.
• Many students take Master of Business Administration to either change the industry they’re working in or advance to a managerial or administrative position. You shouldn’t do both at once, as it’s possible to spread too thin – not having the work experience in the new position to back it up. 
• Professionals with hefty work experience have the opportunity to move up the ladder since MBA Colleges do not discriminate on the basis of age.
• Individuals should join executive MBA to accelerate their careers. Professionals who are thinking of changing their careers should avoid doing EMBA since it is a course that dives deep in the industry you are in.

When to do an Executive MBA?

• EMBA is done after having at least 5 years of work experience. This is necessary since field experience about the industry is very necessary in order to lead in the industry. 
• Executive MBAs are costly and it is advisable to go for this course when there is enough financial backing. Otherwise it becomes very difficult if there is a shortage of funds during the course.
• The individual must have the confidence to hold the managerial or other leading position in the company.

Types of executive MBA

Executive MBA is focussed and meant for working professionals and the thing working professionals have the least is time. Since they work it becomes difficult for them to attend classes. To solve this problem and also provide executive MBA, different types of eMBA courses are available that provides Executive MBA in different hours or through a different mode. 

Full Time

Executive MBA is a 1 year MBA course that is meant for working professionals. Most Executive MBA programs are on-campus courses. Executive MBAs are designed to cater to the working professionals who have more than 4-5 years of experience. 

The Executive MBA program relies heavily on teamwork with a strive to achieve a common goal. Students pursuing this course from the top MBA colleges in India get to study management topics like Marketing, Human Resource Management, International Business, and Microfinance. The course curriculum also introduces them to Strategic Management and Executive Communication.

The course is best suited for those who have good IT skills, aptitude skills, analytical skills and experience in the management field.

EMBA Online

Various colleges provide Executive MBA in online mode. It caters to the working professionals who do not wish to leave their jobs. Many MBA Abroad Colleges offer Online MBA Courses such as Washington State University, Bethel University etc. 

Online Executive MBAs are cheaper as compared to on-campus courses. They last for about 15-20 months. The eligibility criteria for Online MBA Programs is a GPA score of around 3.0 out of 4.0 and GMAT score of 550 or better.

Weekend EMBA

Weekend MBAs are also becoming an option for students who do not wish to leave their jobs in their pursuit of an EMBA degree. SP Jain School of Global MBA is one of the providers of Weekend MBA. It requires 3 years of work experience and the duration is 18 months. 

The program tries to avoid the weekdays when the candidate will be busy with work. 

An MBA is a degree aspired by many, it’s not only restricted to students but also pursued by working professionals. The reason being, this course is dynamic in nature and instils the teachings about various aspects. For students, there is a full time course of 2 years for which they don’t need any work experience.

For an Executive MBA (EMBA) however, the aspirant requires 5 years of work experience and 2 years if he/she is pursuing a part time MBA. The shortest course of these 3 is the executive MBA courses; the aspirant completes this course in a year and then can return to his job.

Advantages of an Executive MBA

• EMBA is preferred more than any other MBA program. Recruiters consider EMBA graduates as they have the advantage of work experience and already embedded knowledge about the field.
• Entrance exams are not mandatory for EMBA graduates. In certain organizations where there is an absolute necessity of the entrance exams, the scores expected are way low compared to other MBA programs.
• You also get to keep your job while pursuing the course, given that if your company is considerate enough. If they are willing to part ways with you for a year and take you back later, then you will be greeted with a much higher post in your company. There are also modules where you can pursue an Executive MBA degree while working; this improves your workplace performance as you apply those daily teachings in direct relevance.
• An EMBA has no age limit, if you’re experienced enough and are ready to embark on this new educational course then there’s no one to stop you.

Certain disadvantages of this course are that not many colleges offer executive MBA in India, so it becomes difficult to find one near your home or work place. But, judging by the above pointers, the pros definitely outweigh the cons and pursuing an EMBA is the right thing to do.

MBA vs Executive MBA

There is a very thin line of difference between EMBA and Regular MBA Course. Some of the key differences are:

The above table lists just some basic differences between EMBA and MBA course structure and curriculum. Explore deeper insights and differences between Executive MBA and MBA.

Is Executive MBA better than Regular MBA? 

If you are a working professional with an experience of 5 years or more, then EMBA is what you must prefer as it will help you with the expert level knowledge that will further enhance your career growth. On the other hand, if you happen to be a recent grad who wants to gain an advanced level of knowledge in business administration and a specific specialization, go for Regular MBA.

Executive MBA Admission

Admission for Executive MBA takes place mainly through entrance exams. Some Colleges like SP Jain take in students if they have a good work profile and many years of experience. The most important eligibility is to know about the field you are working in and have deep understanding and insights about the market. 

EMBA Eligibility

Candidates who wish to study EMBA course must satisfy the following eligibility parameters:

• Minimum 50% marks at Higher & Senior Secondary level (10th & 12th)
• Engineering/B.Sc./BBA/B.Com graduates with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized university
• Preference will be given to candidates with a minimum of 2 years of work experience and above.

EMBA Admission 2021

EMBA Admissions to the course are generally done through the common entrance exams. The course entertains the results of entrance exams like GMAT, GRE and EMAT. After the student clears all the Executive MBA Eligibility Criteria as mentioned above, colleges follow the admission pattern as given below:

• Entrance Exam
• Group Discussion
• Personal Interview

The detailed explanation for the selection procedure is given below.

Step 1. Entrance Exam

• The most commonly accepted entrance exam is GMAT. Most of the IIMs consider GMAT for an executive MBA. A 750+ score in GMAT is considered as an ideal score.
• CAT is also accepted by some of the IIMs like IIM Kozhikode, IIM Shillong, IIM Rohtak, and the score is valid for up to 5 years.
• Some of the IIMs like IIM Ranchi, IIM Raipur, IIM Trichy have their own exam.

Step 2. Language Test

• Some of the Executive MBA programs like IIM Bangalore’s EPGP and IIM Udaipur’s PGPX also require a language test. These programs include international exposure.

Step 3. Group Discussion

• Group Discussion is there to test your communication skills. In order to perform well in this round, you should be updated about current affairs happening around the world.

