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Top MBA Schools in Spain

Dhruvin Jain

Dhruvin Jain

Apr 12, 2025

4 mins read

Masters in Business Administration MBA MBA Abroad MBA Colleges MBA in Spain
Best MBA Colleges in Spain

Best MBA Colleges in Spain: Top MBA Programs in 2024

Spain is home to some of Europe’s most prestigious MBA programs. Whether you’re aiming for consulting, tech, or entrepreneurship, these schools offer strong ROI, global networks, and flexible formats. Here's a deep dive into the top 5 MBA programs in Spain for 2024.

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1. IESE Business School – University of Navarra

Location: Barcelona
Duration: 15–19 months
Tuition: €99,500
FT 2024 Global Rank: #3 Worldwide
Avg. GMAT: 670
Language: English

IESE is recognized for its case-based learning model, ethical leadership training, and global modules across New York, São Paulo, Nairobi, and Shanghai. The program emphasizes collaborative leadership and offers robust career support in consulting, finance, and tech.

Specializations:

  • Strategy & Leadership
  • Finance
  • Digital Business
  • Entrepreneurship

Alumni & Careers:
IESE has a network of 50,000+ alumni. Top recruiters include McKinsey, Amazon, Google, and Goldman Sachs.

2. ESADE Business School – Ramon Llull University

Location: Barcelona
Duration: 12, 15, or 18 months
Tuition: €82,000
FT 2024 Global Rank: #18 Worldwide
Avg. GMAT: 660
Language: English

ESADE is known for its flexible MBA format, global electives, and Design Thinking Lab. It attracts students with entrepreneurial ambitions and strong international exposure.

Specializations:

  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship
  • Marketing
  • Finance
  • International Business

Alumni & Careers:
ESADE has over 60,000 alumni globally. Employers include BCG, Microsoft, Accenture, and L’Oréal.

3. IE Business School – IE University

Location: Madrid
Duration: 11 months
Tuition: €82,300
FT 2024 Global Rank: #32
QS Global MBA Rank: #7 in Europe
Avg. GMAT: 650 (or IE Test)
Language: English

IE Business School stands out for its tech and entrepreneurial focus. It offers a blended learning format and one of the most diverse student cohorts globally, with over 90 nationalities.

Specializations:

  • Digital Innovation
  • Entrepreneurship
  • International Business
  • Finance

Alumni & Careers:
IE’s alumni network includes over 70,000 professionals. Employers include PwC, Salesforce, Spotify, and several startups.

4. EADA Business School – Barcelona

Location: Barcelona
Duration: 12 months
Tuition: €44,000
QS Global MBA Rank (Europe): Top 50
Avg. GMAT: Optional
Language: English

EADA is known for experiential learning, small class sizes, and leadership-based training. Its MBA has high ROI and is well-connected with industries across Spain and Latin America.

Specializations:

  • Structured Finance
  • Customer Experience & Omnichannel
  • Strategy & Leadership

Alumni & Careers:
Graduates often secure roles in mid-sized consulting firms, healthcare, and retail industries.

5. ESCP Business School (Madrid Campus)

Location: Madrid (also Paris, Berlin, London, Warsaw, Turin)
Duration: 10 months
Tuition: €51,000
QS Executive MBA Rank: Top 20 Worldwide
Avg. GMAT: 600+
Language: English

ESCP offers a pan-European MBA experience, allowing students to study across different campuses. The Madrid campus integrates Spanish business culture with a strong global curriculum.

Specializations:

  • International Management
  • Marketing & Digital Strategy
  • Finance

Alumni & Careers:
With 68,000+ alumni, ESCP grads often work in cross-border consulting, luxury brand management, and multinational corporations.

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Conclusion

Spain is emerging as a top MBA destination with globally ranked schools, diverse cohorts, and high ROI. Whether you're interested in a 1-year fast-track MBA or a more flexible 18-month journey, schools like IESE, ESADE, and IE offer internationally competitive education with strong post-MBA prospects.

What makes Spain a smart MBA choice?

  • Globally ranked MBA programs
  • Career opportunities across Europe and beyond
  • ROI-focused education in shorter formats
  • High quality of life and international student support

Tip:

  • Choose IESE or ESADE for strong consulting networks
  • Opt for IE if you’re focused on entrepreneurship
  • Consider EADA for smaller cohorts and leadership development
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FAQs
What is the average cost of an MBA in Spain?
The average tuition for a top-ranked MBA in Spain ranges from €40,000 to €100,000, depending on the school and program duration. Living expenses are relatively affordable—around €1,000 to €1,500 per month in cities like Madrid or Barcelona.
How long are MBA programs in Spain?
Most full-time MBA programs in Spain offer flexible formats, typically lasting 11 to 18 months. IE, for example, offers an 11-month program, while IESE gives students the option to complete their MBA in 15 or 19 months.
Is GMAT mandatory for MBA in Spain?
It depends on the school. Required: IESE, ESADE, and EADA often require a GMAT or GRE. Flexible: IE Business School accepts the IE Global Admissions Test as an alternative. Waivers: Some schools offer waivers based on academic or professional background.
What is the average post-MBA salary in Spain?
Graduates from top Spanish MBA programs report average salaries between €70,000 and €100,000, depending on the industry and prior experience. Consulting and tech sectors tend to offer the highest packages, with some international roles paying even more.
Are MBA programs in Spain taught in English?
Yes! All top-tier MBA programs in Spain—such as IESE, ESADE, IE, EADA, and ESCP—are 100% taught in English. Some schools also offer optional Spanish language classes to help with local integration and job prospects.
Can I stay in Spain after MBA as an international student?
Yes. International graduates can apply for a post-study residence permit that allows them to stay up to 12 months to look for a job. Once employed, it's possible to transition to a work visa and eventually apply for long-term residency.
What are the top MBA specializations offered in Spain?
Spain’s MBA programs offer a wide range of in-demand specializations, including: Consulting Finance & Investment Marketing & Digital Strategy Entrepreneurship International Business Innovation & Tech Management Sustainability and Social Impact
Are there scholarships available for international students?
Absolutely. All major business schools in Spain offer merit-based, need-based, and diversity scholarships. Common awards include: IE Women in Business Scholarship ESADE Excellence Scholarship IESE Global Leaders Fellowship EADA Talent Scholarship It's best to apply early, as most scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis.
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Dhruvin Jain
Dhruvin Jain

Articles: 20

Dhruvin Jain is the co-founder of MastersBuddy, a tech-first platform that has helped over 2500 students find and apply to top master’s programs globally. He is a master’s graduate from IE Business School, and is passionate about education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

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