Choosing between ISB and Harvard Business School can take time, as both schools offer excellent MBA programs with unique strengths. Here are the 4 reasons why you can choose ISB over Harvard:
Cost
The cost of MBA programs can vary greatly between institutions. ISB's MBA program is significantly more affordable than Harvard's. The cost of attendance at ISB for the 2021-2022 academic year is around $35,000.
This includes tuition, accommodation, and other fees. In contrast, the cost of attendance at Harvard Business School for the same academic year is around $148,000. This includes tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses.
This can make a significant difference in the amount of debt a student would need to take on to attend the program and the length of time it would take to pay off that debt. ISB also offers scholarships and financial aid options to help make the program more affordable for students. For example, ISB offers merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid to deserving candidates.
Another important aspect to consider is the return on investment (ROI). According to the Financial Times, ISB has consistently ranked among the top 10 MBA programs globally in terms of ROI. In 2021, ISB ranked 8th globally and 3rd in Asia, while Harvard Business School ranked 2nd globally. This means that the ISB MBA program offers a very good return on investment, especially compared to the cost of attendance.
Location
Location can be an important factor to consider when choosing an MBA program. ISB is located in India, which offers a unique cultural and business experience. India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is home to many global companies and startups. This allows ISB students to learn about the Indian business environment and gain valuable insights into the global economy.
Being located in India also allows ISB students to network with a diverse group of professionals, including alumni and business leaders in the region. The strong alumni network in India and globally can benefit career development. The ISB alumni network is one of the largest in Asia, with more than 10,000 alumni working in diverse sectors such as consulting, finance, healthcare, technology, and more.
On the other hand, Harvard Business School is located in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and is home to a thriving business community and a diverse range of companies. The location offers students the opportunity to learn from and network with some of the most successful business leaders in the world.
It's important to note that location should be considered in an individual's career aspirations and goals. If a person is looking to gain experience in the Indian market, ISB could be a great choice. However, Harvard Business School could be better if someone wants to gain experience in the US or other western markets.
Specialisation
Specialisation is another important factor to consider when choosing an MBA program. ISB offers specialised MBA programs such as the Post Graduate Program in Management for Family Business and Entrepreneurs and the Post Graduate Program in Management for Senior Executives.
These specialised programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in specific career fields, such as family-owned businesses or senior management roles.
For example, the Post Graduate Program in Management for Family Businesses and Entrepreneurs is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to run and grow family-owned businesses.
The program covers family business governance, succession planning, and entrepreneurship. Similarly, the Post Graduate Program in Management for Senior Executives is designed to provide senior executives with the knowledge and skills needed to lead large organisations. The program covers topics such as strategic management, leadership, and innovation.
On the other hand, Harvard Business School does not offer any specialised MBA programs. Still, it does have a wide range of electives, case studies and practical learning experiences that can help students focus on areas of interest.
The specialisation can be important to consider if an individual has a specific career goal. If a person is looking to pursue a career in family business or entrepreneurship, ISB's Post Graduate Program in Management for Family Business and Entrepreneurs could be a great choice.
Similarly, if a person is looking to pursue a career in senior management, ISB's Post Graduate Program in Management for Senior Executives could be a great choice. However, Harvard Business School could be a good choice if someone wants to keep options open.
Network
The network is an important factor to consider when choosing an MBA program. ISB has a strong alumni network in India and globally, which can benefit career development. The ISB alumni network is one of the largest in Asia, with more than 10,000 alumni working in diverse sectors such as consulting, finance, healthcare, technology, and more. The alumni network can be a valuable resource for students looking to make connections in the business world and learn about job opportunities.
ISB also has a strong network of corporate partners, which allows students to learn about the latest business trends and gain valuable insights into the industry. The school's Corporate Partners Program brings together leading companies and organisations worldwide to work with ISB students and faculty on projects, case studies, and other initiatives.
On the other hand, Harvard Business School has a large and accomplished alumni network, with over 180,000 alumni worldwide. The alumni network is spread across various industries, and the school's Career & Professional Development office helps students connect with alumni and other professionals in their desired fields.
It's important to note that the strength and reach of a school's alumni network can depend on the program's size and location. Harvard Business School's alumni network is larger than ISB, but the ISB alumni network is still very strong in Asia. It can be a valuable resource for students pursuing careers in the region.
FAQ's
Q. What is the acceptance rate at ISB and Harvard Business School?
ISB's acceptance rate is around 20-25%, while Harvard Business School's acceptance rate is around 11%.
Q. How long is the MBA program at ISB and Harvard Business School?
The MBA program at ISB is a one-year program, while the MBA program at Harvard Business School is a two-year program.
Q. What is the curriculum like at ISB and Harvard Business School?
ISB and Harvard Business School offer a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum covering many business topics. However, the curriculum at ISB may focus more on the Indian business environment and the global economy.
Q. What is the job placement rate at ISB and Harvard Business School?
Both ISB and Harvard Business School have high job placement rates, with many graduates going on to work at top companies and organisations. However, the job placement rate of ISB may be higher in the region than Harvard Business School as the ISB alumni network is stronger in India and Asia.
Q. What is the tuition cost at ISB and Harvard Business School?
As previously mentioned, the cost of attendance at ISB for the 2021-2022 academic year is around $35,000, while the cost of attendance at Harvard Business School for the same academic year is around $148,000.
