Study at IMD Lausanne: get into one of the top business schools
Tailored admissions coaching to help you get into the MBA, Executive MBA and executive education programs at IMD in Lausanne.
IMD: a global benchmark in management education
Based in Lausanne, IMD (International Institute for Management Development) is one of the world’s most prestigious business schools. A private institution specializing in developing senior leaders, it is consistently ranked among the world’s very best for its executive education programs and its MBA.
True to the Swiss tradition of excellence and international outlook, IMD stands out for its small, close-knit classes, world-class faculty and teaching focused on leadership and real business impact. Studying at IMD means joining a network of influential executives and alumni working in the world’s largest international organizations.
IMD programs
IMD offers a range of degree programs and continuing education courses for people who are already working:
- The MBA: an intensive one-year full-time program open to candidates with at least two years of professional experience.
- The Executive MBA (EMBA): designed for experienced managers, typically with more than ten years of experience.
- A wide range of executive education programs, both custom and open enrollment, to support leaders and organizations through transformation.
Why choose IMD?
Choosing IMD means opting for an elite education recognized by recruiters worldwide. Its key strengths:
- A global reputation in executive education and an MBA consistently ranked among the best.
- Small classes that ensure personalized support and close contact with faculty.
- Teaching focused on leadership, decision-making and immediate application in the workplace.
- A prime location in Switzerland, at the heart of an ecosystem of multinationals and international organizations.
- A powerful alumni network that can truly accelerate an international career.
IMD MBA costs and funding
As a private school, IMD charges tuition fees well above those of Swiss public universities. For the MBA, expect CHF 80,000 in tuition, plus around CHF 17,500 in mandatory fees covering program projects and services.
You should also budget for living costs of around CHF 30,000 to 36,000 for the year (housing, food, transport, insurance and personal expenses). IMD does, however, offer a robust system of scholarships and financial aid: nearly 48% of students receive a scholarship or other support, making the program more accessible to the strongest candidates.
Admission to IMD: how to apply
Admission to the IMD MBA is highly selective. It is based on a complete application including a GMAT or GRE score, essays, letters of recommendation, a strong CV and one or more interviews. Significant professional experience and a clear career plan are decisive.
Applications are reviewed in several admission rounds, with deadlines spread throughout the year (typically January 15, March 15, May 15, July 15, September 15 and October 15). Applying early maximizes your chances of admission and of receiving a scholarship.
At Your Dream School, our coaches support you at every stage: GMAT preparation, drafting and reviewing your essays, application strategy and interview preparation. Since 2018, we have helped more than 1,000 students get into the world’s top institutions.
IMD’s teaching approach and impact
The strength of IMD lies in its practice-oriented teaching. Participants work on real cases and projects carried out directly with companies, developing leadership skills they can apply immediately. The emphasis on personal transformation, individual coaching and small-group work sets the IMD experience apart from more general programs and prepares each participant to take on senior responsibilities.
Career prospects after IMD
IMD graduates go on to roles in general management, strategy consulting, international management and entrepreneurship. The school’s powerful alumni network and close ties with international recruiters are a real career accelerator, in Switzerland and abroad. Many participants use the program as a springboard to change industry, role or country.
Studying in Lausanne, in the heart of Switzerland
Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne offers an exceptional quality of life and a dynamic business environment: the headquarters of multinationals and international organizations, and a leading academic hub with EPFL and HEC Lausanne. Studying at IMD also means benefiting from this unique ecosystem, ideal for networking and career opportunities.
The IMD MBA at a glance
- Format: full-time program lasting one year.
- Experience required: at least two years of professional experience for the MBA.
- Tuition fees: CHF 80,000, plus around CHF 17,500 in mandatory fees.
- Living budget: CHF 30,000 to 36,000 for the year.
- Scholarships: nearly 48% of students receive financial aid.
Further reading
IMD FAQs
What are IMD’s flagship programs? The one-year full-time MBA, the Executive MBA for experienced executives, and a wide range of executive education programs.
How much does the IMD MBA cost? Tuition is around CHF 80,000, plus CHF 17,500 in mandatory fees and a living budget of CHF 30,000–36,000 for the year. Nearly half of students receive a scholarship.
How much experience do you need to apply? The MBA requires at least two years of professional experience; the Executive MBA is aimed at executives who typically have more than ten years of experience.
How does Your Dream School support me? From GMAT preparation to essay and interview strategy, we work with you to build a compelling application, with personalized support until you are admitted.
Rated 5/5 on Google with 160+ reviews, our coaches help you make your IMD plans a success.