Executive MBA FAQs
- The ESMT Executive MBA
- ESMT Campus
- Employer’s Support
- Curriculum & Structure
- Admission Requirements
- Becoming a Participant
- Fees & Financing
- Finding out more
The ESMT Executive MBA
Why choose an Executive MBA at ESMT?
As a degree program in general management combining academic rigor with a focus on managerial action and leadership values, the Executive MBA offers you a major career boost. You will develop competencies and skills to win in a global arena where competitive capabilities are often rooted in technology and business innovation.
We take our motto “Theoria cum Praxi” seriously and have scheduled hands-on project work at several points within the program. You can connect effectively academic theory with practice, if you choose project topics closely related to tasks being carried out at your company. Either by producing a management report on the analysis of an issue or a proposal for a solution, you will be continually bringing momentum back to your job.
What is unique about the ESMT Executive MBA Program?
The especially designed curriculum and energizing learning environment, the locations of the live-in modules in Germany and beyond, and our outstanding faculty and staff will all contribute to the uniqueness of your experience. In addition, you benefit immensely from our close cooperation with our founding companies – they guarantee that ESMT faculty remains focused on the challenges of doing business globally.
Am I a potential candidate for the Executive MBA?
If you feel you have the motivation, the talent, and the resilience to become one of the future integrative business leaders, the ESMT Executive MBA may just be the right choice for you. To find out whether it really is, we suggest you contact us to discuss your expectations and what our program offers to meet them. In terms of admissions criteria, we expect that …
you are . . .
- a graduate with at least a Bachelor’s degree, around 30 or older, with experience in a management position
- an adept learner with high energy level, ready to strive for broader and higher responsibility
- balance family, study, and work
- count on the support of your company
- to have a fully acknowledged MBA degree
- to help shape the future as a senior leader
What is the typical class profile of the Executive MBA?
ESMT is in the process of recruiting a diverse and talented group of Executive MBA participants. We are looking for candidates who believe in the kind of leadership the school stands for. You may come from any country and culture and have experience in any industry and function.
We would particularly like to encourage female applicants, candidates from the “New Europe”, and those who would contribute to the cultural diversity of the ESMT Executive MBA 2009 class.
ESMT Campus
Is there a library and can I access it online?
The school’s Library and Information Center assists you in your learning process. It maintains a reference library on campus and provides access to extensive online information resources. You can access it remotely while working on any assignment, developing a project, or writing the Master's Thesis.
Individual and study group work are further assisted by a dedicated e-learning platform with up-to-date functionality, growing content, a user-friendly interface, and easy access anytime, anywhere.
What facilities does the ESMT campus offer?
The ESMT Executive MBA takes advantage of the school’s exclusively designed learning facilities, including leading-edge campuses in Berlin, and Cologne, with on-site catering, WiFi (WLAN) and IT support, and affordable quality accommodation nearby. To enhance the learning process with first-hand experience, some of the ESMT Executive MBA modules address special topics and my take place in other European cities and corporate locations.
Located in the very center of a truly international and vibrant city, our historic campus at Schlossplatz 1 in Berlin is part of the city’s unique history. In addition to the building’s remarkable past, you will find modern study rooms and state-of-the-art auditoria with a panoramic view over some of Berlin’s most famous landmarks.
The moated castle of Schloss Gracht (near Cologne) is a place of utter tranquility which serves today’s executives as a retreat from the bustle of modern business. The secluded campus provides an unparalleled environment for focused study and skills development workshops.
To combine theory and practice we may hold some courses at corporate locations. You will be able to relate the learned concepts to procedures implemented in the corporations we visit.
Employer’s Support
Which support do I need from my employer?
You are required to demonstrate a clear commitment by your company with regard to study-time allowance and project agreement. As part of the standard admission procedure, we require you demonstrate your employer’s agreement in the form of a letter of recommendation. This letter should state clear support for practical program components (particularly, the practice project) and expressly allow time to attend residential modules. Some time allowance for individual study would also prove highly useful.
What advantages does the ESMT Executive MBA program offer my company?
The Executive MBA program is designed for you to continue to thrive professionally while earning a top degree. Your employer benefits from your development as well.
How can I convince my employer to support me through an Executive MBA?
It is important that your employer understand that you will acquire sound knowledge of international management practices while preparing for a more senior role. You will take an in-depth look at value creation and investor relationships and develop an excellent feeling for other business cultures. You will acquire technical expertise to lead teams as a general manager. Since absence from the office is kept at a minimum, you can immediately apply the theory learned in the classroom.
Curriculum & Structure
How is the Executive MBA curriculum structured?
The ESMT Executive MBA curriculum presents a course of studies in a modular format. The program runs over a period of 21 months, starting each year in the early autumn. Live-in modules with classroom sessions and face-to-face activities typically take place from Thursday to Saturday. In addition to these shorter modules, the program consists of several longer ones including a ten-day international field project.
Between live-in modules, participants prepare for take-home assignments through individual study, as well as group work that requires long-distance interaction and coordination. During these off-campus periods, you stay in close contact with your learning community, your study group and the School via the ESMT e-learning platform.
What are the faculty profiles?
We would like to draw your attention to our faculty profiles site. ESMT international faculty is growing and we expect new faculty to join the school by the start of the Executive MBA 2009 class.
