MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs are globally recognized for equipping students with valuable skills in business and management. Originating in the US, they have become a staple in universities worldwide. Among the countries known for their outstanding MBA offerings, Germany stands out.
and on track to claim the third spot worldwide, you’re in for a fantastic educational journey right in the heart of Europe. MBA programs in Germany are all about research and hands-on experience, which means you’ll leave with killer critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Our database of graduate programs in business lists you can browse and compare.
Featured Universities
Summary
- The top MBA programs in Germany are offered by: the Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Arden Univesity Berlin, GISMA Business School, IU International University of Applied Sciences, University of Europe for Applied Sciences, EU Business School, Mannheim Business School, Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, WHY (Otto Beisheim), and more.
- The most common MBA requirements in Germany include an undergraduate degree, proof of English language proficiency, and recommendation letters.
- MBA tuition fees in Germany range from €7,300 to €50,000. Business Administration master’s degrees at public universities are a more affordable alternative.
- MBA graduates in Germany can earn between €40,000 to €120,000 per year, depending on their role and industry.
Here are the top MBA colleges in Germany:
Business School | Global MBA Ranked*
(QS) |
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management | 40 |
Mannheim Business School | 47 |
WHU (Otto Beisheim) | 55 |
ESMT Berlin | 78 |
HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management | 131-140 |
EU Business School | 151-200 |
* QS Global MBA Rankings 2025.
Business School | Top Business Schools Found Across Global Ranking Bodies
(QS, THE, US News) |
LMU Munich School of Management |
THE Rank (#36) US News Rank (#148) |
TUM School of Management |
THE Rank (#27) US News Rank (#181) |
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin School of Business and Economics |
THE Rank (=87)* US News Rank (#259) |
*Refers to rankings by subject in the Business and Management category. Other schools’ rankings from THE refer to the Business and Economics category (which is a broader term).
Berlin School of Business and Innovation
Program name: Global MBA
Program duration: 18 months
Cost: €14,850 for international students, €9,450 for EU students
Intakes: February, May, July, October
BSBI’s Global MBA program is delivered on campus, and you’ll be taught by a faculty of industry experts. Students are awarded a degree in partnership with the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in the United Kingdom—a great opportunity to acquire skills for global leadership roles.
Admission requirements:
- Minimum age. Must be at least 21 years old at the time of application.
- Undergraduate degree or work experience. Strong degree from a recognized university OR minimum 3 years of relevant management experience.
- Proof of English proficiency*. IELTS 6.0 (min. 5.5 in each), Password test 6.0 (min. 5.5 in each), PTE (Academic) 56 (min. 51 in each), TOEFL IBT 80 (Listening 17, Reading 18, Speaking 20, Writing 17), Cambridge CAE/Proficiency 69 (min. 162 each), LanguageCert SELT B2 Communicator High Pass (min. 33 each), or Duolingo 105 overall.
*English requirement waivers are possible for applicants with degrees from English-taught programs, nationals of English-speaking countries, some West African Certificates (C6 in English), KCSE (grade C+ or higher), Cambridge IGCSE/AICE certificates, and IB Diplomas (Syllabus A: 4+ and Syllabus B: 4+).
> .
Arden University Berlin
Program name: MBA
Program duration: 1 year full-time, 1+ year part-time
Cost: Berlin Study Center: €16,500/year, Online: £10,855 (€12,578). The online route is not available for Libyan and Myanmar students.
Intakes: Several intakes are offered throughout the year
The MBA program at Arden University offers a practical approach to business education—supported by real-world examples, live case studies, and collaborative opportunities. An experienced academic team teaches the program in Berlin, London, and online.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree or work experience. Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 2.2 (UK system) or international equivalent OR professional qualifications with 2 years of relevant work experience.
- Proof of English proficiency. IELTS 6.5 (min 6.0 in each), TOEFL iBT 90 or equivalent, evidence of previous studies in English, or an internal English test offered by the university.
> .
GISMA University of Applied Sciences
Program name: Global MBA
Program duration: 12 or 24 months
Cost: €18,000, €17,100 for early applicants
Intakes: January, April, July, October
GISMA’s Global MBA is perfect for graduates who want to strengthen their leadership skills and their business knowledge.
This AMBA-accredited program focuses on different management modules, from marketing and human resources to economics and society.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Undergraduate degree in relevant discipline or equivalent work experience.
- Work experience. 3 years of work experience required.
- Proof of English proficiency. B2 (IELTS 6.5 overall, no less than 6.0 in any component) or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, or Duolingo. An internal test is also available.
- Personal Interview.
- Job reference.
> .
