Your 5-step checklist for the International MBA admissions process: study abroad in Madrid

Is it time to move forward in your career? You should be considering postgraduate degrees to enhance your profile. IE Business School is a top school for those who want to study abroad in Madrid. However, we need candidates who fit our culture, and you need a school that matches your goals. This quick 5-step checklist for the International MBA admissions process will provide you with all you need to know before applying to study with us.

An insight into the selection process during International MBA admissions

We know that applicants to IE Business School look good on paper. Outstanding academic achievements are a must, but we’re looking for something more. Our admissions process helps us understand who you are and whether you’re suited to join us at the time of your application. While we are rigorous in selection, it ensures you’re surrounded by likeminded people. It’s also important that you use this process to work out if we’re the school for you—always remember it works both ways.

1. International MBA application form

To fill out our online application form, you’ll need: proof of a Bachelor degree from an accredited university and official transcripts, a one-page CV/Resume, contact details of two references, an English language certificate—depending on your profile—and a photocopy of your current passport with a passport size picture. You’ll also need an essay to help us know you.

TIP: Read our article on how to write a personal statement before beginning your essay—and read our policy on AI use first. You can also do a video or presentation if you prefer!

2. Online Assessment

After submitting the online application form and taking care of the fee, you’ll answer three live questions online. Two of the questions are in video format and the other written. This helps our admissions team put a face to a name and get a sense of who you are beyond the written application. They will also evaluate how you respond to questions in real time.

TIP: Dress to impress even if it’s online—this is the first time we get to see you in motion, so it’s important to be professional.

3. Entrance Exam

The next step is the online IE Global Admissions test, which ensures we bring the most talented individuals into our diverse classrooms. It consists of program-specific tasks which assess your suitability for the International MBA. The test lasts from 1.5 to 2 hours and includes applied numeracy, verbal reasoning and logical abstract reasoning.

TIP: There are practice questions at the beginning of the test—make the most of it, as you can only take the test once.

4. Personal Interview

Once we’ve assessed your documents and test score, you’ll be invited to a personal interview. This can be either face-to-face or online and is conducted by a manager of our Admissions Team. It’s a formal conversation in which you’ll be asked about details of your application. We also want to see how you interact with us, since human connection is core to our philosophy at IE Business School. After this, the final decision will be made.

TIP: Do your homework and be on time. You should know exactly why you want to study the International MBA—and being punctual? That’s just good manners.

5. Admissions Committee Final Decision

The final step is a review of your entire application by our Admissions Committee. We’ll inform you of their decision within roughly 1-3 weeks. Should you be successful, your application is valid for the current or subsequent intake.

TIP: Keep busy while you wait for the decision. The news will arrive when it arrives—do something fun instead of worrying!

Our ideal candidate for the International MBA admission process

What does the ideal candidate for the International MBA look like? There’s no single answer. A willingness to transform themselves is non-negotiable. After all, we only want candidates who are passionate about their career. You must have purpose.​

If you meet those requirements, then you have nothing to worry about. Our key International MBA admissions tip is to know who you are and let that shine through. The journey is never simple—there will be highs and lows—but the challenge will shape you for the future. At IE Business School we know hard work and persistence pay off. Our job is to guide you until you’ve realized your full potential. That’s why we’re a world-leading institution. If you understand that, we want to know you.