Many students worldwide pick management courses for their careers. One of the top choices is the MBA, which you can study at business schools. Getting an MBA from a top university can really help your career and give you lots of experience. The United Kingdom has some really good business schools known for excellent teaching. Check out this blog to see what opportunities study in UK can bring you.
Why Study MBA in UK?
Popular MBA Specialisations
These are some of the most popular MBA specializations you can choose from when studying in the UK:
1. Quality Management
2. Sports Management
3. International Business
4. Human Resource Management
5. Digital Marketing
6. Data Science
7. Project Management
8. Retail Management
9. Finance
10. Healthcare
11. Accounting
12. Pharmaceutical Management
13. Fashion Designing
14. Foreign Trade
15. Hotel Management
16. Healthcare Management
Popular Intakes in UK
Here are the popular intakes in the UK along with their starting months and application deadlines:
Fall/Primary Intake:
- Starting Month: September
- Application Deadlines: June-July
Winter/Secondary Intake:
- Starting Months: January/February
- Application Deadlines: August-September
Summer/Least Intake:
- Starting Months: April/May
- Application Deadlines: October-January
Types of MBA Programmes in the UK
The leading universities in the UK are famous for their one-year MBA programs, which are highly regarded. They offer a wide range of specialized MBA courses to students from all over the world. These programs vary from part-time to full-time options, and students can choose from General MBA, Global MBA, Executive MBA, and other specialized MBA programs based on their preferences and career goals. Here are some prominent specializations available for MBA in the UK:
1. MBA in Retail Management
2. MBA in Finance
3. MBA in Arts Management
4. MBA in Digital Marketing
5. Global Executive MBA
6. MBA in Architecture
7. MBA in Life Sciences
8. MBA in Strategic Leadership
9. MBA in International Business Apprenticeship
Eligibility Criteria for MBA in the UK
In the UK, an MBA program typically lasts for 1 year, though it can extend to 2 years in some universities. Additionally, many business schools offer online MBA courses. Here are the eligibility criteria for applying to an MBA program in the UK:
1. Completion of 15 years of education, which is a requirement for most UK universities. Some universities also ask for a minimum of 3 years of work experience (preferably 5 years). However, if you’re new to management, there are universities offering MBA programs in the UK without work experience requirements.
2. Applicants must provide IELTS/PTE/TOEFL scores to demonstrate English language proficiency.
3. GMAT and GRE scores must meet the requirements specified by the chosen university.
English Language Requirements
Since the scorecards for tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are valid for two years, students should become acquainted with the university calendar and apply for admission attentively. Here are the average score requirements for these tests:
- IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5
- TOEFL: 80 – 90
- PTE: 56 – 61
Application Process for MBA in the UK
Just like universities everywhere, in the UK, there’s a standard set of documents and steps you need to follow to apply. These steps make sure everyone follows the same process when applying, no matter where they’re from. Here’s a step-by-step guide on completing the admission procedure to study MBA in the UK for Indian students:
Top Universities for MBA in the UK
In the United Kingdom, many academic institutions offer various MBA degrees with different specializations. Here are some major business schools providing options for MBA programs in the UK:
- University of Oxford
- London Business School
- University of Cambridge
- London School of Economics and Political Science
- Imperial College London
- University of Warwick
- University College London
- University of Bristol
- University of Bath
- Lancaster University
- City University London
- Durham University
- University of St Andrews
- University of Leeds
- The University of Edinburgh
- Coventry University
- Cardiff University
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Birmingham
- Loughborough University
- The University of Manchester
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the major universities and business schools offering MBA programs in the UK.
London Business School
London Business School (LBS) is part of the University of London and was founded in 1964. LBS provides a range of MBA programs with different specializations. The duration of the MBA program at LBS typically lasts between 15 to 21 months. If you’re interested in pursuing an MBA at LBS in the UK, here are some key fields you can choose from:
- Human Resource
- Finance
- Marketing
- Strategy
- Economics and Leadership
Saïd Business School
As a division of the University of Oxford, Said Business School provides 1-year MBA programs that blend theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The elective courses within this MBA program are frequently taught by industry professionals and faculty members. Said Business School is recognized as one of the premier business schools for MBA studies in the UK. Moreover, industrial training and internships are integrated into these degree programs to offer students exceptional exposure and experience in their preferred areas of interest.