Step 4. Essay Writing 

• Writing Ability Test (WAT) is considered an integral part of the admission process as this test enables the B-school to know more about the candidate’s goals and aspirations.
• WAT carries a huge weightage so it needs to be prepared thoroughly.

Step 5. Personal Interview

• PI is the final round and is considered to be the most crucial round because here your overall personality will be judged. The panel will look for distinct personality traits in a candidate and then decide whether he/she would be able to add the value to the program or not.
• Personality traits and the attitude of the candidate are the areas of concern here.

Some of the common skills tested during the EMBA Admission process are:

• Quantitative Ability
• Reasoning
• Reading Comprehension
• Data Interpretation
• Verbal Skills
• Non-Verbal Communication

EMBA Entrance Exams

To pursue Executive MBA in Delhi, like Executive MBA from FMS, commonly entrance tests like those mentioned below are considered.

• GMAT: GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is conducted by GMAC for admission to more than 5400 programs in various Business Schools around the world. It is considered as one of the most acceptable platforms for selecting students for MBA Programs. 
• GRE: GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is considered internationally for admission into various management and technical courses.
• EMAT: EMAT (Executive Management Aptitude Test) is conducted by IIM Kozhikode for admission in the EMBA program of the institute’s Kochi campus.
• CAT: CAT 2021 (Common Admission Test) is a qualifying exam for admission to MBA, PGDM and other PG level management courses in India. 
• NMAT: NMAT is conducted by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council) for admission to various management courses.

GMAT

GMAT is a computer adaptive test taken to pursue management studies abroad. Due to the pandemic, the candidates can avail the GMAT exam either at the test center or online. Candidates need to log in to mba.com to complete GMAT Registration. 

There are four sections in GMAT exam pattern – Verbal reasoning, Quantitative reasoning, Integrated reasoning, and Analytical Writing (optional) offering MCQs. The duration of the GMAT is 2 hours and 45 minutes excluding the analytical writing section. 

One can take GMAT by paying a GMAT fee of $250 (INR.18,366). The number of questions in these three sections is 79 and the analytical writing section contains only 1 descriptive question.

CAT

Common Admission Test (CAT) is an entrance exam to get into 2 year MBA programs at 20 IIMs in India. CAT 2021 is expected to held in the last week of November 2021 and CAT registration 2021 to begin in July. The eligibility for taking CAT exam is 50% marks in graduation, for reserved categories the qualifying marks are relaxed up to 5%. 

GMAT vs CAT

Is An Executive MBA Worth It?

Executive MBA programs are where experienced professionals with c-suite or executive-level aspirations go to take their next career step. 

EMBAs are aimed at business professionals with higher levels of experience than MBA candidates. EMBA students complete their studies alongside their work, with courses taking place part-time and taught during evenings or weekends, usually over several years. 

EMBA courses focus on developing the skills needed for those working at executive level, and many EMBA graduates receive promotions and salary increases on completing the course. 

There are more than 300 EMBA courses to choose from across more than 30 countries worldwide. But with tuition fees rising as high as $213,000, is an Executive MBA worth it?

Executive MBA Cost

A place on an EMBA can require significant investment. The average total cost for programs globally is $82,883, however the average Executive MBA fees among the Financial Times’ top five programs are $141,151. 

Some of the most expensive programs are those offered through partnerships between prestigious global business schools. The Tsinghua–INSEAD Executive MBA costs $125,000 and is ranked fifth globally, while the HKUST–Kellogg Executive MBA costs $185,650 and is the highest ranked course in the world. 

Like MBAs, courses offered by US business schools are often the most expensive. The University of Pennsylvania: Wharton Executive MBA costs $210,900, while the Columbia Executive MBA costs $213,240. There are however some courses at other world renowned US business schools which are slightly cheaper, the MIT Executive MBA costs $178,302 while the UCLA Executive MBA costs $167,992. 

Paying these high tuition fees is made easier for EMBA students than those studying on full-time MBA programs, as they are able to continue working while completing their course. 

Top 5 EMBA Course Fees 

Some students also avoid paying their entire course fees by acquiring financial aid. Companies can sponsor students and pay their fees for them, or students can apply for Executive MBA Scholarships to help with funding. However, securing financial aid can be challenging and the number of students who are self funded has been rising in recent years, at 53% in 2019 up from 41% in 2015.

With many of the most expensive courses located in the US, courses in Europe can offer a cheaper alternative. ESCP Business School in Paris offers a highly ranked course at $85,507, while schools like Toulouse Business School and MIP Politecno di Milano offer EMBA programs with fees of around $40,000.

What are the benefits of an EMBA? 

The investment required to enrol in an EMBA means students can expect substantial benefits from their chosen school.  

Courses focus on developing the skills needed at high level leadership positions, with modules aiming to develop students’ leadership, decision making, strategy and entrepreneurial skills. 

Elaine Versloot felt the skills she learned on her EMBA at Nyenrode Business Universitiet prepared her to be a successful leader. She is now chief operating officer of tech company Binx, who specialize in optimizing  infrastructure for their clients and developing their IT solutions using the cloud. 

“Of course the theory did form a big part of what I learned, but the biggest part was definitely the personal development,” she says, “you get to know yourself and therefore who you are as a leader.” 

The emphasis on personal development means many EMBA students take on higher roles or are given increased responsibilities both during and after their course. 

A survey by the Executive MBA Council found 53% of students in 2020 saw their responsibilities at work increased during their studies, while a further 39% received a promotion after completing the program. 

EMBA students are also given chances to further their careers through networking opportunities, which are a key part of any course. 

Students can tap into wide alumni networks often including thousands of professionals working in a wide variety of industries. Interacting with classmates from a range of different countries and industries also gives students the chance to learn and broaden their experience. 

“It was amazing,” says Dante Bustos, CEO of Benelli Bike, who graduated from the Global EMBA at CEIBS in Shanghai in 2018. “You not only learn a lot of new ideas and ways of thinking but you expand your network of close friends and professionals, and all of them can contribute to you in the future.”

Many EMBA courses also offer the opportunity to study and interact with different cultures, with trips abroad and exchange semesters on offer. 

HEC Paris’ EMBA includes specalization sectors allowing students the chance to study in places like Boston, Doha, Berlin, Shanghai, Capetown, and Bangalore. CEIBS also offers global elective modules taught in eight different countries on five continents, helping students to develop their understanding of global business cultures. 

