London Business School MBA Program Guide
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The London Business School (LBS) MBA program is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world, known for its exceptional academic rigor, diverse student body, and unparalleled access to global business networks. Located in the heart of one of the world’s financial capitals, LBS provides students with not just an education, but a transformative experience that opens doors to international leadership roles.
Table of Contents:
Overview of the London Business School MBA Program
Whether you’re looking to pivot industries, accelerate your current career path, or start your own venture, the LBS MBA offers the ideal platform. Its flexible curriculum, outstanding faculty, and diverse, high-achieving peer group create a dynamic environment where ideas flourish and careers are elevated.
Why Choose LBS? Key Differentiators
LBS stands out from other global MBA programs for several reasons:
London Location Advantage: The school’s prime location gives students direct access to global headquarters, startups, investment banks, and consulting firms based in the city.
International Cohort: Over 90% of LBS MBA students are international, bringing with them a wealth of cultural and professional perspectives.
Flexible Program Duration: Unlike many traditional MBAs, the LBS program can be completed in 15, 18, or 21 months, offering students the flexibility to customize their academic journey based on their goals.
Global Opportunities: From international exchanges to global business experiences (GBE), students engage with business on a worldwide scale.
Career Outcomes: LBS has one of the strongest post-MBA employment networks in Europe, with graduates securing roles at McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, and more.
LBS MBA at a Glance
Feature | Details |
Program Length | 15 to 21 months |
Location | London, United Kingdom |
Start Date | August/September annually |
Intake Size | ~500 students per year |
Average Age | 29 |
Work Experience | 5–6 years average |
International Students | 90%+ |
Global Ranking | Top 10 (FT, QS, Bloomberg Businessweek) |
LBS MBA Curriculum and Teaching Methodology
The London Business School MBA curriculum is designed to develop leaders who can think critically, act decisively, and navigate the complexities of global business. Balancing core business fundamentals with elective flexibility, the curriculum emphasizes both academic rigor and real-world application.
What distinguishes the LBS curriculum is its modular structure, personalization options, and an emphasis on global and practical learning. Whether you are looking to switch industries, launch a startup, or scale up in your current sector, the program adapts to fit your needs while maintaining a strong foundation in leadership and business strategy.
Structure of the LBS MBA Program
LBS offers a flexible MBA program that can be completed in 15, 18, or 21 months, depending on your career goals and internship needs. This flexibility allows students to tailor their academic and professional experience to their aspirations.
The curriculum is broadly divided into the following components:
1. Core Courses
The core curriculum builds a solid foundation in key business disciplines and is typically completed in the first two terms. These include:
Financial Accounting
Corporate Finance
Data Analytics for Managers
Managerial Economics
Operations Management
Marketing
Strategic Leadership
Organisational Behaviour
The core ensures that every LBS MBA graduate has a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate, regardless of their prior background.
2. Tailored Core and Electives
Starting in term three, students begin to customize their learning path. LBS offers over 100 electives, one of the largest selections among global MBA programs. These cover areas such as:
Finance and Private Equity
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Technology and Analytics
Marketing Strategy
Social Impact
Real Estate and Infrastructure
Students can choose to specialize deeply in a specific domain or explore a broad range of topics to remain generalists. Many electives include hands-on components, such as live projects, simulations, and company visits.
3. Global Business Experience (GBE)
An integral part of the LBS MBA is the Global Business Experience, a consulting-style project where students work in teams to solve real challenges for international companies. These projects take place across various regions including Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. GBE is designed to:
Enhance global awareness
Foster cross-cultural teamwork
Provide real-world consulting experience
4. LondonCAP (London Core Application Practicum)
The LondonCAP is another experiential learning module where students work on a live business project with a London-based firm. This helps students apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment while building industry contacts.
Teaching Methods at LBS
LBS employs a variety of teaching methodologies designed to prepare students for complex, high-stakes decision-making environments. These include:
Case Studies: Analysis of real business dilemmas from leading global firms.
Interactive Lectures: Faculty-led sessions that combine theory with practical insights.
Team-Based Learning: Group assignments and discussions to foster collaboration and leadership.
Simulations and Role Plays: Strategic simulations in areas such as M&A, crisis response, and negotiations.
Guest Speakers: Regular sessions with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and alumni who bring real-world context into the classroom.
