Why join the Full-time MBA program at ESMT Berlin?
If you are an ambitious professional in search of career momentum that multiplies, the ESMT Berlin Full-time MBA can deliver. Our intensive, 15-month program is a ideal way to accelerate, grow, or switch your career.
What does the Full-time MBA teach?
The ESMT full-time MBA is a generalist business degree program with a specific, mission-led focus on issues of responsible leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
The program is divided into four modules. Each module builds on the previous courses and will challenge you to think strategically, initiate creative solutions, and work in dynamic, international teams. There are also multiple opportunities to tailor the program to meet your needs:
- Specialization tracks: Innovation and Entrepreneurship or Managerial Analytics
- Summer term: Sustainability in Practice project; Internship; Intensive German language school
- Winter term: electives at ESMT focused on innovation, technology, analytics, artificial intelligence, sustainable business development, entrepreneurship, and global strategic management; or an International exchange.
How does the Full-time MBA help my career?
Career development, personal mastery, and leadership skill building are woven into the Full-time MBA program. The small class size ensures that you constantly reflect on your experience while receiving personalized constructive feedback, and honing your leadership skills. There are multiple opportunities for dediciated career focus. A structured career curriculum helps you build your corporate and startup capital through networking, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local economy.
In an intense 15 months, you will gain the skills and experience necessary to change your future in Europe or beyond.
Full-time MBA FAQs
Program details
How long is the Full-time MBA program and when does it start?
The Full-time MBA program lasts 15 months and starts in January. You will be expected to attend classes five days a week.
Head to our timeline and curriculum page for a detailed breakdown of what you will learn during this time.
What is the daily schedule like?
The daily schedule is a full-day program, and we expect a high degree of commitment.
The Full-time MBA program is an intense 15 months, and you are required to attend classes five days a week. A typical day starts at 9am and class will run through to 12pm; 12-2pm is time for lunch; and then afternoon class runs from 2-5pm.
In addition to around six hours of class per day, you will also need to factor in group work, personal study, and preparation time for future classes.
What is the learning environment like in the Full-time MBA program?
The Full-time MBA at ESMT Berlin offers a diverse, dynamic, and enriching learning environment.
- Students come to Berlin from around the world, bringing diverse professional backgrounds, academic experiences, and perspectives.
- Classroom sessions are highly interactive, with a strong emphasis on discussion and peer learning.
- Throughout the program, you will collaborate in small study groups that rotate every few months, giving you the opportunity to network with a wide range of classmates while working together toward shared goals.
- Beyond the classroom, there are numerous opportunities to engage with your peers through MBA social events, competitions, student clubs, and other community activities, creating a supportive and collaborative learning experience
Which ESMT faculty teach the Full-time MBA?
As a research university, ESMT Berlin has a international faculty made up of innovative leaders who demonstrate 'business as unusual' thinking while also displaying classroom excellence.
Learn more about the faculty and their research.
The Full-time MBA is taught by these business and academic thought leaders, giving you direct insight from experts in their field.
Full-time MBA faculty selected highlights:
- Christoph Burger, MBA Academic Director
- Catalina Stefanescu-Cuntze, Professor of Management Science
- Linus Dahlander, Professor of Strategy and Lufthansa Group Chair in Innovation
- Julia Langdon, Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior, Volkswagen Group Junior Chair for Ethics and Diversity in Organizations
- Angeliki Papachroni, Senior Lecturer in Strategy, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
See a mini lecture:
Our ESMT Bites series features bite-sized sample lectures from our esteemed faculty that give you an insider's view of what makes the ESMT learning environment so special.
ESMT Bites with Professor of Strategy Zoltán Antal Mokos
You can watch more mini lectures here.
What type of exams and evaluations should I expect?
There are several graded deliverable components connected to each course in the Full-time MBA program.
These are typically a mixture of individual and group assessments. The type of the deliverable and weight depends on faculty and the course content.
Individual components can include exams or quizzes, or essay and short-answer assignments. For group work, this is often case analyses, or group presentations.
Will I be able to learn German during the Full-time MBA?
Yes, there are multiple opportunities for you to learn German during your Full-time MBA studies.