IU International University of Applied Sciences
Program name: MBA
Program duration: 18-36 months (depending on model)
Cost: €6,348 for full-time (18 months), €10,008 part-time (24 months), €10,728 part-time (36 months).
Intakes: Begin studies any time you want (online mode), or choose from two to four intakes per year, depending on the program.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) at IU International University of Applied Sciences is a flexible program ideal for people who want to advance their future without sacrificing their commitments.
Thanks to its wide range of electives, you can specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, digital business models, and more.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Bachelor’s degree with at least 180 ECTS from a recognized institution. A minimum “satisfactory” or Grade C equivalent is needed.
- Work experience. One year of postgraduate work experience required, with documented proof.
- Proof of English proficiency. English language proficiency at the B2 level is required. Accepted certificates are TOEFL (min. 80), IELTS (min. level 6), Duolingo (min. 95), PTE (min 59), or Cambridge (min Grade B); exemptions for native English speakers and graduates from English-speaking schools.
> .
University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE)
Program name: MBA
Program duration: 1 year
Cost: €1,063 per month (EU applicants), €14,100 total (non-EU applicants)
Intakes: January, March, June, September
Fully taught in English and at multiple campus locations in Germany—the MBA at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) is a perfect fit if you want to dive deep into business management approaches to digitalization, globalization, and sustainability.
The program is also great for students who want to continue working during their studies. Classes are from Wednesday afternoon to Friday, or Saturday evening, giving you flexibility to keep other commitments.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Work experience. Minimum 1 year of postgraduate experience.
- Proof of English proficiency. You can submit TOEFL iBT (72), IELTS (5.5 overall), PTE Academic (59), Cambridge Exam First (FCE), or other similar recognized test scores to prove your English proficiency
- Motivation letter. Minimum 500 words.
> .
EU Business School
Program name: MBA
Program duration: Three semesters/one year
Cost: €7,300 per semester for full-time, €3,650 per semester for part-time
Intakes: October, January
EU Business School’s MBA is a one-year, full-time program designed to provide the best combination of core business knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in a global business environment.
Plus, you can specialize in one of the three pathways offered at the school’s Munich campus: Project Management, Cloud Computing, and Information Systems to gain a unique set of skills.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Submit a certified copy of your bachelor’s degree and transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency. TOEFL score 80 (internet-based), 213 (computer-based); IELTS 6.0 minimum; B2+ CEFR; native English speaker or equivalent.
- Additional Criteria. Applicants must either have a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent), have a satisfactory GMAT score, or participate in an interview with the academic department.
> .
Mannheim Business School
Program name: Mannheim Full-Time MBA
Program duration: 12-15 months
Cost: €45,000
Intakes: September
The Mannheim full-time MBA program offers an intensive one-year journey that prepares graduates for top management careers. The program has a stellar reputation in Germany and worldwide—its strong employment outcomes and a diverse cohort of experienced professionals are a testament to this.
Apart from the great quality of courses offered, you’ll get excellent value for money; the program being much more affordable than its US or UK counterparts.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Internationally recognized bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). A B+ average is recommended for successful applicants.
- Work experience. Three years of postgraduate work experience with leadership potential and international exposure required.
- Proof of English proficiency. TOEFL iBT 95 or IELTS Academic 7 or equivalent.
- Standardized test scores. Minimum GMAT score: 600 or equivalent GRE score. Applicants get a €200 discount for GMAT 650/equivalent GRE score or higher.
- APS (for specific counties). Applicants with a first degree from China, Vietnam, and India must complete the
> .
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
Program name: Full-Time MBA
Program duration: 1 year
Cost: €42,000 (€2,500-€6,000 fee reduction for early bird applicants)
Intakes: September
The full-time MBA at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management is an English-taught, 12-month program that brings together students of diverse backgrounds and nationalities.
It is specifically tailored to professionals who want to dive into international business, change their careers, or prepare for leadership roles.
You’ll be able to hone a wide range of skills through the numerous elective courses and specializations offered.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Work experience. Three years of postgraduate work experience.
- Proof of English proficiency. Submit a TOEFL score of 90 iBT, IELTS score of 7.0, or equivalent. Relevant corporate work experience, an English-taught degree, or native English fluency can qualify you for a waiver.
- Standardized test scores. Submit GMAT/GRE scores or take the in-house Business Test Methods, available as an alternative for a fee of $100.
- Two letters of reference. A reference from a current or recent employer, and one from a supervisor or professional contact.
> .
