ISB vs Esade Business School
- Goalisb
- Sep 8
- 14 min read
When it comes to selecting the right global MBA program, applicants must weigh several critical factors: rankings, return on investment, employment outcomes, program structure, and geographic alignment. Two highly regarded programs often considered by global MBA aspirants are the ISB Hyderabad and Esade Business School in Spain.
Both programs are ranked in the Financial Times MBA Rankings 2025, making them competitive options for candidates targeting global or regional leadership roles. However, they serve distinctly different markets and offer contrasting advantages. In this article, we present a detailed comparison between ISB and Esade MBA programs using the latest available data, giving you the insights needed to make an informed choice.
Comparing Global Rankings and Reputation of ISB and Esade
Where They Stand in 2025
| Business School | FT Global Rank (2025) |
|-----------------------------------|------------------------|
| Esade Business School | 8 |
| Indian School of Business (ISB) | 27 |
Esade Business School, based in Barcelona, Spain, ranks among the top 10 MBA programs globally. Its strong ties to European employers and diverse international community have earned it consistent recognition.
ISB, located in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, holds the top spot in India and is widely respected across Asia and globally for its one-year MBA format, rigorous curriculum, and leadership-focused pedagogy.
Financial Return on Investment: ISB vs Esade
Salary Outcomes and Percentage Increase
| Metric | Esade | ISB |
|-----------------------|--------------|---------------|
| Weighted Salary | $205,044 | $185,885 |
| Salary Today | $203,201 | $186,238 |
| Salary Increase (%) | 173% | 247% |
While Esade boasts higher absolute salaries than ISB, ISB’s salary increase of 247% is among the highest globally. This signals transformational career growth for mid-level professionals, particularly in emerging markets like India. If you're targeting maximum ROI in a short time frame, the ISB PGP delivers outstanding value.
Career Outcomes and Placement Effectiveness
Career Progress and Employment Metrics
| Metric | Esade | ISB |
|---------------------------------|---------------------------------|---------------------------------|
| Career Progress Rank | 17 | 33 |
| Employment at 3 Months | 90% (95% incl. not seeking) | 95% (97% incl. not seeking) |
While Esade ranks better in career progress—attributable to the school’s strong European networks and post-MBA industry shifts—ISB records higher placement rates at three months. This is an indicator of the school’s robust corporate partnerships in India and Asia. For candidates prioritizing employment certainty and regional leadership, ISB offers stronger short-term outcomes.
Program Structure and Flexibility
Duration and Customization Options
| School | Program Length | Flexibility |
|--------------|-------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Esade MBA | 12, 15, or 18 months | High – Choose based on goals, internships |
| ISB PGP | 12 months | Fixed – Intense and focused |
Esade offers a flexible MBA in Europe, allowing candidates to choose a duration that aligns with their career goals. This is ideal for applicants seeking internships, career treks, or study abroad options.
ISB's PGP is a one-year MBA in India, designed for professionals with significant work experience looking for a focused, accelerated transformation without delaying their re-entry into the workforce.
Program Value and ROI Perception
Value for Money
| Metric | Esade | ISB |
|----------------------------------|-------|-----|
| FT Value for Money Rank | 63 | 59 |
Despite being close in tuition costs, ISB ranks slightly higher in value for money, making it an especially attractive choice for self-funded applicants from developing economies. Both programs offer solid returns, but ISB edges ahead on cost-benefit efficiency.
Environmental Performance and Industry Diversity
Commitment to Sustainability and Career Options
| Metric | Esade | ISB |
|----------------------------|----------------------------|---------------------------------|
| Carbon Footprint Rank | 4 | 23 |
| Sector Diversity Rank | 30 | 80 |
Esade’s carbon footprint rank—number 4 globally—reflects its leadership in sustainability, aligning with the rising interest in responsible management and ESG-focused careers.
In terms of sector diversity, Esade again leads, offering broader post-MBA industry options, from consulting and tech to non-profits and luxury retail. If you're passionate about sustainable business or exploring unconventional industries, Esade’s ecosystem is likely a better fit.
