Emerging European business schools are beginning to stir. MBA candidates are considering Belgium, Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands for relaxed immigration laws and cheaper fees.
For once, Frank Fletcher is back in Belgium. As head of recruitment at Vlerick Business School, he has worked hard to earn the school’s international stripes.But it has not been an easy endeavour. To add diversity to the Belgian troupe of the school’s MBA classes, he travels to nearly 30 countries on five continents over nine months.
“We invest a great deal in the recruitment of talent from all over the world,” he says. Like many European business schools, Vlerick’s cohorts are dominated by international students, but this has not historically been the case for all institutions.
Emerging European education markets have not always enjoyed much market share. Belgium and other Continent countries such as Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands have languished behind in the great MBA race.
“Belgium does not have the capacity enjoyed by markets like the UK and France,” Frank admits. He confesses that Belgium won’t compete in terms of total number of MBA students enrolled, but is adamant that it can compete with quality of education, experience and opportunities. It is a view shared by many emerging European MBA destinations.
“The Netherlands can compete with the larger countries in Europe when it comes to international education,” says Dr Milton Sousa, director of MBA and executive MBA programs at the Rotterdam School of Management (RSM).
Erasmus University sees 5,500 international students from 80 nationalities flock to its campuses, the majority of whom study business administration at Rotterdam.
“The Netherlands has been for many decades a country with a very international outlook,” says Dr Milton. About 94% of RSM’s MBA class is international, according to FT ranking data.
There are signs that the Netherlands’ MBA market in particular is beginning to stir. Its schools have been climbing the MBA rankings – Tias Business School and RSM are both within the top 75.
Candidates are now drawn to a wider range of Euro destinations including Copenhagen, Brussels, Rotterdam and even Oslo. They are attracted by cheaper tuition fees, relaxed immigration laws and the “Scandinavian approach” – smaller, more intimate class sizes.
The latest applicant survey revealed that Denmark and Norway have both climbed four places, with Denmark leapfrogging China, one of the more established MBA markets, according to QS data.
The Netherlands is now the tenth most popular MBA destination – ahead of Italy, India and most of Asia.
Dr Milton says that RSM believes that smaller and more diverse MBA classes will forge better networks, meaning graduates will be stronger in the international jobs market.
Copenhagen Business School enrols just 35-40 MBA students each year. Thuli Kutloano Skosana, admissions manager for the full-time MBA, says this is attractive to applicants. About 70% of Copenhagen’s students are international.
“The style of teaching is unique, even how the students are seated in a classroom – it encourages participation. It’s a Scandinavian approach,” Thuli adds.
The increased enthusiasm for emerging European destinations is reflected in the number of candidates who are sending their GMAT scores to the Netherlands. Numbers have risen from 3,488 to 7,117, and have more than doubled in the past four years.
Dutch citizens are also taking the GMAT in record numbers. The figures increased 15% from 2008 to 2012, when 960 tests were sat, according to Graduate Management Admissions Council data.
But domestic candidates still prefer to study abroad. Local Europeans are not sending their scores to business schools in the Netherlands in high numbers. In 2012, only 1,011 were sent, representing less than 7% of total market share.
Rankings’ data suggest that just 5% of Rotterdam’s MBA class are Dutch. Dr Milton says that domestic MBA candidates are more likely to venture outside of the Eurozone, which is still struggling to regain economic momentum.
“The Netherlands is a small country, so if one is considering doing an international MBA program it could make sense to go international,” he adds.
The picture is much the same in Belgium, according to Frank. Only 15% of Vleric’s MBAs students are Belgian. “Nearly 60% of Belgians taking the GMAT send their scores to the US, UK, or France,” he adds.
Some argue that Denmark has not done enough to retain talent, a country whose government unveiled its second growth package in two years in 2014 as the economy has struggled to grow due to the ongoing weakness in the Eurozone.
This will be of particular concern for SMEs – which account for 66% of the country’s entire employment – because of succession challenges. Owner-managed companies account for 80% of business in Denmark and nearly 20% of those owners are aged over 65, according to Morten Bennedsen, chair of family enterprise at INSEAD, the French business school.
