MBA in Germany: An Overview

MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs are highly regarded throughout the world for providing students with important management and business skills. They came from the US and are now common at universities worldwide. Germany is one of the nations renowned for having excellent MBA programs.

You’re in for an amazing educational experience in the center of Europe, as the nation is paving the way for economic growth in Europe and is on course to take third place globally. Research and practical experience are the main components of German MBA programs, so graduates will have excellent critical thinking and decision-making abilities.

Reasons to Study MBA in Germany

• Robust economy: Germany boasts a thriving economy, particularly in sectors like automotive, manufacturing, and chemicals, offering MBA students valuable exposure to real-world business dynamics. It holds the largest economy in Europe and maintains a significant global position.
• Quality business schools: Germany hosts a strong array of business schools, with four of them holding the prestigious triple accreditation, a distinction shared by only about 1% of business schools worldwide. Additionally, numerous other top-tier institutions offer programs recognized by accreditation agencies like AMBA, EQUIS, or AACSB.
• Affordable education: German universities offer MBA programs at competitive prices, contrary to the common belief that such degrees are expensive. Despite their affordability, MBA programs in Germany maintain high academic standards comparable to renowned programs in countries like the U.S. and the U.K.
• Experienced instructors: Germany’s academic faculty is esteemed for its expertise and extensive practical experience. Pursuing an MBA in Germany involves learning from industry professionals and gaining insightful knowledge of current business practices and trends.

Germany’s leading MBA schools are listed below:

Global MBA Program at Berlin School of Business and Innovation

Program Length: Eighteen months

Cost: The cost for international students in 2024 is €14,150 (February, May, and July) and €14,850 (October); the cost for students in the EU is €9,000 (February, May, and July) and €9,450 (October).

January, March, July, and October intake

Students who complete BSBI’s 18-month Global MBA program, which is taught on campus by professionals in the field, graduate with a master’s degree (180 UK credits/90 ECTS) and critical managerial skills. It provides a distinctive fusion of academic rigor and real-world experience in collaboration with UCA, preparing graduates for leadership positions in the international business environment.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Minimum age requirement: Applicants must be older than twenty-one.
• Educational qualification: Applicants must possess either a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or relevant professional experience.
• Managerial experience: Candidates should have at least three years of relevant managerial experience  or a strong undergraduate degree from an accredited university.
• English proficiency: Evidence of fluency in English is required. Applicants can demonstrate this through various tests such as IELTS (minimum score of 6.0), Password Test (minimum score of 6.0), PTE (Academic) (minimum score of 56), TOEFL IBT (minimum score of 80), Cambridge CAE/Proficiency (minimum score of 69), LanguageCert SELT B2 Communicator High Pass, or Duolingo (minimum score of 105 overall).

Note: Waiver for English requirement: Applicants with degrees taught in English, citizens of English-speaking nations, holders of certain West African credentials (C6 in English), KCSE certificates (grade C+ or higher), Cambridge IGCSE/AICE certificates, and IB diplomas (Syllabus A: 4+ and Syllabus B: 4+) may be eligible to have the English proficiency requirement waived.

Arden University Berlin MBA Program

One full year or one to four years of part-time study

Berlin Study Center charges €16,500 annually; online, it is £10,855 (€12,578). £13,000 (€15,063) for the student route at UK Study Center (not available in Germany and Myanmar). Students from Myanmar and Libya are unable to access the internet channel.

Intakes: Several intakes are available all year long.

The MBA program at Arden University provides a hands-on, pragmatic approach to business education. It was created by professionals in the field and offers collaborative learning and real-time case studies. The curriculum, which offers flexibility and cost, is taught by a diverse academic staff and is accessible in Berlin, London, and online.