WHU (Otto Beisheim)
Program name: Full-Time MBA
Program duration: 1 year
Cost: €48,500 (€3,000-€6,000 fee reduction for early bird applicants)
Intakes: September
If you’re searching for an MBA program to inspire a global mindset and an entrepreneurial drive in you, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management is a great choice.
This one-year program covers a range of core, elective, and international modules ranging from Financial Accounting, to Organizational Behavior, Sustainability Management, and more. You’ll benefit from one-to-one coaching, visits to leading companies, guest lectures, and immersive experiences abroad.
Admission requirements:
- University-entrance qualification. A general or subject-specific German Hochschulreife or equivalent international qualification.
- Undergraduate degree. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Work experience. Minimum two years of postgraduate work experience.
- Proof of English proficiency. You must submit TOEFL scores (min. 100 IBT) or equivalent IELTS (7.0) scores if English is not your native language.
- One letter of recommendation. From a former professor or supervisor.
- Excellent Fit Assessment. Applicants must prove they’re a good fit through one of these five criteria:
-
- 1) external certification (GMAT/GRE/WHU Admissions Test (BAT), or CFA Level II),
- 2) PhD/doctorate level degree,
- 3) previous degree in business science + three years of work experience,
- 4) top 5% of graduating class in a non-business field + three years of work experience, or
- 5) extraordinary achievement based on a case-by-case WHU assessment.
> .
ESMT Berlin
Program name: Full-Time MBA
Program duration: 15 months
Cost: €49,500 (€1,000-€6,000 scholarship for early bird applicants)
Intakes: January
The full-time MBA at ESMT Berlin is an intensive 15-month program in the heart of Berlin. Students get to choose from two main tracks: managerial analytics, or innovation & entrepreneurship, with abundant elective courses to gain in-depth knowledge in various business areas.
Plus, with students coming from over 30 diverse countries, you’ll benefit from a wealth of different perspectives and backgrounds.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Minimum three-year undergraduate or first university degree (bachelor’s degree).
- Work experience. Minimum three consecutive years of postgraduate professional experience.
- Proof of English proficiency. You must submit TOEFL (min. 95), PTE (min. 64), or IELTS scores (min.7) This does not apply to native English speakers or those with an English-taught degree.
- Standardized test scores. Applicants must submit strong scores in GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, EA, or ESMT Admissions Test (BAT) (the average GMAT score is 640).
> .
HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
Program name: Full-Time MBA
Program duration: 15 months fast track (90 ECTS), up to 21 months advanced track (120 ECTS)
Cost: €41,600 (€1,500- €6,000 fee reduction for early bird applicants)
Intakes: September
The MBA at HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management offers an impeccable curriculum that covers general management core topics, deep dives into these topics, and a range of electives for students to explore.
The school’s network already spans 4000 alumni in 70 different countries. It’s also known for its strong start-up culture, with over 530 startups founded by alumni.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. A recognized bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) in any discipline.
- Work experience. Minimum three years of postgraduate work experience.
- Proof of English proficiency. You can submit TOEFL (90+ iBT), IELTS (7+), TOEIC scores (850+), Cambridge ESOL (level C), or provide proof of a bachelor’s program, a semester abroad, or work experience in English.
- Standardized test scores. Competitive GMAT (min. 600), GRE, or HHL Entry Test scores.
> .
LMU Munich School of Management
Program name: Master of Science in Management-International Triple Degree (ITD)
Program duration: 2 years
Cost: $45,225 (€42,203)
Intakes: Fall: Loyola University (New Orleans, US), Spring: SKEMA Business School (Paris, France), Summer/fall: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (Munich, Germany).
The Master of Science in Management-International Triple Degree is a prestigious joint program by Loyola University New Orleans, LMU Munich School of Management, and SKEMA Business School.
You’ll receive an MBA certificate from Loyola University by earning 90 credits, and can then earn an M.Sc. from LMU Munich and a Diplôme Grande École from SKEMA Business School Paris through an additional semester. It’s a perfect opportunity to tour the world while consolidating your education and career!
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. You must submit official transcripts for all university-level coursework, including a translated copy for degrees earned outside the United States alongside your bachelor’s degree diploma.
- Current resume.
- Two letters of recommendation. From professional references.
- Proof of English proficiency. You must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores unless you have a U.S. degree or were educated in an English-speaking country.
- Essay. A 400-word statement of purpose addressing why you want to pursue the Global MBA-Triple Master degree, how it will benefit you, and why you’re an ideal candidate.
- Optional: standardized test scores. GMAT or GRE scores.
- APS (for certain applicants). Chinese and Vietnamese must submit an APS certificate.
- Online interview.
Note that you may have to meet additional academic requirements at each partner university and that these are general program requirements.
