Geneva Business School — Affordable Business Education in Europe

Geneva Business School (GBS) is a private Swiss business school founded in 1995. It is ranked among the Top 50 business schools worldwide by CEOWORLD Magazine.

GBS offers English-taught programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, and Doctoral levels. Programs are available across three campuses located in Geneva (Switzerland), Madrid, and Barcelona (Spain).

Contents:

• Why study business in Europe?
• Overview of Geneva Business School
• Geneva campus
• Madrid campus
• Barcelona campus
• Programs and fields of study
• Admission requirements
• Career prospects after graduation
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)



Why Study Business in Europe?

Studying in Europe is, first and foremost, a strategic choice. By choosing a European university or business school, you are making a smart and often low-risk investment in your future and career. Here’s why.

1. Quality of education and rankings

European business schools, like their American counterparts, consistently rank highly in global rankings. According to the QS Business Masters Rankings 2025, 66 out of the top 100 Master in Management programs worldwide are based in Europe — that’s nearly two-thirds of all programs included in the ranking.

Leading European business schools also hold internationally recognized accreditations such as AACSB, often referred to as the “gold standard” of business education. These accreditations confirm the quality of academic programs and significantly increase the value of a degree in the eyes of employers.

2. International recognition of degrees

Degrees awarded by European universities fall within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and are based on the standards of the Bologna Process. This system ensures consistent quality and comparability of education across Europe.

As a result, qualifications are widely recognized for further studies and employment in other countries. Even if you plan to continue your education or career outside Europe, degrees from accredited European institutions are highly regarded worldwide, including in the United States.

3. International experience

If you are aiming for an international career, strong cross-cultural communication skills are essential — and Europe offers an ideal environment to develop them. European business schools are known for their highly international student and faculty communities.

At institutions such as London Business School or HEC Paris, international students often make up over 90% of the student body. By comparison, at Harvard Business School, only about one in three students comes from abroad.

4. Practical experience during your studies

European business education places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning: internships, real-world business cases, and projects with actual companies. Geneva Business School is a good example of this approach.

GBS actively connects students with industry professionals and organizes visits to the offices of major international companies such as Ernst & Young and Grant Thornton. These interactions give students the opportunity to build valuable professional connections and make themselves visible to potential employers. Very often, this early practical experience plays a key role in shaping a student’s future career.

5. Student mobility

Students at European universities can travel and work within the Schengen Area without additional visa barriers. They can also participate in exchange programs such as Erasmus+. This greatly expands opportunities, giving access to events, conferences, and internships across different countries.

6. Career opportunities

Europe hosts offices of major international companies, including L’Oréal, Nestlé, Airbus, Deutsche Bank, Unilever, Ernst & Young, and many more. Many of these companies actively collaborate with business schools, offer internships, and recruit graduates. This approach helps students gain practical experience during their studies and significantly increases their chances of employment after graduation.

7. Studying in English and other languages

Most business programs in Europe are taught in English, making education accessible to a wide audience. At the same time, students can also study other European languages, which not only enriches their personal experience but also provides an additional competitive advantage after graduation.

Overview of Geneva Business School 

Geneva Business School (GBS) is a private international business school, founded in 1995 in Geneva, Switzerland. Over its 30-year history, GBS has grown from a small educational institution into a modern international business school with campuses in three European cities: Geneva, Barcelona, and Madrid.

Mission and positioning:

GBS positions itself as a center of business education with a clear international focus. The school is dedicated to preparing future leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals capable of thriving in the global economy. Its educational approach emphasizes the development of practical skills, leadership, and creative thinking.

The school’s motto reflects its values: Real Business, Responsible Leaders.

Accreditations and international recognition:

• GBS is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), an international body that evaluates business education. This accreditation confirms that GBS programs meet international quality standards and are comparable to business programs in the United States.

• The school is certified by EduQua, a Swiss quality standard for continuing education programs, highlighting its alignment with market requirements.

• Other professional recognitions include accreditation by the Association of Accredited Schools of Business International (AASBI), as well as memberships in several prestigious international educational organizations, such as AACSB.

Awards and rankings:

• Ranked 48th among the top 100 business schools worldwide and 2nd in Switzerland according to CEOWORLD Magazine 2025.
• Awarded three out of five “Palmes of Excellence” by the Eduniversal International Scientific Committee.
• Winner of the 2021 Global Student Satisfaction Awards in the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) in the Career Development category.

International learning environment:

All programs are taught in English, making the school attractive to students from around the world.

Geneva Business School places a strong emphasis on cross-cultural experience: students come from more than 100 nationalities, participate in international projects, and work on practical business cases.

