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At IMD, we believe leadership isn't just taught – it's
lived, challenged, and transformed through real experience. As one of the
world's premier business schools, we deliver transformative education that
develops leaders who make a real difference in the world.
From our main campus in Lausanne, Switzerland, overlooking
Lake Geneva and the Alps, to our Asia-Pacific hub in Singapore and our
Management Development Hub in Shenzhen, IMD has established itself as a trusted
learning partner for ambitious individuals and organizations worldwide.
Global reach and impact
Most
published institution in Harvard Business Review and MIT Sloan Management
Review (after HBS and MIT)
28,000+
executives attend IMD programs annually from 120+ countries
130,000+
alumni network spanning 180 countries
1,700+
organizations partner with IMD yearly to develop their talent
Consistently
top-ranked across our degree and executive education programs
Our programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA):
A transformative 12-month program focused on developing global leaders.
Our small class size of 90-100 students, allows us to do what other
business schools cannot – provide truly individualized attention and
create an environment where every voice matters. What sets our MBA apart
is our unwavering commitment to real-world relevance. Over 40% of learning
happens through hands-on experiences, from consulting with multinationals
to working with start-ups. Our approach is intensely personal – each
participant works with a dedicated career advisor, leadership coach, and
psychoanalyst, ensuring both professional growth and personal
transformation.
Consistently ranked #1 in Europe
(Bloomberg Businessweek 2024-2025), our program delivers exceptional outcomes: 100%
average salary increase, 98% recommendation rate, and #2 globally for
international mobility (FT ranking 2024). But what truly matters is the impact
our graduates make as confident, responsible leaders who drive positive change
in global business.
Executive MBA: A flexible, rigorous program designed for experienced executives.
Through a blend of online and in-person learning, international business
experiences, and hands-on projects, you'll develop the skills and insights
needed to lead with confidence and purpose.
What sets our EMBA apart is its
unparalleled flexibility and personalization. Each participant's journey is
unique, with the ability to choose between modular-flex or elective-flex
formats. Our approach combines real-world relevance with personal transformation
- enhanced by one-on-one coaching, AI-augmented learning, and unique
experiences like crisis management training with Swiss Armed Forces.
With an average cohort of 50-65
experienced executives (16+ years average experience) from 23+ nationalities
and 13+ industries, you'll join a diverse community of senior leaders. Our
program integrates cutting-edge topics like digital transformation,
sustainability, and global business dynamics while offering the flexibility to
balance work, study, and personal commitments. Ranked in the Top 10 EMBAs in
Europe (FT 2024), we focus on developing leaders who can navigate complexity
and drive meaningful change in an increasingly dynamic world.
Executive education: Open and custom programs that address real business challenges.
Our portfolio ranges from focused programs on specific leadership
capabilities to comprehensive business transformation initiatives. With
our unique blend of academic rigor and real-world relevance, consistently
ranked #1 worldwide (FT 2020-2023), we deliver learning experiences that
create immediate impact. Working directly with world-class faculty who are
actively engaged with global business leaders, participants gain practical
insights and tools they can apply immediately to drive meaningful change
in their organizations.
The IMD approach
Real-world
relevance and hands-on learning in all programs
Personal
transformation through individual coaching and development
Strong
innovation focus with cutting-edge learning tools, research and technology
Sustainable
impact at the core of our teaching
Global
perspective with truly diverse classrooms
Close
collaboration with international business community
Areas of Expertise
Digital
transformation and innovation
Sustainable
business and leadership
Global
strategy and operations
Organizational
leadership
Family
business and entrepreneurship
Finance
and governance
Research and Innovation IMD's faculty combines
academic excellence with real-world experience, producing research that shapes
business practice. Our research centers include:
Global
Family Business Center
AI
Research Center
World
Competitiveness Center
Global
Board Center
About IMD
Real Learning. Real Impact.
At IMD, we believe leadership isn't just taught – it's
lived, challenged, and transformed through real experience. As one of the
world's premier business schools, we deliver transformative education that
develops leaders who make a real difference in the world.
From our main campus in Lausanne, Switzerland, overlooking
Lake Geneva and the Alps, to our Asia-Pacific hub in Singapore and our
Management Development Hub in Shenzhen, IMD has established itself as a trusted
learning partner for ambitious individuals and organizations worldwide.
