More than 250,000 students pursue an MBA worldwide every year. One of the best degrees for professional growth, an MBA can give you an ROI of up to 500%. No wonder students across the world want a top MBA admit.
Before that, you need to know about the exams and eligibility for MBA abroad. Read this blog to learn how you can prepare for your MBA abroad with the right information on exams and eligibility required.
Key Highlights:
- To pursue an MBA abroad, you must take the GMAT or GRE, as well as an English proficiency exam such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE..
- You must be eligible by having a related bachelor's degree, work experience, and competitive scores on standardised tests.
- For a top MBA, you need a GMAT score above 700/ GRE score over 320, with a TOEFL score of 100+ or an IELTS band of 7 or higher.
- Some top MBA colleges are Harvard Business School, Wharton School of Business, INSEAD, and HEC-Paris.
- Pursuing an MBA abroad can offer you an ROI of up to 500%.
Reasons to Pursue MBA Abroad
An MBA abroad gives you global exposure, better learning and networking opportunities, career growth, and higher earning potential. An MBA in a multicultural setting enhances your learning experience, and gives you the following benefits:
- Global Exposure: An MBA abroad teaches you about global and regional business practices, giving you a rich learning experience.
- Better Job Options: After an MBA from a top university, you can expect an average annual salary of USD 100,000+ (INR 83 lakhs).
- Skill Growth: MBA abroad doesn’t just focus on theoretical knowledge, but also a more holistic practical approach by teaching you case studies, real-life business successes and failures.
- Specialisations: Unlike India which mostly offers a general PGDM degree, MBA abroad offers you specialisations like Finance, Marketing and HR.
If this sounds like what you want to pursue, schedule a call with our expert advisor! They will evaluate your profile and help you understand the exams and eligibility requirements for MBA programs abroad.
Entrance Exams for MBA Abroad
GMAT and GRE are common standardised tests for most business schools. Additionally, you need to take the IELTS or TOEFL to prove English proficiency.
Here’s a summary of the entrance exams required for MBA programs abroad:
Standardised Tests:
- GMAT: The most widely accepted test for MBA admissions.
- GRE: Accepted by many business schools, and allows for broader graduate program applications.
English Proficiency Tests
- IELTS: Measures English proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
- TOEFL: Primarily accepted in the USA, it measures English proficiency in an academic context.
- PTE: A computer-based test focused on daily English usage.
- Duolingo: Relatively new, an English proficiency test accepted at many global institutions.
These exams are key to demonstrating your readiness and proficiency when applying for MBA programs abroad.
Standard Management Aptitude Tests for MBA Abroad
GMAT and GRE are the two most common management aptitude tests for MBA programs abroad, each comprehensively assessing your analytical and verbal skills. Here’s a closer look at the standard management aptitude tests:
1. GMAT
More than 2,300 graduate management institutions worldwide accept the GMAT. The GMAT Focus Edition costs USD 275 (around INR 23,091) and lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes. It includes three sections: Data Insights, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning, with a score range of 205-805. The score is valid for 5 years.
More details on the GMAT are listed below:
- Exam Cost: USD 275 (INR 23,091)
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Sections: 3 (Data Insights, Verbal & Quantitative Reasoning)
- Score Range: 205-805
- Validity: 5 years
- Retake Policy: Allowed after 16 days
- Waiver: Available under special circumstances (check the university website)
- Average GMAT Score for Top B-schools: 700+
Average GMAT Scores for Top MBA Destinations
Top countries for pursuing an MBA with GMAT scores include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Singapore. You can gain admission to top MBA colleges with a competitive score of 700+.
The top countries with their average GMAT score requirement are:
|
Country |
Average GMAT Score Required |
|---|---|
|
USA |
700 |
|
UK |
650 |
|
Canada |
500-600 |
|
Ireland |
500-700 |
|
Australia |
Above 550 |
2. GRE
The GRE is a widely accepted standardised test for MBA programs and other graduate degrees. It assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. With a score range of 260-340, the test lasts about 3 hours 45 minutes and the GRE score is valid for 5 years. Many business schools accept both GRE and GMAT scores.