Because the Full-time MBA program is taught in completely in English, German classes are optional.
However, if you want to establish your career in Germany – particularly outside of Berlin – learning German is strongly advised.
Learning German during your Full-time MBA:
There are three opportunities to continue your language learning during the program, all of which are offered at no additional costs to you:
- Foundation: in the latter half of the module, students at A1 or A2 German can take part in twice-weekly German language evening classes.
- Summer term: if you have reached A2 or B1 German, you are eligible for the 6-week intensive German language school.
- Electives: those at B1 German or higher can sign up for the Business German evening class (no credit awarded).
What international exchange opportunities are available outside of Germany?
The Full-time MBA program offers a range of short- and long-term international exchange experiences.
- Students can participate in a Global Network Week, a one-week seminar hosted by partner institutions around the world.
- For a more immersive experience, you may choose to spend a semester abroad at one of our partner schools between September and December.
- In addition, international opportunities extend beyond graduation. Through the Responsible Leaders Fellowship, graduates can work as consultants with NGOs or social enterprises in emerging economies, gaining hands-on experience while making a meaningful impact abroad.
You can find more information about the international options available during the Full-time MBA via our International Office. Or, you can watch our video about your exchange options during the program.
Will I be able to work and study at the same time?
Yes, you can work a part-time job at the same time as your studies. German regulations permit you to work a maximum of 20 hours per week and maintain your student status.
However, the program is intense and, should you need to work, we recommend working fewer hours to prevent your studies being impacted negatively.
During the summer term you will get the option to pursue an internship, during which you can work longer hours. You are strongly encouraged to accept paid internships only. Please note: students are responsible for securing their own internship positions.
What post–MBA options are available?
There are multiple post-graduate options available to you after you finish the academic requirements of your MBA.
- You can apply to the Responsible Leaders Fellowship (RLF). This is a three- to six-month program that allows ESMT graduates to volunteer in a developing country, acting as a solo consultant to a social change organization. During the RLF, your airfare will be covered and your student status will be extended, giving you extra time before your German job-seeker visa commences.
- You can take part in the Vali Summer Entrepreneurship Program (SEP). Vali is ESMT's entrepreneurship hub, and the SEP is a mini ideas-incubator where you can develop and test your startup ideas. It gives you practice at launching a business, from finding co-founders, to identifying trends, problems, and solutions, to pitching in front of Venture Capitalists (VCs) and business angels.
Career impact
What career support do you offer?
ESMT offers students dedicated career support throughout the MBA program.
In fact, running in parallel to your formal learning experience is a structured career curriculum designed to help you prepare, explore, and connect with your post-MBA future. You can learn more about the FTMBA career impact here.
The ESMT Career Development Center is here to support, advise, and guide you as you explore your future after the MBA. They will help you to prepare for your next career step, explore options, and connect with future employers.
You will also work with a career coach one-on-one. They will help you translate what is happening in the classroom to your personal situation and goals, and design an employment strategy that matches your ambitions.
Being an active member of one of our student clubs will give you another opportunity to meet with potential employers and recruiters, and connect with business leaders from an array of different sectors.
Do you find summer internships for students?
No, responsibility for securing your summer internship is yours.
However, the Career Development Center will support your internship search by helping identify potential internship positions, and sharing contacts and leads. You can also network with potential internship employers during Full-time MBA career events, including the Career Fair.
We recommend that you only accept paid internships.
What career paths do Full-time MBA graduates take?
ESMT Full-time MBA alumni work in diverse industries, and in companies in over 40 countries.
After completing the Full-time MBA, past graduates have moved into such roles as:
• Consultant (strategy, operations, or transformation)
• Product or project manager in tech or digital firms
• Corporate leader in a multinational or German Mittelstand
• Founder or early-stage startup leader
• Analytics, innovation, or growth-focused specialist
The common thread is not a job title, but the ability to take on broader responsibility and shape direction in complex organizations.
How easy is it get a work visa when I graduate?
Full-time MBA graduates automatically qualify for an 18-month work visa in Germany for which no employer support is needed.
Our Full-time MBA students are very international and over 90% of them stay in Germany to work after graduation.