Global reach and impact
Most
published institution in Harvard Business Review and MIT Sloan Management
Review (after HBS and MIT)
28,000+
executives attend IMD programs annually from 120+ countries
130,000+
alumni network spanning 180 countries
1,700+
organizations partner with IMD yearly to develop their talent
Consistently
top-ranked across our degree and executive education programs
Our programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA):
A transformative 12-month program focused on developing global leaders.
Our small class size of 90-100 students, allows us to do what other
business schools cannot – provide truly individualized attention and
create an environment where every voice matters. What sets our MBA apart
is our unwavering commitment to real-world relevance. Over 40% of learning
happens through hands-on experiences, from consulting with multinationals
to working with start-ups. Our approach is intensely personal – each
participant works with a dedicated career advisor, leadership coach, and
psychoanalyst, ensuring both professional growth and personal
transformation.
Consistently ranked #1 in Europe
(Bloomberg Businessweek 2024-2025), our program delivers exceptional outcomes: 100%
average salary increase, 98% recommendation rate, and #2 globally for
international mobility (FT ranking 2024). But what truly matters is the impact
our graduates make as confident, responsible leaders who drive positive change
in global business.
Executive MBA: A flexible, rigorous program designed for experienced executives.
Through a blend of online and in-person learning, international business
experiences, and hands-on projects, you'll develop the skills and insights
needed to lead with confidence and purpose.
What sets our EMBA apart is its
unparalleled flexibility and personalization. Each participant's journey is
unique, with the ability to choose between modular-flex or elective-flex
formats. Our approach combines real-world relevance with personal transformation
- enhanced by one-on-one coaching, AI-augmented learning, and unique
experiences like crisis management training with Swiss Armed Forces.
With an average cohort of 50-65
experienced executives (16+ years average experience) from 23+ nationalities
and 13+ industries, you'll join a diverse community of senior leaders. Our
program integrates cutting-edge topics like digital transformation,
sustainability, and global business dynamics while offering the flexibility to
balance work, study, and personal commitments. Ranked in the Top 10 EMBAs in
Europe (FT 2024), we focus on developing leaders who can navigate complexity
and drive meaningful change in an increasingly dynamic world.
Executive education: Open and custom programs that address real business challenges.
Our portfolio ranges from focused programs on specific leadership
capabilities to comprehensive business transformation initiatives. With
our unique blend of academic rigor and real-world relevance, consistently
ranked #1 worldwide (FT 2020-2023), we deliver learning experiences that
create immediate impact. Working directly with world-class faculty who are
actively engaged with global business leaders, participants gain practical
insights and tools they can apply immediately to drive meaningful change
in their organizations.
The IMD approach
Real-world
relevance and hands-on learning in all programs
Personal
transformation through individual coaching and development
Strong
innovation focus with cutting-edge learning tools, research and technology
Sustainable
impact at the core of our teaching
Global
perspective with truly diverse classrooms
Close
collaboration with international business community
Areas of Expertise
Digital
transformation and innovation
Sustainable
business and leadership
Global
strategy and operations
Organizational
leadership
Family
business and entrepreneurship
Finance
and governance
Research and Innovation IMD's faculty combines
academic excellence with real-world experience, producing research that shapes
business practice. Our research centers include:
The IMD journey starts with a uniquely personal admissions process designed to understand not just your qualifications, but your goals,
strengths, and potential. While we look for strong academic achievement and
professional accomplishments, we're equally interested in your leadership
capacity and desire to make a real difference. Our participants typically bring
substantial work experience (average 7 years for MBA, 16 years for EMBA), come
from diverse industries, and represent over 40 nationalities. Rather than
seeking a single "ideal" profile, we carefully build each class to
bring together a rich mix of perspectives and experiences.
Here’s a list of requirements for our MBA program:
·
Bachelor’s Degree: or the
equivalent.
·
Work experience: we require a
minimum of two years, full-time, post graduate experience, in which you can
demonstrate your career progress. The typical range in the class is three to
eight years.
·
One recommender: choose someone from
a business-related source who knows you well, has worked directly with you and
who is able to highlight your professional achievements, interpersonal skills,
teamwork and leadership, using our form.