More details GRE is listed below:
- Cost: USD 220 (approx. INR 18,000)
- Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Sections: 3 (Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical Writing)
- Score Range: 260-340 (Verbal & Quant combined), 0-6 (AWA)
- Validity: 5 years
- Retake Policy: Retake allowed after 21 days
- Waiver: Available under special circumstances (check the university website)
- Average GRE Score for Top B-schools: 320+
Average GRE Scores for Top MBA Destinations
Top countries accepting GRE scores for MBA programs include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia.
The top countries for accepting GRE and their average scores are:
|
Country |
Average GRE Score Required |
|---|---|
|
USA |
320 |
|
UK |
Above 320 |
|
Canada |
300 - 320 |
|
Ireland |
310 - 320 |
|
Australia |
300 - 310 |
English Proficiency Tests for MBA Abroad
Language proficiency tests evaluate your English skills in both academic and everyday contexts. Several English proficiency tests are available, including IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo. It is essential to check the specific requirements of the universities you're interested in before applying for an MBA program, as each institution may have different minimum score requirements.
1. IELTS
A common English language competency exam taken by international students. On a scale of 0 to 9, the IELTS evaluates your proficiency in English reading, writing, speaking, and listening. IELTS is one of the crucial prerequisites for Indian students pursuing an MBA abroad.
More details about IELTS is:
- Cost: USD 245-250 (approx. INR 15,000-20,000)
- Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Sections: 4 (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
- Score Range: 0-9 band score
- Validity: 2 years
- Retake Policy: Can be retaken anytime
- Waiver: Available under special circumstances (check university policies)
- Average IELTS Score for Top B-schools: 7.0-7.5
Average IELTS Scores for Top MBA Destinations
IELTS is the most commonly taken English test. Over 3 million people take the IELTS test every year. The exam has gained acceptance by 11,000+ universities, making it a popular choice.
Top countries for MBA with their average IELTS scores are:
|
Country |
Average IELTS Score Required |
|---|---|
|
USA |
Above 6.5 |
|
UK |
6.5-7.0 |
|
Canada |
Above 6.5 |
|
Ireland |
6.5 |
|
Australia |
Above 6.0 |
2. TOEFL
190+ countries globally accept the TOEFL. A TOEFL score above 100 is generally considered good and can help you get into a top MBA college abroad.
More details about TOEFL is:
- Cost: USD 190-225 (approx. INR 15,000-18,000)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Sections: 4 (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing)
- Score Range: 0-120
- Validity: 2 years
- Retake Policy: Can be retaken after 3 days
- Waiver: Available under special circumstances (check university policies)
- Average TOEFL Score for Top B-schools: 100-110
Average TOEFL Scores for Top MBA Destinations
TOEFL is majorly accepted across US B-schools. Other top countries accepting TOEFL scores for MBA programs include Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany.
Top countries for MBA with their average TOEFL scores are:
|
Country |
Average TOEFL Score Required |
|---|---|
|
USA |
100 |
|
UK |
92-100 |
|
Canada |
90 |
|
Ireland |
90 |
|
Australia |
Above 96 |
3. PTE
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a widely accepted, computer-based English language test designed to assess proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The PTE Academic is the version most students take for study abroad or immigration to countries like Australia and New Zealand.
- Instant Results: PTE provides quick results, often within 48 hours, making it convenient for students on tight deadlines.
- Unlimited Score Reporting: PTE allows candidates to send their scores to as many institutions as they want without extra cost.
- Flexible Test Dates: The PTE exam can be scheduled throughout the year at various test centers globally, offering more flexibility.
- Artificial Intelligence Scoring: The PTE uses AI to ensure unbiased and accurate scoring, as the test is entirely computer-graded.
More details about PTE are:
- Cost: USD 190-225 (approx. INR 15,000-18,000)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Sections: 4 (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing)
- Score Range: 10-90
- Score Validity: 2 years
- Retake Policy: Can be retaken after 5 days
- Waiver: Available under special circumstances (check university policies)
- Average PTE Score for Top B-schools: 65-75
Average PTE Scores for Top MBA Destinations
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is widely accepted by many leading universities for MBA admissions, particularly in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
The top countries that accept PTE are:
|
Country |
Average PTE Score Required |
|---|---|
|
USA |
50-70 |
|
UK |
57-67 |
|
Canada |
Around 60 |
|
Ireland |
63 |
|
Australia |
58-79 |
4. Duolingo
Duolingo is an affordable, convenient, and quick way for MBA aspirants to assess their English proficiency. The one-hour, computer-based test is recognized by over 3,000 universities worldwide. It evaluates listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills, using adaptive technology to adjust difficulty. With a total score out of 160, Duolingo is gaining popularity for its ease of use, making it an ideal option for international students applying to MBA programs.