Thomas Perterer was able to secure roles in Libya, Saudi Arabia, Austria and Germany after his experience in the internationally focused Global EMBA at WU Executive Academy, which involves classes taught across three continents.

“The collaboration of people from different backgrounds and nationalities on solving case studies or discussing business ideas was a priceless experience, and nurtured my ambition to expand my professional playing field to international grounds,” he says.

EMBA students can therefore expect to gain a wider understanding of business cultures while also developing the skills they need to progress in their careers. 

Executive MBA Salary: What will you earn? 

As well as the significant career opportunities, EMBA students often see a healthy return on their investment after graduating. 2020 Executive MBA Council figures show students’ salaries increased on average by 14.1% between starting and finishing their course, with graduates earning an average of $193,200 upon completing their EMBA. 

For the class of 2017, average salaries rose by 57% to $226,436 within three years of graduation. The long term financial benefits of enrolling on an EMBA are therefore a huge factor for students considering applying to a course. 

INSEAD Executive MBA

Established in 1957, INSEAD is a private business school. It is known to be one of the leading business universities in Asia. Also, the university is popular for its MBA degree programme, especially the executive MBA course. The major goal of the university is to create and support innovation and inspire people all over the world.

INSEAD’s Singapore campus is located in Buona Vista. The location is famously known as the Knowledge Hub of Singapore. This campus was opened in 2000. Further, it is surrounded by greenery and is only 20 km away from Changi airport. Moreover, it is close to restaurants and cafes, and general and medical stores for the convenience of students. Besides, accommodation units at the campus make sure that students are provided with all the basic facilities required. In addition, the Tanoto Library at the campus covers both digital and text versions of books that can be issued online as well. The library is open 24×7 and has free Wi-Fi accessibility, a spacious work area and one of the top entrepreneur journals.

The university offers a wide range of courses that give a number of opportunities to students when it comes to subjects of their choice. Here, students are guided by the experienced faculty. Specialized courses are taught under the supervision of expert professionals. Also, students are taken for industrial visits in order to impart practical knowledge. Some of the subjects under its MBA programme include accounting and control, marketing, finance, economics, and political science, entrepreneurship and family enterprise and decision sciences. Student exchange programmes, here, ensure that students are provided with ample knowledge and exposure to a different curriculum.

The Singapore campus of INSEAD maintains a list of notable alumni that includes Tidjane Thiam (CEO of Credit Suisse), Henry Engelhardt (CEO of Admiral Group), Wopke Hoekstra (Dutch Minister of Finance), Perry Lim (Chief of Defence Force), Jusuf Kalla (Vice President of The Republic of Indonesia) and Paul Desmarais (Chairman of Power Corporation of Canada).

anking for Business Courses

University at a glance

RankingCourse RankingsBusiness Courses#1GMBA Ranking

– FT (Financial Times) 2016#6Global MBA

– QS 2021

FeesINRSGD

Entry Criteria

Executive MBA Salary and Scope in India

n executive MBA can drastically change your career. It allows you to make a leap in your professional journey by giving you the tools to transition into a better leader, manager, and overall executive. It also gives you the know-how you need to take on more responsibility, the skills to implement more strategic and innovative solutions, the insight to improve your decision-making capabilities, and the value to command a higher salary.

The average executive MBA salary commanded is between ₹9 to 15 lakhs annually according to a recent update on CollegeDunia.com.

The salary you command will depend on a number of variants. It depends on the business school you attend, the industry you’re in and whether you switch industries, and various other aspects. While you can not really compare your salary to another’s, the fact that you have an executive MBA degree means that you have taken a few giant leaps ahead in your own career trajectory.

You can get a salary hike of 60-70% with an executive MBA, according to a post from November, 2018 on the bml-blog.

Completing an executive MBA gives you the opportunity to significantly increase your salary because of many reasons. Primarily, the program expands your knowledge base and skill set in order to ready you for roles and responsibilities that would have otherwise taken you a few years to achieve organically. It also increases and widens your professional network making you more adept at your job. While the executive MBA gives you the necessary skills and know-how, it also widens your perspectives and view so that you become a more adaptive and innovative executive.

As a graduate of an executive MBA program, you can get a promising job at multinational companies, in the banking industry, at industrial houses, in branding and marketing companies, at financial organizations, and more. The options are limitless. Executive MBAs give you the tools to excel in any industry, which is why an executive MBA salary can change your career. You can find a position as a manager, director, senior executive, senior consultant, etc.

With a considerable hike in salary and position, and professional growth, the executive MBA is well worth the investment of time, money, and effort.

If you are a working executive looking for accurate and updated information about Executive MBA (EMBA) Programs, welcome to MBAUniverse.com Executive MBA (EMBA) Channel. This channel presents important information about Executive MBA in India for working professionals and Abroad and is compiled and written by MBA education experts. Here you will learn about Executive MBA Rankings, Fee, Admission process for Executive Programs in India. We will clarify the very important difference between Executive MBA Vs One 

What is an Executive MBA Program?
In US, Europe, Singapore, Hong Kong and China, ‘Executive MBA’ or ‘EMBA’ is generally a premium high-end modular MBA equivalent program offered to senior executives with 15+ years of experience who don’t wish to leave their well-paying full-time jobs for earning MBA credentials. The course program structure is designed in such a way that senior working executive spend 50-60 days on campus attending classes and complete the rest of the EMBA program while working.

Catering to the need of globalization of business, many of the World’s top EMBA programs are offered jointly by a few leading B-schools, usually across the continents. For instance, the Financial Times ‘Executive MBA Rankings 2018’ ranks Kellogg-HKUST EMBA, Trium: HEC Paris/LSE/NYU: Stern and Tsinghua University-INSEAD as top three EMBA programs in the world.

Key Features of Global Executive MBA (EMBA) Programs

1. Aimed at Senior Executives with approximately 15 Years of working experience
2. Modular program with periodic campus presence required.
3. EMBA is NOT a Full-time Program
4. Profile-based Admission, GMAT Scores generally NOT mandatory
5. Placement support generally NOT offered
6. EMBA Fee is generally 200% higher than regular MBA Fee

EMBA is a Modular Program, and Not a Full time MBA Program  
This is an important difference, and must be kept in mind. Clarifying the target audience and program mode, Kellogg-HKUST say, “The Kellogg-HKUST Executive MBA program is carefully designed for busy executives. It only requires around 40 days out of the office.” Kellogg-HKUST Executive MBA program is a partnership program offered jointly by Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong.