·
GMAT/GRE: we recommend that you aim for a
score of 585-805 or an equivalent GRE score.
·
English: the entire program is
taught in English. If English is not your native language we will assess your
proficiency during the assessment day.
·
International outlook: Cultural
sensitivity and global perspective, shown through international work
experience, travel, or language skills
·
English: Strong command of written and
spoken English (no test required, assessed during admission process)
·
Company engagement: Support from your
organization, which should be willing to serve as a learning laboratory for
your development
Pl.Executive assessment : Completion of the GMAC® Executive Assessment (or GMAT® if already taken) to evaluate critical thinking and problem-solving skills
At IMD's main campus in Lausanne, you'll find everything you
need to make the most of your learning journey. Beyond our modern classrooms
and study spaces, there's a dedicated MBA lounge where students gather between
classes, a well-equipped gym for maintaining your wellbeing, and a restaurant
that's perfect for catching up with classmates over lunch. The campus sits in a
beautiful spot overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps. At our Singapore campus,
which serves as our Asia-Pacific hub, you'll find the same quality facilities
and welcoming atmosphere. We've designed both locations to be places where you
can focus on your learning while feeling comfortable and connected to your
peers.
Student life
Life at IMD is rich with opportunities to learn, connect,
and grow. When you're not in class or working on projects, you'll find plenty
of ways to connect with your classmates, who come from all corners of the
world. Students often organize impromptu study groups in the MBA lounge, meet
up for runs along Lake Geneva, or get together for weekend ski trips in the
nearby Alps. Throughout the year, student-led clubs explore everything from
sustainability to entrepreneurship, while regular events bring in industry
leaders and alumni for informal chats and networking.
The Lausanne location adds its own flavor to student life.
You're in the heart of Europe, surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake and
mountains, with easy access to Swiss cultural festivals and outdoor activities.
During the Singapore module, you'll experience a completely different dynamic,
immersing yourself in Asia's vibrant business hub. Whether you're sharing ideas
over coffee between classes, participating in weekend sports activities, or
exploring the local region with your classmates, these moments become an
essential part of your IMD experience.
Perhaps most importantly, you'll be part of a
close-knit community where lasting friendships form naturally. With a small
class size and such diverse perspectives in the room, the connections you make
here often last well beyond graduation.
At IMD, career development starts before you even arrive on
campus. You'll work with a dedicated career advisor who helps shape your
professional journey, while personalized coaching and leadership development
ensure you're growing both professionally and personally. Our unique approach
combines one-on-one support, specialized workshops, and direct connections with
global employers. The results speak for themselves: MBA graduates typically double
their salary within three years of graduation, representing a vast
cross-section of industries, including consulting, technology, and financial
services. In fact, IMD is consistently recognized for international mobility
(#2 globally, FT rankings 2024). But beyond these metrics, our focus is on
preparing you to make meaningful impact wherever your career takes you.
Cost of Living
Accomodation
$18,060
Food
$7,520
Transport
$1,430
Utilities
$5,630
Tuition fees
Domestic
97,500 CHF
Domestic (Out of State)
97,500 CHF
International
97,500 CHF
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How much does the MBA/EMBA program cost at IMD and what is included?
MBA: CHF 97,500
EMBA: CHF 125,000
For both programs
these fees cover:
All learning materials and business
simulations
Leadership and career coaching
Access to IMD's world-class facilities
Lunch and coffee breaks on the Lausanne
campus during class days
What are the key differences between the MBA and Executive MBA programs?
The MBA is a
full-time, one-year program designed for professionals with between 2-10 years
of post-graduate work experience (average in a typical class is 6 years).
The EMBA is designed
for more senior executives with a minimum of 10 years of work experience (typical
class average is 16+ years). It offers a blended learning format (on campus,
online, and international modules) in two flexible formats (18-48 months), allowing you to pursue your studies while continuing to work
full-time.
IMD
IMD, Lausanne Switzerland
# 127QS WUR Ranking By Subject
3Undergrad. & Postgrad. Programmes
About IMD
Real Learning. Real Impact.
At IMD, we believe leadership isn't just taught – it's lived, challenged, and transformed through real experience. As one of the world's premier business schools, we deliver transformative education that develops leaders who make a real difference in the world.
