Embarking on an INSEAD MBA journey is a transformative experience that combines academic excellence, global perspectives, and career advancement.
In this comprehensive overview, we delve into every aspect of the INSEAD MBA program, providing insights into the Class of 2026 profile, the employment reports for the Class of 2024, salary distributions across industries and locations, the meticulously crafted curriculum, fees and related expenditures, scholarship opportunities, and the intricacies of the admissions process.
Join us as we navigate the multifaceted landscape of INSEAD, uncovering the elements that make it a globally acclaimed hub for leadership development.
INSEAD MBA Class Profile: Who Gets In?
INSEAD’s MBA class profile includes approximately 900 – 950 students across two intakes in January and August.
The average age of students is 29 years, with a range of 3-8 years of work experience. The class is highly diverse, comprising individuals from 110 different nationalities, and 38% of the students are women.
Here is an overview of INSEAD class profile of its MBA program
Note : INSEAD does not have a minimum required GMAT score.
- GMAT 10th Edition : INSEAD recommends a score at or above the 70th percentile in both the quantitative and verbal sections. For the Integrated Reasoning section, the school recommends a score of 6 or above.
- GMAT Focus Edition (GFE): INSEAD recommends a 60th percentile on the Verbal component (80), and a 66th percentile on the Quantitative (80) and Data Insights components (77).
INSEAD MBA Admissions: A Step-by-Step Guide
The INSEAD MBA admissions process is highly competitive, seeking candidates who demonstrate not only professional achievement but also leadership potential and a strong international mindset. This guide breaks down the entire process, from choosing your intake to submitting a successful application.
INSEAD January vs. August Intake: Which is Right for You?
There are 2 intakes to the INSEAD MBA program: January (D-batch) and August (J-batch).
What is common between the two intakes
- Curriculum
- Class size
- Alumni network and resources
- Exchange programs
Key differences between the two intakes
- Internship Opportunity
- Recruitment Timelines
- Graduation date and place
- Weather considerations
Pro Tip: Still unsure? Read our deep dive on INSEAD MBA Aug vs Jan intake to make an informed decision.
INSEAD MBA Application Deadlines
Aug 2026 intake
| Round | Application Deadline | Interview decision notification | Final decision notification |
|---|---|---|---|
| ROUND 1 | 16 September 2025 | 17 October 2025 | 21 November 2025 |
| ROUND 2 | 04 November 2025 | 05 December 2025 | 16 January 2026 |
| ROUND 3 | 20 January 2026 | 20 February 2026 | 20 March 2026 |
| ROUND 4 | 10 March 2026 | 10 April 2026 | 08 May 2026 |
Admissions Insight: We generally advise applicants to aim for Rounds 1 or 2. This not only shows keen interest but also ensures the most availability in the class and for scholarships.
INSEAD MBA Application Process : A 5-Stage Journey
Embarking on the transformative journey of an INSEAD MBA begins with a comprehensive and well-structured application process.
INSEAD welcomes approximately 400-500 students per intake, with intakes occurring twice a year. The application process consists of four rounds, and the entire journey from application to admission typically spans around 10 weeks.
- Submit Online Application:
- Complete the online application and attach required supporting documents.
- Application essays are critical for evaluation, offering an opportunity to showcase personal stories and motivations.
- An application fee of €250 is non-refundable and must be paid online with a credit card.
- Pre-Selection Decision:
- An admissions officer contacts applicants within a week of submitting the application.
- Interviews with Alumni:
- Conducted by INSEAD Alumni interviewers, typically in the candidate’s country of residence.
- Two separate interviews are often required.
- Admissions Committee Evaluation:
- Feedback from alumni interviews is considered, and applications are presented to the Admissions Committee, comprising faculty and alumni.
- Final Decision:
- Applicants are notified by email of the final decision, and the entire process takes up to 10 weeks.
Learn Their Secrets:Â Discover the strategies Adhiraj and Shantanu used to gain INSEAD admission with scholarships.
