International School of Management Admissions

Germany's International School of Management (ISM) ranks among the top 3 private universities (Stern Magazine) and belongs to the elite top 6% of AACSB-accredited institutions worldwide. With 30% international students and partnerships with 190 global universities, the International School of Management offers truly international business education across its seven German campuses.

ISM offers a range of programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and MBA degrees in fields like international management, finance, and marketing. If you’re a student with a global mindset looking to study in Germany, ISM could be the right fit for you. This blog guides you through the International School of Management admission process and eligibility criteria to enhance your application.

Here are the key details you should know before starting your application:

Now that you've explored ISM’s strengths, let's examine the important dates and deadlines for each admission cycle

International School of Management Admission Dates

ISM follows a structured academic calendar with two primary intakes for international students. These admission cycles align with Germany's semester system and take into account student visa processing times. 

Below are the key deadlines that prospective students need to be aware of when planning their applications.

Fall Intake (September Start)

ISM’s primary admission period offers the widest selection of programs. Those requiring a German visa should apply by July 15, 2025 to accommodate processing. This intake is ideal for those seeking full program availability and standard academic timelines.

Here are the key intake details:

Next, let’s look into the details on program deadlines:

Next, let’s explore the spring intake details as part of the International School of Management admission process for international students.

Spring Intake (March)

The spring intake at ISM offers flexibility and features select programs. Visa applicants must submit by December 15, 2025. This is usually preferred by students who missed fall deadlines or seek smaller cohorts; this intake provides equal academic validity with adjusted scheduling.

Here are the key details:

ISM doesn’t have fixed application deadlines for all programs. Still, international applicants who require a German student visa must submit their documents before deadlines to allow sufficient time for visa processing. Let;s explore program-wise deadlines.

Let’s now explore the step-by-step International School of Management admission process for a clearer understanding.

International School of Management Admission Process

The admission process at ISM is a well-structured series of steps, starting with a pre-check by a study advisor, followed by an online test for Bachelor's applicants and case study presentations for Master's and MBA candidates. 

A €3,000 (2.9L INR) enrollment deposit secures your place in the program. Non-EU students are required to provide proof of financial resources through a blocked account with a minimum balance of €10,332 (10L INR) and valid health insurance for their visa application.

Here are the steps of the application process:

• Step 1: Pre-check by a study advisor: Prospective students can submit their application through the International School of Management's online portal, accompanied by the required documents, such as:
  • Academic Transcripts
  • CV
  • LOR’s
• Step 2: Online Test: Bachelor's applicants are required to complete an online assessment evaluating core competencies in 
  • English language and 
  • Mathematics. 
• Step 3: Case Study Presentations: Graduate candidates applying for a Master's or MBA are required to demonstrate analytical skills through online case study presentations on topics either chosen by them or provided by the ISM. 
• Step 4: Interview: All programs include a mandatory online interview, with bachelor's programs focusing on academic potential, while master's and MBA interviews emphasize on performance in online presentations and leadership capabilities.
• Step 5: Admission Decision: The admissions committee reviews all application materials, and successful applicants will receive their admission letters within 4-6 weeks of submitting a complete application.
• Step 6: Study Agreement & Admission Letter: After passing the admission test, review and sign the study contract, then receive the official admission letter needed for your visa application.
• Step 7: Enrollment Confirmation: Confirm your enrollment by submitting a €3,000 deposit (2.9L INR), which will be applied toward your tuition fees and secure your place in the program
• Step 8: Visa Application - Non-EU students should begin their German student visa application immediately after receiving confirmation of enrollment. Required documents include:
  • The official admission letter, 
  • Proof of financial resources - blocked account with €10,332 (INR 10L)
  • Valid health insurance coverage.

Feeling overwhelmed by ISM's admission requirements, online tests, and interviews? Schedule a free one-on-one counseling session with our experts at upGrad. We'll help you confidently prepare for each stage of your application!

Now that you understand the process, let's proceed to the specific MBA admissions at ISM and how to apply.

International School of Management MBA Admissions

Studying for an MBA in Germany provides a unique advantage, with access to a global network and a strong business environment. ISM offers a rigorous MBA program designed for professionals seeking to enhance their management skills. The admissions process ensures that applicants meet the necessary academic and professional standards. 

Below, we will explore the detailed admission requirements and scholarship opportunities available to prospective MBA students.

MBA Admission Requirement

Germany is considered one of the best countries for an MBA, offering great career opportunities. To be eligible for admission to the MBA program at ISM, applicants must meet specific academic and professional requirements. 

This includes holding a first degree with 210 ECTS credits, having at least 2-3 years of professional experience, and demonstrating proficiency in English. 

The detailed admission criteria are outlined in the table below.

With these requirements in mind, let's move forward and explore the available MBA scholarships that can help ease your financial journey.

MBA Scholarships

ISM offers various scholarship opportunities to support MBA students financially, including the ISM Merit-based Scholarship, which covers partial or complete tuition fees. For those seeking fully funded scholarships in Germany, these options can significantly reduce the cost of studying. 

Here are further details on available scholarships:

Next, let’s explore the MS requirements as part of the International School of Management admission process for students applying to the Master’s programs.

International School of Management MS Admissions

ISM offers a comprehensive Master’s program, designed for students who want to pursue a Master's in Germany. The program provides a solid foundation in business and management, enabling students to acquire practical skills and gain a global perspective. The application process is competitive, ensuring qualified candidates are selected. 