The following are the MBA admission requirements for this program:

• Educational qualification: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum classification of 2.2 or above (or its foreign equivalent) or possess professional qualifications along with at least two years of relevant work experience. If the bachelor’s degree was obtained more than five years ago, a CV is required.
• English proficiency: Evidence of fluency in English is mandatory. Applicants can demonstrate this through various tests such as IELTS with a minimum overall score of 6.5 and no component scored lower than 6.0, or TOEFL iBT with a minimum score of 90. Alternatively, internal English tests may be provided, and prior English-medium teaching can be verified for applicants without formal language certification. International students studying in the UK must achieve a minimum score of IELTS for UKVI 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in any element, or an equivalent score.

Global MBA Program, GISMA University of Applied Sciences

Duration of Program: 12 or 24 months

Expense: €18,000

January, April, July, and October intake

For a world that is always evolving, GISMA’s Global MBA cultivates critical thinking and sharpens leadership abilities. It offers a broad student body, complete business management education, and proficiency in global disciplines. It is accredited by the AMBA.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Educational qualification: Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field or demonstrate comparable professional experience.
• Work experience: Three years or more of relevant work experience   necessary
• English proficiency: Evidence of fluency in English is necessary, with a minimum B2 level. This can be demonstrated through a total IELTS score of 6.5, with no component score lower than 6.0, or comparable results on tests like TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, or Duolingo. Alternatively, an internal English test may be accessible
• Interview: Applicants may undergo an individual conversation as part of the application process.
• Employment reference: A citation verifying employment may be required.

MBA Program at IU International University of Applied Sciences

Program Length: 18–36 months, according ontoto the time model

Costs: €9,522 for 18 months of full-time study, €10,728 for 24 months of part-time study, and €10,008 for 24 months of part-time study.

Admissions: Depending on the program, there may be two to four intake yearperyearsintake Successful applicants should maintaiare, or you can start your studies whenever you’d like (online studies).

The online MBA program at IU integrates theory and practical application to improve leadership and business acumen. Expertise in fields such as artificial intelligence, digital business models, and personal development can lead to global management positions, increasing income prospects and fostering professional advancement.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Undergraduate standing: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum of 180 ECTS credits. A minimum grade of “satisfactory” or Grade C is required.
• Work experience: One year of verified post-undergraduate job experience is necessary following the completion of undergraduate study.
• English proficiency: Applicants may need to demonstrate English language competency at the B2 level. Acceptable certifications include TOEFL (minimum score of 80), IELTS (minimum score of 6), Duolingo (minimum score of 95), PTE (minimum score of 59), or Cambridge (minimum Grade B). Native English speakers and graduates of English-speaking schools are exempt from this requirement.

Erasmus Business School MBA Program

Program Length: One year or three semesters

Expense: €7,300

Acceptance: January, April, and October

The one-year, full-time MBA program at EU company School’s Munich location provides a solid foundation in strategic management, basic company operations, and the development of transferable skills. Graduates are positioned for success in the global business scene by earning an accredited Dublin Business School MBA degree from Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI).

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Undergraduate standing: Submission of transcripts and a certified copy of the bachelor’s degree are required.
• English proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate evidence of fluency in English. This can be achieved through an IELTS score of 6.0, B2+ level according to CEFR standards, or TOEFL scores of 80 (internet-based) or 213 (computer-based). Native English speakers or equivalent are also accepted.
• Additional requirement: Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: complete an interview with the academic department, obtain a sufficient GMAT score, or maintain a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Mannheim Full-Time MBA Program at Mannheim Business School

Program Length: 12–15 Months

Expense: €42,500

September intakes

The full-time MBA program in Mannheim provides a rigorous one-year path to positions in top management in Europe and Germany. This program, which has a great reputation, excellent job outcomes, and a varied cohort of seasoned professionals, gives students the tools they need to succeed in the workplace and develops industry connections. It’s a life-changing event right at the center of the European economy.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Degree requirement: Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree that is internationally recognized or equivalent. It is advisable for successful applicants to maintain a B+ average.
• Work experience: Candidates are required to have three years of postgraduate job experience, demonstrating leadership capabilities and exposure to international environments.
• English proficiency: Evidence of fluency in English is necessary, with scores similar to TOEFL iBT 95 or IELTS Academic 7.
• Standardized test scores: A suggested GMAT score of 600 or a comparable GRE score is recommended. Scores of 650 or above may qualify for a €200 discount.
• APS (for specific candidates): Applicants from China, Vietnam, and India holding a first degree may be required to undergo the APS process.