The TRIUM Global Executive MBA, ranked No 2 on FT EMBA Ranking, is jointly issued by New York University Stern School of Business, London School of Economics and Political Science, and HEC Paris School of Management. Regarding the program structure, TRIUM website says, “TRIUM uses an executive-friendly blended learning format (in-person classroom time and independent study between modules) comprising of 6 on-site modules at multiple global locations over an 18 month period. Time out of the office is only 10 weeks.”

In India, ISB makes a clear distinction between its PGP program which is positioned as One year MBA equivalent, and PGPMAX which is positioned as Executive MBA Equivalent program. “The Global EMBA equivalent programme offers campus experience. PGPMAX has a modular format and participants reside on ISB campus during classroom sessions…, ​” says ISB. The total number of working days away from work for the duration of PGPMAX are approximately 62 days. 

 Let’s look at highlights of global Executive MBA Programs to illustrate points made above.

Source: MBAUniverse.com Analysis

Executive MBA (EMBA) in India
Coming to India, there is some unwarranted confusion between ‘Executive MBA’ and ‘One Year MBA’ and PGDM Executive programs. To understand the context, some historical perspective is useful.

In 2001, ISB Hyderabad launched its post-experience one-year full-time residential MBA equivalent program called Post Graduate Program (PGP). In 2006, IIM Ahmedabad launched its ‘Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives’, its one-year, full-time, residential programs popularly known as PGPX. Soon IIM Calcutta too launched its ‘Post Graduate Programme for Executives’ or ‘PGPEX’. In 2009, IIM Bangalore launched ‘Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management’ or ‘EPGP’. Both IIMC’s PGPEX and IIMB’s EPGP were one-year, full-time, residential MBA Equivalent programs.

Given that word ‘Executive’ is part of virtually all 1-year MBA programs by IIMs, media and general public started calling these One Year MBA equivalent programs as Executive MBAs. Clearly, the one-year residential MBA programs by IIMs are NOT part-time/modular Executive MBA programs, as EMBAs are known globally

This confusion was further compounded when AICTE, the management education regulator in India, permitted PGDM B-schools to offer ‘Executive PGDM’ – also a full-time residential 15-months MBA equivalent program. So XLRI offered PGDM (General Management) and MDI offered National management Programme (NMP). Today more than 25 B-schools including SPJIMR Mumbai, IMT Ghaziabad, IMI New Delhi, Great Lakes Chennai, K J Somaiya Mumbai, BIMTECH Greater Noida, SDMIMD Mysore are offering PGDM Executive programs in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and other cities.

To summarize the difference between EMBA and One Year MBA in India, refer to this table below.

Executive MBA Vs 1 Year MBA: Not the same

Source: MBAUniverse.com Analysis

As shown in the table above, the difference between Executive MBA and 1-year MBA is clear. While One-year MBA by IIMs, ISB, XLRI is a fully residential program, Executive MBA like ISB PGPMAX is a modular program aimed at senior executives. 

Top Executive Programs in India 2021
Currently there are only few B-schools offering good Executive MBA programmes in India.

ISB PGPMAX and Great Lakes PGXPM are considered as the top Executive MBA Colleges in India. ISB PGPMAX, the Executive MBA by ISB, is considered as the top EMBA programme in India. ISB PGPMAX is 15 Months Modular Programme with world class curriculum which offers International Immersion. Post Graduate eXecutive Program in Management (PGPXM) at Great Lakes is one of the high ranked Executive MBA in India. The duration of EMBA programme is 20 months. The PGPXM helps experienced executives to develop general management competencies and prepares them for fast track growth to leadership roles.

If you are wondering why PGPX, IIM Ahmedabad PGPX or IIM Bangalore EPGP or XLRI Jamshedpur PGDM (GM) are not included in this list, the reason is that they are NOT equivalent of EMBA programs. They fit the description of One Year MBA Programs perfectly.

Top Global Executive MBA Programs
Financial Times publishes its much respected annual EMBA Rankings. The 18th edition of the FT global executive MBA ranking of the best 100 programmes worldwide was published in May 2018. FT Rankings show that the gap in average salaries between EMBA and MBA alumni ($220,000 vs $146,000) is similar to that between MBA and MiM graduates ($146,000 vs $67,000), three years after graduation. One of the interesting trends from this ranking is that Asia offers quite a good number of EMBA programs with Singapore, Hong Kong and China as leaders of EMBA program in Asia. Many leading US and European B-schools offer joint programs with top Asian B-schools. Sadly, no Indian B-schools or EMBA program features on this list.

FT Global Executive MBA Ranking 2018

Executive MBA in India
ISB and Great Lakes are the top Executive MBA colleges in India offering Executive MBA in India. Although there are many top executive MBA colleges across the globe, but the executive MBA in India is not offered by many institutes. A key point to note in regard to the top Executive MBA colleges in India is that there is no executive MBA from IIMs. Therefore, despite being the institutes of high national importance, executive MBA from IIMs has not been launched. On the contrary, a full time one year programme like IIMA PGPX, IIMB EPGP is confused as the Executive MBA from IIMs which in fact is not a true Executive MBA programme.

Among the top ranked Executive MBA in India are the programmes offered by the following institutes:

PGPMAX – Executive MBA by ISB
The pioneer of Executive MBA programme in India is ISB which is also the one of the top executive MBA colleges in India. PGPMAX – the executive MBA by ISB is considered as the top EMBA programme in India. The EMBA at ISB is 15 Months Modular Programme with world class curriculum which offers International Immersion.

PGXPM – Executive MBA by Great Lakes
Post Graduate eXecutive Program in Management (PGPXM) at Great Lakes is one of the high ranked Executive MBA programmes in India. The duration of EMBA programme is 20 months which is longer than 1 year executive MBA, so the executive MBA should not be confused by the full time 1 year MBA Program PGPM, offered by Great Lakes. The PGPXM helps experienced executives to develop general management competencies and prepares them for fast track growth to leadership roles.