Cambridge Judge Business School
Cambridge Judge Business School is affiliated with the University of Cambridge, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities globally. It is a preferred choice for those looking to pursue an MBA in the UK. The duration of this degree program is approximately one year, and it offers specializations in the following areas:
- Entrepreneurship
- Management Science
- Financial Reporting & Analysis
- Corporate Finance
Imperial College Business School
Imperial College Business School offers 1-year MBA degrees with a focus on harnessing the power of innovative thinking to benefit both business and society.
Durham University Business School
Durham University Business School, recognized as one of the top 20 business schools in Europe by the Financial Times, attracts students from over 100 countries. It offers two full-time MBA programs, an Executive MBA, and an Online MBA. It’s a popular choice for MBA studies in the UK and provides a variety of scholarships for both national and international students.
Cost of Pursuing an MBA in the UK
For Indian students, pursuing an MBA in the UK typically involves a 12-21-month intensive, research-based program. The average cost of this program ranges from £31,000 to £88,000. For Indian students, the total cost of studying in the UK varies from INR 24 lakhs to INR 80 lakhs.
Cost of Living in the UK
Here’s a breakdown of expenses for Indian students studying in the UK, including costs in GBP and their equivalent in INR:
- Visa Application Fees: £348 (INR 35,834)
- Housing: £500 (INR 51,486) per month
- Transportation: £150-£200 (INR 15,445 to INR 19,844) per month
- Food: £150-£200 (INR 14,883 to INR 20,594) per month
- Clothing and Leisure: £50 (INR 5,148) per month
- Telephone and Mobile: £50 (INR 5,148) per month
Scholarships Offered for MBA in the UK
There are many scholarship opportunities available for Indian students who want to pursue an MBA in the UK. Here’s a list of top scholarships available for Indian students pursuing an MBA in the UK:
- The Oxford and Cambridge Society of India Scholarships – University of Cambridge
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship
- Chevening Scholarship
- University of East Anglia Scholarship
- Education Grants by Tata Trusts Academy Senior Fellowship
- Inlaks Scholarships
- The Gates Cambridge Scholarships
- Go Clean Scholarship
- Brokerfish International Student Scholarship
- The Financial Sumo Educational Scholarship Program
- Global Study Awards
- Hornby Scholarship
- Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship
- GREAT Scholarships
MBA in the UK With Work Placement
It’s true that having an MBA degree can improve your job prospects, but it doesn’t guarantee landing your dream job right away. However, research indicates that pairing an MBA program with industry work placements, such as internships or sandwich courses, can give students the extra edge they need to kickstart their careers. These practical experiences offer valuable insights and hands-on skills that can enhance employment opportunities and help individuals excel in their chosen fields. Here’s a list of top universities in the UK that offer MBA courses along with work placements to students:
- University of Greenwich
- University of West London
- University of Leicester
- Coventry University
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Edinburgh Napier University
- University of Central Lancashire
- University of Northampton
- University of East London
- University of South Wales
- Cardiff Metropolitan University
MBA in the UK Without Work Experience
A significant number of recent graduates aspire to pursue management careers to establish successful professional paths. While many universities worldwide prefer students with prior work experience for their MBA programs, there is a growing recognition of the value of admitting students without prior experience. These students bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and academic potential to the MBA classroom, enriching the learning environment and contributing to diverse discussions and collaborations.