MBA Program at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management: Full-Time

Program Length: One Year

Cost: €42,000 (early bird applicants receive a cost discount of €6,000).

September intakes

The full-time MBA program at Frankfurt School is designed for professionals who want to improve in their careers or work in international business. It is a 12-month program taught in English. Offering elective courses in Advanced Management or Finance & Technology, it is accessible to students from a variety of backgrounds. Situated in Frankfurt, a commercial center, it offers extensive career services and a worldwide network right away.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Degree requirement: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
• Work experience: A minimum of three years of postgraduate work experience is necessary.
• English proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate fluency in English with a TOEFL iBT score of 90 or an IELTS score of 7.0. Waivers may be available for those with relevant corporate job experience, degrees taught in English, or native English fluency.
• Standardized test scores: GMAT/GRE results must be submitted. Alternatively, applicants may opt to take the $100 in-house Business Test Methods.
• Recommendation letters: Two recommendation letters are required, one from a supervisor or professional contact, and another from a previous or current workplace.

MBA Program at WHU (Otto Beisheim): Full-Time

Program Length: One Year

Cost: €43,000 (early bird applicants receive a cost reduction of €3,000–€7,000).

September intakes

The prestigious Full-Time MBA program at WHU’s Otto Beisheim School of Management aims to develop future leaders with an entrepreneurial spirit and a global perspective. This rigorous 12-month curriculum emphasizes leadership development and comprehensive growth, going beyond standard education. Students receive a well-rounded business education through core, elective, and international modules, which include special study abroad opportunities in Asia and the US.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Undergraduate standing: Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
• Work experience: Candidates must have at least two years of postgraduate work experience.
• English proficiency: If English is not the applicant’s first language, they must submit TOEFL results with a minimum score of 100 IBT or an equivalent IELTS score of 7.0.
• Recommendation letter: One recommendation letter is required.
• Excellent Fit Evaluation: Applicants can demonstrate their suitability through various means including test scores (GMAT or GRE), possession of a Ph.D. or doctorate, business studies with experience, outstanding non-business academic performance with experience, or exceptional accomplishments as evaluated through the Excellent Fit Assessment.

Full-Time MBA Program at ESMT Berlin

Program Length: 15 Months

Cost: €49,000 (early candidates may receive a cost discount of €1,000–6,000).

January intakes

The Full-Time MBA program at ESMT Berlin, which spans 15 intense months in the center of Berlin, enables aspiring leaders to customize their MBA experience to fit their professional objectives. Benefiting from small class numbers, global opportunities, and a strong emphasis on personal development, you can specialize in Strategic Leadership, Managerial Analytics, or Innovation & Entrepreneurship.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Degree requirement: Candidates must have completed at least three years of undergraduate study, their first university degree, or a bachelor’s degree.
• Work experience: A minimum of three years of continuous postgraduate professional experience is required.
• English proficiency: Applicants must submit minimum scores for English proficiency tests such as TOEFL (95), PTE (64), or IELTS (7.5). However, native English speakers and individuals with degrees taught in English are exempt from this requirement.
• Standardized test scores: Strong scores in standardized tests such as GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, EA, or ESMT Admissions Test (BAT) are expected from applicants. The average GMAT score is 640.

MBA Program at HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management: Full-Time

Program Length: 90 ECTS for the fast track (15 months) and 120 ECTS for the advanced track (up to 21 months)

Cost: €39,500 (early bird applicants receive a cost reduction of €1,500 to €6,000).

