About IMD
IMD was founded in 1990, and in just 40 years, it has earned a place amongst Europe’s most elite business schools. With a class of approximately 100 students each year, the professor to student ratio is 1:2, and students find the flexibility to personalize their program. The staff gets to know every student, starting with relocation and housing assistance and a partners’ integration program.
IMD’s MBA is an accelerated one-year program beginning in January, with a unique admissions process. Promising candidates are invited to take part in an assessment day, held either online or in person. It’s a fast-paced, nearly full day that includes a brief individual interview and activities that simulate the MBA experience. Groups of six to 10 applicants analyze and present a case, present a position on a challenging issue, and take part in other sessions modeled on course experiences.
This allows the admissions team to see and assess candidates in action. Those who do well are offered admission. A second, similar pathway called Challenge Days allows applicants to compete for admission with a generous scholarship.
IMD’s strong focus on leadership development is evident in its full name: the International Institute for Management Development. Global business exposure and sustainable growth are emphasized. IMD was founded by businessmen, and its MBA program remains closely tied to Switzerland’s fintech industry and the multinational headquarters of consumer products, finance, luxury and healthcare companies there. IMD’s students benefit from proximity to this ecosystem. About 30% of the course is experiential projects; early in their programme all students are placed in a consultancy with a new or expanding company to guide its growth. These hands-on experiences allow students to develop relevant, comprehensive leadership skills.
Strengths and Specializations
General management, technology, fintech, entrepreneurship
Graduating Class of 2024
MBA Class Size: 103
Avg. Age: 29
Avg. Work Experience: 6 years
Avg. GMAT: 680
International Students: 97%
Female Students: 37%
Tuition: CHF 80,000
Post-MBA Careers (class of 2023)
Career Sectors: Consulting 39%; Manufacturing 13%; Healthcare 11%; Financial Services 10%
Top Recruiters: BCG, Amazon, Bain, Danaher, McKinsey, ZS, Lilly, Arthur D. Little, Credit Suisse, Deloitte
Avg. Base Salary: €126,236; Salary Increase: 71% (source: FT Rankings 2024)
Employment offered within 3 months of graduation: 87%
IMD Rankings
Admissions
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Application deadlines for MBA 2026 |
Final decision by |
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15 January 2025 |
01 March 2025 |
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15 March 2025 |
01 May 2025 |
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15 June 2025 |
01 August 2025 |
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15 September 2025 |
01 November 2025 |
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Deadlines for Women Leaders Assessment Challenge |
Final decision by |
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15 May 2025 |
01 July 2025 |
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15 August 2025 |
01 October 2025 |
Essays:
1. Tell us your story (400 word limit)
2. What areas of personal and professional development do you hope to explore during your time at IMD? (no word count)
2. (Optional) Additional information that would be helpful for the Admissions Committee to be aware of? (no word count)
Fortuna Tips & Advice
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