Great Lakes PGXPM: Program Highlights

• Dynamic and industry requirement driven curriculum tailored to suit the Global Business Environment
• Distinguished faculty from US, European and Asian B-schools
• Flexible learning with 7 terms spread over two years
• Peer learning from a diverse background of class participants
• Residencies, apprenticeship and live projects at work aligned to career plan
• Individual country-based/vertical-based intensive year-long project under a faculty guide
• Experiential learning through simulations, technology driven virtual classrooms with global connectivity
• Executive coaching support with leadership lecture series from eminent thought leaders and industry stalwarts
• Quasi-Consulting for practical problems/cases from participant’s place of work
• Chinese (Mandarin) Language offered
• Overseas visit in the final term (optional)

Great Lakes PGXPM: Eligibility Criteria
All applicants applying to Great Lakes Institute of Management’s PGXPM should satisfy following eligibility criteria:

• Must have completed bachelor’s degree with a minimum 10+2+3 years of education
• Must have scored minimum 50% marks throughout the academics
• Should be currently working/or doing own business venture
• Should have a minimum work experience of at least 8 years by July 31st, 2021
• For PGXPM 2021, valid scores of CAT, XAT or EA by GMAC or equivalent aptitude tests would be taken as additional criteria/qualification, indicative of the levels of the respective aptitudes/skills measured by these tests. Where the scholastic performance of the candidate has not been high, this would be a necessary input, as to be decided solely by Great Lakes. Such applicants, who do not have a valid aptitude test score, would need to take the Great Lakes Aptitude test GREAT as a pre-requisite, and would need to get a score acceptable to Great Lakes at their sole discretion, to be eligible for the admission process further.
• An in-principle agreement with the employer would be required for self-sponsored candidates.

Great Lakes PGXPM Admission Process

• Candidates meeting the eligibility criteria can apply to Great Lakes Institute of Management by completing an online form.
• Candidates have to visit the Great Lakes website and fill in the online applications form after making a payment of INR 1,500 towards application fee
• Candidates have to provide the official email-id of the recommenders. The recommendation letter will be collected online from the recommenders subsequently at a later date.
• Candidates will be assessed based on the information provided in the application form and shortlisted for the interview process.
• Candidates invited for the Interview will be intimated about the venue and the time slot through E-mail / telephone
• The selection process includes Written Test and Interviews, apart from screening for academic performance and quality of work experience
• Clarity of purpose in pursuing executive management education as evidenced by performance in interview and overall assessment of academic achievements will be the basis of final selection.
• Last Date to Apply – June 20, 2021 for PGXPM 2021-22.

Great Lakes PGXPM Programme Fee
Total Programme fee for Post Graduate eXecutive Program in Management (PGPXM) at Great Lakes is Rs.8,50,000/- + 18% GST.  The above PGXPM programme fee does not include fee for International Immersion which is an optional element subject to enrollment of minimum required participants. The amount for International visit shall be at actuals to be estimated by the class prior to visit.

Executive MBA in Delhi NCR
Executive MBA programme in Delhi is offered by some of top MBA colleges in Delhi NCR including FMS, IIFT, IIT-Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad among others. Currently there are not many colleges offering Executive MBA in Delhi NCR but qualitatively, the MBA executive program in Delhi is much sought after in order to enhance leadership roles..

IIT Delhi Executive MBA – 3 years MBA in Technology Management
Executive MBA programme at IIT Delhi focusses on ‘Technology Management’. This programme is designed to impart management education to working executives. The Classes are scheduled during evening hours (6.15 pm onwards) on 4 or 5 working days (Monday to Friday).

Eligibility
Following academic qualifications will be the eligibility criteria for admission.

1. First class degree or equivalent in Bachelor’s degree in any branch of Engineering / Technology; Bachelor’s degree in Physical Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics); Bachelor’s degree in Statics, Operation Research, Computer Application, Economics, Commerce and CA/ICWAI
2. Minimum 60% marks in aggregate (of all the years / semesters) or 6.00 CGPA on a 10 point scale or equivalent.
3. 2 years of post-qualifying degree work experience

Executive MBA Fee at IIT Delhi
Rs.10.80 Lacs for the entire Executive MBA Programme payable in equal installments (6 Semesters)

Admission Dates for MBA for Working Executive

FMS MBA Executive & MBA Executive (Health Care Administration)
FMS Delhi is one of the leading B-schools in India offering a low fee Executive MBA option. The modular design of the two year evening MBA Executive and MBA Executive (Health Care Administration) programmes has been divided into four semesters over a period of two-years.  

For Admissions 2019, applicants can register themselves for admission to MBA Executive and MBA Executive (Health Care Administration) programmes by filling up online application form  by paying the requisite fee. Total number of seats in MBA Executive and MBA Executive (Health Care Administration) programmes are 172 and 42 respectively.

Since FMS is a Government University, the annual fee for FMS Executive MBA is only Rs. 50,000!

Eligibility Conditions for Executive MBA at FMS
Candidates applying must have pursued at least a three-year Bachelor‘s Degree programme after twelve years of formal schooling. Additionally, she/ he should have at least five years of experience as an executive or an administrator in a commercial/government establishment.   

IIM Kozhikode MBA for Working Executives (earlier Known as EPGP)
Empowered with IIM Act 2017, IIM Kozhikode is now offering MBA for Working Executives instead of earlier Diploma program known as Executive Post Graduate Program (EPGP). IIM Kozhikode delivers the Executive MBA programs through an Interactive Learning platform where participants can attend the classes from the designated classroom centers available at their locations.

The MBA (Master of Business Administration) programe for working executives (earlier known as Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP) in Management and is a two years master’s degree program in management offered on interactive Learning (IL) platform.   

The MBA Executive (EPGP) program at IIM Kozhikode is accredited by the AMBA (Association of MBAs) since 2011 and the objective of the programme is to impart management education to working executives seeking skills and strategies to take their organizations to the next level.

IIM Kozhikode has witnessed a spike of 64% in admissions, with a diverse group of 369 candidates with industry experience in its 12^th batch of EPGP. The selected candidates for the batch are from varied sectors like IT, operations & services, construction and manufacturing, banking & insurance, entrepreneurship, selected as part of this batch.

