International Business School: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

IBS has 4 campuses in prime European cities among which 2 are currently operational: Budapest, Vienna and 2 more in Hungary, Austria to be inaugurated in September 2025.. The Budapest campus is situated in the Graphisoft Park, home to over 60 global companies. The Vienna campus offers an executive-style learning environment, ideal for students balancing work and study.

Let’s take a closer look at what each campus offers: 

1. IBS Budapest Campus

Facilities & Environment:

• Located in Graphisoft Park, Óbuda, Budapest, within three restored heritage buildings.
• Home to over 60 international companies like Microsoft, SAP, Canon, and Samsung.

Accommodation:

• On-campus Residence Hall with suite rooms and high-speed internet access.
• Nearby student accommodation options: Fuse, City Centre Residence Hall, and Móricz Student Living.

Library:

• Over 15,000 books and access to electronic resources.
• Databases include EBSCO, Emerald, ProQuest, and JSTOR.

Dining Options:

• Planteen Canteen & Café, Kör Restaurant, In-Food Restaurant, and My Little Melbourne 2.0 café.
• Offers healthy meals, snacks, and beverages catering to diverse tastes.

Sports Facilities:

• Római Bath, Római Tennis Academy, LIDO Fitness Club, and FitCurves Fitness Club.
• Numerous options for physical activities and relaxation.

2. IBS Vienna Campus

Accommodation:

• Offers nearby options from verified providers like Spotahome, HousingAnywhere, and Viennabase.

Facilities & Environment:

• Modern, office-like setting located across from Belvedere Palace.
• Access to interactive workshops and seminars.

Student Services:

• Complimentary refreshments and on-demand library services are available.
• Personalized support from a dedicated Campus Manager.

Note: Starting September 2025, IBS is expanding its global reach with a BSc in Business Management program in Dubai and Yerevan, Armenia. The Yerevan campus will also accept intake for its MSc in Strategic International Management program. 

With a fair understanding of its campuses, let’s now examine how IBS ranks nationally and globally.

When evaluating universities, it's essential to consider both global and national rankings. While the International Business School (IBS) may not appear in major global rankings, such as QS, THE, or U.S. News, it has earned recognition from other reputable ranking bodies. 

For instance, it is ranked #8,330 globally and #12 among private universities in Hungary in the AD Scientific Index rankings.

Understanding IBS's ranking across different platforms provides valuable insight into its academic reputation. Here’s a quick overview of its notable rankings:

The institute is also recognized with a 3 Palmes rating as an excellent business school by Eduniversal.

IBS stands out for its practical business education and strong international collaborations. By focusing on these strengths, IBS can enhance its visibility in rankings like QS and THE.

Next, let’s explore IBS's subject-specific rankings, providing a detailed view of its performance across various academic fields.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2025 

IBS has established itself as a strong academic institution. It excels in key fields such as finance, business management, social sciences, psychology, and other related disciplines. 

For instance, its MBA in Strategic Data-Driven Management is recognized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Ranked #2 in Eastern Europe, it is a 1.5-year, full-time program conducted at the Budapest campus. 

Below is a summary of its top subject-wise rankings:

Curious about how IBS fares in the subjects you’re interested in? Check out the International Business School Rankings to see how it stands in your preferred field!

After reviewing the rankings, let’s examine the admission requirements for students.

IBS has an estimated acceptance rate of around 70%, reflecting its fairly inclusive approach to higher education. It admits students in two prominent intakes: in September and February. With almost 50% of students from abroad, IBS has enrolled students from over 100 countries. 

Below is a breakdown of the admission requirements for IBS:

Admission Requirements

IBS Budapest requires a high school diploma for its Bachelor’s programs and a first- or second-class undergraduate degree for its Master’s programs. MBA applicants must submit additional documents, including a motivation letter and a work reference. 

