IMD MBA Scholarships 2025 (Application Process)

IMD MBA Scholarships 2025: Comprehensive Application Guide

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Embark on a transformative journey with the IMD MBA Scholarships 2025, an opportunity that could reshape your career and life. This article provides a detailed overview of the IMD MBA Scholarships, their benefits, eligibility criteria, and a step-by-step guide to the application process. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your leadership skills or seeking to thrive in a global business environment, this guide will help you navigate through every stage of your application.

Introduction to IMD MBA Scholarships 2025

The IMD MBA Scholarships 2025-2026 are prestigious, fully funded scholarships designed for international students. These scholarships are specifically for the Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) program offered at the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland. Renowned for its excellence, IMD provides up to CHF 85,000 in scholarship awards to deserving candidates.

The IMD MBA program is recognized as one of the top MBA programs in Europe. It offers a one-year, full-time experience that is tailored to boost leadership skills in a digital, entrepreneurial, and global business environment. This program not only focuses on academic excellence but also provides incredible networking opportunities, making it an ideal choice for ambitious professionals aiming to make a significant impact in a rapidly changing world.

Why Choose IMD for Your MBA?

IMD’s MBA program is more than just a degree; it is a life-changing journey that equips you with the necessary tools to excel in a complex global market. The program is designed for high achievers who may not have the financial means but possess the potential, drive, and passion to undertake an MBA. Here’s why IMD stands out:

  1. Global Recognition: IMD is consistently ranked among the best business schools in the world. Its MBA program is known for its rigorous curriculum and strong focus on leadership development.
  2. Diverse Learning Environment: IMD fosters a multicultural environment with students from diverse backgrounds, offering a rich learning experience and a global network.
  3. Tailored Leadership Development: The program emphasizes personal leadership development, preparing you to take on senior roles in any industry.
  4. Strong Alumni Network: IMD has a powerful global alumni network, providing you with unparalleled networking opportunities.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: MBA
  • Institution: IMD (International Institute for Management Development)
  • Study in: Switzerland
  • Courses Offered: Master’s in Business Administration
  • Application Deadlines:
  • January 15, 2025 (Earlybird application fee waiver)
  • February 15, 2025
  • April 15, 2025
  • June 15, 2025

Scholarship Coverage

IMD offers a variety of scholarships, each with different amounts and application deadlines. Here’s a detailed look at what each scholarship covers:

  1. IMD Alumni Club of Lausanne Scholarship:
  • Amount: CHF 50,000
  • Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
  • Additional Information: Read about the 2020 class winner on the IMD website.
  1. Forté Women Scholarships:
  1. Stewart Hamilton Scholarship:
  1. IMD MBA Class of 1976 Scholarship:
  1. The Staton Scholarship:
  1. Diversity Scholarships:
  • Amount: CHF 30,000
  • Application Deadlines: Awarded with each admissions deadline.
  1. Merit Scholarships:
  • Amount: Up to CHF 30,000
  • Application Deadlines: Awarded with each admissions deadline.
  • Additional Information: Read the MBA blog to learn about some of our Merit winners.
  1. Financial Need Scholarships:
  • Amount: Up to CHF 30,000
  • Application Deadlines: Awarded with each admissions deadline.
  1. The Hilti Scholarship for Women:
  1. The CO-RO Foundation Scholarship:
  2. The Nestlé Scholarship for Women:
    • Amount: CHF 25,000
    • Application Deadline: September 1, 2025

Eligibility Criteria for IMD MBA Scholarships

To qualify for the IMD MBA Scholarships, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Language Requirements: English.
  2. Eligible Countries: All world countries are eligible to apply.
  3. Academic Requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
  4. Work Experience: Minimum Experience: A minimum of three years of full-time, post-graduate work experience is required. This experience should demonstrate career progress. The typical range of experience in the IMD MBA class is between four and nine years.
  5. Recommendations: Candidates need to choose two people from business-related sources who know them well. These recommenders should have worked directly with the candidate and be able to highlight professional achievements, interpersonal skills, teamwork, and leadership abilities using the IMD recommendation form.
  6. GMAT/GRE Requirements: The average GMAT score in the IMD MBA class is around 680. While unique experiences and achievements can balance out a weaker score, a score above 630 is recommended (for an equivalent GRE score, see the GRE Comparison Tool). Ensure that IMD is listed as a receiver of your score. The IMD GMAT code is SKR-MM-13, and the GRE code is 8490.
  7. English Proficiency: The entire program is taught in English. If English is not your native language and you have not previously studied in English, you will need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. While there is no minimum requirement, a TOEFL score of 105+ (IBT) or an IELTS score of 7.5 is ideally recommended. IMD’s TOEFL IBT Code is C301. If you have concerns about the suitability of your score, contact IMD for guidance.
  8. Second Language: Apart from English, knowledge of a second language (which could be your native language) is required as part of your international outlook.