INSEAD Admissions Criteria: What Are They Looking For?
INSEAD evaluates candidates based on multiple criteria, reflecting the institution’s commitment to creating a diverse and dynamic learning environment.
The criteria include the ability to contribute to the INSEAD experience, academic capacity, international motivation, adaptability in multicultural environments, and leadership potential, assessed through work experience and achievements.
INSEAD Application Requirements: Your Checklist
- Online Application:
- Dashboard and Photograph
- Profile (Sections 2-14)
- Job Description Questions/Motivation Essays
- Application fee of €250
- Supporting Documents:
- Official GMAT and GRE scores
- English language certification (if applicable)
- Two Letters of Recommendation (third optional)
- Curriculum vitae and scanned copies of transcripts and diploma
- Official Transcript:
- Transcripts must indicate both diploma and grades.
- Uploaded with the application form or sent via post by the applicant or academic institution.
- Original transcripts and the degree are required upon admission.
Acing the INSEAD Essays & Video Assessment
INSEAD Motivation Essay Prompts
The essay questions for the INSEAD MBA program are:
- Give a candid description of yourself as a person and a leader, emphasizing the strengths and weaknesses you recognize in yourself. Explain how you are actively working on your development, sharing key experiences that have shaped you, providing specific examples where relevant. (500 words maximum)
- Describe a highly stressful situation you faced and how you managed it. What did this experience teach you about yourself and your interactions with others? (400 words maximum)
- Is there anything else that was not covered in your application that you would like to share with the Admissions Committee? (300 words maximum)
In addition to the above Motivation essays, the following are the essay prompts related to your ‘Job Description’:
- Provide a summary of your career since graduating from university, explaining the rationale behind your key decisions and career progression. Include a description of your current (or most recent) role, covering the scope of your work, major responsibilities, employees under your supervision, budget size, clients/products, and any notable results achieved. (500 words maximum)
- Describe your short and long-term career aspirations, including your target geography, industry, and function. How do you plan to bridge the gap between your current position and these goals, and how will INSEAD help you achieve them? (300 words maximum)
- If you are currently not working or if you plan to leave your current employer more than 2 months before the programme starts, please explain your activities and occupations between leaving your job and the start of the programme. (Optional)
Another section of the application, Activities & Interests also requires you to write a short essay:
- Describe the activities you listed above and explain how they have enriched your life (e.g., skills developed, personal growth, community impact). (300 words maximum)
Take a look at this article for INSEAD MBA Sample Essays.
The INSEAD Video Interview (Kira Talent)
- Four video interviews through Kira Talent, assessing motivations, passions, and authenticity.
- Video interviews complement face-to-face interviews with alumni.
- The final question is written, with five minutes to submit your answer.
Take a look at this article for INSEAD MBA Video Essay Tips.
The meticulous application process at INSEAD ensures a thorough evaluation of candidates, considering diverse criteria and backgrounds. Aspiring leaders are invited to navigate this process, seizing the opportunity to contribute to and thrive in the globally
INSEAD MBA Employment: Class of 2024
An INSEAD MBA is a powerful catalyst for global career transformation. The employment The INSEAD MBA transforms careers globally. See how the Class of 2024 secured top salaries, changed industries, and landed roles worldwide
Key Compensation Highlights
| Metric | Amount, (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Overall Annual Mean Salary | 108,500 |
| Overall Annual Median Salary | 111,400 |
| Overall Median Sign-on Bonus | 27,600 |
| Overall Median Performance Bonus | 21,900 |
Source – INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Where Graduates Work: Industry Placement
| Sector Group | New Hires (%) | Returnees (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Management Consulting | 34 | 21 |
| Financial Services | 11 | 2 |
| Technology, Media & Telecom | 10 | 1 |
| Corporate Sectors | 17 | 4 |
Key takeaways:
- With 34% of new hires entering management consulting, it remains a highly sought-after sector among INSEAD graduates, emphasizing the program’s appeal for those aspiring to consulting careers.