This is because of friendly visa regulations, quality of life, and our reputation for bringing top international management talent to Germany, Europe’s strongest economy.
I have a business idea. What should I do?
The ESMT Full-time MBA provides you with multiple opportunities to explore your business or startup idea.
You can:
- Choose the Innovation and Entrepreneurship track as your specialization subject. This lets you explore how idea become viable businesses and how founders can lead innovation responsibly.
- Talk to Vali Berlin, ESMT's entrepreneurship hub. Vali is a dedicated innovation engine, connecting founders, joiners, and investors to create a entrepreneurial network. FTMBA students have the option to join the intensive Vali Summer Entrepreneurship Program (SEP), to develop and pitch their own startup idea.
- Join a student club that can help you workshop your your business idea, such as the Vali Venture Club, or the Tech and Innovation Club.
- Network on and around campus. Being based in a major startup hub like Berlin gives you multiple chances to join talks with business leaders and investors, creating the opportunity to meet the people who can help make your idea a reality.
Webinar: watch a Q&A about Vali Berlin and Entrepreneurship at ESMT
Does Vali Berlin help alumni start their own company?
Vali specifically support alumni to start their own companies.
They support students and alumni of ESMT to develop their ideas and find co-founders through their startup programs, which can be found on the Vali Berlin website.
Admissions details
What are the Full-time MBA application deadlines?
There are several application rounds for the program each with distinct deadlines. Early application is strongly encouraged.
Successful early applications made during the first four application rounds are eligible for automatic awards that can reduce the cost of tuition. Early applications also have a better change of receiving scholarships.
You can find the latest information about application rounds and deadlines on the Admissions page.
Am I a "good fit” for the Full-time MBA?
The Full-time MBA program is designed for those who have strong professional experience in any field and feel ready to move to broader business-wide leadership responsibility.
You are a good fit if you are:
- Ready to seize your future and accelerate your career in Europe or beyond
- Aligned with our values of community, curiosity, courage, and rigor
- Excited to join an MBA program where you can tailor your academic journey to meet your needs
- Committed to your learning and development, and are ready to support others in theirs
We want a diverse group of professionals who share our values, want to be part of our mission to develop responsible leaders, and who will thrive academically, personally, and professionally in the MBA program. We therefore strive to achieve a fit between what our program has to offer and what you need for your professional advancement and self-development.
What are the application requirements for the Full-time MBA program?
To apply to the program you will need to meet all of the following requirements:
- At least three years of consecutive postgraduate, professional experience
- An undergraduate, or first university, degree (bachelor)
- Strong GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT scores
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
What do you look for when you evaluate an application?
When evaluating your application, we are looking whether you will fit with a diverse group of professionals who share the school’s mission, and who will succeed academically and professionally in the MBA program.
Each detail of your application is considered and we specifically seek:
- Excellent analytical ability, both quantitative and qualitative
- International outlook, intercultural competence, and a responsible approach to business
- Proven teamwork skills in stressful situations
- Leadership potential, especially for high-performance career growth in a global environment
- Willingness to learn from others in a collegial environment
What do I need to prepare for my application?
To begin the admissions process, you will need to submit an online application. The application is easy to follow, and will ask you for the following information:
- An up to date CV showing at least three years of postgraduate professional experience
- Two professional recommendations
- Answers to the following questions (max 250 words per essay)
- Describe your specific career aspirations and your reason for pursuing an MBA at ESMT Berlin.
- Failures are rich learning opportunities and help us to grow. Tell us about a setback in your life (personal, academic, or professional), your reaction to the setback, and how it changed you
- You can invite one guest for dinner, be they living, dead, fictional, or other. Who would you invite and why?
- Optional: Is there any other information, not covered in the application, that you would like us to know about you?
- Transcripts of your undergraduate degree detailing courses and grades
- Valid GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT scores
- €100 application fee
If you want to be considered for a scholarship you will also need to prepare short responses to the relevant scholarship question(s). Applications for scholarships are submitted as part of your program application.
What admissions tests does ESMT accept?
ESMT accepts four different admissions tests for the Full-time MBA: the GMAT, the GRE, the EA, and the BAT.