Demonstrating language proficiency levels in English is required, with Master’s programs requiring a C1 Level and Bachelor’s programs requiring a B2 Level. Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or GMAT, are not required for admission.

Below is a breakdown of the admission requirements and upcoming deadlines for IBS:

Academic Qualifications

Typically, IBS evaluates international applicants based on their secondary, post-secondary, and undergraduate academic records. 

Specialized programs, such as the MBA, require additional documents, including motivation letters, academic transcripts with modules in mathematics, statistics, or finance, and a work reference of 3-5 years.

Below is a breakdown of the academic qualifications required for admission to IBS:

Apart from past academic history, English proficiency is a key requirement for admission. Here’s what you need to know.

Language Proficiency

Non-native English speakers, including those from India, must demonstrate their language proficiency levels through tests such as the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or other approved English language proficiency exams. 

The Master’s programs require at least C1-level English proficiency, while the Bachelor’s courses require at least B2-level. Moreover, MSc applicants must pass an orientation interview as part of the selection process.

Accepted tests and minimum scores are as follows:

Note: These scores may vary depending on the number of applications received.

Competitive Exams 

IBS doesn’t require standardized test scores, such as the SAT, GMAT, or GRE, for admissions.

Note: Requirements vary with programs. Check the university's official website for the most up-to-date information.

Next, consider the visa requirements and process.

Visa Requirements

As an international student, you will need to meet Hungary's visa requirements. According to the process, once IBS receives your tuition and registration fees, you will receive a Visa Support Certificate. 

You will be issued a Type D visa for single entry into Hungary. To stay and study in Hungary, you must collect your student residence permit at the nearest Hungarian Consulate within 30 days of your arrival in Budapest. 

Here are the typical visa documents required for studying abroad in Hungary.:

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Now, let's understand the available intakes and deadlines at IBS.

The IBS offers a diverse educational experience through a wide range of programs, including 12 Dual-degree Bachelor’s programs in partnership with the University of Buckingham, UK, or the Dublin Business School, Ireland. It is renowned for its MBA in Strategic Data-Driven Management and eight other Master’s programs. 

It also provides PHD programs for students interested in research activities. Among other courses, the University Foundation Program at IBS offers an excellent opportunity for international students to enhance their English language skills and develop their study skills.

Here’s a brief overview of the notable programs:

After exploring some popular courses at IBS, let's check out the tuition fees for these programs.

The September application deadlines have passed, with 31 May 2025 being the ultimatum for most program intakes. However, the enrollment period picks up pace from August, specifically on August 11, and continues until September 5. 

While the institute sets these deadlines, it usually maintains a small window (8-12 September) for considering late applications. However, it’s always best to apply by the regular deadlines to ensure the best chances of securing your spot.

Here are the key deadlines for the upcoming intakes:

With the requirements and deadlines covered, let's check out the programs you can study at the International Business School.

Understanding the cost of studying abroad is crucial for international students, as it helps in effective financial planning.

In this context, studying at IBS is beneficial since it offers the opportunity to earn two degrees (one Hungarian and one English or Irish) at a relatively lower cost compared to studying in the UK or Irish institutions.

In addition to tuition and fees billed directly by the university, other necessary expenses, such as transportation, school supplies, and living costs, are part of the cost of living. Let’s explore them further.

Tuition fees and living costs in Budapest are modest compared to those in the UK or other European countries. For instance, the cost of living in London, including rent, is 136.3% higher than in Budapest, while in Dublin, it is 99.5% higher than in Budapest. 

Significant costs include accommodation, food, and health insurance, with additional transportation costs if living off-campus. For example, a 10-month single-occupancy contract costs around EUR 5900 (INR 5.9L).

Here’s a comprehensive breakup of some of the additional expenses, based on available data:

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Let’s now examine how IBS helps students reduce their financial burden.

IBS Budapest offers a range of academic programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, with varying tuition fees based on program duration. 