From our main campus in Lausanne, Switzerland, overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps, to our Asia-Pacific hub in Singapore and our Management Development Hub in Shenzhen, IMD has established itself as a trusted learning partner for ambitious individuals and organizations worldwide.
Global reach and impact
Our programs
Consistently ranked #1 in Europe (Bloomberg Businessweek 2024-2025), our program delivers exceptional outcomes: 100% average salary increase, 98% recommendation rate, and #2 globally for international mobility (FT ranking 2024). But what truly matters is the impact our graduates make as confident, responsible leaders who drive positive change in global business.
What sets our EMBA apart is its unparalleled flexibility and personalization. Each participant's journey is unique, with the ability to choose between modular-flex or elective-flex formats. Our approach combines real-world relevance with personal transformation - enhanced by one-on-one coaching, AI-augmented learning, and unique experiences like crisis management training with Swiss Armed Forces.
With an average cohort of 50-65 experienced executives (16+ years average experience) from 23+ nationalities and 13+ industries, you'll join a diverse community of senior leaders. Our program integrates cutting-edge topics like digital transformation, sustainability, and global business dynamics while offering the flexibility to balance work, study, and personal commitments. Ranked in the Top 10 EMBAs in Europe (FT 2024), we focus on developing leaders who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful change in an increasingly dynamic world.
The IMD approach
Areas of Expertise
Research and Innovation IMD's faculty combines academic excellence with real-world experience, producing research that shapes business practice. Our research centers include:
About IMD
Real Learning. Real Impact.
At IMD, we believe leadership isn't just taught – it's lived, challenged, and transformed through real experience. As one of the world's premier business schools, we deliver transformative education that develops leaders who make a real difference in the world.
From our main campus in Lausanne, Switzerland, overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps, to our Asia-Pacific hub in Singapore and our Management Development Hub in Shenzhen, IMD has established itself as a trusted learning partner for ambitious individuals and organizations worldwide.
Global reach and impact
Our programs
Consistently ranked #1 in Europe (Bloomberg Businessweek 2024-2025), our program delivers exceptional outcomes: 100% average salary increase, 98% recommendation rate, and #2 globally for international mobility (FT ranking 2024). But what truly matters is the impact our graduates make as confident, responsible leaders who drive positive change in global business.
What sets our EMBA apart is its unparalleled flexibility and personalization. Each participant's journey is unique, with the ability to choose between modular-flex or elective-flex formats. Our approach combines real-world relevance with personal transformation - enhanced by one-on-one coaching, AI-augmented learning, and unique experiences like crisis management training with Swiss Armed Forces.
With an average cohort of 50-65 experienced executives (16+ years average experience) from 23+ nationalities and 13+ industries, you'll join a diverse community of senior leaders. Our program integrates cutting-edge topics like digital transformation, sustainability, and global business dynamics while offering the flexibility to balance work, study, and personal commitments. Ranked in the Top 10 EMBAs in Europe (FT 2024), we focus on developing leaders who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful change in an increasingly dynamic world.
The IMD approach
Areas of Expertise
Research and Innovation IMD's faculty combines academic excellence with real-world experience, producing research that shapes business practice. Our research centers include:
Available programmes
Natural Sciences (1)
Master of Science in Sustainable Management and Technology
Master of Science in Sustainable Management and Technology
Executive MBA (2)
Executive MBA
Executive MBA
Full-Time MBA (2)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
University information
The IMD journey starts with a uniquely personal admissions process designed to understand not just your qualifications, but your goals, strengths, and potential. While we look for strong academic achievement and professional accomplishments, we're equally interested in your leadership capacity and desire to make a real difference. Our participants typically bring substantial work experience (average 7 years for MBA, 16 years for EMBA), come from diverse industries, and represent over 40 nationalities. Rather than seeking a single "ideal" profile, we carefully build each class to bring together a rich mix of perspectives and experiences.
Here’s a list of requirements for our MBA program:
· Bachelor’s Degree: or the equivalent.
· Work experience: we require a minimum of two years, full-time, post graduate experience, in which you can demonstrate your career progress. The typical range in the class is three to eight years.