As a result, an increasing number of universities are opening their doors to applicants without work experience, offering tailored programs to meet their needs and support their career aspirations in management. Here is a list of some well-known UK universities offering MBA programs for Indian students without work experience:
- Coventry University
- Leeds Beckett University
- University of Northampton
- University of East London
- Anglia Ruskin University
- Bedfordshire University
- Cardiff Metropolitan University
- University of Derby
- Staffordshire University
- University of South Wales
- University of Greenwich
- University of West London
- University of Central Lancashire
- University of Teesside
- York St John University
- Liverpool John Moores University
- Glyndwr University
- University of Sunderland
MBA Without GMAT in the UK
Here are some universities in the UK that offer MBA programs without requiring the GMAT:
- University of Central Lancashire
- Warwick School of Business
- Birmingham City Business School
- Lancaster University Management School
- Durham University Business School
Cheap MBA Colleges in the UK
Here is a list of affordable MBA colleges in the UK along with their fees in GBP and the equivalent in INR:
- University of Bedfordshire: £16,250 (INR 16 Lakh)
- University of Bolton: £13,950 (INR 14 Lakh)
- University of East London: £15,720 (INR 16 Lakh)
- University of Suffolk: £16,380 (INR 16 Lakh)
- Cardiff Metropolitan University: £10,500 (INR 10 Lakh)
- University of Wales, Trinity St. David: £15,000 (INR 15 Lakh)
MBA in the UK Without IELTS
Colleges that do not mandate IELTS scores for admission typically require students to demonstrate English proficiency through alternative means. These may include:
- Completion of more than 60% of coursework in English during grades 11 and 12.
- Holding an undergraduate degree obtained in English.
- Completion of a pre-sessional language course tailored for international students.
By meeting these criteria, students can prove their English proficiency and qualify for admission to these colleges.
MBA in the UK: Visa and Salary
Studying for an MBA in the UK typically allows you to obtain a Student Visa that is valid for 16 months if you enroll in a 12-month program. This extended duration gives you four additional months to search for work opportunities after completing your studies, reducing the pressure to return to your home country immediately. However, it’s important to stay updated on the evolving regulations governing student visas.
After graduating from a top UK college with an MBA, you could potentially earn between INR 85 lakhs to INR 1 crore per year in reputable Indian companies. For students interested in staying in the UK post-MBA, seeking sponsorship from prestigious UK institutions can help extend their Tier 4 visa.
Post-Study Work Permit in the UK
The Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) is a temporary visa option that allows international students, including those of Indian descent with valid immigration status in the UK, to live, study, and work in various positions or career paths upon completing their education. This route, known as the Graduate Route, is available to all students studying at UK Higher Education Provider-approved institutions.
This initiative aims to retain talented students from around the world and help them explore job opportunities in the UK. Under the new work permit, international students can remain in the UK for up to 2 years after completing their undergraduate or master’s degree programs, and for up to 3 years after finishing their PhD programs.
FAQs
How much does it cost to do an MBA in the UK?
The cost of pursuing an MBA in the UK can vary depending on the duration of the program and the institution. Opting for shorter 1-year MBA programs can reduce overall costs, including tuition fees and living expenses. There are also many low-cost MBA courses available in the UK. Tuition fees for an MBA in the UK typically range from around £10,000 to £15,000, but can be higher for prestigious business schools such as those at Oxford and Cambridge. For more detailed analysis of living costs and other expenses, please refer to our comprehensive blog on the Cost of Studying in the UK!
Is it worth doing an MBA in the UK?
Pursuing an MBA from the UK’s renowned business schools offers numerous benefits. You can gain global exposure, learn from top industry leaders, and earn an internationally recognized degree. This experience can greatly enhance your career prospects and open doors to exciting opportunities worldwide.
Is GMAT required for MBA in the UK?
Many universities and colleges in the UK don’t require a GMAT score for admission into their MBA courses. Some of these include Durham University Business School, City Business School, Lancaster University Management School, and Warwick Business School, among others. For applicants without a GMAT score, greater emphasis is placed on other aspects of their application, such as academic records (CGPA), statement of purpose (SOP), work experience, letters of recommendation (LORs), etc.
How long is an MBA in the UK?
There are various full-time and part-time MBA programs available in the UK for students to choose from. The most common duration for MBA programs is 1 year, although some programs may extend up to 2 years to complete the degree.
By pursuing an MBA in the UK, you can access a wealth of opportunities in your chosen field of study. Many Indian students aspire to study abroad for the exposure and career growth opportunities it offers. If you’re planning to study abroad, consider joining a free counseling session with Leverage Edu to explore your options further.