Unique internship and career opportunities:

GBS students have the opportunity to intern in major international organizations such as the United Nations and its associated projects. The Geneva campus directs students to internships with the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), where they gain invaluable practical experience and have the chance to build potentially useful professional connections.

In addition, the school organizes visits to the offices of leading international companies such as Ernst & Young and Grant Thornton. These visits provide students with the chance to see real business operations up close, interact with industry professionals, and ask questions directly.

Geneva Campus

Geneva is one of the most important financial centers in Europe and the world. The city is home to more than 40 international organizations, including the United Nations, over 2,300 international companies, and 80 private banks — creating a unique professional environment for future business leaders.

The campus’s convenient location in the heart of Europe provides easy access to other major European cities — most are reachable within 1–2 hours, which supports both academic and professional mobility for students.

Switzerland has four official languages, and Geneva’s population represents more than 190 nationalities, with around 40% of residents being foreign. This cultural and linguistic diversity reflects the truly international character of education at Geneva Business School.

Madrid Campus

Madrid ranks among the top 50 student cities according to QS and is considered one of the best destinations for international students. Vibrant and dynamic, Madrid is known for its developed startup ecosystem and broad opportunities for entrepreneurs — it is ranked among the top 25 cities in the world for business and startups, attracting ambitious young people from around the globe.

Beyond its business environment, the city offers students a rich cultural and social life: over 180 theaters, museums, and galleries, plus countless cafés and restaurants. This makes the Spanish capital attractive not only for studying but also for living and personal growth.

Barcelona Campus

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most innovative cities, combining advanced technology, a creative industry, and a rich cultural life. It ranks among the top 35 student cities in the world according to QS Best Student Cities 2026 and holds high positions in global employer activity rankings.

Barcelona is the fifth most innovative city in Europe (and 13th globally). It is also a major economic center in Catalonia, contributing 20% of Spain’s GDP. This provides a significant advantage for students focused on entrepreneurship and developing their own projects.

Programs and Fields of Study at Geneva Business School

Geneva Business School offers academic programs at various levels — from Bachelor’s to Doctoral degrees — with the option to choose a specialization.

1. Bachelor’s program

The Bachelor of International Management is the main undergraduate program, lasting three years. It focuses on developing practical business skills and uses project-based learning to help students apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. The program is available at all three campuses — Geneva, Barcelona, and Madrid.

Students can choose one of the following specializations:

• Entrepreneurship
• Digital Marketing
• International Finance
• International Relations
• Sports Management

Undergraduate students also have the opportunity to earn a double degree in partnership with Universidad de Nebrija in Madrid, Spain.

2. Master’s program

The Master of International Management is a 1.5-year program designed for Bachelor’s graduates who want to deepen their management knowledge and prepare for leadership roles in an international business environment. The program is available at all three GBS campuses.

Specializations include:

• Entrepreneurship
• Digital Marketing
• International Finance
• International Relations
• Sports Management

Upon completing the Master’s program, students can also earn an additional degree from partner universities such as Anglia Ruskin University, Fordham University, Northeastern University, and NEOMA Business School.

3. MBA

The Master of Business Administration in Biotech Management is a unique MBA program focused on the biotechnology sector. The program was developed in collaboration with industry experts, combining business theory with an understanding of the sector’s specifics. The course is offered at the GBS campus in Geneva.

4. Doctorate (DBA)

The Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) is designed for experienced professionals who want to tackle complex business challenges. The DBA is offered entirely online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world while balancing work and education. Admission requires a Master’s degree and professional experience.

Admission Requirements at Geneva Business School

Applicants wishing to join GBS must demonstrate their academic and language proficiency. The following are the current requirements for each program.

1. Bachelor’s program:

• High school diploma: Swiss Maturité, International Baccalaureate (minimum 30 points), 3 A-levels, or BTEC.
• Proof of English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80 / Duolingo English Test 105–115 / TOEIC 650 / Cambridge B2 / Pearson PTE 46, or evidence of at least 3 years of prior study in an English-speaking environment.
• Copies of all required academic diplomas, transcripts, and certificates.
• A written response to a business case study of up to 500 words.
• An interview with a representative from the admissions team.
• A copy of a valid passport or national ID.
• One reference letter from a teacher or employer.

2. Master’s and MBA programs:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, preferably in a related field.
• Proof of English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 85 / Duolingo English Test 120–125 / TOEIC 730 / Cambridge C1 / Pearson PTE 56, or evidence of at least 3 years of prior study in an English-speaking environment.
• Copies of all required academic diplomas, transcripts, and certificates.
• A written response to a business case study of 1–2 pages.
• An interview with a representative from the admissions team.
• A copy of a valid passport or national ID.
• One reference letter from a teacher or employer (for MBA programs, two reference letters are required).
• Professional experience — minimum of 3 years (for MBA programs).
• Resume / CV.

