Application strategy
IE operates rolling admissions with primary September and January intakes, meaning early application significantly improves scholarship chances. For the MBA, a GMAT score of 660+ is competitive (average 680), with GRE accepted as alternative. BBA applicants can submit SAT (1350+), ACT (30+), or IB (36+ predicted) scores. English proficiency at C1 level (IELTS 7.0+) is mandatory for all programs, with Spanish B1 required for bilingual BBA tracks. MBA candidates typically need 4-5 years of professional experience with demonstrated leadership. Applications are submitted through the IE portal with video essay, motivation letter, and CV. All shortlisted candidates complete an IE Foundation interview (behavioral + motivational, 30 minutes). Merit and need-based scholarships cover 25-50 percent of tuition for top candidates. Non-EU graduates benefit from Spain's 12-month post-graduation job-search visa, extendable to a work permit upon employment.
Who fits
- International students seeking maximum cultural diversity in a European business school
- Aspiring entrepreneurs wanting startup ecosystem access and venture lab support
- Latin American professionals building careers bridging LATAM and European markets
- Career switchers targeting top-tier MBA placement in consulting, tech, or finance
- Students wanting a compact, tight-knit community over large anonymous cohorts
Who should think twice
- Budget-conscious students who cannot afford EUR 36K-83K annual total costs
- Students seeking a traditional large-campus university experience with extensive facilities
- Those prioritizing deep academic research or PhD pathways over professional outcomes
- Students wanting instruction primarily in Spanish (most programs are English-medium)
- Those seeking strong STEM or pure engineering programs without a business overlay
Visa and application system in Spain
- Student visa / post-study work: Student visa (estancia por estudios) for non-EU; from 2023 the Startup Law allows a 1–2 year job-search/work stay after graduation, and study time counts toward residency
- Application system: Public universities: EvAU/Selectividad + UNEDasiss credential recognition for international applicants; private universities (IE, ESADE) admit directly