April 16, 2026
3 min read

What's it like to study in Europe? Business school students share their experiences

With its top-ranked institutions and global connectivity, studying in Europe can lead to a range of opportunities. Hear from business school students about their experiences

Molly Baker

Published in Explore Programs

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Hear from business school students about their experiences studying in Europe ©Getty Images

Europe has historically been a popular study destination for international business students, thanks to its top-ranked programs, career opportunities, and interconnected nature. Studying at a business school in Europe can provide exposure to diverse cultures, global markets, and professional connections.

Home to more than 30 countries with accredited business schools, opportunities in Europe are vast—with a range of locations, programs, and career paths to choose from.

We spoke with students and alumni from eight business schools in Europe, to hear their experiences of studying in this unique destination.

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Study a globally recognized program

“The MBA was more than an academic milestone for me—it was a transformative experience that reshaped how I think, deepened my expertise, and accelerated my career. Coming from a background in innovation and engineering across Latin America, I was looking for a European programme that could help broaden my business thinking.”

Davi Drummond from Brazil

Full-time MBA class of 2024

Copenhagen Business School

Gain business fundamentals

"I really wanted to learn something new, especially develop my leadership skills and learning about financials, accounting and everything that includes an MBA."

Tadeo Renjel from Bolivia

International MBA Class of 2024

Porto Business School

Level up your career

“I wanted to learn how to better lead innovation, gain greater international exposure, and increased strategic insight beyond my current capabilities. Throughout the program we saw how startups are built and incubated in hubs like Grenoble, Lyon, and Berlin, and how those same cycles of iteration take shape within mature organizations, often changing strategy itself.”

Carlos Rodriguez from Guatemala

MBA class of 2025

GEM Alpine Business School

Build soft skills

“From my MBA, I have learned soft skills such as team management, better public speaking, and working on oneself. I have personally changed my perspective to one with an entrepreneurial mindset, which I never had before.”

Ricardo Bielma from Mexico

International MBA Class of 2017

IE Business School

Access international markets

“Studying in Lisbon, I was surrounded by international classmates, exposed to European and global markets, and constantly pushed to collaborate across cultures—an experience which has been crucial now that I lead projects with teams spread across Brazil.”

Caio Naganawa from Brazil

International MBA class of 2022

The Lisbon MBA

Develop personally and professionally

“What I noticed from the very beginning is that IMD treats you like a person. The staff are incredible, everyone from the faculty to the support teams genuinely cares about your experience. With travel for key trips and meals included in your tuition, you can really focus on your academics and your growth.”

Alfonso Martínez from Mexico

MBA Class of 2025

IMD Business School

Expand your network

“Networking was instrumental in facilitating my career move. I did the triple jump, which required significant effort and a strong sense of cultural awareness. I am now part of a program which allows me to explore various functions in preparation for a future leadership role.”

Danielle Goldich from Brazil

Full-Time MBA Class of 2024

Alliance Manchester Business School

Embrace a new culture

“Explore the city you’ll live in, try to connect with people from all over the world, and take every opportunity to learn outside the classroom. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself—whether it’s learning the language, joining clubs, or stepping out of your comfort zone. For me, being curious and open to new experiences made all the difference in feeling at home and getting the most out of my MBA.”

Maria Alejandra Londoño from Colombia

Full-time MBA class of 2024

ESMT Berlin

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