MBA General Latest Updates
13 Aug, 2025 CAT 2025 Registration last date is September 13, 2025 – Apply Soon! Check Here
08 Aug, 2025 KMAT registration 2025 is open @kmatindia.com; registration deadline is extended till August 20, 2025. Apply Here
06 Aug, 2025 IIT Guwahati will conduct the GATE 2026 exam on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026; registration starts from August 25, 2025, @gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Read News Here
01 Aug, 2025 NMAT 2025 registration starts @mba.com/exams/nmat; the last date to register is October 10, 2025. Check Here
10 Jul, 2025 XAT registration 2026 starts @xatonline.in; the last date to register is December 5. Check Live Updates
01 Jul, 2025 IBSAT registration for MBA/PGDM 2026-28 session is open @ibsindia.org; exam will be held on December 27 and 28. Check Here
Online MBA is a 6 Month to 2 Year PG program that does not require on-campus attendance i.e it is completely online. Online MBA is designed for working professionals or for individuals who have other commitments. Its syllabus typically covers core business concepts such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management.
IIM Ahmedabad, SP Jain, IIFT Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, IIM Sirmaur, IMI New Delhi and TAPMI Manipal are among top Online MBA colleges in India. Candidates must take online admission exams like the CAT, XAT, MAT, SNAP, and GMAT in order to be admitted to an online MBA program. In India, the typical cost of an online MBA is between INR 34,000 and INR 28.6 lakh.
Online MBA is offered by colleges worldwide. According to QS Rankings, the top colleges for Online MBA in the world include IE Business School, Warwick Business School, and Imperial College Business School. Some colleges require students to appear for IELTS and GMAT to qualify for the course. The average fee for Online MBA Abroad ranges around INR 10,00,000 - INR 50,00,000.
Banking, Accounting, and Project Management are some of the highest-paying sectors in India and Online MBA allows candidates to get high paying jobs in these sectors. The average Online MBA graduate salary in India is between INR 4 LPA - 18 LPA.
- Online MBA Highlights
- Why Study Online MBA?
- Best Online MBA Colleges in India
- Who should study Online MBA?
- Pros and Cons of Online MBA
- Online MBA Admission 2025
- Average Salary Range for Online MBA Graduates in India 2025
- Online MBA Abroad
- Admission Process for Online MBA Abroad
- Executive MBA Online
- Online MBA vs Regular MBA
- Online MBA vs Distance MBA
- Online MBA in India: Online Platforms
- Online MBA Career Options & Jobs
- Online MBA FAQs
Online MBA Highlights
The following are the key highlights of Online MBA in India.
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Course Name | Master of Business Administration (Online) |
Course Level | Postgraduate |
Duration | 6 Months - 2 years (can extend to 4 years in some cases) |
Course Type | Online Degree |
Admission Process | Entrance Exams or Direct Admission |
Top Entrance Exams | CAT, MAT, CMAT, XAT, GMAT, College Centric Exams |
Eligibility Criteria | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks |
Minimum Work Experience | Not mandatory; 1–3 years preferred by some institutions |
Mode of Delivery | Live online lectures, pre-recorded lessons, assignments, and case studies |
Top Specialisations | Finance, Marketing, HR, Business Analytics, IT, Operations, International Business |
Top Colleges | IIM Ahmedabad, SP Jain, IIFT Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, IIM Sirmaur, IMI New Delhi, TAPMI Manipal |
Course Fees (INR) | INR 34,000 - INR 28.6 Lakh |
Salary After Online MBA | INR 5-6 lakhs per annum |
Top Recruiters | TCS, Infosys, Deloitte, Accenture, HDFC, ICICI, Amazon, Flipkart |
Job Roles | Marketing Manager, HR Manager, Business Analyst, Financial Analyst |
Learning Platforms | Coursera, edX, UpGrad, Simplilearn, university portals |
Recognition | UGC-DEB-approved programs are recognised as equivalent to regular MBAs |
Flexibility | High – allows learning alongside a full-time job |
Global Recognition | Some programs offer dual degrees or global exposure (e.g., ISB, Deakin) |
Technological Requirements | Stable internet, laptop/PC, learning management system access |
Why Study Online MBA?
The following are some of the reasons to enroll in online MBA programs in 2025:
- Students can acquire a number of skills that are helpful for managerial roles by enrolling in online MBA programs
- The ability to study at your own speed and from any convenient place is another benefit of taking an online MBA education.
- Because they allow them to continue working while they study, top online MBA programs are advantageous for working people.
- Enrolling in an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has a high return on investment (ROI). Because of this, a lot of professionals and students choose it.