The Danish Industry Foundation estimates that due to the age of the proprietors, about 25,000 businesses will have to be transferred to new ownership in Denmark during the next 10 years.
Europe enjoys high rates of self-employment. Thuli says that Copenhagen’s MBA has a focus on entrepreneurship. While less than 10% of MBA students launch their own companies, graduates benefit from an entrepreneurial outlook.
“We have focus on leadership, entrepreneurship and sustainability,” she says. “The people who come here are looking for an interdisciplinary approach to education.”
About 40% of Copenhagen’s international graduates work in Denmark. Candidates are attracted to its MBA, which is triple-accredited and costs $56,000 in tuition, because of the government’s new Greencard immigration scheme.
Unlike the UK and US, which both have restricting immigration policies on international MBAs, many emerging European destinations welcome graduates with open arms.
“We are fortunate that we are situated in country that welcomes and values international talent,” says Dr Milton. Rotterdam sees between 50% and 60% of its graduates employed in the Netherlands.
“Obviously this is a big factor for many students when deciding to study at RSM,” he adds. About half of the MBA class pursues careers in financial services, consulting or marketing and business development.
It is similar at Tias Business School, according to Humphrey Sopakuwa, an MBA advisor responsible for recruitment.
“International students are granted a one-year search visa after completion of their program to look for a job in the country,” Humphrey says. Once they find a job, employers can file for a residence permit on their behalf as a kennismigrant – knowledge migrant, he adds.
Tias’ full-time MBA, which costs €37,500 in tuition, made it into the global MBA rankings two years ago.
The school limits the amount of Dutch students in its class to keep international numbers up, adds Humphrey. “International students can expect to become part of a multicultural environment.”
But Frank says that Vlerick’s international graduates do not obtain employment easily. The ability to communicate in the local language is one of the greatest challenges MBAs will face.
In Belgium, considered to be the heart of Europe, Vlerick’s MBAs are mobile. Students benefit from transport infrastructure and quick connections to Paris, London and Amsterdam, while the cost of living in Belgium is significantly less than many other European countries.
“In Belgium, you get the best of what Western Europe has to offer at a fraction of the cost,” says Frank.
Its MBA, which costs €36,000 in tuition, is taught in Brussels, Ghent and Leuven.
There are concerns, however, about application numbers. Most business schools in the Netherlands have seen MBA applications remain roughly flat.
But Dr Milton says that companies are now willing to invest in employee education, while there has been a global rise in the amount of businesses sponsoring MBA programs since the financial crisis.
“We currently do see an increase in applications for our Executive MBA programs within our domestic and international markets,” he says. RSM expects this trend to continue.
Yet there are new challenges that these emerging business schools face. Frank points out that Vlerick has to compete with the rise of China and India, as well as high-ranking schools in the US and Europe.
Nonetheless, there is a change in the air and emerging European MBA markets remain confident.
“Combine… Favourable tuition rates and the fact that the Dutch are generally known for their fluency in English as a second language,” says Humphrey, “and I would say that we are definitely able to compete with the more established markets.”
Student Reviews
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
Monthly checkups, good acedmic tutoring
Copenhagen business school impresses me every single time I think about the school as a whole. What’s particularly impressive is how they always check in to ensure everyone is on the same page. Whether it's through small group discussions or one-on-one feedback sessions, the professors really take the time to make sure no one is left behind. They’re always available for follow-up questions and give tailored feedback that helps students understand where they can improve and how to apply what they’ve learned to real-world situations. It's clear that at CBS, the focus is on learning, not just getting paid. The professors are not just there to deliver lectures but are deeply invested in making sure every student is progressing.
The professors.. 👌🏾
The professors at Copenhagen Business School are genuinely excellent and play an essential role in developing students with extensive real-world experience. What stuck out to me was how supportive they are outside of lectures and class time. They are always willing to answer inquiries, whether concerning the course material or career advice, and many of them work beyond of usual hours to assist students.The instructors' accessibility fosters an environment in which you feel encouraged, not only intellectually, but also in terms of personal growth and future career goals. It's apparent that they care significantly about helping students achieve.