Highlights of IIM Kozhikode MBA for Working Executives

2 Years MBA program

• 2 years Master’s Degree (MBA) Programme and not a diploma program
• Executive MBA program is offered through an Interactive Learning platform where participants can attend the classes from the designated classroom centers available at their locations
• Program fee is Rs.12,12,000
• Provides an opportunity to attend a ‘Masterclass Webinar Series’ and receive a Statement of Participation Certificate from the Stanford Center for Professional Development (a part of Stanford University)
• Specialization offered are Operations Management, Marketing Management, Finance Management, Strategy Management, Information Technology Management and Human Resources Management

Executive MBA Fee in India
Across the globe, Executive MBA is positioned as a premium MBA program for senior executives. The Kellogg-HKUST Executive MBA Fee is as high as USD 1,83,000 and the TRIUM Global Executive MBA Fee is USD 181,500. The executive MBA fee in India by ISB is also equally high at Rs 39.69 lakhs.

The Executive MBA fee structure at Great Lakes Institute of Management is much lower at Rs. 8.50 lakhs, if you pay the complete Executive MBA fee in single instalment. If you choose to pay the executive MBA fee in multiple instalments, this executive MBA fee structure would be Rs.8.80 lakhs or Rs.9 lakhs depending upon the choice of instalments. Strictly speaking, there are no executive MBA colleges with low fee. If it’s a good EMBA, it will be expensive. FMS Executive MBA fee of Rs 50,000 is perhaps the only exception.

Let’s compare Executive MBA Fee with 1 year MBA Fee. 1 year MBA fee charged for IIMA- PGPX is Rs. 25 lakhs, for IIMB-EPGP is Rs. 25.89 lakhs. This is much lower than ISB Executive MBA (PGP MAX) Fee which is Rs 38.48 lakhs.

Executive MBA Placement
Since the Senior professionals in their mid career go for Executive MBA and in most cases the candidates are company sponsored, the Executive MBA Placement is not high on their agenda. The MBA colleges offer campus placement to their one year MBA programs, but there are no colleges offering Executive MBA placement in India.

ISB has clarified in regard to the Executive MBA Placement on its website, “The programme is targeted at senior executives and business owners and hence no placement/career support is provided.” 

PUMBA Executive MBA – 2 Years Post-Graduate Programme leading to MBA Degree
PUMBA Pune ‘Executive MBA Programme’ is a 2 Years Post-Graduate Programme leading to MBA Degree of Savitribai Phule Pune University. The programme is meant for working executives and entrepreneurs and the objective of the programme is to provide an opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills continually.

Course Structure
PUMBA Executive MBA is a 2 years programme conducted in the evening (6.30 PM to 9.30 PM) from Monday to Saturday. The 24 months programme consists of 4 semesters, each of six months duration. Each semester has five courses.

The programme offers Six functional specializations in second year. The specializations are Marketing, Finance, Human Resource Management (HRM), Operations Management, Systems Management and International Business Management (IBM). Each student can opt for one specialization.

Eligibility for Admission
Following qualifications are required to become eligible for admission to PUMBA Executive MBA Programme:

• Graduate in any discipline from UGC/AICTE/AIU recognized University/Institution or equivalent with minimum 50% marks (45% in case of reserved category candidates)
• Minimum of 3 years Work experience at managerial / Executive level after results declaration of Graduation Examination till the date of application. Work experience obtained only after graduation results will be considered.
• Managers of private and public sectors and Government (State and Central) located in and around Pune region and having the requisite experience are the potential candidates.
• Entrepreneurs with sizable business and having the requisite experience can also apply provided the business is registered in their name (Proprietor or Partner or one of the Directors).
• Profile & career objectives of the candidate will be given due weightage in admission process.
• A minimum of 75% attendance in all academic sessions is mandatory

Executive MBA Fee at PUMBA
The academic fee for PUMBA Executive MBA is Rs.1.54 Lakhs for the entire Executive MBA Programme. Although PUMBA is revising its fee structure, the current category wise fee structure is as below:

Admission Process
The admission process for PUMBA Executive MBA and intake capacity is detailed below:

Selection Procedure
Candidates seeking admission have to appear in the Entrance Test conducted by PUMBA.  The Entrance Test will be of 200 marks consisting of objective multiple choice type questions. 

Components of Entrance Exam

• Arithmetical Ability
• Data Interpretation
• Verbal & Non-verbal Reasoning
• General Mental Ability
• Logical Deduction

Intake
The total intake capacity is 60 seats. Out of this 50% (i.e. 30 seats) will be filled as per statutory reservations only from State of Maharashtra. Remaining 30 seats will be filled in the open category.

Admission Dates for Executive MBA at PUMBA

SP Jain Global Executive MBA – 18 Months Post-Graduate Programme leading to MBA Degree
SP Jain Global Executive MBA (EMBA) is an 18-month weekend program crafted to help busy working professionals to build their managerial skillset. The EMBA program is designed to allow working professionals to work and study at the same time. After completion of the programme, a Master of Business Administration (Executive) degree will be awarded. The degree will highlight the chosen specialisation. It will be an Australian degree, awarded by SP Jain School of Global Management, Australia. EMBA at SP Jain Global is equivalent to a full-time MBA.

Apart from Mumbai, SP Jain School of Global Management has international locations in Sydney, Singapore and Dubai. The study location for SP Jain Global Executive MBA is Mumbai. The program is not accredited or approved by AICTE or any regulatory body in India. 

Specializations Offered
SP Jain Global Executive MBA offers specialization in Marketing, Finance, Operations and General Management. To ‘major’ in a specialisation, candidate must opt for 4 subjects in the same specialisation. Those interested in the General Management route can choose 6 subjects from across the Finance, Marketing and Operations specialisations.

Eligibility for Admission
Following qualifications are required to become eligible for admission to SP Jain Global Executive MBA Programme:

• University Graduate in any discipline. Relevant postgraduate qualifications like Chartered Accountants for the Finance stream are given preference
• Minimum 5 years of full time Work experience at managerial / Executive level after Graduation

Executive MBA Fee at SP Jain Global
The fee for SP Jain Global Executive MBA is Rs.15,20,220/- for the entire Executive MBA Programme.

