Best MBA universities in the US for international students

Are you planning to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the United States as an international student? With the US being home to some of the world’s top-ranked business schools, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire advanced business skills, build an international network, and enhance your career prospects. However, with numerous universities offering MBA programs, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

In this article, you can find a list of some of the best MBA universities in the US, and what makes them ideal for international students. From tuition fees and specialisations offered to duration and intake options, you have everything you need to make an informed decision about which university to choose for your MBA. 

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

Whether you are aiming to become a leader in marketing, finance, healthcare, or international business, you’ll find a variety of specialisations and career development opportunities in the following US institutions. The cultural diversity and world-class faculty also add to the appeal of studying in the US. Read to get insights on some of the best MBA universities in the US for international students.

Stanford Graduate School of Business

Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) is one of the world's leading business schools, known for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong emphasis on innovation and leadership. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford GSB provides students with unparalleled access to entrepreneurial opportunities and global business networks.

The MBA program at Stanford GSB is designed to develop visionary leaders through a personalised and immersive learning experience. The curriculum includes foundational courses in finance, marketing, and leadership, along with the flexibility to pursue specialised electives and global experiences. The B-school’s collaborative and diverse environment fosters creativity and critical thinking.

• Tuition fee range: USD 80,000 - USD 90,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Strategy, General Management, Social Innovation
• Intakes: Fall
• Duration: 2 years
• Employability rate: 94%
• QS rank: 1
• Acceptance rate: 6%

The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is one of the most prestigious business schools in the world, renowned for its data-driven approach to business education and strong finance and leadership programs. Located in Philadelphia, Wharton provides students with access to a vast alumni network and global business opportunities.

The MBA program at Wharton is designed to develop strategic thinkers and leaders through a rigorous curriculum that combines analytical skills with hands-on experiential learning. Students can choose from a wide range of majors and specialisations, making it one of the most flexible MBA programs available.

• Tuition fee range: USD 85,000 - USD 95,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Strategy, Operations, Business Analytics, General Management
• Intakes: Fall
• Duration: 2 years
• Employability rate: 96%
• QS rank: 2
• Acceptance rate: 9%

Westcliff University

Westcliff University is an excellent option for international students seeking an affordable MBA in the US. Located in Southern California, the university offers a practical and hands-on approach to business education. It is ideal for students looking to build global business skills.

The MBA program at Westcliff University focuses on current business trends, with specialisations in areas like marketing, finance, and international business. Its small class sizes provide students with a personalised learning experience, while the flexible course schedules make it perfect for working professionals.

• Tuition fee range: USD 11,000 - USD 14,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Global Management, Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, International Business
• Intakes: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 18 to 24 months (flexible)
• Employability rate: 83%

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) is a highly affordable and prestigious institution located in Denton, Texas. With a high acceptance rate, UNT’s MBA program provides a strong foundation in business principles with the option to specialise in healthcare management, marketing, or finance, among others. 

Located close to the major business hubs of Dallas and Fort Worth, the University of North Texas offers excellent opportunities for networking, internships, and post-graduation employment. With multiple intake options and flexible schedules, UNT is an attractive choice for international students looking for both quality and affordability.

• Tuition fee range: USD 19,000 - USD 22,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Healthcare Management, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, Finance, Business Analytics
• Intakes: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 16 to 24 months (flexible)
• Acceptance rate: 81%

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

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Sacred Heart University

Sacred Heart University, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, offers an MBA program that balances academics with real-world business experience. The university is particularly known for its leadership development focus, preparing you for senior management roles. 

Sacred Heart’s proximity to New York City gives students access to a thriving job market, making it a great place for those looking to work in industries such as finance, marketing, or international business. Its commitment to global business and strategic thinking makes it one of the recommended options for studies abroad.