You only need to submit the results of one of these as part of your application.
Why does ESMT require admissions tests?
The Full-time MBA program requires strong quantitative/mathematical abilities, and our admissions tests help us understand if you will be able to perform adequately. However, your admissions test result is not the sole predictor of your profile. We consider each applicant holistically, and offer different tests so that applicants can pick the test that best shows their strengths.
Which ESMT admissions test should I take?
We recommend picking the admissions test that will best showcase your particular strengths.
What are the GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT requirements?
The application requirements for the Full-time MBA include strong GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT scores. Please note that we do not offer test waivers for the Full-time MBA program.
However, we do make a point to treat all applicants holistically by considering all aspects of an application.
To make this process even more accessible, we recommend that you take the admissions test that will best highlight your strengths. You are welcome to take the GMAT, GRE, or EA, or you can take the BAT; an ESMT admissions test that can help us understand your academic aptitude in a more holistic manner.
Webinar: learn more about the BAT from Program Director Rebecca Loades.
Is there a minimum GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT score?
We do not have a specific minimum for GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT scores.
We will assess all aspects of your application, not just your test scores. However we do look for strong admissions tests results.
Is there a minimum GPA for admission to the Full-time MBA?
There is no minimum GPA requirement and we encourage applicants from all fields of study to apply. If your undergraduate degree was in a non-quantitative subject, we use your GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT score to assess your quantitative abilities.
If you have a low GPA and are concerned, please get in touch with the Admissions team.
Do I need to prove English proficiency?
No, you do not need to prove proficiency if English is your native language, if you worked in an English-speaking organization for more than a year, or if or your undergraduate degree was delivered exclusively in English.
This means:
- If English is your native language you do not need to take an English test
- If you earned a university degree exclusively taught in English you do not need to take an English proficiency test.
- If you have worked in an English speaking country or an organization whose language of communication was English for 12 months or more the English proficiency test requirement may be waived.
No matter your language background, strong command of the English language should also be demonstrated in the Full-time MBA admission interview.
If you do need to submit proof, we accept the following tests:
- TOEFL - 95 minimum. If you have taken the TOEFL more than once, we consider your MyBest™ scores on the TOEFL iBT® test, as well as your TOEFL iBT scores from a single test date. The ESMT TOEFL institution code is 8707
- PTE - 64 minimum
- IELTS - 7 minimum
Contact Admissions if you have taken another English proficiency test, as we may accept it.
What professional recommendations are needed?
When you apply to the Full-time MBA program you need to provide two professional recommendations.
Ideally, recommendations should be written by current or recent supervisors. Referees should be able to comment on your job performance and we look for thorough and supportive letters that detail the tasks you undertook and include specific examples rather than general statements.
There are two ways to send this to us:
- Enter your referee’s contact information in the online application and they will be invited to complete an online evaluation form
- Upload a signed, dated reference recommendation letter on company-headed paper as part of your online application
How do I send you the required application documents?
During the ESMT application process, you can upload scanned copies of the official documents required.
These are your passport, GMAT, GRE, EA, or BAT scores, proof of English, and detailed transcripts (courses, grades) for all degrees or diplomas you hold. You will also need to send your two professional recommendations.
Do documents need to have an apostille or be officially translated?
No apostille is required.
However, if the detailed transcripts are not in English or German, an official translation is required.
Addtionally, all the official documents uploaded to the online application must show the seals and signatures of the institution from which they were emitted.
Do you need to see originals of my documents?
Yes, as part of the enrollment process, you must present, in person, the originals of your application documents.
These include your passport, GMAT or GRE scores, proof of English, and detailed transcripts (courses, grades) for all degrees or diplomas you hold, and your professional recommendations. Note that if your transcripts are not in English or German, an official translation is required.
Once we have checked them, they are immediately returned to you. Please do not send original documents to us before you arrive on campus to begin your studies.
Fees & financing
What is the tuition fee?
Tuition and fees for the ESMT Full-time MBA are €50,000 and they are paid in three installments.
To confirm your enrollment and reserve your place in the class, you will need to pay a non-refundable deposit of €6,500 no later than two weeks after receiving your enrollment offer. This deposit will be deducted from future tuition payments.
