Top 10 Non-USA MBA League Table

In 2007, the Forbes Non-USA MBA Ranking provided valuable insight into the strengths of business schools outside the United States. The ranking highlighted ten leading institutions that have not only earned global recognition but also offered exceptional programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in a rapidly changing and increasingly interconnected business environment. This list represented a diverse range of schools from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, each with its unique strengths and areas of focus. The Forbes Non-USA MBA ranking is particularly notable for recognizing the global nature of modern business education and the emergence of international business schools that rival their American counterparts.

At the top of the list was IESE Business School in Spain. Ranked first, IESE has long been recognized as one of the top business schools in Europe. It is part of the University of Navarra and is renowned for its academic rigor, leadership development, and global perspective. The MBA program at IESE is characterized by its strong emphasis on ethics, leadership, and global business. The school’s case-based method, similar to that of top U.S. schools like Harvard, provides students with an immersive learning experience, where they confront real-world business challenges and develop strategic decision-making skills. IESE’s international focus is another standout feature; students benefit from a global network of alumni and the opportunity to study alongside peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. The school’s reputation for producing ethical leaders and its close ties to both multinational corporations and emerging markets make it an attractive choice for students seeking to make an impact in global business.

Second in the rankings was London Business School (LBS) in the United Kingdom. LBS has consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world, and its MBA program is especially known for its international reach and world-class faculty. The school’s location in London, one of the world’s leading financial and business hubs, provides students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, networking, and access to top global firms in finance, consulting, and industry. The MBA program at LBS is highly flexible, offering students the option to tailor their education to their career goals through a range of specializations and electives. The diverse, multinational student body enhances the learning experience by providing a wide array of perspectives, while the school’s close ties to leading companies in the U.K. and beyond ensure strong post-graduation employment outcomes. With a focus on leadership, global business, and innovation, London Business School is an attractive destination for students seeking an MBA that will open doors to international career opportunities.

Manchester Business School (MBS), ranked third, is one of the U.K.’s leading business schools. Known for its global outlook and strong connections to industry, MBS offers a flexible MBA program that can be completed either full-time or part-time. The school is particularly noted for its focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, and it provides a solid foundation in management theory while encouraging students to apply their learning in real-world situations. MBS’s MBA program emphasizes global business perspectives, and its diverse student body, representing over 40 nationalities, ensures that students are exposed to a wide range of business practices and challenges. The school’s strong links to major corporations, both in the U.K. and internationally, provide students with ample networking and career opportunities. In addition, Manchester’s research-driven approach to teaching ensures that students receive a cutting-edge education grounded in the latest developments in business theory and practice.

Schulich School of Business, part of York University in Ontario, Canada, was ranked fourth in the Forbes Non-USA MBA ranking. Schulich is recognized for its global reputation and strong focus on leadership and responsible management. The school offers a range of MBA specializations, including finance, marketing, international business, and sustainability, allowing students to tailor their studies to their individual career goals. Schulich’s approach to business education emphasizes innovation, entrepreneurship, and global awareness, with a curriculum designed to develop students’ critical thinking, strategic decision-making, and leadership abilities. The school’s international partnerships and exchange programs also provide students with valuable opportunities to gain experience in global markets. Schulich’s diverse student body and strong alumni network ensure that graduates are well-equipped to take on leadership roles in both established corporations and emerging markets worldwide.

IPADE Business School in Mexico, ranked fifth, has built a reputation as one of the leading business schools in Latin America. Located in Mexico City, IPADE is known for its strong ties to the business community and its focus on leadership development and entrepreneurship. The school offers a rigorous MBA program that emphasizes ethical decision-making, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of global business practices. IPADE’s international partnerships and exchange programs enable students to gain exposure to different business environments, while the school’s location in one of Latin America’s largest economies provides a unique perspective on business in emerging markets. IPADE’s strong connections to Mexican and international businesses ensure that its graduates are highly sought after, both in Mexico and abroad. The school’s focus on ethical leadership and its role as a key player in the Latin American business community make IPADE a distinctive choice for students interested in shaping the future of business in emerging markets.

Ranked sixth in the Forbes Non-USA MBA list was the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at the University of New South Wales. AGSM is widely regarded as one of the top business schools in Australia and is known for its focus on leadership and strategic management. The MBA program at AGSM is designed to develop students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills through a combination of theoretical learning and practical application. The school’s location in Sydney, one of the Asia-Pacific region’s leading business hubs, provides students with access to a wide range of industries, particularly in finance, consulting, and technology. AGSM also offers strong connections to the Asia-Pacific business community, which is an advantage for students looking to pursue careers in the region. With its focus on innovation and leadership, AGSM is an ideal choice for those seeking an MBA that will equip them to succeed in the dynamic and rapidly evolving Asia-Pacific market.

Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada was ranked seventh. Sauder is known for its emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable business practices. The school’s MBA program is highly regarded for its combination of academic rigor and practical experience, with a curriculum designed to develop students’ leadership and strategic thinking abilities. Sauder’s location in Vancouver, a vibrant and rapidly growing business center on the West Coast of Canada, offers students exposure to industries such as technology, natural resources, and international trade. The school’s strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility also appeals to students who want to make a positive impact on the world while pursuing successful business careers. Sauder’s global approach to business education, combined with its strong ties to the Canadian business community and beyond, ensures that graduates are well-prepared to excel in today’s interconnected global economy.

ESADE Business School, ranked eighth, is another leading institution in Spain that has earned global recognition for its MBA program. ESADE’s approach to business education emphasizes creativity, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership. The school’s MBA program is highly customizable, offering students the opportunity to specialize in areas such as marketing, strategy, or finance. ESADE’s commitment to internationalism is reflected in its diverse student body, with students from more than 40 countries. The school’s partnerships with universities and businesses around the world also provide students with a range of opportunities to gain global exposure. ESADE’s strong focus on social impact and its dedication to developing responsible leaders have made it a standout institution for students interested in shaping the future of business through innovation and sustainability.

China Europe International Business School (CEIBS), ranked ninth, is one of the leading business schools in China and Asia. Established in 1994, CEIBS has rapidly become a key player in global business education, offering a world-class MBA program with a focus on both Western and Chinese business practices. The school’s proximity to Shanghai, China’s financial hub, provides students with a unique vantage point on business in one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly growing economies. CEIBS’ MBA program emphasizes the development of global leadership skills and a deep understanding of the Chinese market, which is increasingly important for business leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of international trade and investment. The school’s strong connections to both Chinese and multinational corporations make CEIBS an attractive option for students looking to pursue careers in China and beyond.

Rounding out the top ten is HEC Paris, one of Europe’s most prestigious business schools. Located just outside Paris, HEC is known for its strong focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and global business. The school’s MBA program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in multinational organizations, with a curriculum that combines academic excellence with practical experience. HEC Paris’ global reputation, combined with its extensive alumni network and strong ties to leading companies, ensures that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in the competitive global business environment.

Forbes Non-USA MBA Ranking 2007 (Top 10):

Rank, School, Country
1 IESE Spain
2 London Business School U.K.
3 Manchester Business School U.K.
4 Schulich Business School (York) Canada-Ontario
5 IPADE Mexico
6 Australian Graduate School of Management Australia
7 Sauder School (UBC) Canada
8 ESADE Spain
9 CEIBS China
10 HEC-Paris France

Source: Forbes Magazine 2007