- Online MBA programs’ faculty is identical to traditional MBA programs. This guarantees that everyone can gain knowledge from the top experts.
- Although the cost of an online MBA in India is lower than that of a traditional MBA, companies still view it as having the same value.
Video Review & Analysis: What are the Benefits of doing an Online MBA?
In this video Ankur Warikoo explains the main differences between online and offline MBA programs and helps you decide which one is right for you. Ankur Warikoo shares personal experiences and real salary comparisons, showing how an MBA—online or offline—can impact your career, salary, and growth. Additionally, you will learn how to determine whether getting an MBA is truly worth the investment, particularly if you don't want to leave your current position.
Key Highlights and Numbers That Matter:
- Salary Jump by Degree Level:
- Certificate/Diploma ? 17% higher salary.
- Bachelor’s Degree ? 24% increase.
- Master’s Degree (MBA) ? 29% more salary vs. bachelor’s.
- Depending on the curriculum, MBA holders make between INR 1 crore and INR 1.5 crore during a ten-year period.
- MBA Costs Compared:
- Top Offline MBA (like ISB): INR 15,00,000 – INR 30,00,000 for 1-2 years.
- Online MBA (Liverpool/Deakin): INR 3,00,000 – INR 5,00,000, can be done while working.
- Recovery Time:
- Depending on earnings after graduation, an offline MBA takes five to seven years to recoup the entire cost.
- Online MBA: If you keep working, you can recoup the expense in a year or two.
- Industry Salary Boost (MBA vs Non-MBA):
- Healthcare: 12% higher
- Product & Services: 8% higher
- Technology: 8% higher
- Consulting & Accounting: 6% higher
- Real-World Example:
- At prestigious companies like Amazon, a student pursuing a tier-1 offline MBA earned INR 25–30 LPA.
- After completing the program, an online MBA graduate who was also employed made between INR 10 and 14 LPA.
- Employment Stats:
- Big business schools help almost all their students get jobs around 98–100% out of 100.
- Students from these good schools usually earn around INR 12 to 15 lakh a year.
- But smaller schools charge a lot of money too, and their students often get only INR 0 to 3 lakh a year.
- Future Risk:
- Some offline MBA colleges have closed, so their degrees don’t help anymore.
- Online MBA programs supported by famous global universities are usually more trusted and last longer.
Best Online MBA Colleges in India
There are 107 online MBA programs in India; 86 of these are private, and 15 are run by the government. The top online MBA programs in India are offered by IIM Ahmedabad, MDI Gurgaon, IIFT Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, and IIM Sirmaur. The MBA in Finance is offered by 30 online MBA colleges in India, whereas general MBA courses are offered by 81 of the 107 online MBA colleges. The most common entrance examinations for MBA admission are the CAT, MAT, and CMAT. Direct admission based on Class 12 grades is also accepted by certain colleges.
College | Duration | Total Course Fees |
---|---|---|
IIM Ahmedabad | 1-2 Year | INR 8 - 20 Lakh |
SPJIMR Mumbai | 2 Year | INR 9.5 Lakh |
IIFT Delhi | 2 Year | INR 9.95 - 21.92 Lakh |
MDI Gurgaon | 2 Year | INR 10.7 - 16.7 Lakh |
IIM Sirmaur | 2 Year | INR 8 - 11 Lakh |
IMI New Delhi | 2 Year | INR 13.8 Lakh |
TAPMI Manipal | 2 Year | INR 1.65 Lakh |
GLIM Chennai | 1 Year | INR 12.35 Lakh |
GIM North Goa | 2 Year | INR 20.65 Lakh |
JAGSOM Bangalore | 2 Year | INR 10 Lakh |
Online MBA in IIMs
There are 10 IIMs in India that offer Online MBA/Executive MBA courses. Provided below is a list of the colleges along with their total course fees.