Geographic and Cultural Context
Analyzing Location Impact
Esade Business School is rooted in Europe, with Barcelona offering access to Western Europe’s job markets and Spanish-speaking regions. Its graduates often transition into roles in EU-based consultancies, banks, and multinationals.
In contrast, ISB Hyderabad connects students to India’s fast-growing economy and serves as a gateway to Asia-Pacific leadership roles. It is a preferred choice for returning Indians or regional professionals seeking upward mobility within the continent.
Making the Best Choice: ISB vs Esade
Which Program is Right for You?
| Criteria | Best Fit |
|---------------------------------------------|---------------|
| Max ROI, quick return to workforce | ISB |
| Careers in India, MENA, or Asia | ISB |
| Careers in Europe or Spanish-speaking markets | Esade |
| Internship and exchange opportunities | Esade |
| Environmental/sustainability-driven candidates | Esade |
At GOALisB, we specialize in helping high-potential candidates craft winning applications for top international MBA programs like ISB and Esade Business School. Whether you're aiming to break into global consulting, pivot to sustainable business, or scale your leadership in India, our team of experienced MBA admission consultants will help you:
Identify the right-fit MBA course based on your goals
Build a compelling application with storytelling that resonates
Strategically target scholarships and financial aid
Prepare for interviews and post-MBA planning
ISB vs Global & Indian MBA Comparisons
Start your MBA journey with confidence.
Resource Guide: Dive Deeper Into ISB and Global MBA Admissions
ISB MBA Program Overview
ISB Hyderabad Placements Report
One-Year MBA in India: Complete Guide
MBA Admission Deadlines 2025
Esade MBA Program (Official Site)
Conclusion: ISB vs Esade – Two Powerhouses, Two Paths
Both ISB and Esade offer high-impact MBA programs tailored to ambitious professionals. ISB delivers unmatched ROI, speed, and regional placement strength, while Esade offers environmental leadership, broader sector access, and European exposure. Your decision should reflect your industry focus, target geography, and the kind of business leader you want to become. And when you’re ready to apply, the right guidance can turn your vision into reality. Let GOALisB be your strategic partner in that journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which online executive MBA is best in India?
ISB – PGPpro (Post Graduate Program for Working Professionals)
Minimum Experience: 5 years or more of full-time work experience as of specified program start date.
Program Format: Part-time, weekend classroom-based sessions across Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai (not fully online).
IIM Udaipur – Executive MBA (Online/Blended)
IIM Bodh Gaya – Executive MBA (Online)
Summary Table
Key Takeaways
ISB PGPpro requires mid-career professionals with 5+ years of experience and delivers classes via weekend sessions—not fully online.
IIM Udaipur’s EMBA is accessible to professionals with minimum 3 years of experience, offers a blended online format with campus components.
IIM Bodh Gaya’s EMBA similarly requires 3 years experience, delivered online with immersion modules included in the fee structure.
Is executive MBA equal to master's?
Yes, an Executive MBA (EMBA) is considered a master’s degree in business administration, equivalent in level to a traditional MBA, but designed for experienced professionals.
Detailed Answer:
An Executive MBA (EMBA) is academically at par with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) since both are postgraduate management degrees. The main differences are in target audience, format, and learning outcomes:
🎓 Academic Equivalence
Both MBA and EMBA are recognized as master’s-level qualifications in business and management.
They hold the same weight in terms of academic credential — an EMBA is not a diploma but a full master’s degree (from accredited institutions).
👨💼 Target Audience
MBA: Designed for early-career professionals (2–6 years of experience).
EMBA: Tailored for senior executives with 10–15+ years of experience who study part-time while working.
🏫 Format
MBA: Full-time, immersive, often 1–2 years in duration.
EMBA: Modular/part-time, with weekend or residency-based classes, lasting 1–2 years.
💼 Recognition
Employers and global rankings (Financial Times, QS, etc.) recognize both as master’s degrees in management.
Some EMBAs (e.g., ISB PGP MAX, IIM PGPX, INSEAD GEMBA) are highly ranked internationally, equal in prestige to traditional MBAs.