September intakes

Through an international student body that is varied, an emphasis on entrepreneurship, and participatory projects, HHL’s Full-Time MBA program in Germany delivers transformative career growth and personal development. The combination of small class numbers, alumni relationships, and teacher assistance offers a special setting for achievement.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Degree requirement: Applicants must possess a valid bachelor’s degree in any field or its equivalent.
• Work experience: A minimum of three years of postgraduate work experience is necessary.
• English proficiency: Evidence of fluency in English must be provided through TOEFL (90+ iBT), IELTS (7+), or TOEIC (850+) results. Alternatively, applicants can demonstrate English proficiency through credentials or experiences such as holding a bachelor’s degree or completing a semester studying abroad.
• Standardized test scores: Applicants must submit competitive scores in standardized tests such as GMAT (minimum 600), GRE, or HHL Entry Test.

International Triple Degree (ITD) in Master Management at LMU Munich School of Management

Program Length: Two Years

cost:$46,725 (€42,798) was spent.

Admissions: Loyola University in the fall (New Orleans, Louisiana); SKEMA Business School in the spring (Paris, France); Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München in the summer and fall (Munich, Germany).

A distinguished joint curriculum offered by SKEMA Business School, LMU Munich, and Loyola University is called the Global MBA | International Triple Degree. With an emphasis on international business management, students receive an MBA, Master of Management, and Master of Science after undergoing a life-changing experience on three unique campuses in the USA, France, and Germany.

Each partner university has academic standards that applicants must meet. For this program, general entry requirements are as follows:

• Undergraduate standing: Applicants must provide authentic transcripts for all college-level coursework, including a translated copy for degrees obtained outside of the United States, along with their bachelor’s degree diploma.
• CV: Applicants must submit a current curriculum vitae (CV).
• Recommendation letters: Two recommendation letters are required.
• English proficiency: Evidence of fluency in English through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo exam results is required unless applicants were educated in an English-speaking nation or hold an American degree.
• Statement of purpose: A 400-word statement of purpose outlining the motivation for pursuing the Global MBA-Triple Master degree is necessary.
• Standardized test results: Submission of official GRE or GMAT results is optional.
• APS (for specific candidates): Applicants from China or Vietnam must have an APS certificate.
• Interview: An online interview will be conducted.

Executive MBA Program at TUM School of Management

Program Length: Two Years

Price: €39,000.

Intake: April and October

The Executive MBA program at TUM School of Management is a cutting edge cutting-edge maintenance of cutting is an unparalleled way to business education, combining technology, management, and the natural sciences in a way that is unparalleled. It is recognized as one of Germany’s top public universities for MBA programs and has earned the esteemed Triple Crown accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA.

This program’s MBA admission requirements are:

• Master’s degree requirement: Applicants must hold a master’s degree, “Staatsexamen” pass, diploma, completed magister program, or bachelor’s degree to be eligible for admission.
• Work experience: A minimum of three years of full-time postgraduate experience is required, with early leadership experience being advantageous.
• English language proficiency: Proficiency in English will be evaluated as part of the admissions process.
• Admissions process: Applicants must complete and pass an admissions process with multiple stages.

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Business Administration program at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin School of Business and Economics

Program Length: Two Years

Cost: €315.64 (varying depending on semester)

Acceptances: October

The unique two-year Master of Science in Business Administration program at Humboldt-Universität offers a comprehensive business administration education. It provides a cost-effective substitute for conventional MBA programs by emphasizing vital abilities like social interaction, research, and global perspectives. This is a highly intellectually demanding program that is perfect for anyone who want to influence business and research in the future.

