Doctor of Business Administration Course Fees 2025: India & Global Costs, Scholarships, EMI Options

If you’re planning to pursue a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much does it cost? The fees for a Doctor of Business Administration can vary widely, depending on whether you choose to study in India or abroad, and whether the course is online or on-campus. On average, DBA course fees in India range from ₹7 Lakhs to ₹15 Lakhs. 

On the other hand, studying abroad comes with a higher price tag. According to U.S. News, at Westcliff University (USA), the in-person or hybrid DBA tuition is $49,500, while the online tuition is $46,800. 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) course fees in India and overseas, compare different learning formats, discuss the factors that impact the cost, and look at whether the investment is worth it. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of the financial commitment required and how to plan for it. 

Are you a working professional looking to explore online learning options? Check out upGrad’s DBA Courses to find programs from top global universities.  

What Is the Doctor of Business Administration Course Fees? 

As we discussed above, the average Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) course fees vary by country, mode of study (online and hybrid) and program specialization, which we will explore more in this section.  

Want to lead and pursue leadership roles? Enroll in our global DBA programs to boost your skills with advanced business knowledge:  

• Doctor of Business Administration from Rushford Business School
• Doctor of Business Administration from Golden Gate University
• Doctor of Business Administration of Business Administration from ESGCI 

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) fees in India are relatively affordable compared to the US and Europe. As per 2025 estimates, tuition typically ranges between ₹4 lakh to ₹15 lakh, depending on whether you choose a public university, private institution, or online platform. 

Let’s have a look at the fee structure for the public and private institutes offering DBA: 

How much does an Online Doctor of Business Administration Cost Worldwide? 

When it comes to pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) abroad, universities in the US, UK, and Europe charge higher tuition compared to Asian institutions. Online Doctor of Business Administration are often slightly cheaper than in-person or hybrid formats, making them more accessible for working professionals. 

Below is a comparison of Doctor of Business Administration fees across top global universities:   

Based on our list of universities, the estimated cost of an online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program abroad ranges from approximately $4,560 per year (University of the Cumberlands) to around $55,660 for the total program (University of Liverpool). 

Read: Online DBA vs On-Campus DBA: Which is Right for You? 

What Extra Costs, Discounts, and Payment Options Apply to Doctor of Business Administration Fees? 

When planning a Doctor of Business Administration, professionals often think only about tuition. But there are hidden costs, inclusions, discounts, and even employer sponsorships that can impact your final expense. Let’s break it down: 

Are there any Hidden Costs in Doctor of Business Administration apart from Tuition Fees? 

Most Doctor of Business Administration programs have extra costs beyond tuition. These can vary by university and country, so it’s best to check with the admissions office before applying. 

Common hidden costs include: 

• Application fees 
• Exam/Assessment charges 
• Library, lab & tech fees 
• Travel & accommodation (if campus visits are required) 

Do Reputed Universities offer Fee Discounts or Early-Bird Benefits for Doctor of Business Administration? 

Yes, many reputed universities do offer scholarships, fee discounts, or early-bird benefits for Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs. These are usually aimed at rewarding early applicants, supporting alumni, or encouraging professionals from diverse backgrounds to take up the program. 

For example, if you’re planning to join their Executive DBA Degree from the University of Liverpool in September 2025, you can benefit from two awards: 

• Management School Executive DBA Award - designed to ease the tuition load for professionals committing to the program. 
• Management School Progress to Executive DBA Award - a special benefit for Liverpool Management School alumni who wish to continue their academic journey with a DBA. 

These initiatives not only make the program more affordable but also show that universities value both early commitment and long-term academic loyalty. 

And Liverpool isn’t alone-many other global universities provide similar benefits. The exact details (how much you save, who qualifies, and application timelines) vary, so it’s always best to check the official university website for the latest updates. 

Are there Installment or EMI options available for Doctor of Business Administration Course Fees? 

Many universities offering online doctorate programs or campus-based Doctor of Business Administration courses allow students to pay in instalments. Instead of paying the entire tuition upfront, students can divide the cost across semesters or monthly EMIs, making payments easier. 

For example, if you choose to pursue an Online Doctor of Business Administration through upGrad’s partner universities, you also get the benefit of flexible payment options: 

Also Read: What subjects are covered in a DBA program? 

What are the Top Tips to Reduce Doctor of Business Administration Course Fees through Scholarships and Grants? 

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a big investment, but you don’t always have to pay the full price. With the right approach, you can cut down your DBA course fees through scholarships, grants, and employer support.

• Apply early - Many universities offer early-bird discounts and merit-based scholarships to applicants who don’t wait till the last minute. 
• Check university-specific scholarships - Schools like Liverpool and Rushford offer dedicated Doctor of Business Administration awards to help reduce tuition. 
• Ask your employer - If your research benefits your company, they may sponsor part (or all) of your DBA fees. 
• Explore research & government grants - Especially if your dissertation focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, or sustainability. 
• Use tax benefits & education loans - Some countries allow tax deductions on tuition, making your DBA more affordable. 
• Consider applying through a learning partner - Platforms like upGrad sometimes provide fee waivers, financing support, or exclusive scholarships. 

Further Read: Top DBA Specializations in 2025 (Leadership, Strategy, Finance, Data Analytics, etc.)

Wrap up! 

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) may feel expensive, but there are many ways to cut down the cost, like scholarships, employer support, or learning partners like upGrad.  

Benefits of Doing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with upGrad 

• Global University Partners 
• Flexible Learning 
• Industry-Relevant Curriculum 
• Networking Opportunities 
• Research & Career Support 
• Cost-Effective 
• Employer-Friendly 

So why wait? Take the smarter route and move closer to your dream role, without pausing your career. If you want to consider an online DBA from top universities, feel free to book a free 1:1 consultation call with us, and our experts will help you figure out your best options. 

You can also check out our free courses and upskill yourself. 

Discover our top Doctor of Business Administration programs and take the next step toward advancing your leadership and research expertise!

Doctor of Business Administration Programs & Blogs

References:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm
https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/business-administration-doctorate-degree
https://www.spjain.org/programs/doctorate-business-administration/fees