This blended approach ensures that students not only grasp the theory but also develop the ability to apply their learning in complex, real-time business scenarios.
Leadership and Personal Development
Throughout the MBA journey, students engage in the Leadership Launch programme, a multi-stage development track that includes:
Executive coaching
Peer feedback
Reflection sessions
Skills workshops
The goal is to help students build authentic, effective leadership styles tailored to their personalities and professional aspirations.
Cross-School and Global Learning Opportunities
LBS encourages cross-registration with other programs, such as the Executive MBA, Masters in Finance, and Sloan Fellows, allowing students to expand their peer network and gain perspectives from experienced professionals.
Additionally, students can participate in international exchange programs with over 30 partner business schools globally, including Wharton, Kellogg, INSEAD, and CEIBS.
Specializations, Electives, and Global Experiences at LBS
Personalized Learning with a Global Outlook
One of the most compelling features of the London Business School MBA program is the level of customization and global exposure it offers. Students are not confined to a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Instead, LBS encourages you to craft your MBA journey by choosing from an extensive range of electives, specializations, and international opportunities. Whether your interests lie in finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, or social impact, LBS provides the tools, flexibility, and global platforms to help you dive deep.
This level of personalization helps students acquire both the breadth and depth of knowledge necessary to become agile, globally competent business leaders.
Electives: Tailoring Your MBA Experience
After completing core modules in the first two terms, students begin selecting from over 100 electives. These courses are taught by internationally renowned faculty and often include visiting professors and industry practitioners. Electives are designed to help students develop expertise in a specific domain or explore interdisciplinary interests.
Below is a selection of electives categorized by focus area:
Focus Area | Sample Electives |
Finance & Economics | Advanced Corporate Finance, Private Equity, Asset Management |
Entrepreneurship | Managing the Growing Business, Financing the Entrepreneurial Business |
Marketing & Strategy | Brand Management, Pricing Strategy, Strategy Execution |
Technology & Analytics | Data Science for Business, Digital Strategy, Fintech |
Leadership & Management | Negotiation and Bargaining, Paths to Power, Managing Change |
Social Impact & Sustainability | Business and Social Impact, Energy Markets, Sustainability Strategies |
Electives allow for experimentation, enabling students to test different domains before committing to a post-MBA career track. Many are interactive and project-based, involving real-time consulting work, case simulations, and business planning.
Specializations and Concentrations
While LBS does not have mandatory majors, students can pursue “concentrations” or unofficial specializations by strategically selecting electives and participating in related experiential learning.
Popular informal specializations include:
Finance
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Marketing
Technology and Analytics
Social Enterprise
Global Strategy
Additionally, LBS offers Career Pathways, which are tailored academic and career development tracks curated by the Career Centre to align your course selection with job market trends and recruiting timelines.
Global Business Experience (GBE)
The Global Business Experience (GBE) is a cornerstone of the LBS MBA. It provides hands-on consulting and strategy work in global markets. Students collaborate in small groups with international organizations to solve complex business challenges.
Key features of the GBE:
Projects in regions like South Africa, Vietnam, Peru, and the UAE
Involvement with multinational firms, NGOs, startups, and family businesses
Application of core business concepts to real-world, cross-cultural scenarios
Guided by LBS faculty and often paired with in-market immersion
This experiential module not only enhances professional and cultural fluency but also fosters leadership, adaptability, and global thinking—skills highly valued by employers.
International Exchange Programs
LBS has partnerships with over 30 top business schools worldwide, allowing students to study abroad for a term. Partner schools include:
Wharton School (USA)
Kellogg School of Management (USA)
Booth School of Business (USA)
CEIBS (China)
IESE (Spain)
HKUST (Hong Kong)
Exchange programs are especially beneficial for students seeking:
Regional exposure before pivoting careers geographically
A comparative academic experience
Networking opportunities with students and professionals from other elite institutions
Entrepreneurial Opportunities
LBS places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, backed by its Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IIE). Students interested in launching ventures can participate in:
LBS Incubator Program
Launchpad Events and Start-Up Challenges
Access to London’s vibrant startup ecosystem
Many MBA students use their time at LBS to validate, refine, and launch successful startups—supported by mentors, alumni, and investors within the LBS network.