The following are the prerequisites for admission to this program:

• Degree requirement: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in economics with at least 120 ECTS credits. This degree should include specific methodological areas such as statistics, econometrics, mathematics, and microeconomics (excluding macroeconomics), totaling at least 24 ECTS credits. Incomplete degrees should not have more than 30 pending ECTS credits.
• Fluency in German and English: Candidates must provide documentation of their C1 level English proficiency, which can be demonstrated through diplomas, certificates, or test results from exams like Cambridge CPE, IELTS (7.0), or TOEFL (95 iBT or 71 paper-delivered). Additionally, a minimum B1 proficiency in German is required, proven through diplomas or Goethe certificates. Native German speakers are exempt from this requirement.
• Work experience: Professional experience in the field holds 10% weight in the evaluation process. This experience should be obtained outside of postsecondary education.

Tuition Fees for an MBA degreeDegreeScience Cost in Germany

The cost of an MBA degree can vary depending on the institution and program you choose; it can range from about €7,300 to as much as €50,000.


One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking about getting an MBA in Germany is how much it will cost. A common question among aspiring students is, “Is it possible to get an MBA in Germany for free?”

Like in many other nations, MBA programs in Germany are frequently more expensive than other degrees offered by public universities.

However, you should think about enrolling in a Master of Science in Business Administration program if you’re searching for less expensive—or even free—alternatives to MBA programs. The typical semester contribution for these programs is quite low, ranging from €100 to €350.

Tuition Fees of an  MBA  Degree for Indian Students in Germany

The price of MBA programs in Germany might reach INR 45.5 lakhs (€50,000) if you’re targeting reputable institutes. On the other hand, a lot of business schools offer MBA programs that cost between INR 6.64 lakhs (€7,300) and INR 18.22 lakhs (€20,000).


You can choose from a variety of programs with varied rates to fit your budget if you’re wondering how much an MBA in Germany costs for Indian students.
In certain instances, these costs may even be more affordable than those of some well-known business schools in India. These rates might be quite competitive. For instance, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore’s MBA program costs INR 24.5 lakhs, or roughly €26,918. Likewise, the cost of IIM Ahmedabad’s MBA program in India is INR 25 lakhs, or roughly €27,835.

A master of science degrees is another option if you want a top-notch business education without the MBA title and related expenses. The cost of these programs normally ranges from INR 9.08 thousand to INR 31.80 thousand per semester.

 MBA in English in Germany

Indeed! The majority of the German MBA programs—as well as many more—that we’ve mentioned above are offered in English. Therefore, if you’re thinking about doing an MBA in Germany, you usually don’t have to worry about the German language requirements. It is now even more accessible to students from abroad thanks to this.

MBA Admission Requirements

• Degree requirement: Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or a comparable credential from an accredited university.
• Work experience: Some programs may require a minimum of one to three years of relevant work experience.
• Resumé: Applicants must submit a current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume.
• Evidence of linguistic ability: Non-native English speakers or those without prior English schooling may need to demonstrate their English competence, typically through exams like TOEFL or IELTS. Proof such as the Goethe-Zertifikat B2 or equivalent may be required if the program is in German.
• Standardized test scores: While GMAT or GRE scores may be necessary for some schools, they are rarely mandatory and are often optional.
• Letters of recommendation: One or two recommendation letters, usually from an employment or academic supervisor, may be required.
• Mission statement: Applicants should provide a motivation letter or personal statement outlining their reasons for wanting to enroll in an MBA program.
• Application cost: For details on application fees, applicants should inquire with the specific university.

Admission Requirements for MBA Students from China, Vietnam, and India

Apart from the aforementioned prerequisites, students from China, Vietnam, and India also need to receive an APS (Academic Evaluation Center) certificate, which is essential for their visa applications since it attests to the legitimacy of your academic records and your suitability for the courses you have selected.


A seamless transfer to studying in Germany requires completion of the APS process, which is closely associated with the German Embassies in your home nations. Your APS certificate is valid for an unlimited period of timeperiod once you receive it; assuming all of your paperwork is in place, the procedure normally takes three to four weeks.

It is advisable to begin the APS process as soon as postoderpossibleapplication required applicationtime perioddegree to guarantee a hassle-free path to higher education in Germany.