IIMs | Duration | MBA/ Executive MBA | Total Course Fees |
---|---|---|---|
IIM Ahmedabad | 2 Years | MBA | INR 8-20 Lakh |
IIM Indore | 1 Year | Executive MBA | INR 22.12 Lakh |
IIM Kozhikode | 2 Years | Executive MBA | INR 16.07 Lakh |
IIM Shillong | 2 Years | Executive MBA | INR 2.28 Lakh |
IIM Mumbai | 2 Years | Executive MBA | INR 15 Lakh |
IIM Udaipur | 2 Years | Executive MBA | INR 14.21 Lakh |
IIM Raipur | 2 Years | Executive MBA | INR 13.25 Lakh |
IIM Rohtak | 1 Year | Executive MBA | INR 7.86 Lakh |
IIM Bodh Gaya | 2 Years | Executive MBA | INR 10 Lakh |
IIM Sirmaur | 2 Years | MBA/ Executive MBA | INR 8-11 Lakh |
Top Online MBA Colleges based on Student Reviews
The list of the top Online MBA colleges in India based on Student reviews on Collegedunia is as follows:
College | Total Course Fees | Student Reviews (5.0) |
---|---|---|
IIFA Lancaster Degree College, Bangalore | INR 1.7 - 2.5 Lakh | 4.8 |
JGBS Sonepat | INR1.65 - 12.5 Lakh | 4.6 |
IIM Ahmedabad | INR 8 Lakh | 4.5 |
Regenesys Business School, Navi Mumbai | INR 23.75 Lakh | 4.4 |
IIFT Delhi | INR 9.95 - 21.92 Lakh | 4.3 |
GLIM Chennai | INR 12.35 Lakh | 4.3 |
GIM North Goa | INR 20.65 Lakh | 4.3 |
IMI Bhubaneswar | INR 28.6 Lakh | 4.3 |
Ahmedabad Management Association | INR 38,000 | 4.3 |
JGU Sonepat | INR 1.47 - 12.5 Lakh | 4.3 |
Cheapest Online MBA Colleges in India
The following is the list of the Cheapest Online MBA colleges in India:
College | Total Course Fees |
---|---|
KSOU Mysore | INR 3,400 to 80,000 |
BAOU Ahmedabad | INR 7,500 to 30,000 |
DDE Thondamanadu | INR 30,000 |
NIPM Kolkata | INR 60,000 |
Ahmedabad Management Association | INR 38,000 |
DDE Karaikudi | INR 5,000 to 80,300 |
NIBM Chennai | INR 44,000 |
PIEM New Delhi | INR 57,000 |
BU-SDE Coimbatore | INR 59,800 |
Wisdom School of Management, Ghaziabad | INR 25,000 to 60,000 |
Who should study Online MBA?
Online MBA is a suitable program for individuals who are interested in pursuing an advanced degree in business and management. The following are some applicants who could gain from an online MBA:
- Working Professionals: Online MBA is beneficial for professionals who are working and are looking to enhance their career prospects.
- Entrepreneurs: Individuals who want to develop a strong foundation in business concepts and strategies to build their own businesses can find Online MBA very useful.
- Career Change: Individuals who are looking for a career change can pursue Online MBA to acquire the necessary business acumen to transition to a career in business.
- Freshers: Online MBA can help freshers gain a competitive edge for future prospects, even while working full-time.
- Leadership Roles: Online MBA is very beneficial for professionals who have multiple years of experience and are looking to get promoted in their own company/domain.
Overall, an online MBA is a great choice for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of business concepts and practices. Online MBA helps individuals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a business career.
Video Review: Is Online MBA Good?
In this Video, Ankur Warikoo talks about whether doing an online MBA is worth it or not. Ankur Warikoo explains the difference between full-time, distance, and online MBAs. He shares his own experience and expert discussions to help working people decide if they should go for an online MBA. He also talks about top colleges that offer good online MBA programs and how they are different from just getting a degree. The video is helpful for anyone who wants to grow in their career by getting an MBA degree without quitting their job.
Interesting Highlights from the Video:
- The Main Question that this Video answers is: Is an online MBA a good option for working professionals? The answer is: Yes, if it's chosen wisely.
- Difference Explained: Online MBA is not the same as distance learning—online MBAs offer live classes, real projects, and global recognition.
- Career Growth: Online MBA helps professionals who want to switch roles (like from engineer to product manager).
- Top Programs Mentioned: Programs from ISB, Deakin University, and Liverpool Business School were recommended.
- Real Teaching: Good online MBAs have live classes with real professors and peer learning, just like regular colleges.
- Choose College Over Course: A reputed college matters more than just the course content or title.
- Money Matters: You don't have to leave your location or work to pursue an online MBA, which saves time and money.
- Personal Growth: The MBA experience shapes your thinking, but doesn’t magically make you a manager—you must apply what you learn.
- Results Matter: Always look at alumni success, placement support, and career change options before choosing a program.
- Avoid Distance MBAs: Degrees without structure or peer interaction don’t offer real value.
Pros and Cons of Online MBA
Online MBA is a promising degree course as it provides an MBA degree without spending tons of money and time. Online MBA is considered equivalent to a regular MBA in most of the cases, however one should look at both sides of the coin to make an informed decision.
Advantages of Online MBA
- Economical: Pursuing an Online MBA is relatively cost-effective when compared to a regular MBA fee.
- Flexibility: Online MBA courses are designed in such a way that is best suited for working professionals or individuals with a busy schedule.