Bottom Line: An Executive MBA is equal to a master’s degree, but it is not the same as a regular full-time MBA — it is positioned for experienced executives looking for leadership and strategic growth rather than career entry or pivoting.
Is CAT accepted for executive MBA?
No, CAT is generally not accepted for Executive MBA programs; most require GMAT, GRE, or institute-specific tests, though a few IIMs may accept CAT scores for their 1-year PGPX/EPGP programs.
Detailed Answer:
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the primary exam for 2-year MBA/PGP programs in India (for fresh graduates or early professionals). However, Executive MBA (EMBA) programs have different admission routes:
🎓 ISB Executive MBA (PGPpro, PGP MAX)
Does not accept CAT.
Admission is based on work experience, essays, interviews, etc.
🎓 IIM Executive MBAs (PGPX, EPGP, MBAEx, IPMX, etc.)
IIM Ahmedabad PGPX: Requires GMAT/GRE; does not accept CAT.
IIM Bangalore EPGP: Accepts GMAT/GRE, sometimes IIMB test; CAT not required.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx: Accepts GMAT only.
IIM Lucknow IPMX: Accepts GMAT/GRE, occasionally CAT for domestic applicants in some executive formats.
IIM Indore EPGP: Accepts GMAT/GRE/CAT.
⚠️ Exception Cases
Some part-time, weekend, or blended Executive MBAs at IIMs (like IIM Kozhikode’s EMBA) or new online Executive MBAs (IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Udaipur) may allow CAT scores as an alternative to GMAT/GRE, but this is rare.
Bottom Line:
CAT is mainly for 2-year MBAs.
For Executive MBA (1-year full-time or part-time programs), GMAT/GRE or institute tests are standard.
Only a few IIM programs may consider CAT scores as an optional route.
How is ISB PGP YLP good?
ISB PGP YLP (Young Leaders Program) is good because it offers early admission to ISB’s MBA for students in their final undergraduate year, securing a seat before gaining the required work experience.
Detailed Answer:
The ISB PGP YLP (Young Leaders Program) is designed for talented undergraduates who want to lock in a place in ISB’s flagship PGP (MBA equivalent) early, while still in college.
🎯 Key Advantages of ISB PGP YLP
Early Admission Security
Students apply in their pre-final or final year of graduation.
If selected, they get a deferred admission to ISB’s PGP, subject to completing 20–24 months of work experience.
Brand Advantage
ISB is one of India’s top MBA schools, globally ranked in the Financial Times MBA Rankings.
YLP ensures you don’t need to compete later in the open application pool.
Structured Exposure
Selected YLP candidates attend learning weekends and mentorship sessions during their work years before starting the MBA.
Competitive Edge
Provides a clear career path, networking opportunities, and professional grooming right after graduation.
Enhances job prospects during the 2-year work-experience phase before PGP.
⚠️ Things to Consider
Admission is highly competitive—selection depends on academic excellence, leadership potential, and essays.
You still need to gain 20 months of work experience before joining ISB.
The PGP fee (₹29,69,700 for 2025) applies, the same as regular admission.
Bottom Line: ISB PGP YLP is excellent for ambitious undergraduates who want an early pathway to a globally ranked MBA, combining admission security, structured mentorship, and career acceleration.
What GMAT score is needed for ISB YLP?
The average GMAT score for ISB YLP admits is around 710–730, though the official eligibility requires a valid GMAT/GRE/CAT score without a fixed cutoff.
Detailed Answer:
The ISB Young Leaders Program (YLP) admission process involves two stages:
Early application during the final year of undergraduate studies (essays, academics, leadership profile).
Submission of a GMAT or GRE or CAT score after securing admission, along with 20 months of work experience before joining the full-time PGP.
📊 GMAT/GRE Score Insights
No minimum cutoff is officially prescribed by ISB.
However, based on past admitted student profiles:
Average GMAT score: 710–730
Competitive range: 700+ is strongly recommended to maximize admission chances.
GRE scores are also accepted, with 325+ considered competitive.
🎯 Why High Scores Matter
Since YLP applicants are younger with limited work experience, a strong GMAT/GRE/CAT score helps demonstrate academic readiness for the PGP.