• Tuition fee range: USD 31,000 - USD 37,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, International Business, Strategic Management
• Intakes: Fall, Spring
• Duration: 16 to 24 months
• Employability rate: 99%

Kent State University

Kent State University in Ohio offers an affordable MBA program that provides a solid foundation in business fundamentals. With flexible study options (full-time or part-time), Kent State allows international students to tailor their study schedules to fit their needs. 

Kent State has strong ties with global businesses, providing ample opportunities for internships, practical experience, and networking. Specialisations in supply chain management and marketing make this a great option for students looking to build specific expertise in these high-demand fields.

• Tuition fee range: USD 18,000 - USD 25,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Supply Chain Management, Marketing, Finance, Healthcare Management
• Intakes: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 18 to 24 months
• Acceptance rate: 87%

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)

For international students looking to study in the heart of New York, the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) offers a flexible MBA program that caters to the modern business world. NYIT is particularly strong in areas like digital marketing, information systems, and finance, making it an ideal choice for students with an interest in tech-driven businesses. 

NYIT’s location provides access to a range of industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology. The program also allows you to complete your studies on a full-time or part-time basis, which is perfect for professionals looking to advance their careers while studying.

• Tuition fee range: USD 20,000 - USD 34,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Digital Marketing, Finance, Management, Healthcare Management, Information Systems
• Intakes: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 12 to 24 months

California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University (CLU) is located in Southern California and offers an excellent MBA program known for its focus on leadership and global business. The university offers flexible study options, allowing you to balance your education with work. With specialisations such as global business and finance, CLU prepares you to work in multinational companies and offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty-student interaction.

• Tuition fee range: USD 28,000 - USD 32,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Marketing, Global Business, Finance, Business Analytics
• Intakes: Fall, Spring
• Duration: 18 to 24 months
• Acceptance rate: 82%

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

University of Nebraska Omaha

The University of Nebraska Omaha provides an affordable MBA program with a strong emphasis on international business and finance. Known for its quality teaching and affordable tuition fee, this university is a great choice for international students seeking a high-quality and cost-effective business education. Located in Omaha, Nebraska, the university’s ties with local and global businesses offer great internship and job placement opportunities for MBA graduates.

• Tuition fee range: USD 17,000 - USD 20,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: International Business, Finance, Marketing, Information Systems
• Intakes: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 18 to 24 months

Wichita State University

Wichita State University offers affordable MBA programs for international students in the US. The program provides specialisations such as business analytics, healthcare administration, and international business, making it ideal for you. Its strong partnerships with local businesses in Kansas make it an excellent choice if you’re seeking hands-on experience and networking opportunities in the business world.

• Tuition fee range: USD 15,000 - USD 20,000 per year
• Specialisations offered: Finance, Marketing, International Business, Healthcare Administration, Business Analytics
• Intakes: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 18 to 24 months
• THE Rank: 600

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

Choosing the right university for your MBA is a big decision, especially for international students. The universities listed above are among the best business schools in the US for international students, offering a range of specialisations, flexible study options, and strong industry connections.

While considering which MBA program in the US for international students is the best, think about what you are looking for in terms of personal and professional goals. Whether you are looking for an affordable MBA in the US or a top-ranked business school, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your needs.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the #1 business school in the US?

As of recent QS and THE rankings, Stanford Graduate School of Business is often considered the number 1 business school in the US. It is known for its case study approach, prestigious faculty, and extensive global alumni network. The school consistently ranks high in various business school rankings.

Which are the top-ranked MBA universities?

The 5 top-ranking MBA universities in the US typically include Stanford Graduate School of Business, University of Pennsylvania (Wharton), Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan School of Management, and Northwestern University (Kellogg). These schools are known for their challenging academic programs and excellent career prospects.

Which MBA university has 100% placement?

While no MBA university guarantees 100% placement, Sacred Heart University is often noted for its high employability rate, nearing 99%. Many top US business schools, including Harvard and Wharton, boast placement rates above 90%, though the exact figure varies from year to year.