The remaining tuition fees are to be paid in two equal installments at the start of your first year of studies. The first of these payments is due on March 1 at the latest, and the second by July 1 of the same year.
What does the tuition fee cover?
The tuition fee covers all program courses, teaching materials, books, orientation, and career support.
It excludes daily living costs such as health insurance, housing, meals, bills, and social activities. You can find an estimated costs breakdown for these extra living costs in the drop down button below or on our Full-time MBA financing page.
It also excludes travel, accommodation, and meal costs for study trips or exchange.
What funding options are available?
ESMT works with multiple providers to make it easier for you to finance your degree.
These include Brain Capital and Juno. Special funding options are available for nationals of other countries, while US citizens may apply for Title IV student and GI Bill loans.
More information is available on our funding pages.
What scholarships are available for the Full-time MBA?
There are multiple scholarships available for Full-time MBA students.
These scholarships have been designed to help you make your international business career a reality, giving outstanding MBA applicants a warm welcome at ESMT Berlin.
Our scholarships include those for academic excellence, as well as those designed to support students from diverse backgrounds. These include a Gender pay gap scholarship for woman candidates, a Rainbow scholarship for LGBTQIA+ candidates, and Regional scholarships for students from specific global areas.
Details of all scholarships for the current intake are available on the scholarships page.
What scholarships or award are available to German speakers?
ESMT offers several automatic awards to German speakers, with the value depending on your language fluency.
This is because German language skills are a huge advantage when it comes to maximizing your job prospects in Germany.
If you can provide your ability to speak German when you apply, and/or at program start, you will automatically receive one of our German language awards. The amount depends on your proven German level.
You can find a full overview our German language awards, including value and application details, on our scholarships and awards page.
How are scholarships allocated?
Full-time MBA scholarships are allocated based on academic excellence, personal and professional achievement, leadership potential, and superior interpersonal skills.
Only self-funded MBA candidates are eligible and scholarships only apply to tuition fees.
You can apply for up to three scholarships as part of your online application but note that you can only be awarded a maximum of one applied-for scholarship.
About ESMT Berlin
What rankings and accreditations does ESMT Berlin hold?
ESMT Berlin is among the top 1% of business schools in the world to have achieved Triple Crown accreditation – AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. The "Triple Crown" is the highest distinction of quality for business schools worldwide.
ESMT is also ranked highly by many leading business publications, including the Financial Times, Corporate Knights, and Poets&Quants. Learn more about our accreditation and the latest rankings.
Do I need to speak German to study at ESMT?
No you do not need to speak German to study at ESMT Berlin.
English is ESMT’s working and teaching language.
While English is also widely spoken in Berlin, it can be useful to know basic German for your daily life off campus.
German language skills are also a huge advantage when it comes to maximizing your job prospects in Germany and so, if your application is successful, we offer financial awards based on your proven German level.
You can see a full list of our German language awards, their associated values, and their application requirements on our scholarships and awards page.
Can I contact current Full-time MBA students?
Yes, our Full-time MBA class has dedicated student ambassadors who you can reach out to with questions.
Our Full-time MBA student ambassadors are here to help you understand what it means to study at ESMT Berlin and to be part of the MBA experience.
Whether you want to learn more about classes, internships or simply what life as a student in Berlin is like, our ambassadors are here to answer any questions you may have. You can learn more about the current FTMBA Student Ambassadors here.
Where can I read about the experiences of other Full-time MBA students?
We regularly feature stories and insights from Full-time MBA students on our Knowledge Hub.
You can filter by the 'Students & Alumni' topic to find interviews with current ESMT students and graduates. Topics covered include program experiences – from academics to socializing – and post-degree career paths.
You can also follow us on LinkedIn to discover even more insights from our students, alumni, and faculty.
Is there a way to connect with ESMT alumni?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to connect with ESMT alumni throughout your Full-time MBA program, with networking opportunities continuing after graduation.
Pre-program:
- You can join webinars and live Q&As with alumni, where you will a get a chance to ask your MBA questions. See the upcoming webinars here.
- You can also join us on campus for an Open House event, where you will get the opportunity to meet alumni and current students, as well as program organizers. See the date for the next Open House.