- Recognition: Most of the top business schools provide Online MBA courses. This allows candidates to pursue Online MBA from top business schools at a nominal price.
- Dynamic Faculty: Top business schools that provide Online MBA hire or invite experienced professionals for lectures. Since Online MBA classes are held virtually, top faculty members teach from any part of the world.
Disadvantages of Online MBA
- No Campus Experience: Building a relationship and connections with faculties and students is a crucial aspect of pursuing an MBA. However, an online MBA lacks facilities, though some colleges provide a tour of the campus for a couple of days.
- Challenging to Cope: Striving to maintain a balance between work, study, and personal life can be very challenging. Candidates have to build a consistent and disciplined schedule to fix this.
- Duration: Most of the colleges that provide online MBA allow candidates to finish the course in either 2 or 4 years.
- Limited Exposure: The fact that an online MBA graduate has missed out on MBA Skills along with on-college campus experience, along with other on-campus activities limits their exposure.
Online MBA Admission 2025
Online MBA Admission 2025 is based on scores obtained in various MBA entrance exams such as the Common Admission Test (CAT), Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), Common Management Admission Test (CMAT), Management Aptitude Test (MAT), Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP), and others. The detailed admission process of Online MBA in India is shown below.
Admission Process for Online MBA in India
The online MBA admission process may vary from one university to another.
- In the majority of the cases, candidates have to appear for online entrance examinations such as CAT, XAT, MAT, SNAP, and GMAT.
- Certain Universities/Institutes have their own entrance examinations, such as NMAT.
- Some Universities/Institutes enroll students directly, on the basis of merit.
- Work experience of 2-5 years is necessary in the case of online Executive MBA courses.
Eligibility for Online MBA in India
An online MBA course requires the following eligibility criteria for admission:
- 50% aggregate or equivalent marks from a recognised college/university
- Candidates with relevant work experience are given preference.
- Candidates need to qualify for the entrance examinations.
- There is no age limit for enrolling in an Online MBA course.
Online MBA Specialisations
Online general MBA is one of the most popular online MBAs in India, with 81 colleges offering the stream. Below is the list of the top 10 online MBA specialisations in India, along with the total number of colleges and the top 3 colleges for each specialisation.
Online MBA Exams
CAT, MAT, and CMAT are the main entrance exams considered by most colleges during the admission process. Here is the list of all entrance exams accepted by top online MBA colleges in India.
Exam Name | Total No of Colleges Accepting the Exam |
---|---|
CAT | 49 |
MAT | 32 |
CMAT | 31 |
XAT | 30 |
GMAT | 28 |
ATMA | 13 |
NMAT | 10 |
GRE | 6 |
Karnataka PGCET | 3 |
MAHCET | 4 |
Online MBA Syllabus
Online MBA programs are generally a two years course. All students in the first year of an online MBA program follow the same curriculum. For specialties, the online MBA curriculum differs from that of the second or third semester. Students with varying expertise will be able to advance in their fields because of this differentiation.
Year 1 – Core Foundation Modules
The first year of MBA involves the learning of various topics across various specialisations, which helps in building the basics for the choice of specialisation in the 2nd year.
Trimester/Semester | Subjects |
---|---|
Term 1 | - Financial Accounting- Managerial Economics- Organisational Behaviour- Quantitative Techniques |
Term 2 | - Marketing Management- Operations Management- Corporate Finance- Business Communication |
Term 3 | - Human Resource Management- Strategic Management- Macroeconomics- Business Analytics Basics |
Year 2 – Electives & Advanced Modules
Students usually choose specialisations like Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Analytics, or Strategy.
Area | Sample Electives |
---|---|
Marketing | Digital Marketing, Brand Management, Consumer Behaviour, Sales Strategy |
Finance | Investment Analysis, Financial Derivatives, Corporate Valuation |
HR | Leadership, Organisational Development, Talent Management |
Operations | Supply Chain, Project Management, Quality Control |
Analytics | Data Visualisation, Machine Learning for Business, Big Data |
Strategy | Innovation Strategy, Business Models, Global Business Environment |
Other Components
Online MBA also includes activities other than academics, similar to an On-Campus MBA degree. The following are some of the activities for Online MBA students.
Module | Details |
---|---|
Capstone Project | Real-world business problem-solving project at the end of the program |
Workshops / Campus Visits | Leadership labs, peer interaction, group tasks during campus immersions |
Industry Interaction | Guest lectures, live case studies, virtual sessions with CXOs |
Average Salary Range for Online MBA Graduates in India 2025
Top IIMs like Ahmedabad and Bangalore give the highest MBA salaries. People can earn between 10 to 25 lakh per year, with an average of 12 to 18 lakh. These are best for people with good work experience. Mid-level IIMs like Kozhikode offer 8 to 20 lakh, with strong job links. Private universities like NMIMS and Amity give 5 to 15 lakh, depending on your field and past work. For those just starting out in their careers and also have fewer savings, public schools like IGNOU offer packages from 3 lakh to 10 lakh.