More details about Duolingo are as follows:
- Cost: USD 49 (approx. INR 4,000)
- Duration: 1 hour
- Sections: 4 (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing)
- Score Range: 10-160
- Validity: 2 years
- Retake Policy: Can be retaken after 30 days
- Waiver: Available under special circumstances (check university policies)
- Average Duolingo Score for Top B-schools: 120+
Average Duolingo Scores for Top MBA Destinations
Many top countries accept the Duolingo English Test as part of their MBA admissions process. With its affordability and growing recognition by over 3,000 universities globally.
Top countries that accept Duolingo for MBA are:
|
Country |
Average Duolingo Score Required |
|---|---|
|
USA |
100-120 |
|
UK |
100-120 |
|
Canada |
Around 115 |
|
Ireland |
95-120 |
|
Australia |
120 - 130 |
Other Language Tests
Depending on the kind of course you choose to take, certain universities abroad in nations like Germany, France, and others require applicants to demonstrate competency in their native languages in addition to passing an English proficiency test. These exams are optional and dependent on the course and university you want to attend.
German Language Proficiency exams for MBA abroad:
- TestDaF (TDN 3, 4 or 5) (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- DSH II or III (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
- Goethe-Zertifikat C2
- Telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule (The European Language Certificate)
- DSD II (Deutsches Sprachdiplom Stufe II)
French Language Proficiency exams for MBA abroad:
- TOEIC ( Test of English for International Communication )
- DELF (Diplôme d'études en langue française)
- TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
- TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français )
The exams on the above list are meant to demonstrate your abilities and get a spot at the university of your choice overseas. But there's more to studying an MBA overseas: you have to meet certain requirements. That is what we discuss next.
Eligibility Requirements for Studying MBA
To pursue an MBA, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, competitive scores on entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE, and some work experience. If you're an international applicant, you’ll also need to prove your English proficiency with IELTS or TOEFL scores. Many programs include personal interviews, and some may even have group discussions as part of the selection process.
1. CGPA
A CGPA of 7 or above is acceptable for MBA overseas. Your steady achievement is reflected in your cumulative grade point average. Contrary to popular belief, if you intend to pursue an MBA overseas, you must maintain a solid cumulative GPA at least during your bachelor's.
2. Bachelor's Degree
Since you intend to pursue a master's degree, you should hold a bachelor's degree in any field, such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Engineering (BE), Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech), or Bachelor of Science (BSc). A qualification from a renowned university will give you an edge over other applicants.
3. Work Experience
The learning theories that are contained within the classroom walls do not limit instruction at the highly regarded B-schools. Every learner acquires skills and is generally enriched during this learning experience. These B-schools are searching for capable students who are fully prepared for the workforce, not just academically. Thereby highlighting two to four years of professional experience could be beneficial to your application.
Collaboration, real-world business insights, case studies, group projects, role-playing, simulations, case discussions, and other skills are necessary for a foreign MBA. As a result, many of the best B-schools need workers who have a few years of relevant work experience.
4. Interview
A personal interview is the last stage of the application process. The admissions committee carefully reviews your application during this phase and prepares the required questions for you. Once you are through the interview and get selected, you will soon see yourself in your dream MBA university!
Documents Required for Studying MBA Abroad
Thought meeting these eligibility requirements was enough? Sadly, there is more. However, these are some other basic requirements asked by most universities abroad. These are essentials you will need as an international applicant. Please ensure to keep the following documents handy in advance:
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation
- Entrance Exam Scores
- Passport
- Resume/CV
- Financial Requirements
Each of these documents is briefly discussed below:
Statement of Purpose
You get a chance to present yourself in your MBA essay. Ensure you carefully consider the words you choose, and please stick to the word count. Typically, you're expected to provide a summary of:
- Your strengths and weaknesses.
- Career aspirations.