For the 2025-2026 intake, the tuition fees for Master’s and MBA programs are EUR 12,800 (INR 12.8L). Bachelor’s and PhD programs cost EUR 24,000 (INR 24.1L) for 6 semesters.

This breakdown helps prospective students, especially those from India, better understand the financial commitment required for their education at IBS Budapest.

Notes:

• The tuition fee includes the cost of education, intranet and library access, and exam fees. It does NOT include health insurance, accommodation, or meals.
• There is a one-time registration fee of EUR 900 (INR 90K) for non-EU citizens (except PhD students), and a non-refundable application fee of EUR 100 (INR 10K).
• The exchange rates used are based on current market rates.

Apart from tuition, you also need to cover costs for housing, food, books, and more. Here's a breakdown of the overall expenses at the International Business School.

IBS offers scholarships, such as the Budapest Master's and MBA Scholarship, the Dr. Frances Robinson Scholarship, and others, to help reduce tuition costs for students at almost all educational levels.

These scholarships acknowledge outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community contributions, ensuring that you have access to high-quality education without financial barriers.

Below, let's break down the available IBS scholarships to help you plan your educational expenses.

Internal Scholarships

IBS Budapest offers a range of internal scholarships to reward academic excellence and support students in their educational journey. These merit-based scholarships can cover up to 100% of tuition fees. 

For instance, the Budapest Master's and MBA Scholarship offers a 10-35% discount (up to EUR 4,480 or INR 4.5L) for students with a CGPA of 3.00-4.00 and a 200-word motivation letter. 

Here are some of the top study abroad scholarships offered by the school:

Note: Amounts may vary based on individual academic records and other eligibility factors.

Additionally, you can explore external options for additional support.

External Scholarships

External aids can significantly increase the amount of funding a student receives, often covering a substantial portion beyond tuition fees, such as living expenses, insurance, and other related costs. For example, the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Program waives tuition fee payment, provides monthly stipends, along with accommodation and insurance allowances. 

Here’s a breakdown of its eligibility criteria and benefits.

Pro Tip: Explore both internal and external scholarship options early in your application process.

Placement outcomes showcase the quality of education and the confidence employers have in graduates. Let’s explore the placement rates at IBS.

IBS is committed to ensuring that its students are well-prepared to realize their career options after graduation. It provides exceptional career support through its dedicated Career Office to boost the employability skills of its students. 

The Placement Cell equips students with the necessary tools and resources, including career counseling, resume and cover letter assistance, and career workshops.

IBS has an impressive job placement rate, with 70% of graduates securing jobs within three months of graduation. The median salary for graduates stands at HUF 5 million (INR 12.6L) annually.

Here’s how it ensures top-notch placement preparation for its students.

• Career Counseling & Coaching: Personalized support helps students identify their strengths, refine job search strategies, and make informed career decisions.
• Resume & Cover Letter Assistance: Expert guidance in resume building and crafting cover letters that attract top recruiters. Monthly CV counseling sessions are held.
• Workshops & Job Fairs: IBS hosts job fairs and career workshops, once per semester, typically in October and April, offering direct access to recruiters and providing opportunities for networking and skill development.
• Internship & Co-op Programs: IBS partners with over 80 global companies, including KPMG, Morgan Stanley, and P&G, offering internships and long-term co-op programs that provide practical experience. Internships typically begin in the third year of study, with a dedicated semester allocated for this purpose.
• Upskill Program: This program focuses on developing essential professional skills, including communication, IT proficiency, analytical abilities, and leadership.

Through these support services, IBS ensures that students not only graduate with a degree but also gain substantial work experience.

Let’s now take a closer look at the top recruiters hiring graduates from IBS.

Top recruiters Hiring from the International Business School

IBS graduates are in high demand across sectors, with top companies actively recruiting for roles such as aviation management at Emirates, technology and cloud computing positions at IBM, and marketing roles at Publicis Groupe Hungary. 

