International School of Management: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

ISM University operates seven campuses across Germany, strategically located in major cities that are key players in business, finance, and technology. These campuses offer a unique blend of academic excellence and industry connections, ensuring that students gain the skills and experiences necessary for a successful global career. 

Here are the seven ISM Campuses spread across different locations: 

1. Dortmund 

• Home to ~900 students, driving a vibrant, collaborative community. 
• Stands out for its balanced excellence in International Management, Finance, and Sports Management, a rare triple-focus format. 
• Promotes strong corporate partnerships to incorporate live case studies, industry guest speakers, and hands-on project work into the curriculum. 

2. Frankfurt/Main 

• Hosts around 900 students, promoting a mid-size class feel. 
• Recognized as the finance powerhouse, with deep integration with financial markets, including immersion programs with leading banks. 
• Features direct exposure to live market trends, finance simulations, and workshops led by financial experts. 

3. Munich 

• Offers niche programs like Luxury & Fashion Management and Business Intelligence, distinguishing it from other campuses. 
• Known for active engagement with global brands, consulting projects, internships, and masterclasses directly with industry leaders. 
• Emphasizes trend-driven coursework in analytics and luxury retail, preparing students for high-end brand and data-centric roles. 

4. Hamburg 

• Combines International Management with Information Systems, helping you build both business and tech skills 
• Curriculum features live tech-driven projects in HafenCity and innovation challenges tied to the digital economy. 

5. Cologne 

• Cozy community with ~350 students, enabling tight-knit collaboration. 
• Curriculum rooted in International Management and Finance, enhanced by team simulations and entrepreneurial challenges. 
• Offers consistent networking with DACH-region business leaders and alumni-led coaching. 

6. Stuttgart 

• More intimate vibe with around 220 students, especially in Business Intelligence & Data Science. 
• Strong emphasis on collaborations with high-tech companies on real data science projects. 
• Frequent integration of applied analytics labs and industry mentoring in tech and data domains. 

7. Berlin 

• Focus on Strategic Sports Management and Digital Marketing. 
• Positioned for those keen on the startup ecosystem, regular workshops with tech disruptors, media firm interactions, and industry pitches. 
• Blends creativity, analytics, and strategy to suit roles at the nexus of business, media, and sport. 

The International School of Management (ISM) excels in national and international rankings as Germany's first AACSB-accredited private university of applied sciences, recognized by only 6% of business schools worldwide. ISM leads in CHE rankings across all 7 campuses for student support, graduation rates, and practical training based on 120,000+ surveys. At the same time, Stern magazine ranks it among the top 3 private universities for quality, value, and satisfaction.​ 

CEO Magazine ranks ISM's MBA in the global top tier for three years running, highlighting teaching excellence, abroad semesters, and career coaching. Additionally, ISM’s Global DBA program is ranked #18 in Europe, underscoring its strength in executive doctoral education. Student surveys from Universum and Trendence praise ISM's international focus, internships, and employer networks, ensuring strong employability.​ 

Top Course-wise Ranking 2026 

Germany continues to prove itself as one of the best countries for MBA aspirants, offering globally recognized programs and intense international exposure. One of the key highlights is that ISM’s Global MBA has been ranked in the Top Tier by CEO Magazine.  

The table below gives a quick overview of ISM’s course-wise rankings: 

For information, check out the upGrad’s International School of Management Ranking Page.  

The International School of Management (ISM) provides a wide range of business and management programs distinguished by their international focus and practical approach. The university offers programs to both domestic and international students across its seven campuses and online platform, emphasizing real-world experience through internships and semester abroad programs.  

Popular courses include Bachelor’s in International Management, Master’s in Finance, MBA General Management, and a Global DBA program. ISM also offers financial support through various scholarships and government grants. 

Bachelor’s Programs 

ISM’s bachelor's programs build a strong foundation in business, finance, and management with international exposure and career readiness. 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

Master's Programs 

ISM’s programs focus on advanced knowledge and practical skills in management, finance, data science, and business intelligence. 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates.  

For information, check out the upGrad’s International School of Management Course Page.  

ISM attracts students from 76 nationalities and collaborates with approximately 190 partner universities like Monash University and the University of Strathclyde, offering a truly global learning environment. The university provides a variety of Bachelor's and Master's programs with flexible admission requirements.  

Let’s take a closer look at the details: 

Academic Qualification Requirements 

Requirements for studying at ISM, Germany, include that applicants have a Bachelor's degree with 180-200 ECTS credits for Master’s programs and no specific GPA for Bachelor’s programs.  

Academic qualifications ensure that you have the foundational knowledge and required credit load to succeed in advanced-level programs. ISM requires a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 180 ECTS credits for Master’s programs and 210 ECTS credits for the MBA, along with relevant work experience.  

You can use an ECTS calculator to estimate how your previous academic credits align with ISM's requirements. 

Here’s a detailed look at the specific academic qualifications required: 

Note: Requirements vary by course. Please check the official university website for more details. 

Language Proficiency 

Strong English skills are essential for keeping up with coursework, group projects, and communication in an international environment. Proof of English language proficiency levels is required if the language of instruction at your high school was not English. If unavailable, you will need to complete an online English assessment test. 

Here’s a detailed look at the language proficiency requirements: 

Competitive Exams 

ISM focuses on your overall potential rather than standardized test scores, making the admission process more holistic. Applicants are selected based on their abilities, motivation, and personality, rather than on Numerus Clausus (NC), GMAT, or GRE. The admission process for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs involves different criteria and steps. 

Here’s a detailed look: 

Visa Requirements  

A German student visa is a mandatory requirement for international students planning to live and study in the country. To apply, you'll need to submit essential documents such as a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and an official admission letter from your university. 