- Why did you apply to the program?
- Your rationale for selecting the specific course and university
- exhibiting qualities of leadership.
- Justifying your suitability for the business program you're applying to.
- Highlight your professional achievements and career growth.
Letters of Recommendation
You can ask your former instructors or senior employees to write and submit letters of recommendation for you. Ensure that they highlight your abilities and qualities in the letter. An excellent recommendation gives your application an extra point.
Passport
Passport is the most obvious of all study abroad requirements. You can get your passport made/renewed if you haven't already.
Resume/CV
A CV should ideally be no longer than one to one and a half pages. It may not be easy, but you will have to list all of your accomplishments, abilities, and experience in a very official way on your resume. Making a strong impression on the MBA university abroad with your career presentation speaks well of you.
Financial Requirements
Proof of funds (PoF) is one of the fundamental prerequisites for Indian students pursuing an MBA overseas. This demonstrates that the student could afford the costs associated with studying abroad. Some of the financial documents you should keep handy are:
- Bank account statements.
- Loan Approval/Disbursement Letter.
- Scholarship Letters.
- Affidavit of Support/Sponsorship.
- Bank Letters.
- Loan Capability Certificate.
- CA Certificate.
- Property Evaluation Report.
- GPF/ EPF Statement confirming the ability to withdraw.
Are you worried about the cost of attendance involved in studying abroad? Looking for education loans and scholarships? Well, get complete assistance throughout the loan process via Yocket’s finances tool. Your personalized Loan Advisor will help you in every step.
Application Process for MBA Abroad
If you are looking for a top MBA admit, you need to begin the process at least 12-16 months before the deadline. Make sure you follow all the steps, take the required standardised tests, and meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
A step-wise application process for MBA abroad is as follows:
Step 1: Course and Country Selection
Choose your course and study destination by researching each country’s academic offerings, job market, lifestyle, and visa rules.
Step 2: Profile Evaluation
Evaluate your academic background, work experience, and extracurriculars. Seek feedback to see how your profile aligns with different universities’ criteria.
Step 3: Shortlist Universities
Based on your profile, shortlist universities by considering program rankings, faculty expertise, placement records, and financial aid.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Collect all essential documents, such as transcripts, test scores (GMAT, GRE, TOEFL/IELTS), recommendation letters, resumes, and SOP or essays.
Timeline for Applying to an MBA Program Abroad
International students should begin their MBA application journey well in advance to navigate the lengthy admission process smoothly. Starting early ensures that you have ample time to prepare for tests.
Follow this timeline to apply for a top MBA college abroad:
|
Timeline |
Plan of Action |
|---|---|
|
6-12 Months Before Deadline |
Prepare for admission tests such as GRE, GMAT, and English proficiency exams like IELTS or TOEFL. |
|
3-6 Months Before Deadline |
Research and select MBA programs and universities that align with your career goals and interests. |
|
3 Months Before Deadline |
Finalise documents, draft Statement of Purpose (SOP), gather Letters of Recommendation (LOR), and submit applications. |
MBA Abroad Intakes
MBA programs abroad typically have two main intakes: September (Fall) and January (Spring). Some universities also offer a May (Summer) intake. Admission deadlines vary, so it's essential to check individual school requirements.
A complete breakdown of MBA abroad intakes is as follows:
|
Intake |
Month |
|---|---|
|
Spring |
May to August |
|
Fall |
September |
|
Winter |
January |
Top-ranked MBA Colleges Abroad
According to the QS Global MBA Rankings, Stanford, Wharton, and Harvard are the best MBA colleges abroad. Universities across the US, the UK, France, and Singapore offer some of the best-ranked MBA colleges in the world.
The 10 best MBA colleges across the world are:
|
QS Global MBA Rankings 2025 |
University Name |
|---|---|
|
1 |
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2 |
|
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3 |
|
|
4 |
|
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5 |
|
|
6 |
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7 |
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8 |
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9 |
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10 |
Suggested: Top 10 MBA Colleges Abroad
Top MBA Specialisations Abroad
Top MBA specialisations abroad include Finance, Marketing, Operations Management, Entrepreneurship, and International Business. These specialisations prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen fields by offering advanced knowledge and global perspectives.