Institution Type | Average Salary (INR LPA) | Salary Range (INR LPA) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Top IIMs (e.g., Ahmedabad, Bangalore) | 12–18 | 10–25 | Online Executive MBA programs; higher salaries for candidates with significant experience. |
Mid-tier IIMs (e.g., Kozhikode, Lucknow) | 10–15 | 8–20 | Competitive programs with strong industry connections. |
Private Universities (e.g., NMIMS, Amity) | 6–12 | 5–15 | Salaries vary based on specialisation and prior experience. |
Public Institutions (e.g., IGNOU) | 4–8 | 3–10 | More affordable programs; suitable for early-career professionals. |
Online MBA Abroad
- Online MBA from a university abroad is a convenient and cost-effective way to advance your career and gain global business knowledge.
- Candidates are taught and mentored by professionals from all over the world.
- Candidates get to study at a top global business school without relocating.
- Online MBA can be completed in less time than a regular MBA course.
- Online MBA costs relatively less when compared to a regular MBA.
Online MBA in Europe
Top Colleges in Europe offers Online MBA degree course for a duration of 1-3 years. Most of the business schools in Europe exists in the UK. Rank 1 Business School in the world for Online MBA i.e IE Business School, exist in Spain. The table below lists Online MBA Colleges in Europe along with their QS rankings:
College/University | QS Ranking | Country |
---|---|---|
IE Business School | 1 | Spain |
Warwick Business School | 3 | United Kingdom |
Imperial College Business School | 2 | United Kingdom |
Politecnico di Milano School of Management | 5 | Italy |
Alliance Manchester Business School | 4 | United Kingdom |
Vlerick Business School | 6 | Belgium |
Durham University Business School | 8 | United Kingdom |
Oxford Brookes Business School | 7 | United Kingdom |
Birmingham Business School | 11 | United Kingdom |
EAE Business School | 10 | Spain |
Online MBA in UK
Online MBA in UK is a 12-21 months course. Warwick Business School and Imperial College Business School are the top colleges that offers Online MBA. For more information, refer to the table below:
College/University | QS Ranking | Courses & Fees |
---|---|---|
Warwick Business School | 3 | Check Courses & Fees |
Imperial College Business School | 2 | Check Courses & Fees |
Alliance Manchester Business School | 4 | Check Courses & Fees |
Durham University Business School | 8 | Check Courses & Fees |
Oxford Brookes Business School | 7 | Check Courses & Fees |
Birmingham Business School | 11 | - |
Robert Gordon University (Aberdeen) | 13 | Check Courses & Fees |
The Open University Business School | 14 | - |
Aston Business School | 16 | - |
Nottingham Trent University | 18 | Check Courses & Fees |
Bradford School of Management | 21 | Check Courses & Fees |
Online MBA in US
Top MBA colleges in the US offers Online MBA for a duration of 1-4 years. According to the US Department of Education, the USA is the world's largest MBA ecosystem with around 125,000 enrolled students on a yearly basis. Marshall School of Business and Kelley School of Business are the top colleges for Online MBA.
College/University | QS Ranking | Courses & Fees |
---|---|---|
Marshall School of Business | 5 | Check Courses & Fees |
Kelley School of Business | 7 | Check Courses & Fees |
W. P. Carey School of Business | 8 | Check Courses & Fees |
Kenan-Flagler Business School | 8 | Check Courses & Fees |
Chapman Graduate School of Business - FIU | 10 | Check Courses & Fees |
Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University | 12 | - |
University of Washington Foster School of Business | 14 | Check Courses & Fees |
Hough Graduate School of Business | 16 | Check Courses & Fees |
Babson College, F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business | 18 | Check Courses & Fees |
University of Massachusetts Amherst | 21 | Check Courses & Fees |
Online MBA in Canada
Top MBA colleges in Canada offers Online MBA courses for a duration of 1 - 4 years. Aspiring candidates can get a degree from top business collges in the world without having to relocate. Ivey Business School and Smith School of Business at Queen's University are the top colleges that offers online MBA in Australia. The average fee for Online MBA in Canada ranges from INR 8,00,000 - INR 25,00,000.