Admission Process
The admission process for SP Jain Global Executive MBA is detailed below:

• Application Process
• No Application Fee. Application process is online

Aptitude Test & Evaluation
SP Jain Global conducts Aptitude Test & Essay Writing Test followed by Personal Interview to evaluate the applicant on various parameters. The evaluation fee is USD 50. Candidates seeking admission to SP Jain Global Executive MBA have to appear in the Aptitude Test conducted by SP Jain School of Global Management.  Key components of Aptitude Test are:

• Written Test has a time duration of 75 minutes
• Total Max Marks for the exam are 50
• Total questions are 41 divided into 7 Sections
• 40 questions are of MCQ type and 1 is Essay Writing Test
• Each MCQ carries +1 Mark and Essay Writing Test carries Max 10 Marks
• The sections in the exam are Diagrammatic Reasoning, Logic, IQ, Numeracy, Reading Comprehension, GK, Essay Writing

Personal Interview & Final Admission

• After the Aptitude Test, the candidate has to go through the Personal Interview Round.
• Apart from the performance in the aptitude test, essay and personal interview rounds, applicants will be assessed on their suitability to the program based on their overall profile – educational qualifications, work experience, professional achievements and industry certifications
• Candidates will get email on admission decision approximately 2-3 working days after the evaluation.
• On receipt of the offer letter, the applicants will have to confirm their acceptance of offer and register for the program on or before the date specified in the letter.

Intake
The batch size for executive MBA programme remains between 25-30 students.

How Much Does an Executive MBA Cost?

Joining an executive MBA program is an investment in your future and it will continue to pay dividends throughout your career. At Wharton, the cost of the two-year EMBA program for the class entering in 2021 is $210,900. Because the University of Pennsylvania is a private university, there is no difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition. 

Executive MBA Cost Breakdown

The Wharton executive MBA cost is designed to cover more than just the price of courses. The total two-year cost includes:

• Executive MBA tuition 
• Executive MBA course fees
• Room and board
  • Boarding for all required class days is provided at the Steinberg Conference Center or the Inn at Penn in Philadelphia, and the Le Meridien Hotel in San Francisco.
  • Program staff handle most of the logistics surrounding room and board, such as hotel reservations and meal planning.
• Most course materials
• Case study room for you and your study team
• Land Package for the MBA for Executives Program’s Global Business Week
  • Airfare is not included. The registration charge and travel costs for the elective Global Modular Courses offered during holiday breaks are not included.

Compared to competitor programs, Wharton’s executive MBA price maximizes our students’ investment because the semesters run longer with more available elective courses, and EMBA students spend more time with professors in the classroom and in student cohorts.

The Case for Self-Sponsorship

EMBA Sponsorship and Financing Options

Wharton is committed to helping you explore financing options so that you make informed decisions. Wharton’s MBA for Executives Program requires your employer to sponsor your time in the program. We also encourage you to secure financial sponsorship from your employer.

Payment Schedule

You can make tuition payments by check, electronic fund transfer, or American Express, Discover, or MasterCard credit card (fees apply). Program tuition is due in six equal installments before the beginning of each term of the University of Pennsylvania academic calendar.

DEPOSIT

To reserve a place in the program once admitted, you are required to submit a nonrefundable deposit of $2,500, which is applied to the first year’s tuition. Complete information regarding fees and payment schedules will be provided in the acceptance materials.

For California Residents: Due to California BPPE regulations, California residents in the WEMBA San Francisco cohort will submit a $250 nonrefundable deposit.  In addition, California residents should review the catalogue and the enrollment agreement for additional deposit and refund information.

Financing Your EMBA

Wharton encourages you to explore your financial options to select the financial resources that best fit your needs. Understand that most students rely on multiple funding sources; financing options typically include personal resources, educational loans, external scholarships and sponsorship.

As an MBA is a long-term investment, most students rely on loans to cover some or all of their education or living costs. Students typically borrow from one or several loan programs, and you have the right to select the educational loan provider of your choice.

Wharton does not endorse any specific lender nor receive compensation from any lender, and we encourage students to compare the fees and terms of all student loan products to determine which ones are best suited to their individual needs. Information on loan programs and links to loan applications are available on the Student Financial Services website.

EMBA Loans

Earning  your executive MBA is a long-term financial investment, and as such, it’s important to plan for how you’ll cover the cost of the program. Student, or other executive education loans can be a good option.

U.S. CITIZEN/PERMANENT RESIDENT STUDENTS

Listed below are the current loan offerings for U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents.

Federal Direct and Direct Grad PLUS Loans

Federal student loans available to graduate/professional students are all unsubsidized loans. Direct Unsubsidized loans will accrue interest while you are in school.

Federal Loans offer fixed interest rates, low fees, and favorable repayment benefits. Both loan programs require the completion of the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Applicants must complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) and the Entrance Counseling Session before funds can be disbursed.

GRAD PLUS LOAN:

• Eligible Loan Amount: $20,500 per year
• Interest Rate: 4.30%
• Origination Fee: 1.062%

DIRECT GRADUATE PLUS LOAN:

If you need funding beyond the Direct Loan, you may wish to consider a Direct Grad PLUS Loan.

• Eligible Loan Amount:Up to the MBA student budget minus the Federal Direct Loan and any other financial aid.
• Interest Rate: 5.30%
• Origination Fee: 4.248%
• If you are planning to request a student loan above $100,000, your request must be divided into two loan requests. The University Loan Office cannot process a 6-digit loan request at this time.

Private Alternative Loans

A number of private lenders and other financial institutions offer education loans to students. These loans are referred to as private alternative loans. Private alternative loans are not subsidized, and generally have tiered and fixed interest rates and fees, both based on your credit score.

In addition, cosigners may be required. Unlike Federal Direct and Grad PLUS loans, private loans do not have an income-based cap on monthly repayments.

Listed below, in alphabetical order, are private alternative lenders who have made five or more private educational loans to Penn students over the past few years.  These lenders have electronic processes and links to Penn that expedite loan originations and disbursements.

• Citizens Bank
• CommonBond
• Discover Student Loans
• PNC Bank
• Suntrust Bank
• Sallie Mae

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

If you are an International student who is neither a dual U.S. citizen nor a U.S. permanent resident, we encourage you to investigate all sources of funding within your home country, including government and private scholarships and loans.