LBS MBA Class Profile and Student Diversity
A Truly Global and Inclusive MBA Community
One of the defining characteristics of the London Business School (LBS) MBA program is its unparalleled diversity. Few business schools in the world can match the international makeup, professional variety, and cultural richness of the LBS MBA cohort. Every year, LBS brings together students from across the globe, creating a melting pot of experiences, worldviews, and career aspirations.
This global cohort is not just a reflection of London’s position as a global business capital—it is an intentional design of the program. LBS believes that true leadership is forged through diverse interactions, and the classroom is structured to encourage cross-cultural collaboration, inclusive thinking, and global awareness.
LBS MBA Class Profile: Key Stats
Each incoming MBA class at LBS is made up of around 500 highly accomplished professionals. Below is a breakdown of the most recent class profile:
Metric | LBS MBA Class of 2025 (Approximate) |
Class Size | 500+ students |
Average Age | 29 years |
Average Work Experience | 5.5 years |
Nationalities Represented | 65+ |
International Students | 90%+ |
Women in Class | 44% |
Average GMAT Score | 708 |
Median GRE Scores | Verbal: 160, Quant: 162 |
Backgrounds | Finance, Consulting, Tech, Startups, Nonprofits |
Undergraduate Degrees | Business, Engineering, Economics, Sciences, Arts |
International Representation
LBS attracts students from every continent, making it one of the most globally represented MBA programs in the world. No single nationality dominates the cohort. This diversity enhances peer learning and fosters a classroom environment where business problems are approached from multiple cultural and professional perspectives.
Regions represented typically include:
Western and Eastern Europe
North and South America
Asia and Southeast Asia
Africa and the Middle East
Australia and Oceania
With over 90% of students coming from outside the UK, your MBA journey at LBS will be shaped by a constant exchange of ideas between professionals from dozens of different cultures and industries.
Academic and Professional Backgrounds
LBS values career diversity as much as geographic diversity. The program brings together:
Investment bankers and fintech founders
Management consultants and social entrepreneurs
Engineers, doctors, lawyers, and policy makers
Military officers, NGO professionals, and artists
This varied mix ensures that classroom discussions are rich and multifaceted. In team projects and group assignments, you may find yourself working with a software engineer from India, a McKinsey consultant from Brazil, a public health expert from Nigeria, and a private equity associate from France.
LBS does not require applicants to have a business background. What matters most is the ability to contribute meaningfully to a high-performing, collaborative environment.
Commitment to Gender Equity and Inclusion
London Business School is deeply committed to promoting gender parity and broader inclusion in business education. Around 44% of the full-time MBA class identifies as female, and the school actively supports this through:
The Women in Business Club
Scholarships and mentorships for women
Events like the LBS Women’s Leadership Conference
Corporate partnerships and recruitment programs focused on female leadership
LBS also supports diversity through affinity groups for LGBTQ+ students, ethnic minorities, neurodiverse individuals, and more, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive space for all backgrounds.
Student Clubs and Affinity Networks
To further promote inclusivity and community, students can join a wide range of clubs based on:
Cultural Identity (e.g., Africa Club, Latin America Club, India Club)
Industry Focus (e.g., Tech & Media Club, Finance Club, Social Impact Club)
Social and Personal Interests (e.g., Out in Business, Women in Business, Family Business Club)
These clubs host networking events, speaker panels, social mixers, and career treks, helping students build deep relationships across national and cultural lines.
Admissions Process and Requirements for the LBS MBA
A Competitive Yet Holistic Admissions Journey
Gaining admission to the London Business School MBA program is a highly competitive process, but it’s one that values authenticity, ambition, and potential as much as academic credentials. The LBS admissions team looks beyond the numbers to understand the individual—their motivations, career vision, leadership experience, and ability to thrive in a diverse, collaborative environment.
LBS employs a holistic admissions approach, considering academic background, professional achievements, interpersonal skills, and alignment with the school’s values. The process is rigorous, but well-structured, and designed to give candidates multiple ways to demonstrate fit.
Application Rounds and Deadlines
The full-time MBA at LBS follows a rolling admissions model across several application rounds each year. Typically, there are four rounds:
Application Round | Deadline (Typical) | Decision Notification |
Round 1 | September | December |
Round 2 | January | March |
Round 3 | March | May |
Round 4 | April | June |
Early applications are encouraged, especially for international candidates who may require a visa. Scholarships are also more widely available in earlier rounds.