College/University | QS Ranking | Courses & Fees |
---|---|---|
Ivey Business School | 69 | Check Courses & Fees |
Smith School of Business at Queen's University | 76 | Check Courses & Fees |
University of Fredericton | 701 (Global) | Check Courses & Fees |
Athabasca University | 301 (Global) | Check Courses & Fees |
University of Alberta | 111 | Check Courses & Fees |
DeGroote School of Business | 105 | Check Courses & Fees |
Dalhousie University | 151 | Check Courses & Fees |
Toronto Metropolitan University | 251 | Check Courses & Fees |
University Canada West (UCW) | - | Check Courses & Fees |
University of Guelph | - | Check Courses & Fees |
Online MBA in Australia
Top MBA colleges in Australia offersOnline MBA courses for a duration of 1-3 years. Aspiring candidates can get a degree from top business collges in the world without having to relocate. Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at the University of New South Wales Business School and Macquarie Business School are the top colleges that offers online MBA in Australia.
Admission Process for Online MBA Abroad
- Online MBA course abroad can be linguistically demanding, there are some colleges/universities require candidates to meet entry requirements through IELTS, and TOEFL.
- Aspiring candidates should check the respective websites of the college they are applying for to get more detailed information about the application process.
- The candidates need to choose the specialization and pay the fees. Then they’ll be assigned a slot and they can get started with the program.
Eligibility for Online MBA Abroad
- Colleges/universities abroad require candidates to have at least 60% aggregate from a globally recognized university.
- Some universities require students to meet the entry requirements through IELTS, and TOEFL.
- Some universities require a short-term study visa for on-campus visit periods.
- Majority of Colleges/universities abroad require candidates to have 2-3 years of work experience.
Executive MBA Online
There are 32 Executive Online MBA colleges in India. The following is the list of the top Online Executive MBA colleges in India, excluding IIMs.
College | Total Course Fees |
---|---|
SPJIMR Mumbai | INR 9.5 Lakh |
XIMB Bhubaneswar | INR 15.5 Lakh |
TAPMI Manipal | INR 1.65 Lakh |
KJ Somaiya Mumbai | INR 12.37 Lakh |
BIT Mesra | INR 2.09 Lakh |
IIHMR New Delhi | INR 1 Lakh |
Regenesys Business School, Navi Mumbai | INR 3.99 Lakh |
University of Madras | INR 1.78 Lakh |
AIIMS Raipur | INR 2 Lakh |
IIT Goa | INR 4.13 Lakh |
Online MBA vs Regular MBA
Online MBA is done completely through the internet. You can study at any moment by watching recorded or live classes. For those who wish to learn from home or who work, it is beneficial. It is less expensive than an ordinary MBA. Work experience is not usually required.
A regular MBA is full-time in a classroom. You must attend every day. It costs more and requires entrance exam marks. In a regular MBA, you meet teachers and classmates every day. It is better for face-to-face learning and meeting people.
Both types can help you get good jobs, but regular MBAs are more accepted by big companies.
Factors | Online MBA | Regular MBA |
---|---|---|
Mode of Learning | Completely online (live classes, recorded lectures, assignments) | On-campus, full-time classroom-based learning |
Flexibility | Highly flexible; study at your own pace | Fixed schedule with mandatory attendance |
Duration | 1 to 2 years (can extend to 4 years in some cases) | 2 years (full-time) |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks | Bachelor’s degree with 50–60% marks + entrance exam scores |
Work Experience Required | Not mandatory, preferred in some institutions | Not required (but some executive MBAs may require experience) |
Cost | INR 50,000 to INR 4,00,000 | INR 5,00,000 to INR 25,00,000+ |
Learning Environment | Virtual classrooms, discussion forums, self-paced modules | Face-to-face interaction, networking, campus activities |
Peer Interaction | Limited but possible via online forums | High; direct interaction with peers and faculty |
Faculty Interaction | Through webinars, emails, online doubt sessions | Daily in-person interaction |
Accreditation | Must be UGC-DEB approved for recognition | UGC/AICTE approved and widely accepted |
Ideal For | Working professionals, remote learners | Students willing to study full-time |
Career Support | Depends on the institution; some offer virtual placement support | Robust placement cells, career fairs |
Industry Exposure | Online projects, case studies, virtual internships | Internships, live projects, company visits |
Recognition by Employers | Growing acceptance, especially from reputed institutions | Traditionally more accepted, especially Tier-1 institutions |
Global Opportunities | Available in some programs with international tie-ups | Higher due to in-person networking and global alumni network |

Online MBA vs Distance MBA
Online MBA has live and recorded classes. Teachers and other students can be reached online. It takes advantage of modern technologies, such as video calls and applications. It features a well-thought-out plan and guides you through each step of learning.
Books are sent by email or postal mail for a distance MBA. You study alone and there is little or no help from teachers.
Online MBA gives more support, real projects, and sometimes job help. It is more accepted for jobs than a distance MBA.
But a distance MBA is cheaper and good for people who want to study by themselves at a low cost.
Factors | Online MBA | Distance MBA |
---|---|---|
Mode of Learning | Live online classes, recorded sessions, interactive platforms | Study materials sent by post or email, limited/no interaction |
Technology Integration | High – uses LMS, mobile apps, video conferencing tools | Low – mostly offline or basic digital platforms |
Flexibility | Flexible schedule with structured curriculum | Completely self-paced, often lacks structured deadlines |
Engagement Level | Moderate to high – virtual classrooms and peer discussions | Low – mostly independent study |
Interactivity | Real-time interaction with faculty and peers | Minimal or no interaction |
Assessment Style | Online quizzes, assignments, live presentations | Mostly offline exams, postal assignments |
Accreditation | UGC-DEB approved; globally recognised from reputed institutions | UGC-DEB approved; limited global recognition |
Learning Support | Dedicated mentors, help desks, webinars | Limited or no learning support |
Practical Exposure | Virtual internships, case studies, capstone projects | Rarely includes hands-on projects |
Fee Structure | INR 50,000 to INR 4,00,000 | INR 25,000 to INR 1,50,000 |
Career Services | Some platforms offer career counseling and virtual placements | Minimal or no placement support |
Recognition in Job Market | Better acceptance compared to distance MBA | Lesser acceptance unless from reputed institutions |
Duration | 1–2 years | 2–3 years |
Ideal For | Working professionals looking for structured learning online | Budget-conscious learners needing flexible, self-paced study |

Online MBA in India: Online Platforms
Many online platforms offer MBA programs with different features. UpGrad works with top colleges such as NMIMS and IIM Kozhikode, and it is good for working people who want to grow their careers or work abroad. Coursera gives flexible, self-paced global MBAs from schools like ISB and the University of London. edX has small, skill-based MBA courses from IIM Bangalore and others. Simplilearn is best for tech workers and managers with hands-on learning. Talentedge offers weekend classes for busy leaders. Great Learning mixes online and offline help and suits future business analysts. Amity Online and Chandigarh University Online give affordable, well-structured MBAs. LPU Online is good for students from smaller cities who want a budget-friendly option with job support.
Platform | Partner Universities | Key Features | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
UpGrad | NMIMS, Liverpool Business School, Deakin University, IIM Kozhikode | Live classes, industry projects, global MBA options, mentorship | Professionals seeking career transition and global exposure |
Coursera | ISB, University of Illinois, Macquarie University, University of London | Accredited global degrees, flexible schedule, self-paced learning | Learners aiming for international MBA qualifications |
edX | IIM Bangalore, Boston University, University of Maryland | MicroMasters, stackable credentials, modular learning | Professionals wanting skill-based or specialised MBA paths |
Simplilearn | Purdue University, IU Germany, IIM Indore, IIT Roorkee (certifications) | Applied learning, capstone projects, bootcamps | Tech professionals and mid-career managers |
Talentedge | XLRI, IIM Kozhikode, MICA, eCornell | Live weekend classes, executive courses, corporate tie-ups | Executives pursuing leadership and marketing-focused MBAs |
Great Learning | Deakin Business School, Texas McCombs, SRM University | Blended learning, offline career fairs, mentor support | Hybrid learners and aspiring business analysts |
Amity Online | Amity University | UGC-approved online MBA, placement support, digital library access | Students seeking affordable accredited degrees |
Chandigarh University Online | Chandigarh University | NAAC A+ rated MBA, interactive LMS, structured curriculum | Freshers and professionals preferring structured online MBAs |
LPU Online | Lovely Professional University | Live + recorded sessions, UGC recognition, career support services | Learners from tier-2/3 cities looking for affordable options |
Online MBA Career Options & Jobs
Online MBA Jobs in the field of Banking, Accounting, and Project Management are some of the highest-paying sectors in India. The average salary of an Online MBA graduate in India is between INR 4 LPA - 18 LPA. Listed below are the top MBA Online Job sectors:
Specialization | Common Job Roles |
---|---|
General Management | Business Development Manager, Project Manager, Strategy Consultant, Operations Head |
Marketing | Digital Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Product Marketing Lead, Market Analyst |
Finance | Financial Analyst, Corporate Finance Manager, Risk Analyst, Investment Associate |
Human Resources | HR Business Partner, Talent Acquisition Manager, L&D Specialist, Compensation Manager |
Operations | Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Head, Operations Analyst, Procurement Lead |
Business Analytics | Data Analyst, BI Developer, Analytics Manager, Insights Consultant |
Strategy & Consulting | Management Consultant, Strategic Planning Manager, Business Transformation Lead |
IT & Product Management | Product Manager, IT Project Lead, Tech Strategy Consultant, Agile Delivery Manager |
Online MBA FAQs
Ques. Is it worth doing an online MBA?