Steps to Apply to German MBA Programs

• Register on the school’s platform: Begin by signing up on the university’s website, as most institutions offer an online application process.
• Upload necessary files: Complete the application form by uploading the required documents such as your curriculum vitae, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts.
• Submit your application: Once all required documents are uploaded, submit your application through the online platform.
• Await confirmation: The university will review your application and supporting documents. They will notify you via email once they have received and processed your application.
• Await decision: Be patient while the university evaluates your application. They may take some time to reach a decision.
• Consider early application: If you have a preferred institution in mind, consider applying early as some universities waive their application fees for early applicants.

Duration of   an MBA in Germany

If you can study full-time, full-time MBA programs in Germany typically last 12 to 24 months, providing a quicker route to your MBA.


Conversely, part-time programs span two to four years and are intended for working individuals who want to progress in their careers while still working.

Which option is best for you will depend on your circumstances, professional objectives, and available study time.

Typical MBA Salary Expectations in Germany

In Germany, the typical wage range for MBA graduates is between €40,000 and €120,000 annually.


Important to keep in mind that while pay may be lower in smaller towns and for entry-level employment, it might be higher in larger cities like Frankfurt and Munich, particularly for roles in banking and consulting.

The most popular jobs in Germany for which an MBA is required, together with the average salary for each, are shown below.

Role	Average annual salary (EUR)	Average annual salary (USD)	Average annual salary (INR)	Average annual salary (GBP)
Business Development Manager	€73,000	$80,191	₹6,658,987	£63,167
Financial Analyst	€65,000	$71,403	₹5,929,235	£56,245
Supply Chain Manager	€65,000	$71,403	₹5,929,235	£56,245
Human Resources Manager	€61,000	$67,009	₹5,564,359	£52,783
Risk Analyst	€64,000	$70,305	₹5,835,449	£55,379
Marketing Manager	€61,000	$67,009	₹5,564,359	£52,783
Project Manager	€70,000	$76,896	₹6,385,330	£60,571
Management Consultant	€72,000	$79,093	₹6,567,768	£62,302
Investment Banker	€109,000	$119,738	₹9,942,871	£94,318
Product Manager	€70,000	$76,896	₹6,385,330	£60,571

MBA Scholarships Are available in Germany

• DAAD Scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for international students, including those pursuing MBA programs.
• ESMT MBA Scholarships: The European School of Management and Technology (ESMT) provides various scholarships for MBA students, including merit-based and diversity-based grants.
• Leipzig HHL Scholarships: HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management offers numerous scholarships for MBA students, including those for women in business and entrepreneurship.
• WHU Fellowships at Otto Beisheim: WHU’s Otto Beisheim School of Management provides scholarships for MBA candidates, including awards for both international and high-achieving applicants.
• Scholarships at Frankfurt School of Finance and Management: MBA students can apply for scholarships from the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, including sector-specific scholarships and women in business scholarships.
• Scholarships at Mannheim Business School: Mannheim Business School offers various partial scholarships for MBA students, including the MBS Network Scholarship and the Scholarship for Excellent Candidates.

FAQs

Q.WhyQ. WhyQ. How should I pursue my MBA in Germany?
Germany is a great place to get an MBA because it provides a special combination of global perspective, strong economic growth, and high academic standards.

How can I submit an application applicationrequiredapplication required to Germany’s top business schools?
Every school has an application procedure. Generally, you will need to send in a statement of purpose, a CV, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts. Verify the particular prerequisites for each school.

Q. Are MBA courses taught in English in Germany?
Yes, to accommodate international students, a large number of MBA programs in Germany are offered in English.

Q. How long do MBA programs in Germany last?
While MBA programs in Germany can range in length, the majority are intended to be finished in 12 to 24 months.

 Q. Are there any scholarships offered in Germany to MBA students?
Indeed, a lot of German business schools provide scholarships based on a variety of factors, including professional experience and academic standing. For specifics, inquire with each school individually.