Core Admissions Requirements
To apply for the LBS MBA, applicants must submit a complete application including the following:
1. Online Application Form
This includes personal details, academic history, professional background, and career goals. Applicants must also indicate their preferences for program length (15, 18, or 21 months).
2. CV / Résumé
A 1–2 page document outlining your professional experience, achievements, and responsibilities. The focus should be on impact, leadership, and progression.
3. Essays
LBS typically requires two core essays:
Essay 1: What are your post-MBA goals and how will LBS help you achieve them?
Essay 2: Describe your biggest leadership challenge and what you learned.
Optional essays allow candidates to explain anomalies (e.g., academic gaps, career transitions) or provide additional context.
4. Academic Transcripts
Official or unofficial copies of all university degrees and transcripts. A strong undergraduate GPA is beneficial but not mandatory for all applicants.
5. GMAT or GRE Score
A competitive GMAT score (average: ~708) or GRE equivalent is required. There’s no minimum score, but strong performance helps demonstrate quantitative ability.
6. English Language Proficiency
If your undergraduate degree was not taught in English, you may need to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores.
7. Two Professional References
Referees should be people who have supervised your work. They should speak to your leadership potential, collaboration skills, and professional growth.
The Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview, often conducted by an LBS alumnus in your local region. The interview is:
Behavioral and conversational, focused on your career, motivations, and fit with LBS
Typically lasts 60–90 minutes
May include a case study or presentation, depending on the interviewer
This stage is as much about understanding your leadership qualities and interpersonal fit as it is about reviewing your credentials.
What LBS Looks For in Applicants
London Business School doesn’t just admit students who check boxes—it seeks future global leaders. Some of the qualities the admissions committee values most include:
Intellectual Curiosity: Can you thrive in a rigorous academic environment?
Career Focus: Do you have clear goals and a sense of direction?
Global Outlook: Can you collaborate across cultures and think internationally?
Leadership Potential: Have you demonstrated initiative, influence, and responsibility?
Engagement and Fit: Are you ready to contribute meaningfully to the LBS community?
LBS encourages applicants from all industries and nationalities, and the admissions team supports those from non-traditional backgrounds as long as they can show potential for impact.
LBS MBA Costs, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Tuition and Associated Costs
For the 2025 intake, the tuition fee for the LBS MBA program is £119,950, covering the entire 15–21 month duration. This fee includes all core courses, electives, and global experiences, but excludes program-related travel expenses. Students are also required to pay a Student Association Fee of £380, which supports various student-led initiatives and events .
Scholarships and Financial Aid
LBS offers a range of scholarships to support students financially:
LBS Women’s Scholarships: Aimed at increasing female representation in business, these scholarships range from £20,000 to full tuition fees.
Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarships: These full-fee scholarships are awarded to outstanding students from Africa.
London Business School Fund Scholarships: Open to all MBA applicants, these scholarships cover up to full tuition for those with strong academic and professional profiles .
Additionally, students can explore external scholarships and loan options, such as Prodigy Finance, which offers loans based on future earning potential without requiring collateral .
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Employment Outcomes
LBS MBA graduates have a strong track record of securing employment shortly after graduation. In the most recent data:
91% of graduates received a job offer within three months of graduation.
Graduates have been employed by top firms such as Amazon, Google, McKinsey, Morgan Stanley, and Nike .
Alumni Network
The LBS alumni network is a powerful resource, with over 45,000 alumni across more than 150 countries. This extensive network provides ongoing career support, mentorship opportunities, and access to a global community of business leaders.
Student Life and Clubs
Student Association and Events
The London Business School Student Association (LBSSA) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the student experience. It organizes a variety of events throughout the year, including:
Tattoo: A vibrant cultural festival showcasing the diversity of the LBS community.
MBAT (MBA Tournament): A three-day sports competition uniting over 2,000 participants from Europe's best business schools.
Sundowners: Regular social gatherings that bring together students, faculty, and staff for networking and relaxation .
Student Clubs
LBS boasts over 70 student-led clubs, catering to a wide range of interests, including:
Women in Business Club: Focuses on promoting gender diversity and leadership among women.
Entrepreneurship Club: Supports students interested in launching startups and innovative ventures.
Impact Consulting Club: Provides opportunities for students to work on pro bono consulting projects with social enterprises .