How to Apply for IMD MBA Scholarships

Applying for the IMD MBA Scholarships involves several key steps. Follow the detailed instructions below to ensure that your application is complete and competitive:

  1. Create an Online Account: Visit the IMD website and create an account for the online application process. This will be your portal for submitting all required documents and tracking your application status.
  2. Prepare and Upload Required Documents:
  • Degrees and Transcripts: Upload copies of original diplomas and official transcripts, including the grading scale, for all university degrees or their equivalent. Official translations to English or French are required for every document.
  • GMAT/GRE: Upload a GMAT or GRE score that is less than five years old. A test taker copy is required, and you must also order an official score report for IMD.
  • English Test: Upload a TOEFL or IELTS score that is less than five years old if you are a non-native English speaker who has not previously studied in English. A test taker copy is required, and you must order an official score report for IMD.
  • Recommenders: Enter and submit the contact details of two business-related recommenders at least two weeks before the application deadline. Ensure they have professional email addresses (no Hotmail, Gmail, etc.) and that they complete and submit the online recommendation form.
  • CV: Upload a one-page resume in English using the IMD CV template. Other formats will not be accepted.
  • Photo: Provide a professional-style electronic photograph with no background scenery. The photo should be in high resolution (minimum of 150 DPI), size 150KB, and in JPEG format.
  • Passport : Upload a copy of your passport (picture page) that is valid throughout the entire MBA year. If you hold multiple nationalities, upload a copy of each passport.
  1. Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable application fee of CHF 200. Ensure that payment is made in full and on time to avoid any delays in processing your application.

Final Thoughts

The IMD MBA Scholarships 2025 are a golden opportunity for ambitious professionals worldwide. This fully-funded program not only alleviates the financial burden of pursuing an MBA but also provides unparalleled learning and networking opportunities. As you prepare your application, focus on showcasing your leadership potential, international outlook, and readiness to contribute to a dynamic global business environment.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative experience at one of Europe’s top business schools. Apply early, prepare thoroughly, and take the first step towards a brighter future with IMD.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?

  • Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but you must meet the eligibility criteria for each one. It’s advisable to focus on the scholarships that align best with your profile.

2. Is work experience mandatory for the IMD MBA program?

  • Yes, a minimum of three years of full-time, post-graduate work experience is mandatory. This requirement ensures that candidates have the necessary professional experience to contribute meaningfully to the MBA program.

3. What is the average age of IMD MBA students?

  • The average age of IMD MBA students is typically around 31 years, with a range of 25-35 years. This age range reflects the program’s focus on experienced professionals.

4. How important is the GMAT/GRE score in the application process?

  • The GMAT/GRE score is an important component of the application, but it is not the sole determinant of your eligibility. IMD takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering your academic background, work experience, leadership potential, and personal achievements.

5. What should I include in my CV for the IMD MBA application?

  • Your CV should highlight your professional achievements, leadership roles, international experience, and any other relevant experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the MBA program. Use the IMD CV template provided on the official website.

6. Are there specific recommendations for the English proficiency test?

  • While there is no strict minimum score, a TOEFL score of 105+ or an IELTS score of 7.5 is recommended for non-native English speakers. It’s crucial to demonstrate strong English language skills, as the program is taught entirely in English.

Contact Information and Resources

For further inquiries or assistance with your application, you can reach out to IMD’s admissions office through the following channels:

  • Email: admissions@imd.org
  • Phone: +41 21 618 01 11
  • Address: IMD, Chemin de Bellerive 23, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland

Official Website: For more information on the IMD MBA Scholarships and to start your application, visit the official IMD MBA Scholarships page.

This guide is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the IMD MBA Scholarships 2025, ensuring that you have all the information you need to submit a successful application. Whether you’re aiming to advance your career, develop your leadership skills, or make a global impact, the IMD MBA program offers the resources and support you need to achieve your goals. Apply now and take the first step towards transforming your future.