· One recommender: choose someone from a business-related source who knows you well, has worked directly with you and who is able to highlight your professional achievements, interpersonal skills, teamwork and leadership, using our form.
· GMAT/GRE: we recommend that you aim for a score of 585-805 or an equivalent GRE score.
· English: the entire program is taught in English. If English is not your native language we will assess your proficiency during the assessment day.
Please refer to MBA Admissions Process for full details.
Here’s a list of requirements for our Executive MBA program:
· Academic background: A recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
· Work experience: Minimum 10 years of progressive career experience showing increasing responsibility and impact
· Leadership potential: Demonstrated vision, courage, initiative, maturity, curiosity, and self-confidence
· International outlook: Cultural sensitivity and global perspective, shown through international work experience, travel, or language skills
· English: Strong command of written and spoken English (no test required, assessed during admission process)
· Company engagement: Support from your organization, which should be willing to serve as a learning laboratory for your development
Pl.Executive assessment : Completion of the GMAC® Executive Assessment (or GMAT® if already taken) to evaluate critical thinking and problem-solving skills
· Please refer to EMBA Admissions Process for full details.
P
At IMD's main campus in Lausanne, you'll find everything you need to make the most of your learning journey. Beyond our modern classrooms and study spaces, there's a dedicated MBA lounge where students gather between classes, a well-equipped gym for maintaining your wellbeing, and a restaurant that's perfect for catching up with classmates over lunch. The campus sits in a beautiful spot overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps. At our Singapore campus, which serves as our Asia-Pacific hub, you'll find the same quality facilities and welcoming atmosphere. We've designed both locations to be places where you can focus on your learning while feeling comfortable and connected to your peers.
Student life
Life at IMD is rich with opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. When you're not in class or working on projects, you'll find plenty of ways to connect with your classmates, who come from all corners of the world. Students often organize impromptu study groups in the MBA lounge, meet up for runs along Lake Geneva, or get together for weekend ski trips in the nearby Alps. Throughout the year, student-led clubs explore everything from sustainability to entrepreneurship, while regular events bring in industry leaders and alumni for informal chats and networking.
The Lausanne location adds its own flavor to student life. You're in the heart of Europe, surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake and mountains, with easy access to Swiss cultural festivals and outdoor activities. During the Singapore module, you'll experience a completely different dynamic, immersing yourself in Asia's vibrant business hub. Whether you're sharing ideas over coffee between classes, participating in weekend sports activities, or exploring the local region with your classmates, these moments become an essential part of your IMD experience.
Perhaps most importantly, you'll be part of a close-knit community where lasting friendships form naturally. With a small class size and such diverse perspectives in the room, the connections you make here often last well beyond graduation.At IMD, career development starts before you even arrive on campus. You'll work with a dedicated career advisor who helps shape your professional journey, while personalized coaching and leadership development ensure you're growing both professionally and personally. Our unique approach combines one-on-one support, specialized workshops, and direct connections with global employers. The results speak for themselves: MBA graduates typically double their salary within three years of graduation, representing a vast cross-section of industries, including consulting, technology, and financial services. In fact, IMD is consistently recognized for international mobility (#2 globally, FT rankings 2024). But beyond these metrics, our focus is on preparing you to make meaningful impact wherever your career takes you.
Cost of Living
Accomodation
Food
Transport
Utilities
Tuition fees
Domestic
Domestic (Out of State)
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Rankings & Ratings
IMD is one of the top universities in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is ranked #127 in QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2025.
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
Full-time MBA Rankings - Europe
Full-time MBA Rankings - Global
QS International Trade Ranking - Masters and MBA
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
Full-time MBA Rankings - Europe
Full-time MBA Rankings - Global
QS International Trade Ranking - Masters and MBA
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
IMD
Videos & media
Videos & media
Campus locations
open the map
Frequently Asked Questions
For both programs these fees cover:
The MBA is a full-time, one-year program designed for professionals with between 2-10 years of post-graduate work experience (average in a typical class is 6 years).
The EMBA is designed for more senior executives with a minimum of 10 years of work experience (typical class average is 16+ years). It offers a blended learning format (on campus, online, and international modules) in two flexible formats (18-48 months), allowing you to pursue your studies while continuing to work full-time.