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5th Dec 2022
Afia Azmi

MBA in USA or Europe: Which Region Fits Your Career Goals?

When it comes to an international MBA, most Indians have traditionally opted to pursue MBA programs in the US. With more students interested in this program than ever before, students are turning to Europe in order to covet this popular degree. While it is clear an MBA degree from either region comes with many benefits, we present a list of factors for you to consider to help you decide which is better suited for you.

Expenses

While MBA programs in general are quite expensive, MBA in Europe usually cost less than those offered at US universities. There are exceptions of course, such as the MBA program at the London School of Economics.

Method of Instruction

MBA programs in the US are well known for going beyond the classroom to ensure their students have an edge in the national as well as global stage. In addition to usual lectures, students are exposed to guest lectures by respected people in the field as well as seminars. They work on case studies to get a better idea on how to deal with real-world problems. Internships are also compulsory. Student exchange programs have also been a popular part of these programs. While these factors clearly made an MBA from a US university most desirable in the past, the scenario is changing as MBA programs the world over are becoming increasingly similar.

Specialized MBA Programs

While a general MBA is still popular these days, several students are opting for specialized MBA programs as they believe these programs can add more value to their careers due to the concentrated focus on certain industries or branches within business administration. With regard to specializations, both the US and Europe have great specialized MBAs on offer.

International Exposure

The number of international students in MBA programs in Europe are higher than the number in US MBA programs. For students looking to gain more international exposure, Europe is generally considered the better choice.

Scholarships

If you’re keen to try to get a scholarship to help you get through your MBA program, the US may be a better bet for you. There are many scholarships on offer and these are open to international students as well.

Class Size

If you prefer smaller classes, where you will have a better chance of getting more individualized attention, Europe is a better option as several schools in the US accept a large number of MBA students due to the high demand.

Program Duration

MBA programs in the US are typically spread out over the course of two years. In Europe, you can earn your MBA degree in one year, although specialized MBA programs could take around two years to complete. If you are keen to complete your degree as soon as possible and start working, a European MBA may suit you better. It is worthwhile to note that some people believe that the two-year MBA program is necessary, not only because you can learn more over a longer period, but because you will be able to network more in that span of time, which could be richly rewarding for your career.

Read More - Comprehensive Guide to studying MBA in USA

Faculty

While universities in the US may have taken the cake for the best qualified faculty in MBA programs, a few years ago, universities in Europe are catching up. If this is the most important criteria for you, you will have to delve deeper and do your research on the faculty members of the universities you are considering applying to.

Return on Investment

The ROI on a US MBA is pretty high. Companies across the world still greatly appreciate an MBA from a university in the US. European MBAs are highly valued as well, today. Overall, it is important to keep in mind that ultimately there will be a lot of importance placed on the school you receive your MBA from. An MBA from a higher ranked B-school is more likely to increase your ROI.

Ultimately, an MBA from either Europe or the US can be very beneficial for your career. As MBA programs the world over are becoming more similar, your choice could become a whole lot simpler. The best advice is to consider the credibility of the university you apply to and ensure that their program is best suited to building the career you desire. While these points are factors you need to consider when deciding on which region would be best suited for you to pursue an MBA, they are only the first step in your journey. Good luck from all of us at Admission Table!

Frequently Asked Questions

Many colleges in the USA offer admission to domestic and international students seeking higher education in management. The top colleges for MBA in USA, often referred to as Community Colleges, are:

  • Foothill College, California
  • Northwood Technical College, Wisconsin
  • Fox Valley Technical College, Wisconsin
  • Moraine Park Technical College, Wisconsin
  • Santa Barbara City College, California
  • Las Positas College, California
  • Southeast Technical College, Minnesota
  • Atlantic Technical College, Florida
  • Craven Community College, North California
  • Collins Career Technical College, Ohio

The average tuition fee for MBA in USA is $60,000 to $1,20,000 per year. The price of the tuition fees varies depending upon the scholarships, rankings, and grants. Furthermore, it is important to note that the cost of MBA programs in the USA is directly proportional to the University you choose. Remember that you also need to consider other costs, such as Living Expenses, Health Insurance, travel, Books, and Materials, which can add up to the overall educational cost.

Many top universities in the USA offer scholarships and financial assistance to students interested in MBA Programs. The MBA Scholarships in the USA can help you to reduce the cost, and one can prepare themselves and stand a chance to avail these scholarships. Here are some common types of scholarship for MBA in the USA:

  1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
  2. Merit-Based Scholarships
  3. Leadership Scholarships
  4. Community Service Scholarships
  5. Industry-Specific Scholarships
  6. Diversity Scholarships
  7. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
  8. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Scholarships for MBA in the USA for Indian Students and other international students are not fully funded as there is stiff competition among the aspirants, and only a few are offered this opportunity. However, it is essential to check and research individual universities' websites for the application and scholarship process.

A full-time MBA program usually takes 1 to 2 years, whereas some business schools offer one-year degrees as well. However, students can choose a Full-time or Part-Time management programs in USA according to their requirements. The courses are offered in a way that the students can give their dedicated time to learn some extra skills beyond academics and also work part-time during their learning period.

There are several entrance exams to pursue MBA in the USA for Indian Students. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a commonly required entrance examination. Some universities also have their own set of eligibility criteria and guidelines for the admission process. Many universities also conduct English Proficiency Tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Be sure to check the requirements of the universities and proceed accordingly.

The USA is known as the "Hub of Business Education." The top Universities for MBA in USA are listed below:

  • Booth School of Business, Illinois
  • Columbia Business School, New York
  • Harvard University, Massachusetts
  • Stanford University, California
  • Columbia University, New York
  • Harvard Business School, Massachusetts
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • The Wharton School, Pennsylvania
  • MIT Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts
  • The University of Chicago, Illinois

An MBA student has 90 days to search for a job opportunity from the date of the OPT period. The OPT period is referred to as Optional Practical Training. It is available for 12 months for those who have attended two consecutive semesters of MBA in USA and are looking for a job. During the OPT, candidates are eligible for H-1B Work Visa. Students failing to find a job within 90 days must leave and return to their home country.

Pursuing MBA in USA is highly beneficial for aspiring students. The benefits of studying for an MBA in the USA are mentioned below:

Top-tier education system, Globally acclaimed Universities, High-Quality Programs, Excellent Career Opportunities, Improved Communication Skills, Great Learning Environment, Increased Job Opportunities, Availability of Scholarships Post-Study Visa Options, and Expansion of Network.

Please note that the document required to get an admission for MBA degree in the USA may vary depending on the individual university. The most common documents required are as follows:

  • Recommendation Letter
  • Resume (If any)
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Personal Statement
  • GMAT
  • GRE
  • Transcripts
  • Essays
  • English Proficiency Test
  • Valid Passport
  • Visa Documentation
  • Passport size photos

In the United States, the average annual pay for an MBA graduate is $115,000. A Stanford Graduate School of Business alumnus's highest average yearly pay is $2487669 USD. The average yearly income of Harvard Business School graduates is $235,000. Remember, the average salary for an MBA in USA may vary depending on the colleges or universities you select, the program length, your area of concentration, and the companies you choose to partner with.

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