Essays, leadership qualities, and overall profile still weigh heavily in selection.
Bottom Line: For ISB YLP, while there is no official cutoff, aiming for a GMAT 710+ (or GRE 325+) significantly boosts your chances of admission.
What is the acceptance rate for ISB YLP program?
Acceptance Rate Insights
According to an admissions support source, ISB YLP receives roughly 3,000 to 3,500 applications, with 140–150 offers extended each year—implying an acceptance rate in the 5%–7% range.
Similarly, a community Q&A reports that ISB receives 2,000–3,000 YLP applications annually, with up to 150 admits, also suggesting an acceptance rate of about 5–7.5%.
Less Reliable Estimates
Some sources estimate a broader acceptance rate between 20% and 25%, but these appear to be anecdotal and not corroborated by official or high-credibility data
Who can apply for YLP ISB?
Final-year or pre-final-year undergraduate students from any discipline can apply for ISB YLP, provided they complete their degree before joining ISB’s PGP and gain 20–24 months of work experience.
Detailed Answer:
The ISB Young Leaders Program (YLP) is a deferred admission route into ISB’s flagship Post Graduate Program in Management (PGP). It is targeted at students who want to secure an MBA seat before entering the workforce.
✅ Eligibility for ISB YLP
Education Requirement
Applicants must be in their pre-final or final year of undergraduate or postgraduate studies (any discipline).
Degrees accepted: Engineering, Arts, Commerce, Medicine, Law, etc.
Work Experience
No work experience is needed at the time of application.
After selection, candidates must complete 20 months of full-time work experience before enrolling in the PGP.
Standardized Tests
Applicants must submit a valid GMAT or GRE or CAT score after securing conditional admission.
There is no fixed cutoff, but competitive applicants usually score GMAT 710+ or GRE 325+.
Selection Process
Stage 1: Online application (essays, academic scores, achievements).
Stage 2: GMAT/GRE/CAT score submission + interview.
Final selection is based on academic record, leadership potential, essays, and test score.
Bottom Line: Anyone in their final or pre-final year of graduation/post-graduation from any discipline can apply for ISB YLP, making it one of the most accessible deferred MBA pathways in India.
Is it difficult to get admission in ISB?
Yes, admission to ISB is very difficult, with an acceptance rate of around 5–7%, requiring a strong GMAT/GRE/CAT score, leadership profile, and professional achievements.
Detailed Answer:
Getting into the Indian School of Business (ISB) is considered one of the toughest MBA admissions processes in India, comparable to top global B-schools.
📊 Acceptance Rate & Competition
ISB receives 5,000–6,000 applications annually for its flagship PGP.
Typically, 800–900 students are admitted across Hyderabad and Mohali campuses.
This means the acceptance rate is about 5–7%, making it highly competitive.
🎓 What Makes Admission Difficult
GMAT/GRE Scores
Average GMAT for ISB PGP: 710–730.
GRE equivalent: 325+.
No fixed cutoff, but high scores improve chances.
Work Experience
Class profile: 2–12 years of experience, average around 4–5 years.
Leadership roles, international exposure, or entrepreneurial achievements stand out.
Holistic Evaluation
ISB looks beyond academics: essays, recommendations, leadership qualities, extracurriculars, and career vision carry heavy weight.
Interviews
ISB interviews are known to be intense but profile-driven, testing clarity of goals and leadership potential.
Bottom Line: Admission to ISB is very challenging due to its low acceptance rate, high GMAT averages, and holistic evaluation criteria. Strong academics, career achievements, and a clear vision are essential.
Is YLP being discontinued?
Yes, ISB’s YLP has been officially discontinued as of 2024, replaced by a new PGP YL (Post Graduate Program for Young Leaders)—a full-time residential MBA-equivalent program starting mid-2025.
Detailed Answer:
ISB’s earlier deferred entry schemes—Young Leaders Program (YLP) and Early Entry Option (EEO)—allowed pre-final/final-year students to secure admission to the PGP after completing work experience. These have now been discontinued.