Here’s a detailed overview of the specific visa requirements: 

For information, check out the upGrad’s International School of Management Admission Page.  

ISM Germany offers two main intakes annually: Fall (September) and Spring (March). For international students requiring a visa, early application is recommended to allow processing time. Applications are submitted online and include eligibility checks, admission tests, and interviews.​ 

Note: Non-Visa students have extended deadlines, but applying early ensures tuition discounts and smooth enrollment. 

The cost of studying in Germany at ISM varies depending on the program, level of study, and the student's residency status. As a private university, ISM's tuition reflects its high-quality education and strong industry connections.  

However, the university also offers financial aid options to make studying in Germany for free more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. 

Here is an overview of the cost of studying at ISM Germany: 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

The cost of living is a crucial factor for students considering studying at the International School of Management (ISM) in Germany. Cost of living in Germany may vary by city but typically include accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal costs. Students should budget approximately €800–€1,220 (~₹83,000–₹1,27,000) per month for these expenses, depending on lifestyle and campus location. 

Accommodation 

Students can choose on-campus housing or off-campus apartments. On-campus accommodation offers proximity to classes and campus life, while off-campus options vary by city. 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

Transportation 

ISM campuses are often in well-connected cities, so students can use local public transport, bicycles, or walking as primary means. 

Note: The amount mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates. 

Utilities and Miscellaneous 

Monthly utilities include internet, phone, laundry, and personal items that are essential for student life. 

Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates.  

Pro Tip: Budgeting around €800 to €1,220 (~₹83,000 to ₹1,27,000) monthly will help students comfortably manage living costs alongside tuition fees while studying at ISM. 

The International School of Management (ISM) has a strong placement record with extensive industry connections. Around 90% of master’s graduates and 60% of bachelor’s students secure jobs within six months, with many receiving offers before graduation. ISM partners with 8,000+ companies worldwide for internships and job placements.​ 

Employment Rate & Key Sectors:  

Top Recruiters at the International School of Management 

With its strong corporate network and globally oriented programs, ISM Germany opens doors to excellent job opportunities in Germany across leading industries.  

Companies like IBM and LVMH actively recruit ISM graduates for high-demand roles such as data analytics, consulting, and brand management, reflecting the school’s emphasis on career readiness and international employability. 

Below is a list of top recruiters at ISM and the roles they typically offer: 

• Fujitsu: Recruits graduates for roles in IT consulting, systems integration, and digital strategy. 
• LVMH (Perfumes & Cosmetics): Hires professionals for brand management, product marketing, and luxury retail strategy positions. 
• IBM: Targets students for technology consulting, data analytics, and AI project management roles. 
• EY (Ernst & Young): Employs graduates as auditors, tax advisors, and management consultants. 
• L’Oréal Deutschland: Brings aboard students for product management, sales management, and digital marketing roles. 
• Morgan Stanley: Chooses graduates for financial analyst, investment banking associate, and wealth management positions. 

Internship and Co-op Opportunities 

ISM offers a wealth of opportunities for students to gain practical experience, with 1,329 internships available annually. In addition, students can participate in 62 excursions, 21 campus events, and engage in 69 lectures and workshops each year, helping to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world business applications. 

• ISM students engage in consulting projects and case studies with well-known companies such as Tchibo, Siemens, and Motel One. These projects allow students to develop real-world business solutions, applying their academic knowledge to practical scenarios. 
• In market research projects, students learn how to apply research methods, conduct surveys, and evaluate data, giving them hands-on experience in gathering and analyzing business insights. 
• Through these collaborative projects, students demonstrate their ability to work in teams and get the opportunity to specialize in areas of interest, further deepening their knowledge. 
• ISM students can intern at prestigious multinational companies like Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc., where they gain valuable industry knowledge and experience working in a multinational environment. 

With 30% of its student body coming from international backgrounds, ISM offers a vibrant, multicultural campus experience that reflects the dynamic student life in Germany.  

Students enjoy a range of activities, from clubs and social events like the popular Running Dinner that connect them with peers and professionals. The Student Council and campus working groups further promote leadership, collaboration, and community across all ISM locations. 

Here are the key components of ISM’s campus experience: 

• Working groups (AKs) like AK Marketing Support and sports AKs enable students to launch initiatives and develop leadership skills. 
• The Student Council (SV) represents student interests and concerns across all campuses, ensuring a strong student voice. 
• ISM’s “family campuses” structure groups students into smaller communities supported by dedicated mentors and peer networks for personalized guidance. 
• Student-founded clubs such as ConsultISM, TourISM, PolitISM, and AK Banking allow students to pursue specialized interests and lead activities. 
• Social life thrives with official ISM parties, typically held on Thursdays, with event announcements managed by the party committee. 
• The annual Career Day connects students with top companies for entry-level roles and recruitment insights. 
• ISM Summits feature panels and discussions on marketing, finance, and other contemporary business topics. 
• Unique networking events like the semesterly Running Dinner offer informal opportunities to connect with peers, lecturers, and staff.  

ISM has produced 7,300 successful alumni across various industries, including entrepreneurship, luxury fashion, and telecommunications. Notable alumni like André Schirmer, founder of Schwarz+Matt, and Franziska Scheuerle, who worked with major luxury brands, highlight the university’s impact on global business sectors. 

Here are some of the notable alumni of the ISM:

Choosing the right business school depends on your career goals and preferred learning environment. The International School of Management (ISM), ESCP Business School, and ESMT Berlin each offer unique strengths, from ISM’s practical, applied education and competitive fees to ESCP’s prestigious multi-campus European experience and ESMT’s focus on innovation and leadership development.  

The comparison below highlights key differences in accreditation, programs, tuition, international exposure, placement outcomes, and target student profiles to help you make an informed choice.