During the program:
- Full-time MBA students can attend the annual Full-time MBA Summer Barbeque. This event, which is exclusively for Full-time MBA students and recent graduates, gives you a chance to network with FTMBA alumni in a more relaxed setting.
- You will get a chance to meet alumni through talks and events. These include company visits, the annual Career Fair, the MBA-exclusive Talent Forum, Alumni chapter meetups, and dedicated career talks and networking events.
- You can join the MentorMap program, where current students are paired with alumni for regular sessions of career advice and feedback.
- You can volunteer at the Annual Alumni Meeting, giving you a chance to meet alumni from many different programs and cohorts, as well as a taste of ESMT's post-graduate events.
After graduation:
Once you graduate, you will unlock the full power of the ESMT alumni network. This includes:
- A yearly invite to the Annual Alumni Meeting, a highly anticipated weekend event that sees alumni return to campus from around the world. You will get a chance to meet old friends, expand your ESMT network beyond your cohort, and experience skills-refreshing seminars.
- The option to join our global ESMT Alumni chapters and clubs: exclusive, international alumni circles where you can share experiences, offer support, and create further networking and career opportunities.
Life on campus
Does ESMT offer on-campus housing?
Yes, ESMT offers student accommodation in seven shared flats near campus. These are located on the historic Museum Island, just a ten minute walk away from ESMT.
Full-time ESMT students can apply for single or double rooms in the shared flats – each fully furnished and equipped with Wi-Fi. However, as there are limited rooms available, please also consider other housing options. You can learn more about moving to Berlin here.
Our Student Services team can provide you with more information about your options for housing, as well as answering other questions about life on campus. You can learn more about ESMT Student Services here.
Who should I contact if I have questions or face challenges during the program?
You have many ways to find the resources and support you need to thrive at ESMT.
The Full-time MBA Program Management team is your primary point of contact for any questions or concerns throughout the program.
For academic-related matters, you may also connect with the Academic Lead or the Director of MBA Programs.
If you need support with housing, health, or other matters of personal wellbeing, the Student Services team is available to assist you.
When you start with us as a student, you will be able to find contact into for all these resources in your welcome package.
What social activities are available to ESMT students?
You have multiple chances join social events in and around ESMT.
While the Full-time MBA at ESMT is an intensive 15-month program, we strongly value a healthy balance between the academic and social sides of student life.
To help achieve this school-life balance, the Program Management team regularly organizes social events, such as the Summer BBQ, creating opportunities to connect outside the classroom. Students themselves also regularly head out for dinner or socializing after classes finish.
In addition, the vibrant ESMT campus hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, offering plenty of ways for students to engage with the broader community. From student club nights with guest speakers, to larger events where you can meet more of the ESMT community, these are an excellent opportunity to expand your social network.
You also have the opportunity to attend Bergfest, a student-run, monthly meetup where students from across all current cohorts meet to go hiking, canoeing, clubbing, and more.
And, as a Full-time MBA student, you have the chance to take part in exclusive events like the MBA tournament at HEC Paris. The so called 'MBA Olympics' is a wonderful way to build bonds with your cohort. You can find out more about what it is like to compete in this student blog about the social side of ESMT.
What student clubs and other initiatives can I join?
All students are welcome to join, take part in, and even create their own student clubs at ESMT.
There are many student clubs active on campus, covering a vast variety of topics such as sustainability, entrepreneurship, investment, women in leadership, and many more.
Students can also join wider initiatives like the TEDxESMT Berlin event. This yearly, completely student-run event sees students plan and host a TEDx event that features passionate speakers who want to share their ideas and research on how to make this world a better place. Previous editions have seen attendance from major players in the fields of business, sports, the arts, tech, academia, and more.
Read more: Student Services Community Coordinator and Full-time MBA student Punit Thakkar explains why joining student clubs and events can complete your ESMT experience.
Is ESMT an LGBTQIA+ friendly campus?
Yes, ESMT is proud to support our LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, and staff. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming campus for all of the ESMT community.
We have a dedicated Rainbow scholarship for Full-time MBA candidates, with special consideration given to self-identified LGBTQIA+ applicants.