Here are some of the notable employers hiring IBS graduates:

• Emirates: Offers roles in aviation management, engineering, customer service, and flight operations, with a focus on global aviation.
• Publicis Groupe Hungary: Recruits for marketing, public relations, and digital strategy positions, driving brand transformation and customer engagement.
• IBM: Hires for technology, cloud computing, AI, and data analytics roles for innovations in IT and digital solutions.
• TCS (Tata Consultancy Services): Offers careers in IT consulting, digital transformation, and software development, delivering technology solutions.
• P&G: Recruits for roles in consumer goods management, marketing, sales, and supply chain, enhancing product delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Marriott Budapest: Offers roles in hospitality management, guest services, and operations, focusing on delivering luxury experiences.
• Morgan Stanley: Offers roles in investment banking, financial analysis, and wealth management.
• GE (General Electric): Hires for roles related to power, automation, and engineering, with a focus on innovation in energy and infrastructure.

After exploring the placement opportunities at IBS, let’s take a closer look at student life, where you’ll find a supportive environment designed to enrich both your academic and personal growth.

At IBS Budapest, student life extends beyond the classroom, offering a community where a variety of extracurricular activities and sports programs complement academic pursuits. For instance, the Erasmus+ Program offers study abroad programs at 62 universities across 21 European countries. 

Students can also access personalized career counselling and support services. Here’s an overview of what you have in store to make the most of your university experience.

• IBS Clubs: Students can join various clubs that cater to diverse interests, encouraging community and personal development.
• Erasmus+ Program & Erasmus Student Network (ESN): Access to study abroad courses at 62 partner universities across 21 European countries, enhancing global exposure. Students can also join ESN for sightseeing, trips, and networking.
• Cultural Events: Participate in international days and cultural exchange programs that celebrate the diversity of the student body.
• Sports and Fitness Programs: Access to the Gilda Max Fitness Club (aerobics, boxing), Római Tennis Academy (tennis courts, swimming pool), BSK Crossfight (martial arts), and Yoga Park (yoga sessions) for physical and mental well-being.
• Counselling and Support: The IBS Wellbeing Team provides support for academic and personal concerns, ensuring a seamless transition abroad. Specialized assistance is available for students with learning disabilities or long-term health conditions.
• International Student Advice: Guidance on accommodation, health insurance, banking, and other essential matters for a smooth experience in Budapest.
• Regional Coordinator & One-on-One Career Counseling: IBS offers regional coordinators in countries such as India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Iran, providing personalized guidance on the application process and career counseling sessions to help students set and achieve their professional goals.

After discovering the fulfilling student life at IBS, let’s take a look at the achievements of its alumni and how they’ve made their mark in various industries.

IBS Budapest is proud of its successful alumni, comprising over 3,300 graduates, who have excelled in diverse fields and made significant contributions to their industries. Every third graduate is an alumni member. 

Alumni like Márton Sebestyén, Co-founder and Investment and Growth Strategist at Online Capital Investments, and Pál Bíró, the new leader of Google Hungary, demonstrate how they have utilized their education to lead prominent companies worldwide. 

Below are a few distinguished alumni and their notable achievements:

These alumni are live examples of the diverse paths and impactful careers that IBS graduates pursue.

Building on the success of IBS alumni, it’s essential to understand how the university compares with other institutes across various parameters.

Choosing a university for higher studies is a significant decision. The International Business School (IBS) offers 25 programs with a strong focus on global business education, including popular courses such as the MBA in Strategic Data-Driven Management. 

With a 70% acceptance rate and tuition fees ranging from EUR 4,000-6,400 (INR 4-6.4L), IBS offers an affordable and well-recognized option for those pursuing careers in international business management. In comparison, Wekerle Business School and Budapest Metropolitan University offer fewer programs.

Here’s a quick comparison of IBS with similar schools, such as the Wekerle Business School and the Budapest Metropolitan University of Applied Science.