- The returnee percentage is higher in Management Consulting compared to other sectors, indicating a significant number of former employees returning after graduation.
Salary Deep Dive by Industry
Compensation varies by sector, with each offering distinct bonus structures. The following tables provide a detailed look at the financial prospects in the top four hiring industries.
1) Management Consulting
| Metric | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Overall Annual Mean Salary | 115,700 |
| Overall Annual Median Salary | 119,500 |
| Overall Median Sign-on Bonus | 29,900 |
| Overall Median Performance Bonus | 27,400 |
Source – INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Key takeaways:
- Management Consulting offers a competitive mean salary of EUR 115,700 and a substantial median salary of EUR 119,500.
- The median sign-on bonus and performance bonus are both significant, standing at EUR 29,900 and EUR 27,400, respectively.
2) Financial Services
| Metric | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Overall Annual Mean Salary | 102,200 |
| Overall Annual Median Salary | 99,700 |
| Overall Median Sign-on Bonus | 28,600 |
| Overall Median Performance Bonus | 27,200 |
Source – INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Sub-sector Breakdown – Financial Services
| Sub-sector | No. of graduates | Salary Range (EUR) | Mean | Median | Median Sign-on Bonus | Median Performance Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance | 5 | 16,100 – 92,000 | 63,800 | 75,000 | – | – |
| Investment Banking / Banking / Sales and Trading | 15 | 45,400 – 202,300 | 111,000 | 118,600 | – | 56,800 |
| Investment Management / Hedge Funds | 9 | 69,000 – 229,100 | 133,300 | 132,300 | – | 51,000 |
| Private Equity / Venture Capital | 18 | 37,000 – 146,600 | 99,100 | 99,900 | 27,500 | 15,000 |
Key takeaways:
- Financial Services present a diverse range of sub-sectors with varying salary ranges and bonus structures.
- Investment Management stands out for its high mean and median salaries, as well as substantial sign-on and performance bonuses.
3) Corporate Sectors
| Metric | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Overall Annual Mean Salary | 98,200 |
| Overall Annual Median Salary | 93,000 |
| Overall Median Sign-on Bonus | 20,500 |
| Overall Median Performance Bonus | 15,600 |
Source: INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Sub-sector Breakdown – Corporate Sectors
| Sub-sector | No. of graduates | Salary Range (EUR) | Mean | Median | Median Sign-on Bonus | Median Performance Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | 16 | 41,600 – 195,500 | 104,400 | 103,600 | 36,700 | 12,200 |
| Manufacturing / Conglomerates | 29 | 21,300 – 209,100 | 92,100 | 84,900 | 12,200 | 16,500 |
| Transportation | 6 | 96,100 – 220,700 | 134,100 | 124,600 | – | – |
| Retail Consumer and Luxury Goods | 17 | 50,000 – 156,800 | 98,900 | 100,000 | – | 20,900 |
Key takeaways:
- Corporate Sectors offer diverse opportunities, with Transportation showcasing the highest mean salary, and Retail Consumer and Luxury Goods standing out for its significant median performance bonus.
- The absence of sign-on bonuses in certain Corporate Services indicates variations in compensation structures across sub-sectors.
4) Technology Media and Telecommunications
| Metric | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Overall Annual Mean Salary | 92,000 |
| Overall Annual Median Salary | 90,800 |
| Overall Median Sign-on Bonus | 11,900 |
| Overall Median Performance Bonus | 13,800 |
Source – INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Sub-sector Breakdown – Technology Media and Telecommunications
| Sub-sector | No. of graduates | Salary Range (EUR) | Mean | Median | Median Sign-on Bonus | Median Performance Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-commerce / Internet | 13 | 27,600 – 156,300 | 82,700 | 90,800 | 15,600 | 14,400 |
| Fintech | 5 | 65,000 – 129,000 | 98,600 | 91,000 | – | – |
| Information Technology / Telecommunications | 19 | 38,600 – 170,000 | 101,300 | 115,200 | – | 16,900 |
| Media Entertainment and Advertising | 6 | 39,600 – 120,700 | 76,900 | 76,500 | – | – |
Key takeaways:
- Technology, Media & Telecommunications showcase a competitive landscape, with Information Technology / Telecommunications offering the highest mean salary and median performance bonus.
- Information Technology / Telecommunications stands out for its high median salary, and E-commerce / Internet displays a significant median sign-on bonus
Global Careers: Salary by Location
INSEAD’s global reputation is reflected in the worldwide distribution of its graduates. Salaries and bonuses differ meaningfully by region, influenced by local market conditions.
| Region | No. of graduates | Salary Range (EUR) | Mean (EUR) | Median (EUR) | Median Sign-on Bonus (EUR) | Median Performance Bonus (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Africa / Middle East | 115 | 37,500 – 294,200 | 134,200 | 128,600 | 33,100 | 36,800 |
| Asia Pacific | 91 | 16,100 – 220,700 | 82,200 | 79,600 | 13,200 | 13,800 |
| North America | 26 | 74,500 – 212,400 | 147,300 | 147,100 | 27,600 | 27,600 |
| Northern Europe | 9 | 75,600 – 229,100 | 123,400 | 108,600 | – | 26,400 |
| South America | 31 | 13,300 – 144,000 | 76,400 | 73,700 | 42,500 | 17,700 |
| Southern Europe | 42 | 37,000 – 140,000 | 82,800 | 86,500 | 16,000 | 16,500 |
| Western Europe | 121 | 50,000 – 209,100 | 111,700 | 115,000 | 26,800 | 20,900 |
Source – INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Key takeaways:
- Africa / Middle East: Graduates working in Africa and the Middle East enjoy some of the strongest compensation packages worldwide, with high average and median salaries complemented by the most generous sign-on and performance bonuses, making it a region that rewards professionals exceptionally well.
- Asia Pacific: Despite the widest salary range, the mean and median salaries are relatively balanced. The sign-on and performance bonuses contribute positively to the overall compensation, though they tend to be smaller compared to Western markets.
- North America: Boasting the highest salary range, North America offers the most lucrative opportunities. The mean and median salaries are the highest in the region and the median performance bonus is notably higher than most other regions.
- Northern Europe: With a focused salary range, Northern Europe offers competitive mean and median salaries. Pay levels are high though somewhat uneven, suggesting that a few top earners raise the average, while performance bonuses remain attractive despite the absence of significant sign-on incentives.
- South America: presents the lowest salary levels overall, yet it compensates with exceptionally large sign-on bonuses, indicating an effort to attract skilled international talent despite lower base pay.
- Southern Europe: Salaries are steady and well-distributed, with moderate bonus structures reflecting a balanced but less incentive-heavy compensation approach.
- Western Europe: The region has the most extensive data set, showcasing a balanced salary range. This region demonstrates a healthy balance of strong base salaries and decent bonuses, representing a mature and stable job market typical of advanced economies.
Top Recruiting Companies – INSEAD Class of 2024
The employment landscape for the INSEAD MBA Class of 2024 showcases a diverse range of top employers. The table below provides insights into the companies that attracted the highest number of graduates.
| Company | Graduates Employed | Returnees |
|---|---|---|
| McKinsey & Company | 78 | 43 |
| Boston Consulting Group | 69 | 22 |
| Bain & Company | 41 | 21 |
| Strategy& | 26 | 10 |
| Kearney | 25 | 8 |
| Accenture | 23 | 6 |
| Oliver Wyman | 10 | 3 |
| Amazon | 7 | 1 |
| Deloitte | 6 | 2 |
| Eli Lilly and Company | 6 | 1 |
| Apollo Tyres | 5 | – |
| Hilti Group | 5 | 1 |
| Roland Berger | 5 | |
| FTI Delta | 4 | – |
Source – INSEAD Employment Report 2024
Key takeaways:
- Consulting Dominance: McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, and Bain & Company lead the hiring, reflecting the strong presence of consulting firms in the preferences of INSEAD graduates.
- Returnee Trends: A significant number of graduates returned to their former employers, with McKinsey & Company having the highest returnee rate.
- Diversity in Sectors: While consulting dominates, there is diversity with the presence of technology giants like, as well as pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly, and diverse industries represented.
Entrepreneurship
3% of the INSEAD Class of 2024 pursued entrepreneurship as a career path.
Type of Company Created
| Type of Company | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Creating a Startup | 62% |
| Acquiring a Company | 10% |
| Returning to Own Venture | 14% |
| Joining a New Venture as a Partner or an Executive | 10% |
| Creating a Social Venture | 5% |
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Entrepreneurship
Key takeaways:
- Startup Creation Dominates: A significant majority of entrepreneurial graduates (62%) chose to create their own startups, showcasing a strong entrepreneurial spirit within the INSEAD community.
- Diverse Entrepreneurial Paths: While startup creation is prevalent, a substantial portion (10%) opted to acquire existing companies, and a notable 14% returned to their own ventures. 10% joined new ventures as a Partner or an Executive. This diversity in entrepreneurial paths underscores the varied ambitions and strategies of INSEAD entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurship by Region
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Entrepreneurship
Key takeaways:
- European Entrepreneurial Hub: Western Europe emerges as a strong entrepreneurial hub among INSEAD graduates, with 54% of entrepreneurial ventures originating from this region.
- Global Spread: While Western Europe leads, there is a global spread of entrepreneurship, with Asia Pacific, Africa/Middle East, North America, South America, and Eastern Europe all contributing to the entrepreneurial landscape.
- Asia-Pacific Growth: The Asia Pacific region, with 36%, reflects a notable presence of entrepreneurs, indicating a growing trend in this dynamic region.
Entrepreneurship by Industry
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Entrepreneurship
Key takeaways:
- Diverse Industry Presence: Entrepreneurs from INSEAD are venturing into a diverse range of industries, from Energy and Education to Retail and Technology.
- Technology Dominance: Technology-related sectors, including Technology Media and Telecommunications, Information Technology and E-commerce/Internet, collectively account for 37% of entrepreneurial ventures, indicating a strong focus on tech-driven innovation.
- Notable Presence: Healthcare and Retail Consumer and Luxury Goods, constitute 18% each of entrepreneurial endeavors, highlighting the strong demand in these sectors.
Career Changes
In the dynamic landscape of post-MBA careers, the Class of 2024 at INSEAD showcases a remarkable willingness to embrace change. A significant 72% of graduates altered their sector, country, or function, reflecting the adaptability and global mindset fostered by the program. Notably, 19% embarked on a comprehensive transformation, changing all three dimensions.
Career Changes Overview
| Type of Change | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Changed sector, country, or function | 72% |
| Changed sector | 43% |
| Changed country | 39% |
| Changed function | 54% |
| Changed all 3 dimensions | 19% |
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Career Changes
Changes of Business Sector
For those transitioning from Corporate Sectors, Financial Services, Management Consulting, or Technology Media and Telecommunications, the following shifts were observed:
| Former Professionals | Corporate Sectors | Financial Services | Management Consulting | Technology Media & Telecommunications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Sectors | 43% | 5% | 43% | 9% |
| Financial Services | 12% | 48% | 35% | 5% |
| Management Consulting | 7% | 6% | 83% | 3% |
| Tech. Media & Telecom | 21% | 8% | 36% | 35% |
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Career Changes
Key takeaways:
- Dominance of Management Consulting: Graduates from various backgrounds, gravitated towards Management Consulting, highlighting its universal appeal as a post-INSEAD career choice.
Region or Country Changes
Understanding the inclination of graduates to either stay in their home country or explore opportunities abroad provides insights into the global mobility of the cohort. The data presents a breakdown of nationalities within different regions:
| Regions | # | Home | Abroad |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Europe | 9 | 78% | 22% |
| Eastern Europe | 21 | 24% | 76% |
| North America | 40 | 50% | 50% |
| Asia Pacific | 206 | 61% | 39% |
| Southern Europe | 75 | 57% | 43% |
| Africa / Middle East | 56 | 91% | 9% |
| South America | 54 | 74% | 26% |
| Western Europe | 19 | 82% | 18% |
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Career Changes
Key takeaways:
- Global Mobility: Graduates from various regions exhibit diverse patterns of global mobility, with Northern Europe, Eastern Europe, North America and Asia Pacific showcasing a higher inclination for international opportunities.
- Residency: Graduates in Western Europe (82%) and Africa/Middle East (91%) predominantly chose to stay , reflecting a preference for regional stability and familiarity.
Within Selected Nationalities (Home vs. Abroad)
| Nationalities | Total | Home (%) | Abroad (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lebanese | 26 | 8% | 92% |
| Taiwanese | 11 | 27% | 73% |
| Indian | 78 | 29% | 71% |
| Chinese | 38 | 32% | 68% |
| Italian | 29 | 38% | 62% |
| Canadian | 20 | 40% | 60% |
| American | 20 | 45% | 55% |
| French | 30 | 57% | 43% |
| Spanish | 27 | 63% | 37% |
| British | 14 | 71% | 29% |
| Dutch | 14 | 79% | 21% |
| Singaporean | 20 | 80% | 20% |
| Brazilian | 26 | 88% | 12% |
| German | 11 | 91% | 9% |
| Japanese | 11 | 91% | 9% |
| Portuguese | 11 | 91% | 9% |
Source: INSEAD MBA Employment Report 2024 on Career Changes
Key takeaways:
- Diversity in Nationality Choices: The percentage of graduates staying abroad varies widely among different nationalities, showcasing the diverse preferences and global perspectives of INSEAD MBA graduates. Indian, Chinese, Italian, French, Spanish, and Brazilian have significant representation, indicating a globally diverse cohort with strong participation from both emerging and developed markets.
- High Mobility for Certain Nationalities: Lebanese, Taiwanese, Indian, Chinese, and Italian graduates exhibit high mobility, with the majority choosing to work abroad.
- Moderate to Low Mobility: Graduates from countries like British, Dutch, Japanese, and Singaporean show moderate to low mobility, with a preference for staying within their home countries.
INSEAD MBA Curriculum
INSEAD’s MBA program stands out as a dynamic and intensive 10-month journey that equips students with a robust foundation in business fundamentals and offers a diverse array of elective courses to tailor their educational experience.
Programme Structure
The accelerated format spans five periods, each lasting eight weeks and culminating in examinations, essays, or projects. The first phase comprises 14 core courses covering essential management disciplines such as finance, accounting, marketing, economics, leadership, strategy, business ethics, and broader management skills. The second phase unfolds with over 75 elective courses, allowing students to delve deeper into their areas of interest.The capstone course is a pinnacle experience where theory meets practice, allowing students to integrate core learnings into strategic decision-making. Taking on leadership roles in simulated companies facing strategic challenges, students practice integrating sustainability across management domains, including operations, strategy, accounting, finance, and marketing.
Click on the tabs below to explore the different components of the curriculum.
The intensive MBA core curriculum lays the groundwork for fundamental business practices. Courses include Financial Accounting, Organisational Behaviour, Financial Markets and Valuation, Prices and Markets, Uncertainty, Data, and Judgement, Introduction to Strategy, Corporate Financial Policy, Managing Customer Value, Managerial Accounting, Process and Operations Management, Leadership Communication Foundations, Macroeconomics in the Global Economy, Business and Society.
From the third period onwards, students can personalize their program with a selection of over 75 electives across 10 academic areas, ranging from Accounting and Control to Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise. INSEAD’s unique approach extends beyond the classroom, with elective courses like “Building Business in China” and “Building Business in Silicon Valley,” offering hands-on learning experiences through interactions with local alumni, entrepreneurs, and executives. INSEAD also offers AI-focused and sustainability-focused electives to equip students with skills across domains that are growing the fastest.
The capstone course is a pinnacle experience where theory meets practice, allowing students to integrate core learnings into strategic decision-making. Taking on leadership roles in simulated companies facing strategic challenges, students practice integrating sustainability across management domains, including operations, strategy, accounting, finance, and marketing.
INSEAD’s MBA program not only provides a comprehensive academic foundation but also emphasizes experiential learning, global perspectives, and practical application of knowledge, preparing graduates to excel in diverse and dynamic business.
INSEAD MBA Fees
Embarking on an MBA journey at INSEAD comes with not just academic rigor but also considerations for tuition fees, related expenditures, and estimated living costs. Here’s a breakdown of the financial aspects to help prospective students plan for theAugust 2025 and January 2026 intakes.
Tuition Fees
For the August 2025 Intake, the tuition fees stand at €103,500, while for the January 2025 Intake, it is €107,600. These fees are payable in instalments, catering to both self-funded and company-sponsored participants.
- First Installment (Approx. 4 weeks after admission offer): €12,000
- Second Installment (25 July each year): €61,000 (Self-funded) / €91,500 (Company-sponsored)
- Third Installment (15 January each year): €30,500 (Self-funded)
- First Installment (Approx. 4 weeks after admission offer): €12,000
- Second Installment [18 November (R1-R3), 4 December (R4)]: €63,000 (Self-funded) / €95,600 (Company-sponsored)
- Third Installment (15 April each year): €32,600 (Self-funded)
Related Expenditures
The optional Business Foundations Programme incurs an additional cost of €2000 for the Aug intake and €1500 for the Jan intake
Estimated Living Expenses
Living expenses vary, and a survey of INSEAD students outlines basic and optional costs. For a single participant during the ten-month program:
| Expense Category | Fontainebleau (€) | Singapore (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (includes utilities) | 11,000 | 16,000 |
| Local Transport | 750 | 1,000 |
| Meals | 6,000 | 6,700 |
| Telephone | 250 | 200 |
| Car Lease | 3900 | – |
| Laptop | 1,000 | 1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 1,600 | 1,600 |
| Field Trips | 3000 | 3000 |
| Travel for Exchange and Job Change | 2500 | 2500 |
| Total | 30,000 | 32,000 |
These estimates serve as a guide, and actual expenses depend on individual circumstances.
INSEAD MBA Scholarships
At INSEAD, the commitment to fostering a diverse and accomplished student body is exemplified through an extensive array of scholarships, totaling over 170 types, available to students across both the Fontainebleau and Singapore campuses.
Categories of Scholarships
INSEAD’s scholarship offerings fall into three main categories, ensuring that a broad spectrum of students can benefit:
- Need-Based Scholarships: Tailored to support those requiring financial assistance, need-based scholarships play a vital role in making the transformative INSEAD MBA accessible to talented individuals, regardless of their financial background.
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships recognizes outstanding achievements, taking into account factors such as country of origin, professional background, leadership abilities, or a combination of these criteria. This category recognizes and rewards excellence in various dimensions, contributing to the diverse and high-achieving INSEAD community.
- Spot Scholarships: Exceptional admissions profiles are immediately acknowledged through spot scholarships, eliminating the need for a separate application process. This swift recognition underscores the emphasis INSEAD places on identifying and nurturing exceptional talent from the moment of admission.
Visit the INSEAD Scholarships page to view all available scholarships.
Key Statistics
- 170+ Scholarship Types: The diversity of scholarships reflects INSEAD’s commitment to catering to a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and achievements.
- 23.7K€ Average Scholarship Amount: The average scholarship amount illustrates the substantial financial support provided, making the INSEAD MBA an attainable goal for many aspiring leaders.
- 36% Candidates With Scholarships: Nearly a third of participants benefit from scholarships, demonstrating the institution’s dedication to ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder qualified candidates from pursuing their MBA dreams.
As a global institution, INSEAD’s scholarships play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive and empowering environment, fostering excellence in leadership across borders. Whether need-based, merit-based, or spot scholarships, each offering is a testament to INSEAD’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing exceptional talent, thereby shaping the future leaders of the business world.
Read how Neeshma secured her INSEAD admission ((January 2026 MBA intake) with scholarship.
Further Reading: More MBA Guides & Insights
- INSEAD MBA: January vs August intake – Commonalities, Differences & Insider Insights
- Everything You Need to Know About INSEAD’s January 2026 MBA Intake
- INSEAD August 2026 MBA Intake: Everything You Need to Know
- INSEAD MBA Essay 2025-2026: Analysis, Tips, Framework
- INSEAD MBA Interview: Tips to Excel & Commonly Asked Questions
- Top MBA Programs in Europe 2025
- Top MBA Programs in the World (2025): Rankings, Class Profiles & Career Outcomes
FAQs
How much does an INSEAD MBA cost?
The total estimated cost for the INSEAD MBA is approximately €130,000 – €135,000. This includes tuition fees of around €103,500 – €107,600 (depending on intake) and living expenses of €30,000 – €32,000. INSEAD also offers 170+ scholarships, covering merit-based, need-based, and diversity awards to help finance your MBA journey.
What is the average INSEAD MBA salary?
The average post-MBA salary for INSEAD graduates is around €108,500, with a median salary of €111,400. Graduates also receive sign-on and performance bonuses averaging €25,000 – €30,000, making the overall compensation highly competitive across consulting, finance, and tech sectors.
What is the difference between the January and August intakes at INSEAD?
 The core difference lies in the internship opportunity. The August intake is designed for those seeking a traditional summer internship, making it ideal for career switchers. The January intake has a condensed schedule without a formal internship break, often attracting company-sponsored students or career enhancers.
Does INSEAD offer scholarships for its MBA program?
Yes – INSEAD offers over 170 scholarships for its MBA program. These include need-based, merit-based, diversity / geography / leadership-based, and spot scholarships for outstanding admissions profiles. Around 36% of participants receive a scholarship, with average award amounts around €23,700.
What are the top recruiting companies for INSEAD MBA graduates?
The top recruiters for INSEAD MBA grads are heavily in the consulting sector, led by firms like McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company. Other frequent employers include Strategy&, Kearney, Accenture, and companies in finance, technology, and corporate sectors
What is a good GMAT score for INSEAD?
The average GMAT score for INSEAD is around 710, though the school does not have a minimum requirement.
For the GMAT 10th Edition, INSEAD recommends scoring at or above the 70th percentile in both the Quantitative and Verbal sections, and a 6 or higher in Integrated Reasoning.
For the GMAT Focus Edition (GFE), INSEAD suggests achieving at least the 60th percentile in Verbal (score of 80) and the 66th percentile in Quantitative (80) and Data Insights (77).
Overall, a score in the 700+ range with balanced section percentiles significantly strengthens your INSEAD MBA application.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this deep dive into the INSEAD MBA Program, it becomes evident that it’s more than just a degree; it’s a life-changing experience. The diverse class profiles, stellar employment reports, and competitive salaries affirm the program’s global impact. From the innovative curriculum and flexible program structure to the intricate details of fees, scholarships, and the admissions process, INSEAD ensures an enriching journey for every student.
Whether you’re considering the Fontainebleau or Singapore campus, the INSEAD MBA is a gateway to unparalleled opportunities, global perspectives, and a vibrant network that lasts a lifetime.
Get a free profile evaluation
If you would like a candid assessment of your profile, book your free profile evaluation session now.