In their place, ISB has launched a 20-month full-time residential program called PGP YL (Post Graduate Program in Management for Young Leaders), targeting fresh graduates and early-career professionals with up to 2 years of full-time work experience.
The university has confirmed that applications are now open directly to PGP YL, and the deferred entry model (YLP) is no longer in effect.
Why the Change Matters
Shift in structure: Rather than a deferred admission, the new PGP YL is a complete residential MBA-equivalent program, providing immediate immersion and business training without waiting periods.
New eligibility: Applicants can apply if they have up to 2 years of work experience, expanding eligibility while eliminating the deferred trajectory of YLP/EEO.
Bottom Line:
Yes, ISB’s traditional YLP has been discontinued.
In its place, ISB has launched PGP YL, a 20-month, full-time MBA-equivalent program, for early-career professionals starting mid-2025.
How long is the ISB YLP program?
The original ISB YLP was a deferred admission route into the 1-year ISB PGP, but it has now been discontinued and replaced by PGP YL, a 20-month full-time program starting in 2025.
Detailed Answer:
Previously, the Young Leaders Program (YLP) at ISB was not a separate program—it was a deferred entry path into ISB’s 1-year PGP (MBA equivalent). Students applied in their pre-final/final year, secured admission, then worked for 20–24 months before enrolling in the 12-month PGP.
👉 That meant the YLP route led to the same 1-year PGP as regular applicants, just with earlier admission security.
🚨 Major Update (2024–25 Onwards)
ISB has officially discontinued YLP and EEO.
In their place, ISB launched PGP YL (Post Graduate Program in Management for Young Leaders).
Duration: The new PGP YL is a 20-month full-time residential MBA-equivalent program (longer than ISB’s standard 12-month PGP).
Eligibility: Fresh graduates and early-career professionals with 0–2 years of work experience.
Bottom Line:
Old YLP = Deferred entry → 1-year PGP (now discontinued).
New PGP YL = 20-month full-time MBA-equivalent program starting 2025.
What is the latest program of ISB?
The newest offering from ISB is the PGP YL (Post Graduate Program in Management for Young Leaders)—a 20-month, full-time residential MBA-equivalent program for fresh graduates and early-career professionals.
Detailed Answer
1. PGP YL – Post Graduate Program for Young Leaders
Format & Location: Fully residential and full-time, conducted at ISB’s Hyderabad campus.
Eligibility: Open to fresh graduates or professionals with up to 2 years of full-time work experience (0–24 months).
Curriculum Highlights: Blends foundational business knowledge with advanced modules in technology, data, analytics, and innovation, supported by experiential learning like a Business Design Lab, Innovation Lab, and a mandatory 2-month summer internship.
Admission Requirements: Applicants must submit a valid GMAT, GRE, or CAT score, followed by essays and an interview.
Fees & Scholarships: Tuition is ₹21.65 lakh + GST, and accommodation is ₹3.95 lakh. Around 40–50% of the class receives scholarships, with eligible candidates possibly earning full tuition waivers.
Inaugural Batch Profile: The first cohort includes 130 students, with 50% women, average age of 23, and 36% receiving full or partial waivers. Test averages include CAT percentile of 99.1, GMAT Classic of 731, GMAT Focus of 677, and GRE of 327.
Summary Table
Program Name | Duration | Format | Eligibility | Highlights |
PGP YL | 20 months | Full-time, Residential at Hyderabad | 0–24 months work experience | Strong emphasis on tech/data, labs, internship, high scholarship support |
Additional Insight
ISB has also launched a high-level executive offering:
ISB–NUS Global Advanced Management Program: A modern executive education initiative designed in collaboration with the National University of Singapore to prepare senior leaders for navigating disruption and driving sustainable growth.
Bottom Line:
The PGP YL is ISB’s most recent full-time, MBA-equivalent program tailored for early-career professionals and fresh graduates, offering deep business, tech, and innovation-focused learning over 20 months. Additionally, for senior executives, the ISB–NUS Global Advanced Management Program is a notable newly launched offering.
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Every journey reflects deep introspection, strategic storytelling, and the expert mentorship of GOALisB. Sharing some here:
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