What Is a Global MBA? Meaning, Formats and vs Executive MBA
Updated 27 October 2026
"Global MBA" — and the similar "international MBA" — is a marketing label, not a regulated degree. The award is normally an MBA. What the label signals varies by provider.
The three main meanings
- Multi-campus full-time MBA: study blocks in two or more countries during the programme.
- Online global MBA: open to students worldwide, with an international online cohort.
- MBA with an international focus: a single-campus programme emphasising international business, often with study trips or exchanges.
Global MBA vs regular MBA
Same degree type; different delivery and cohort. Check what is actually international — campuses, classmates' nationalities, trips, exchange options — and which of those are included in the fee.
Global MBA vs executive MBA
| Global MBA | Executive MBA | |
|---|---|---|
| Defined by | International delivery or cohort | Experienced, working students |
| Keep job? | Full-time: no; online: yes | Yes |
| Experience | Varies | Higher |
Some programmes are both. See executive MBA vs MBA.
Fees
| Programme (provider's name) | Format | Published fee | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global One-Year MBA Hult International Business School | 12 months full-time, Boston or London | 2027–28 programme fee US$94,900 (Boston) / £72,000 (London), plus other student-related costs US$4,440 / £2,380 | Cited Provider page, accessed 27 Oct 2026 |
| Global Online MBA Hult International Business School | Online | 2027–28 programme fee US$44,800 (books/materials US$1,450 extra) | Cited Provider page, accessed 27 Oct 2026 |
| Global MBA S P Jain School of Global Management | 12 months full-time; Singapore 4 mo + Dubai 8 mo | Tuition US$42,120; total compulsory fees US$44,720 incl. visas & insurance (Oct 2026 intake) | Cited Provider page, accessed 21 Oct 2026 |
| Global MBA (online) University of London | Online, 1–5 years | Full programme fee 2026-27: £13,697 (Band A countries) / £20,770 (Band B countries) | Cited Provider page, accessed 21 Oct 2026 |
| Other global MBAs | — | Pending verification | Pending |
Listed alphabetically by provider; order is not a ranking. Fees change every intake and exclude living costs unless stated. Confirm on the provider's own page before applying. No school has paid to appear.
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