10 Top EMBA Programs With Low Tuition Fees

Considering enrolling on an EMBA program but not convinced that your employer will part with the money to make it happen? Well, looks like you’re going to have to be a self-funded EMBA candidate (unless you can find another channel through which to fund your studies). You’re certainly not alone – though we’ve seen a slight recovery in the proportion of company-sponsored candidates, the long-term trend is definitely towards more and more candidates paying their own EMBA tuition fees. And why not? You’ll almost certainly enjoy a very healthy return, so investing in yourself needn’t be a risky enterprise. 

That said, reducing costs will be a concern for many, if not most, self-funded candidates. An EMBA isn’t cheap – there’s simply no escaping that fact. However, there is a great deal of variety in the price tags of top programs. While it should never be your top reason for choosing a program, if you were looking to save, say, a few thousand dollars here or there, you certainly have some choices. We took at the look at the tuition fees of the world’s top-50 EMBA programs (according to the FT) to put together a two-part list of the ones with the lowest tuition fees

So, ‘stop going on about it and tell us what they are then’, do we hear you say? Ladies and gentlemen, please read on to find out. Dollar prices are conversions correct at time of publication.

Warwick Business School, UK

EMBA tuition: US$57,976

Starting in September 2015, Warwick Business School – a pioneer of distance learning formats – will be offering its executive MBA program from the European Union’s tallest building, the (despite its young age) iconic Shard in London as well as from its home campus and by distance. The 45 elective modules also afford you opportunities to study in Germany, India, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, and China – indeed, completing a module at a non-UK venue is compulsory  over the three years of the program. Graduates from Warwick’s EMBA program get an average salary increase of 94% three years after graduating. 

IESE Business School, Spain

EMBA tuition: US$57,925

IESE’s EMBA program lasts 19 months and can be taken in Barcelona (weekly), Madrid (weekly or fortnightly) or São Paulo (fortnightly). It is a bilingual program, delivered in both English and Spanish. Candidates are obliged to undertake three intensive weeks in the second year, during which time there are opportunities to travel to Shanghai or New York. Learning is focused on problem solving, with IESE (which has ties with Harvard) placing an emphasis on the case study method, as it does on its full-time MBA program. The 275 current candidates are 30 years old on average, with 42% coming from an engineering background and 36% from economics.

ESCP Europe, multi campus

EMBA tuition: US$57,431

ESCP’s EMBA program can be taken in Paris, Turin, Madrid, Beirut or a combination of Berlin and London – or, if you choose the itinerant study track, across all five of these options. Candidates can choose between taking the course over 18 or 30 months or may also take the 12-month General Management Programme, which consists of the full EMBA program’s nine core courses (candidates can upgrade to the full EMBA on completion of this shorter program and move on to its other required modules). The degree includes five week-long seminars and requires candidates to complete a collaborative international consulting project. Elective options are spread across the school’s network of campuses and see candidates studying alongside those from other tracks. 

ESSEC/Mannheim Business School, France & Germany

EMBA tuition: US$53,519

Offered in modular or a weekend formats, the ESSEC & Mannheim Business School EMBA program takes 18 months to complete. The modular format sees candidates take classes in Paris and Mannheim, and includes one residency in the US and one in Asia. The weekend format, meanwhile, can be taken in either Paris or Mannheim, and extends to two five-day residencies in Europe and one ten-day residency in Asia. In both cases, the curriculum is built around six areas: leadership & personal development, entrepreneurial thinking, communities of learning & networking, residencies, advanced management and business fundamentals. Class sizes range from 45-50 for each track.

KEDGE Business School, France

EMBA Tuition: $39,378

While KEDGE Business School can only trace its history back to 2013, it is the result of a merger between two schools – Euromed Marseille and BEM Bordeaux – which can trace their history back to the 1870s. The school’s Global MBA (the school’s name for its EMBA) lasts for 24 months and can be taken in Paris, Marseille, Shanghai or Bordeaux. Alongside the main curriculum, candidates also follow a ‘development & management path’, which aims to help them mature as leaders. There are 18 core courses, in addition to which a range of majors (spread over the campuses) can be undertaken. Candidates must also complete between two and six international business seminars and lead a business development project.

EMBA fees & funding

The tuition fees for our Executive MBA programmes are as follows:

• Cambridge Executive MBA (commencing in September 2022): £75,800
• Global Executive MBA (commencing in January 2023): £86,600.

Additionally there is a non-refundable application fee of £150.

What the tuition fees cover

• Programme tuition
• Membership of a Cambridge College
• Accommodation and group meals during Orientation Week and the International Business Study Trip

Additional costs for participants

We estimate that an average of £7,000 should be budgeted to cover additional costs for the programme you take.

Depending on your location and the programme you choose, those additional costs could be significantly higher or lower, as they may include:

• Travel to and from Cambridge and Shenzhen apart from the Orientation Week.
• Flights for the International Business Study Trip (accommodation is provided by the Business School)

When accepting an offer of a place on either Executive MBA programme you will be asked to provide financial evidence that you can meet the tuition costs of the programme, as well as these additional costs.

If you are made an offer of a place on one of the programmes you will be asked to pay a reservation fee of £10,000 to secure your place. This fee is deducted from the total fees payable.

Payment plans

Tuition fees can be paid in one or two instalments. These options are available to both self-funded participants and those sponsored by their employer:

Cambridge Executive MBA

Option 1

Cambridge Judge bursaries and scholarships are deducted as one instalment.

Option 2

Cambridge Judge bursaries and scholarships and deducted across both instalments.

Global Executive MBA

Option 1

Cambridge Judge bursaries and scholarships are deducted as one instalment.

Option 2

Cambridge Judge Business School awards a range of bursaries and scholarships for Executive MBA applicants.

If you are looking for financial assistance, we recommend you apply early to ensure that you meet the deadlines for the award of your choice.

Applicants successful in receiving an award have the designated amount deducted from their total fees. This is done in either one or two instalments, depending on which payment plan was chosen.

Please note:

• Bursary and scholarship awards cannot be used to finance the 15% reservation fee for the programme.
• You can apply for as many scholarships as you wish. An applicant can be awarded up to a maximum of 50% of tuition fees in scholarships and bursaries.