Below, you’ll find the specific admission requirements and the available scholarships for the MS program.

MS Admission Requirement

For admission to ISM's MS program, applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent, including at least 30 ECTS points in business sciences. Additionally, proficiency in English is required, as demonstrated by a TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.0 (if prior studies were not in English). 

The table below provides the detailed requirements for the MS program at ISM.

Now that you know the admission requirements, let’s look at the available scholarships to support your studies.

MS Scholarships

There are excellent scholarship opportunities for MS students, including the Erasmus+ Scholarship and the DAAD Scholarship. These scholarships help ease the financial burden by covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Some scholarships, such as those offered by the DAAD, even provide stipends to students based on their financial need.

Here’s more information about these scholarships in detail:

Next, let’s move forward and explore the admission criteria for other postgraduate courses at ISM.

International School of Management: Other PG Courses Admission

Among the many courses at ISM, students can choose from a range of specialized postgraduate programs such as the M.A. in Digital Marketing, M.A. in Strategic Marketing Management, and M.A. in Luxury, Fashion & Sales Management. These programs are designed to equip learners with advanced management skills and international career readiness.

Let’s look at the detailed International School of Management admission requirements for these courses:

Other PG Course Admission Requirements

To apply for ISM's other postgraduate courses, applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent, with at least 30 ECTS credits in business sciences. Proficiency in English is required, with a minimum TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.0 (if prior studies were not conducted in English). 

Below, you can find the detailed requirements for these programs.

Next, let’s explore the International School of Management's admission process for bachelor's.

International School of Management Bachelor's Admissions

International School of Management offers a range of Bachelor's courses, providing students with a strong academic foundation and exposure to global business practices. If you are planning to study in Germany after 12th, ISM is an excellent choice, offering internationally recognized programs and a diverse student body. 

Below, you’ll find the detailed admission requirements and scholarship opportunities available for Bachelor's applicants.

Bachelor's Admission Requirements at ISM

To apply for ISM’s Bachelor's programs, you need a school-leaving certificate that qualifies you for higher education in Germany. Other documents, such as an internship or work experience certificate, can be submitted to support your application, although they are optional. 

Here is the detailed information on more such requirements:

Now that you know the requirements for admission into a bachelor's, let’s look at the scholarships available to support you through your chosen course.

Bachelor's Scholarships at International School of Management

There are various top scholarships in Germany for Indian students pursuing a bachelor's degree, such as the Higher Education Scholarship Test (HEST) 2025, which provides financial support of up to INR 3L for Indian students pursuing undergraduate programs abroad. 

Here are the detailed descriptions of these scholarships:

Let’s now look at the many advantages of getting into ISM for your Bachelor's degree.

Advantages of Getting into ISM for a Bachelor's Degree

Studying for a Bachelor's degree at the International School of Management (ISM) offers numerous advantages that set you up for success in your career. With its global network, high-quality education, and strong industry ties, ISM ensures that students graduate with both academic knowledge and practical experience. 

Here’s why pursuing your Bachelor's at ISM is a great choice:

• International Recognition: ISM’s Bachelor's programs are internationally recognized, including the B.Sc. in International Management, which offers a globally recognized degree that enables students to pursue careers worldwide.
• Strong Industry Connections: ISM has established partnerships with top companies, including EY, IBM, and Morgan Stanley, providing students with networking opportunities, internships, and job placements both during and after their studies.
• Practical Approach to Learning: The curriculum at ISM emphasizes hands-on learning with real-world case studies, internships, and projects, ensuring that students are prepared for the workforce.
• Small Class Sizes: ISM’s small class sizes with a teacher-student ratio of 1:7 offer personalized attention from professors, ensuring that students receive tailored guidance throughout their studies.
• Global Campus: With campuses in multiple cities, including Dortmund, Munich, Frankfurt, and more, ISM provides students with exposure to diverse cultures, thereby enhancing their global perspective.
• Excellent Career Services: ISM’s career services support students in finding internships and jobs, guiding them throughout their professional journey post-graduation.

These advantages ensure that ISM graduates are highly competitive in the job market and ready to take on leadership roles in their chosen industries.

Now, let’s move on to the student support services offered to help you succeed during your studies at ISM.

International School of Management: Student Support Services

At the International School of Management (ISM), students benefit from a wide range of support services designed to assist them and make their student life in Germany a memorable one. These services ensure that students have everything they need to succeed in their studies and beyond.

Here are the key components of ISM’s student support services:

• Academic Counseling & Study Advisors: ISM provides personalized academic advising through study advisors, who guide students on course selection, academic planning, and overall study strategy.
• Career Services & JobTeaser: ISM offers career services with access to JobTeaser, a platform with current job advertisements. Additionally, the internship database gives students insights into real-world internship experiences from over 8,000 companies worldwide.
• International Student Support: ISM assists international students with visa applications, housing, and cultural integration, ensuring they have a smooth transition to life in Germany.
• Career Events & Networking: Students have access to career events like the ISM Career Day, where they can meet company representatives, learn about recruitment processes, and explore job opportunities directly.
• Language Support: ISM offers short language courses through the ISM Language Center to support students in improving their English or German proficiency, thereby improving their academic and professional performance.
• Health and Well-being Services: The school prioritizes students’ well-being by offering health services and counseling, ensuring students maintain a balanced lifestyle.

These services at ISM are designed to support students throughout their academic journey, making sure they are well-prepared for both their studies and their future careers.