Global Exposure and International Opportunities
Global Business Experience (GBE)
The Global Business Experience (GBE) is a hallmark of the LBS MBA program. It offers students the opportunity to work on real-world consulting projects in international markets, collaborating with organizations in regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This hands-on experience enhances global business acumen and cultural understanding.
Exchange Programs
LBS has partnerships with over 30 top business schools worldwide, allowing students to spend a term abroad. Partner institutions include:
Wharton School (USA)
Kellogg School of Management (USA)
Booth School of Business (USA)
CEIBS (China)
IESE (Spain)
HKUST (Hong Kong)
These exchange programs provide students with diverse perspectives and broaden their global networks.
Return on Investment (ROI)
Salary Growth
Graduates of the LBS MBA program experience significant salary growth. On average, alumni report a 107% increase in salary within three years of graduation. This substantial return on investment reflects the value employers place on the LBS MBA and the skills acquired during the program .
Career Advancement
The LBS MBA program equips graduates with the skills and network necessary for career advancement. Whether transitioning into a new industry, moving into a leadership role, or launching an entrepreneurial venture, LBS alumni benefit from the school's strong reputation and global connections.
Applying to a top-tier business school like London Business School can be a complex and competitive process. To ensure your application stands out, you need an expert who understands the nuances of each program and can help you navigate the admissions landscape. Contact GoalisB today and get detailed insights and expert guidance.
FAQs
What is the duration of the LBS MBA program?
The LBS MBA program offers flexible durations: 15, 18, or 21 months, allowing students to tailor their study period to their career goals.
What is the average GMAT score for LBS MBA applicants?
The average GMAT score for LBS MBA applicants is approximately 708, though there is no official minimum requirement.
What is the tuition fee for the LBS MBA program?
The tuition fee for the LBS MBA program is £119,950 for the 2025 intake, covering all core courses, electives, and global experiences.
Does LBS offer scholarships for MBA students?
Yes, LBS offers a range of scholarships, including the LBS Women’s Scholarships, Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarships, and London Business School Fund Scholarships, among others.
What is the average age of students in the LBS MBA program?
The average age of students in the LBS MBA program is 29 years.
How many nationalities are represented in the LBS MBA class?
The LBS MBA class represents over 65 nationalities, fostering a diverse and global learning environment.
What is the average work experience of LBS MBA students?
The average work experience of LBS MBA students is approximately 5.5 years.
What industries do LBS MBA graduates work in?
LBS MBA graduates work in various industries, including finance, consulting, technology, entrepreneurship, and social impact.
What is the employment rate for LBS MBA graduates?
Approximately 91% of LBS MBA graduates receive a job offer within three months of graduation.
Does LBS offer an exchange program for MBA students?
Yes, LBS has partnerships with over 30 top business schools worldwide, allowing MBA students to spend a term abroad.
What is the average salary increase for LBS MBA graduates?
On average, LBS MBA graduates experience a 107% increase in salary within three years of graduation.
What is the gender diversity in the LBS MBA program?
Approximately 44% of the full-time MBA class at LBS identifies as female, reflecting the school's commitment to gender equity.
What is the class size of the LBS MBA program?
The LBS MBA program typically admits around 500 students per year, creating a close-knit and collaborative community.
What is the application deadline for the LBS MBA program?
The LBS MBA program has multiple application rounds, with deadlines typically in September, January, March, and April. Specific dates can be found on the LBS website.
What is the interview process for LBS MBA applicants?
Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview, often conducted by an LBS alumnus, focusing on career motivations, leadership potential, and fit with the program.
What is the average GRE score for LBS MBA applicants?
The average GRE scores for LBS MBA applicants are approximately 160 in both the verbal and quantitative sections.
Does LBS offer part-time or executive MBA programs?
Yes, LBS offers a Global Executive MBA program designed for senior professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills while continuing to work.
What is the location of the LBS campus?
The LBS campus is located in the heart of London, providing students with access to a vibrant business hub and numerous networking opportunities.
What is the application fee for the LBS MBA program?
The application fee for the LBS MBA program is £200, which is non-refundable.
What is the Laidlaw Women's Leadership Fund?
The Laidlaw Women's Leadership Fund at LBS aims to attract outstanding women who might not otherwise be able to afford a top-tier business education.