3. Doctoral program (DBA):

• Master’s degree or equivalent, preferably in a related field.
• Proof of English proficiency: IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL 85 / Duolingo English Test 130–135 / Cambridge C1 / Pearson PTE 66, or evidence of at least 3 years of prior study in an English-speaking environment.
• Copies of all required academic diplomas, transcripts, and certificates.
• Professional experience in business or management.
• A copy of a valid passport or national ID.
• Resume / CV.
• Reference letters from a previous academic institution and from your current employer (if applicable).
• Completed Thesis Proposal Form — submitted via the GBS website.

Career Prospects After Graduation

Geneva Business School actively supports its students and graduates in their career paths through the Career Service, a dedicated department that helps with:

• finding internships and job opportunities in international and local companies,
• writing effective CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles,
• developing interview skills and professional communication abilities.

The school also regularly organizes Career Days and other career events at the Geneva, Barcelona, and Madrid campuses. These events allow students to meet company representatives, build professional networks, and receive career advice.

GBS graduates find employment in major international companies, banks, and organizations, such as:

• United Nations, UNICEF, Save the Children
• ING, HSBC, UBS, The World Bank
• Pfizer, Nestlé, GE Healthcare

Many former GBS students have also launched their own businesses. More information about alumni projects is available on the official GBS website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What programs are available for international students?

All GBS programs are taught entirely in English and are open to students with sufficient language proficiency, including international students.

2. What are the English language requirements for admission?

The minimum level for studying at GBS is CEFR B2. Specific requirements depend on the program:

• For Bachelor’s program: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80 / Duolingo English Test 105–115 / TOEIC 650 / Cambridge B2 / Pearson PTE 46.
• For Master’s and MBA programs: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 85 / Duolingo English Test 120–125 / TOEIC 730 / Cambridge C1 / Pearson PTE 56.
• For Doctoral program: IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL 85 / Duolingo English Test 130–135 / Cambridge C1 / Pearson PTE 66.

If your previous education was conducted in English for at least three years, you are exempt from taking a test.

3. Are additional language courses offered?

Yes. Bachelor’s students can choose English as an elective subject. There is also a separate English course (B2 level) for students who need to improve their writing skills.

The Madrid and Barcelona campuses offer Spanish language courses (levels A1, A2, and B1), while students at the Geneva campus can study French (levels A1, A2, and B1).

4. How are students supported by experts?

GBS instructors are active professionals in their fields. They share practical experience with students, provide guidance, and offer consultations when launching new projects or pursuing career goals.

In addition, students in the MBA in Biotech Management and Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) programs have access to individual mentorship support.

5. Is it possible to transfer between campuses?

Yes, transfer requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Bachelor’s students can transfer between the Geneva, Barcelona, and Madrid campuses. Master’s students can transfer between the Geneva and Barcelona campuses.

Important: students from non-EU countries may need to reapply for a visa to ensure the ability to study at the chosen campus.

6. What is the difference between a Master’s and an MBA?

A Master’s program allows graduates to expand their professional and academic experience and increase their competitiveness in the job market. It also gives Geneva Business School Bachelor’s graduates the opportunity to deepen their chosen specialization and gain expert knowledge in their field.

An MBA program is designed for ambitious professionals aiming to advance their careers and develop as leaders. This course is intended for future top managers and business owners.

7. Is there support for internships and employment?

Yes. First, GBS offers students the services of the Career Service, which helps find internships and job opportunities, improve CVs and cover letters, create LinkedIn profiles, and prepare for interviews.

Second, the school regularly organizes Career Days, during which students can meet potential employers and company representatives.

Students can complete internships both within GBS (for example, in the marketing department) and in international organizations such as WFUNA at the United Nations.

8. Tuition fees

Tuition at GBS starts from EUR 6,500 per semester, plus application fees (Application Fee — EUR 150, Administration Fee — EUR 1,900). The exact cost depends on the specific program and campus (up-to-date information is available on the official GBS website).

Through ED-EX.com, you can enroll in Geneva Business School under more flexible and advantageous conditions — without application fees and with tuition discounts.

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9. Are scholarships or financial aid available?

Yes, GBS offers two competitive scholarships: academic and community. Both are intended for students with strong academic achievements and financial need.

Please note that only candidates who have already received Conditional Acceptance can apply for a scholarship.

Want to Study in Europe?

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