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The International MBA at IE Business School is built for people who take ownership of their growth. Every element is designed to help you personalize your MBA around your ambitions, giving you the freedom to align your studies with the career you’re building next.

That freedom comes to life during the Elective Period—a defining phase in the 15-month track. Here, you move from mastering the fundamentals to designing an MBA experience that reflects your goals. With over 50 electives, global learning experiences, and practical opportunities to apply what you know, this is where your path becomes individual, deliberate, and real.

What it means to personalize your MBA

Personalization at IE is about direction. You set your focus, choose your challenges, and link your learning to real outcomes. The Elective Period lets you deepen your expertise, stretch into new fields, or connect classroom insight to the kind of leadership you want to practice.

It’s a phase that rewards curiosity and intent. You might explore digital innovation, impact strategy, or advanced finance—or build a mix that strengthens your versatility. Each decision sharpens your profile and moves you closer to the professional identity you’re building.

Four routes to build your own track

Global Immersion Month & Electives

Spend a month across European markets connecting with companies and initiatives that are reshaping business. These experiences count toward your elective credits and expand your global network while grounding you in practice.

Electives

Choose from more than 50 specialized courses across strategy, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and finance. You can select up to five electives, building a portfolio that aligns with your ambitions and broadens your perspective.

International exchange

Study at one of IE’s partner institutions abroad. You’ll earn elective credits, gain international exposure, and develop the global outlook that defines modern leadership.

Internship & electives

Blend professional experience with targeted study. An internship lets you apply your skills in real contexts, supported by electives that reinforce your growth in the field.

Why it’s important to personalize your MBA

Business doesn’t stand still, and neither should your education. The Elective Period gives you the space to test your interests, refine your direction, and align your next move with what the market—and your ambitions—demand.

Each choice shapes your trajectory, building a career narrative grounded in self-awareness and adaptability. For students on the 15-month track, this is the moment where the International MBA becomes distinctly yours—a launchpad tailored to your pace, your vision, and your future.

Interested in refining your business profile? Follow the link below and complete your application in four simple steps.

1. Begin your application → Apply now

Create your online profile and start filling in your details. Upload your résumé, transcripts, and personal statement (written, video, or presentation). Once you’ve completed at least 25% and paid the application fee, your process officially begins. We review applications on a rolling basis, so it’s best to start several months before your preferred intake in September or January.

2. Take your admissions test → Explore test options

Choose the test that best highlights your strengths—ieGAT, GMAT, or GRE. Prepare in advance and reach out to our Admissions team if you’d like advice on which route suits you best.

3. Complete your online assessment → Learn how it works

This is your chance to show us who you are beyond your application. You’ll record short video and written answers designed to showcase your communication, analytical thinking, and personality. A quick practice round will help you feel confident before you start.

4. Attend your personal interview → Find out more

If shortlisted, you’ll meet one-on-one with an Admissions Manager—online or in Madrid—to discuss your goals, experience, and fit for the program. Within about two weeks, you’ll receive your admission decision and can start planning your next chapter.