> .
TUM School of Management
Program name: Executive MBA
Program duration: 2 years (part-time)
Cost: €39,000
Intakes: April, October
If you’re a seasoned professional aiming for leadership roles, TUM School of Management’s Executive MBA is a program specifically designed for this. Together with a diverse class of like-minded individuals, you’ll focus on general management essentials and later customize your journey through a selection of electives.
It’s worth mentioning that the program holds Triple Crown accreditation from AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB—a recognition shared with only 1% of business schools worldwide.
Admission requirements:
- Master’s entry qualification. A recognized bachelor’s degree with 180 or 210 ECTS, Diploma, Magister program, or “Staatsexamen” with subject and grade transcripts.
- Work experience. Minimum three years of relevant full-time postgraduate experience. Leadership experience is an advantage.
- Letter of motivation in English.
- Good English proficiency. Your English skills will be evaluated during the admissions process.
- Admission interview.
> .
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin School of Business and Economics
Program name: Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Business Administration
Program Duration: 2 years
Cost: €299.90 per semester (subject to change)
Intakes: October
If you want a similar program to the MBA but you’re on a budget, the Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Business Administration at Humboldt University is a great alternative. Students here only pay modest semester fees while still receiving a high-quality education.
You can choose from an extensive list of electives in four catalogs: general management, economics & methodology, business administration, and business & economics. What’s more, you’ll also explore interdisciplinary electives from other faculties of the university.
Admission requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Business Administration or a similar field with a minimum of 100 ETCS credits in economic subjects.
- Specialist knowledge in methodological fields. You must have at least 24 ECTS credits in mathematics, statistics, econometrics, and microeconomics.
- Proof of English proficiency. You must prove C1 level English skills through certificates, diplomas, or test scores like TOEFL (95 iBT), IELTS (7.0), Cambridge CPE, etc.
- Work experience (10% weight). Practical experience gained in the commercial/business management field of at least 1800 hours within the last 3 years.
> .
Why Choose Germany for MBA Studies?
Germany is a perfect location for prospective MBA students due to several reasons:
- It has a strong economy. Germany has the largest economy in Europe and the third-largest globally. MBA graduates get to explore thriving industries such as automotive, machinery, and chemicals, among others.
- There are a lot of high-quality business schools. The country has an impressive lineup of business schools, four of which hold triple accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS, or AMBA. Many other schools are also accredited by one or more of these accreditation bodies.
- Education is more affordable in general. Despite the common perception of MBA degrees being expensive, German universities offer very affordable fees in comparison to business schools in the United States, United Kingdom, and even France. They’re able to maintain the same high standards while being more budget-friendly.
- Curriculums focus highly on practical matters. Schools in Germany constantly improve their MBA curriculums to reflect modern problems in business. Students get to solve real-world problems and gain useful skills through case studies, projects, and internship components.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an MBA Degree in Germany?
The total cost of MBA programs in Germany can be from €6,350 up to €49,500 (per program), depending on where you choose to study.
Considering the country’s reputation for free education, many students ask: “Is it possible to get an MBA in Germany for free?”.
MBA programs in Germany usually have higher costs compared to other programs available at private or public universities. This is not specific to Germany—MBAs are expensive worldwide.
However, if you want a budget-friendly alternative, you can consider master of science programs in Business Administration offered by public universities. These rarely have tuition fees; you only have to pay a semester contribution usually ranging from €100 to €350.
Need more information on study expenses in Germany? Read our comprehensive guide here.
How Much Does an MBA in Germany Cost for Indian Students?
If you want to study at a prestigious business school, MBA programs in Germany can cost up to INR 44.9 lakhs (€49,500). However, many other business schools have MBA programs whose costs range from INR 5.76 lakhs (€6,350) to INR 16.32 lakhs (€18,000).
These fees can be quite competitive and, in some cases, even cheaper than MBAs from Indian business schools.
For example, the MBA program at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore costs INR 25 lakhs, which is around €27,560. The MBA program at India’s IIM Ahmedabad has an even higher fee—INR 26.5 lakhs, or approximately €29,200.
Plus, if you’re searching for high-quality business education and can do without the MBA title, you can explore master’s programs in business administration at public universities in Germany. They have very affordable semester fees, usually between INR 13.5 thousand to INR 31.5 thousand per semester.
Are There English-taught MBAs in Germany?
Yes, most MBA programs in Germany, including the ones listed in this article, are taught in English. International students often make up the majority of class profiles for these programs, so English being the language of instruction makes it more accessible.
However, if you plan to work in Germany post-graduation, we definitely recommend learning German or improving your German skills.