The top MBA specialisations abroad are:
- Finance
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Human Resource Management
- International Business
- Operation Management
Scholarship Opportunities for Indian students to study MBA abroad
An MBA abroad can be expensive. To alleviate your financial burdens, you can access multiple scholarships, up to INR 20 lakhs. You can also access various fellowships to reduce your education costs.
Here are some other popular MBA scholarships for Indian students to study abroad along with their eligibility criteria and amount awarded:
|
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount Provided (INR) |
|---|---|---|
|
National Overseas Scholarship Scheme |
100 slots available annually for denotified tribes, semi-nomadic tribes, landless agricultural labourers, traditional artisans, and scheduled castes |
Upto INR 13 lakhs |
|
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Programs |
Graduate students studying and working across multiple countries during the program |
Full funding including tuition and stipend |
|
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships |
Meritorious Indian students pursuing a master’s degree in the U.S. in fields like economics, environmental science, urban planning, arts, and culture |
Covers tuition, living expenses, travel |
|
Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships |
Indian scholars registered for Ph.D. programs at Indian institutions, for 6-9 months of research in the U.S. |
Fully covers research expenses |
|
GREAT Scholarships India |
20 postgraduate scholarships provided by UK universities across different subjects, jointly funded by the UK government and British Council |
INR 9 lakhs |
|
Akhtar Ali H. Tobaccowala Fellowship |
Indian MBA students at Chicago Booth |
INR 20 lakhs |
|
Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships |
Indian students applying for top universities in the US, UK, or Europe; must hold Indian passport |
Covers tuition and living expenses |
|
Felix Scholarships |
Indian students pursuing graduate studies at the University of Oxford, Reading, or SOAS, University of London |
Covers tuition, living expenses, flights |
|
Commonwealth Scholarships |
Students from Commonwealth countries with an undergraduate degree, studying in the UK |
Tuition, airfare, and living expenses |
|
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships |
Students pursuing a master’s program in European countries; must meet the program’s eligibility criteria |
Full funding, including flights and stipend |
Suggested: MBA Scholarship Abroad for Indian Students
MBA in India vs MBA from Abroad
An MBA in India is affordable and offers local networking opportunities, while an MBA abroad provides global exposure, diverse perspectives, and access to top-ranked institutions. International programs may lead to higher salaries and broader career options. Consider your goals and budget when choosing.
The differences between MBA in India and MBA abroad are:
|
Parameter |
MBA in India |
MBA Abroad |
|---|---|---|
|
Program Duration |
2 years |
1-2 years |
|
Entrance Exams |
CAT, XAT, CMAT, MAT, NMAT, SNAP |
GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS |
|
Average Tuition Fees |
INR 20 to INR25 lakhs (full program) |
USD 35,000 to USD 60,000 (INR 30 lakhs toINR 50 lakhs, per year) |
|
Living Expenses |
INR 2 to INR 4 lakhs annually |
USD 10,000 to USD 18,000 (INR 8 lakhs to INR 14 lakhs) |
|
Average Salary Package |
INR 15 - INR 30 lakhs per annum |
USD 110,000 to USD 165,000 (INR 90 lakhs to INR 2 cr per annum) |
|
Quality of Education |
Strong focus on local business practices and regional industries |
Emphasis on global perspectives and cutting-edge specialisations |
|
Career Opportunities |
Excellent for local and regional roles |
Broader global opportunities with potentially higher salaries |
|
Cultural Experience |
In-depth exposure to India's culture and business environment. |
Exposure to various cultures and global business practices |
Suggested: MBA in India vs MBA Abroad: Which One is Better?
From the Desk of Yocket
When you set your goal on an MBA abroad, you're stepping into a competitive, rewarding journey. But as we all know, the path to that goal is paved with exams, applications, and a myriad of requirements. Selecting the right test, understanding eligibility, and funding your dreams through scholarships are crucial—and that’s where a strategic approach can make all the difference.
Yocket Premium is here to make the journey smoother, smarter, and more successful.
Did you know Indian students are eligible for scholarships upto INR 20 lakhs for an MBA abroad? These scholarships not only reduce the financial load but also open doors to top institutions that might otherwise seem out of reach. With guidance on everything you need for a top MBA admit, Yocket’s resources are invaluable.