How many days do I need to take out of the office?
Live-in modules are scheduled to include Saturdays and, occasionally, public holidays. Consequently, the time that you need to be away from your office amounts to 45 workdays only, spread through three calendar years. For the Executive MBA 2008 it was as follows:
- 8 days in 2008
- 25.5 days in 2009
- 11.5 days in 2010
Admission Requirements
Are applicants without experience admitted to the ESMT Executive MBA program?
No. Our program is not a part-time MBA for junior applicants. Shared learning and personal development in the program are enhanced by the participants’ experience.
What are the admission criteria?
- career progression
- current level of responsibility
- indicators of leadership qualities and achievements
- recommendations
- past academic performance
- English proficiency
- strong motivation and commitment to fulfill study requirements
An average age of 30+ and significant management experience of three to five years are expected. Younger applicants with an exceptionally strong track record and potential may also be considered.
Each application is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The easiest way to find out if you match the admission criteria is to contact us and let us review your CV. This can be followed by a personal discussion.
What is the admissions process like?
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Becoming a Participant
What are the steps in the application process?Please find the Executive MBA online application on the right-hand side of this page. After registration you are asked to fill in a 6-step application:
Step 1: General information and contact details
Step 2: Scores & languages
Step 3: Education
Step 4: Employment record
Step 5: Questions and interviews
Step 6: References
What are the formal application requirements?
- a completed online application
- a CV demonstrating at least five years of relevant professional experience, and at least three years of management experience
- two letters of recommendation, of which one must demonstrate your current employer’s support for your studies
- a comprehensive essay including a personal statement on the objectives for pursuing the Executive MBA
- an organizational chart of your current company
- official transcripts or certified copies of grades (in English) from each previously attended university
- a GMAT certificate and a TOEFL or equivalent for non-native English speakers
Yes. The GMAT is the single-most accepted tool in application processes at business schools around the world. The GMAT score is believed to be a predictor of a student’s performance in her studies: the higher the score, the less likely it is that program participants find it difficult to cope with the challenge of managing studies, career, and family at the same time. Taking the GMAT is also a great opportunity to check some personal strengths and weaknesses before embarking on a challenging study program.
Where do I find information about the GMAT?
For further information about the GMAT please visit:
The GMAC homepage
The GMAT registration page
We know that the GMAT is a very challenging test and we recommend special preparation. We suggest the following preparation books to you:
- Official Guide for GMAT, Review, Kaplan
- Kaplan GMAT 800 2007-2008. (Kaplan GMAT 800)
- Cracking the GMAT, 2008 Edition, w. DVD-ROM (Princeton Review: Cracking the GMAT (w/DVD))
Do I need to take TOEFL/IELTS?
Yes. TOEFL is a standard test for non-native English speakers. In programs where communication between faculty and participants as well as amongst participants is essential, lack of fluency can be detrimental to the learning process of the whole class. The TOEFL test can be waived if other components (for instance, records of previous studies, work experience, essay, verbal section of GMAT, and interview) provide ESMT with sufficient confidence in the applicant’s fluency. Requests for exemption will only be considered when all other steps of the application process – including the submission of transcripts of grades, the essay, and the recommendation letters – have already been completed.
From whom should I obtain recommendation letters?
ESMT requests letters from two references, one of which should be provided by your employer, ideally by a direct superior. A third, optional reference letter may also be sought and provided to ESMT. A final admission decision cannot be made until all reference recommendations have been received.
How should I submit my application?
Please submit your application online. Early application is highly encouraged because enrollment is limited and applications are considered on a roll-in basis. By applying early, you can also ensure a smooth transition into this new phase of your life.
How will I be kept informed of the status of my application?
During the whole admission process, we will stay in close contact with you.
Fees & Financing
What is the tuition fee for the program?The tuition fee for the ESMT Executive MBA program is € 57,500 payable in three installments.
What does the fee cover?
In addition to all lessons, coursework, and further curricular activities (including personal executive coaching), the tuition fee covers:
- tuition
- academic services
- required readings and teaching materials
- e-learning resources
- web-based information services
- lunch and daytime refreshments in all live-in modules on ESMT campuses
- accommodation and meals during the international field project.
Can the tuition fee be paid in installments?
Yes. The tuition fee is payable in three installments of € 19,100 each, due in September 2008, in June 2009, and in February 2010.
Do I need to be financially sponsored by my employer to undertake the program?
No. We expect you to be supported by your employer in various ways (for instance, with study time allowance), and we would welcome, but do not necessarily require, that your employer demonstrate its commitment to your future career with a contribution towards the tuition fee.
Does ESMT offer scholarships for financing the program?
No. We do not offer scholarships at the moment. You may want to contact the Admission Office to discuss other opportunities to finance your studies.
Finding out more
Can I discuss the program with someone before I apply?We are happy to offer the possibility of personal contact with one of our faculty members. Please let us know if you would like us to arrange a phone call for you. Should you have the time and be interested in learning more about ESMT, we would certainly be pleased to welcome you here in Berlin for a personal meeting or at one of our information events.
I have read the information on the website. How do I find out more about the program?
If you need any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact:
Kati Engler
Executive MBA Program Manager
Phone: +49 (0) 30 212 31-1600
Fax: +49 (0) 30 212 31-1699
emba@esmt.org