What Are the MBA Admission Requirements in Germany?
Admission requirements for MBA programs in Germany can vary from one school to another. But, you can expect these main requirements:
- Undergraduate degree. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
- Work experience. Many programs prefer that candidates have 1 to 3 years of relevant work experience.
- Resume. You must submit an up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae (CV) as part of the application documentation.
- Proof of English proficiency. If you’re not a native English speaker or have not completed your education in English, you may need to prove B2 level (CEFR) proficiency through recognized exams such as TOEFL or IELTS. If German proficiency is also required, you can submit proof such as the Goethe-Zertifikat B2 or equivalent.
- Standardized test scores. Some programs may require GMAT or GRE scores, however, this is not a common requirement or it’s often optional.
- Letters of recommendation. You’ll need to submit one to two letters of recommendation from an employer and/or academic supervisor.
- Statement of purpose. To prove you’re a strong candidate, you should write a personal statement or motivation expressing your reasons for pursuing the program and plans post-graduation.
- Application fee. Although not very common for German universities, you may need to pay a fee when sending your application. Check with the school you’re interested in for more information.
MBA Entry Requirements for Students from India, China, and Vietnam
Students from India, China, and Vietnam may have to go through an extra step in addition to meeting general requirements. They must get the APS certificate (Certificate of the Academic Evaluation Center)—which verifies that the academic documents of students who studied in these countries are authentic.
To get this certificate, you have to register online at the respective APS in your country (e.g. ), pay the APS verification fee, and submit the required documents along with a filled and signed application form.
It usually takes 3-4 weeks to receive the APS certificate if all your documents are in order. We recommend applying as soon as early as you can though, as most business schools and universities require it as part of the application process.
How to Apply for an MBA in Germany
To apply for an MBA, you should follow instructions by the business school or university of your choice. Most often, they’ll include these steps:
- Register on the school’s platform. Business schools usually have an online application process where you’ll need to register by giving out basic personal details such as your name and last name, nationality, phone number, and email address.
- Upload the required documents. The application form will list any specific questions you need to answer and the documents you have to upload. These usually include your previous education certificates, transcripts, recommendation letter(s), and CV.
- Submit the application. After you complete the application form and upload all documents, you may receive an email notification from the university confirming that they have received your application.
- Wait for their decision. All that’s left is patiently waiting to receive a decision, which may take some time.
Tip: Some schools offer a discount on the tuition fee for early applicants, so consider this if you know where you want to study.
How Long Does It Take To Get an MBA Degree in Germany?
Full-time MBA programs in Germany usually take 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on the course load and credits. One-year programs usually have 60 ECTS points. and 18-month programs typically have 90 ECTS points.
But, many schools offer part-time arrangements for their MBAs. You can usually complete them in 24 to 36 months, again depending on the curriculum and credit point requirements. They’re a great choice if you want to continue working while studying or tend to other commitments.
What Are the Average Salaries With an MBA in Germany?
MBA students who want to work in Germany post-graduation can expect to earn anywhere between €40,000 to €120,000 per year. This all depends on the role, industry, and years of experience you bring to the table.
Salaries are also higher in large cities like Frankfurt and Munich, especially for finance and consulting roles.
As an example, here are some common roles post MBA in Germany and their corresponding median annual salaries in four currencies (from ):
Role | Median annual salary (EUR) | Median annual salary in USD | Median annual salary in INR | Median annual salary in GBP |
Business Development Manager | €70,000 | $75,442 | ₹6,364,400 | £58,205 |
Marketing Manager | €57,000 | $61,431 | ₹5,182,440 | £47,396 |
Financial Analyst | €66,000 | $71,131 | ₹6,000,720 | £54,879 |
Project Manager | €76,500 | $81,909 | ₹6,878,0980 | £63,610 |
Supply Chain Manager | €71,000 | $76,520 | ₹6,455,320 | £59,037 |
Management Consultant | €72,150 | $77,759 | ₹6,559,878 | £59,993 |
Human Resources Manager | €65,000 | $70,053 | ₹5,909,800 | £54,048 |
Investment Banking Analyst | €108,500 | $116,935 | ₹9,864,820 | £90,218 |
Investment Banking Associate | €120,000 | $129,330 | ₹10,910,400 | £99,781 |
Risk Analyst | €65,000 | $70,053 | ₹5,909,800 | £54,048 |
Product Manager | €75,000 | $80,831 | ₹6,819,000 | £62,363 |
What Are Some MBA Scholarships in Germany?
MBAs can be expensive, which is why many organizations and schools offer different types of scholarships to ease the burden for students. Some to consider include: