I think I am in somewhat of an unusual position.

I'm looking to apply for an MBA, starting in 2019.

I'm from the UK and have a background in manufacturing management, 4 years work experience and in that time I've worked my way up quite rapidly in comparison to my peers. GMAT wise I'm expecting a result between 650-690.

In terms of applications, I'm going to apply to Imperial and Cass. However I'm very tempted by the prospect of studying abroad at a number of places, namely EADA HHL and Lisbon for differing reasons. Long term I imagine I will return to the UK.

My question is this: Is there any point going abroad for an MBA? Would it be worthwhile if my plan is to return to the UK.

Also, I have a 2:2 in an engineering discipline for a Russell Group Uni. How significantly will this affect my application. Should I consider lesser ranked schools as a result of this (If at all considering the poor ROI at many places)

If you could even help with just one of these questions I'd be eternally thankful.

Honestly I don't see the point in taking an MBA abroad if your plan is to live and work in the UK.

Many schools require a first class or an upper second for admission, but maybe with a great GMAT, outstanding work experience, interview and personal statement you can overshadow your grades. You can ask directly to an Admission officer whether your grade represents an obstacle.

There are many great MBAs you can apply if rejected at Cass and Imperial (Cranfield, Edinburgh, Lancaster, Durham, Strathclyde, Bath...) that will give you a better ROI than EADA, Leipzig and Lisbon.

Good luck with your applications!

P.s. many of these schools have exchange programmes worldwide, if living an experience abroad is tempting you

[Edited by RobertoG83 on Apr 16, 2018]

HHL has excellent MSc students. The MBA would be a waste. Get into an MBA with a strong UK network. In that respect, IE, IESE, HEC, ESCP, ESADE are the options to consider. Maybe the Warwick-Mannheim track is a good compromise?

HHL has excellent MSc students. The MBA would be a waste. Get into an MBA with a strong UK network. In that respect, IE, IESE, HEC, ESCP, ESADE are the options to consider. Maybe the Warwick-Mannheim track is a good compromise?

A good GMAT easily makes up for a 2:2. ESCP is new on the MBA scene, so the other schools I mention have more British alumni in most industries. I was also admitted at RSM, EMLyon and EDHEC which might also be looking into as UK alumni networks.

[Edited by Duncan on Apr 17, 2018]

A good GMAT easily makes up for a 2:2. ESCP is new on the MBA scheme, so the other schools I mention have more British alumni in most industries. I was also admitted at RSM, EMLyon and EDHEC which might also be looking into as UK alumni networks.

Of course there is also IMD, and Insead for Goldman or McKinsey.