We also host diverse initiatives on campus, including our Pride Impact Club. This is a student-run club devoted to creating a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive community for LGBTQIA+ students and allies at ESMT Berlin. Previous years have seen Pride Impact participants organize workshops, mentorship programs, and community-building events, including a float at the CSD Parade in Berlin.
May I exercise my faith on campus?
Yes, you can practice your faith on campus. ESMT is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for its entire community.
Students are welcome to book a dedicated room on campus to use as a space for quiet prayer, reflection, or worship. Wearing religious attire, such as a headscarf, or necklace, is also fully permitted on campus.
Is there a gym on campus?
No, ESMT does not have a dedicated gym, however, there are still plenty of on-campus opportunities to stay active.
Our spacious garden provides room for relaxation, as well as outdoor activities such as table tennis, football, volleyball, and frisbee. Our Student Services team can loan you the equipment you need to play these games.
In addition, ESMT participates in the Hochschulsport initiative, which allows our students to join sports classes offered by public universities across Berlin – free of charge.
Studying in Germany
Is Berlin a student-friendly city?
Yes! Berlin is an ideal city for students.
Not only was Berlin ranked as the seventh best city in the world for students in the QS ranking of Best Student Cities for 2026, the cost of student life in Berlin is still relatively affordable, especially when compared to other major European cities.
Berlin is also an exciting city to be a part of. Home to a vibrant cultural scene and diverse international community, Berlin is famed for its history, music, art, sports, and nightlife. You can find some of our Berlin highlights here.
For budding entrepreneurs, Berlin is also a wonderful place to find inspiration. With over 30 tech unicorns based in Berlin, the city is fame as a startup hub, meaning there are frequent events, talks, and meetups to join: both at ESMT and elsewhere in the city.
Finally, Berlin is well placed for you to take advantage of being in Europe. With good air and rail connections to many other cities, you have the opportunity to spend your weekends exploring. Head to Paris or Prague on Friday, and be back for class on Monday.
What visa do I need to study in Germany?
As a general rule, nationals of countries outside the EU and who plan to be in Germany for more than 90 days for work or study need to secure a visa before entering the country.
Depending on the country, it can take up to six months to issue a student visa. Though the process is often quicker, all admitted students should book an appointment with their local German embassy or mission as early as possible.
If you are a graduate of a Chinese or Indian university, there are some additional steps you need to take in order to study at a German university. This process can take up to 6 months to complete. Please visit the appropriate APS website: China (Chinese; Deutsch) India, for further information. We recommend you book an appointment as soon as possible.
Please note, applicants from Australia, Brazil, Canada, El Salvador, EU, Honduras, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, UK, and the United States do not need a visa to enter Germany as a student. However, this is subject to change, so please check with your embassy before making plans.
Do I need a residence permit to live and study in Germany?
If you are from outside the EU or EEA, you will need to apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) soon after arriving in Berlin.
This document allows you to live and study in Berlin during the MBA program. The permit also allows you to travel visa-free within the Schengen zone for up to 90 days per six-month period (you will still need your passport).
Can my residence permit be extended after the MBA?
Yes. After graduating from the program you can extend your residence permit with a job-seeker visa, valid for up to 18 months.
If you take part in the Responsible Leaders Fellowship (RLF), which is usually a three- to six-month commitment, you can extend the start of the 18-month permit until you are finished with the RLF.
How much should I budget for living costs?
In addition to tuition, you should budget enough money for living costs.
We estimate average living costs – per month – to be:
- Health insurance (required): €35 (private) to €139 (public)*
- Rent: €400-800 (private room) or €1,000+ (apartment)
- Food: €200
- Transport: €65
- Mobile phone: €35
- Sport, leisure, culture: €75
*All students enrolled at a German university must have health insurance coverage. Confirmation is needed before we can officially enroll you at ESMT.
Further questions: how can i get in touch with ESMT?
Excited by the idea of studying at ESMT Berlin but still have questions?
From global events targeted to prospective students, to campus visits, to online webinars and Q&As, there are a number of ways to get in touch with us to talk about whether the Full-time MBA is the right career step for you.