IESE vs IE for MBB (read below)

Question

Hi! So I got into IESE and IE. I got a 40% scholarship at IE making it 70,000 euros cheaper than IESE. I am from India and wanna break into MBB in London or Middle East, or a European office where English is okay. I would also be open to living in SEA.

So, I am aware that IESE prestige is much higher that of IE's, but I just wanted to ask - is it worth the extra 70,000 Euros?

Cheers!

Answer 1

Hey there 😊,

Congrats on both offers! The IESE vs. IE decision comes down to balancing prestige vs. cost-effectiveness while keeping your MBB goals in mind. Here’s the breakdown:

1️⃣ MBB Recruiting & Prestige

✅ IESE is a clear MBB target school in Europe & the Middle East – It has stronger brand recognition, an established pipeline into MBB, and a well-connected alumni network at top consulting firms.
✅ IE is weaker for MBB but still possible – IE is a strong business school, but its MBB placement is less consistent, and you’ll have to network much harder to get noticed.

Winner: IESE (stronger for MBB & global consulting careers).

2️⃣ Recruiting for MBB in London, Middle East, & SEA

London & Middle East: IESE is well-recognized and highly competitive in these regions. IE has a weaker presence and may struggle for direct MBB entry.
SEA: Both schools have lower visibility, so you’d need strong networking regardless.

If London/Middle East MBB is your goal, IESE will give you a much better shot.

3️⃣ Is IESE Worth the Extra €70,000?

If you can afford the extra cost without financial strain, IESE is absolutely worth it for MBB recruiting and long-term career opportunities.
If €70,000 is a major burden, then IE is still an option—but you’ll need to network aggressively, seek consulting internships, and build your profile to compensate.

Final Verdict: If MBB is your top priority, go with IESE—the extra €70,000 could pay off quickly in terms of salary, prestige, and job security. If cost is a big issue, IE is still viable, but expect a tougher recruiting path.

Let me know if you need help making the final call! Best, Alessa 😇

Answer 2

Hey!

IESE is the clear winner when it comes to brand name in Europe and the Middle East for MBB. I have a few close friends who attend IESE who will be joining MBB in London and Dubai this year, so a good case study.

It is of course possible to get into MBB from IE, particularly if applying to Spanish offices but you'll be facing an uphill battle.

You need to determine why you're doing the MBA - if the dream is to do MBB and you succeed then 70k in 10 years time will be a drop in the ocean. However I appreciate that it's a lot of money right now - could you use the scholarship from IE to push IESE for financial aid?

Happy to discuss further, I had a similar dilemma!

Will