Ans. Online MBA can be worth the investment if you are looking at the affordability and flexibility factor. Online MBA also offers additional benefits like global exposure and the opportunity to study from a top foreign university.
Ques. Do Online MBA graduates get jobs?
Ans. Online MBA helps candidates to grow in their careers and seek managerial-level positions. The placements after an online MBA are at par with a full-time MBA. The Online MBA graduates often obtain mid to senior-level managerial positions in various fields based on their choice of specialisation.
Ques. Which is more valuable, a regular MBA or an online MBA (with experience)?
Ans. When comparing a regular MBA where you graduate as a fresher to doing an Online MBA while having work experience, the latter is more beneficial. This is because having a work experience will allow you to have better salary after graduation and also allow you to not lose out on the salary you get while working.
Ques. Is online MBA accepted by companies?
Ans. Yes, companies recruit students who complete their online MBA program. But students must pursue online MBA courses from a reputable university to gain the right skills. Also, students must improve their overall performance to shape their future careers.
Ques. What are the challenges while choosing an online MBA over a full-time MBA?
Ans. Pursuing an online MBA comes with a lot of challenges. It becomes difficult for working professionals to keep a balance between work and study. Giving time to studies, assignments, and tests from a busy work schedule is challenging. Hence, it takes a longer time to complete the course. Online MBA is cost-effective, but the technology cost (cost of personal laptop or computer, internet speed and power back-up) to pursue the course is high. Most importantly, students do not get campus experience and miss out on the career workshops that are held on campus.
Ques. Why do an online MBA?
Ans. Online MBA is best for both freshers and working professionals. Due to its flexible classes, it becomes easy for working professionals to watch videos anytime, attend quizzes, and submit their assignments.
Ques. Which is the best online MBA provider in India?
Ans. The best Online MBA Provider in India are institutions such as IIMs and online Platforms such as UpGrad.
Ques. What should I consider while choosing an online MBA course?
Ans. While choosing an online MBA course, one must check the following details:
- University’s ranking and accreditation
- ROI and program fees of the course
- Alumni as well as the networking of the university
- Admission process and course curriculum
Ques. Why online MBA?
Ans. Online MBA is a boon for students who do not want to leave their job and cannot afford a full-time MBA. Students can do their management studies from the comforts of their homes while doing their jobs. This is the main reason why students go for Online MBA.
Ques. Is it better to do an online MBA or in person?
Ans. Both online MBA and offline MBA classes have pros and cons. Both cater to different students; for instance, an online MBA is the best option for working professionals. But the mode of teaching, admission process, and fees are different for online and offline classes. In fact, students must choose between online MBA and Offline MBA as per their needs.
Ques. Who can take up an online MBA course?
Ans. Individuals who have completed their graduation with at least 50% marks and have some work experience are eligible to take the course. Most online MBA courses demand prior work experience for admission to the online MBA course. However, fresher willing to go for a job and pursue an online MBA course are also eligible for the course.
Ques. What are the best online MBA institutes in India?
Ans. Many institutes are offering online MBA courses. Some of them are listed below:
- D.Y. Patil University, Pune
- Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning
- ITM University Online
- Indian School of Business Management and Administration, Hyderabad
Ques. What are the best online MBA schools in the world?
Ans. Some of the top online MBA schools are listed below:
- IE Business School, Spain
- Imperial College Business School, UK
- Warwick Business School, UK
- Australian Graduate School of Management at the University of New South Wales Business School, Australia
- Marshal School of Business, US
- Alliance Manchester Business School, UK
- Kelly School of Business, US
Ques. What accreditations should one look for before enrolling in an online MBA course?
Ans. Students should check if the university is approved by the University Grant Commission (UGC) or the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Also, check for the rankings of that university and other relevant information that is usually available on the university’s official website.
Ques. How can one give the examination for an online MBA course?
Ans. Students can give the exams online at their convenience, and for some of the examinations, they have to follow a schedule. The case studies, presentations, and assignments should be submitted through the online portal, which will be evaluated by the professors. The degree will be awarded after successfully clearing the exams.
Ques. Do the students receive books and other study materials after enrolling in an online MBA course?
Ans. Students receive books and other study material after enrolling in the online MBA course, along with the login credentials. Students can log in to the online portal and access the notes, online recorded lectures, participate in the discussions, and so on. They can learn through the PowerPoint presentations and solve mock test papers for exam preparation.
Comments