SDA Bocconi IEMB
- Goalisb
- 1 day ago
- 7 min read
Updated: 15 hours ago
At SDA Bocconi Asia Center, the International Executive Master in Business (IEMB) program is designed to let managers transform into leaders who hold top executive roles. SDA Bocconi’s IEMB program is an ideal program if you are looking to revisit an enriching academic environment and study alongside like-minded senior professionals and pursue an impactful Executive MBA for working professionals.
What is the format of the classes at SDA Bocconi IEMB? Is this program full time or part time?
At SDA Bocconi Asia Center, we have kept our course structure such that you can align the course with your current job. Over the 15-month duration of the program, in-person weekend only classes are conducted once every month (Friday-Saturday-Sunday) in Mumbai. Classes are conducted online the next alternate weekend, allowing the candidates to attend the sessions from a location convenient to them. The amalgamation of in-person classroom learning and online classes pushes one to develop the skills one needs.
What is the IEMB program offered by SDA Bocconi?
The International Executive Master in Business (IEMB) is a 15-month modular program for mid- to senior-level professionals, blending in-person learning with online clusters. It is designed to develop global leaders with strategic, entrepreneurial, and digital transformation capabilities.
Is IEMB a degree program?
Yes. IEMB is a specialized master's degree program equivalent to 65 ECTS credits under Italian university law. The degree is awarded by SDA Bocconi School of Management, Italy.
Where is the IEMB program conducted?
Classes are held at SDA Bocconi Asia Center in Mumbai, with a 2-week international immersion module at SDA Bocconi’s main campus in Milan, Italy.
What does the IEMB curriculum include?
The curriculum covers foundations in leadership, finance, marketing, strategy, and operations. Advanced modules include digital transformation, ESG entrepreneurship labs, negotiation, inclusive leadership, and electives. A final capstone project consolidates learnings.
How is the IEMB program delivered?
Each month, participants attend two learning clusters:
Cluster 1: 3-day in-person weekend sessions (Fri–Sun)
Cluster 2: 2-day live online sessions (Sat–Sun)
Does the program include international exposure?
Yes. A 2-week international immersion in Milan includes classroom sessions, company visits, and faculty interactions on innovation and entrepreneurship.
Is the learning method case-based?
Yes. The program uses global case studies, live projects, and real-world simulations, enabling immediate application of concepts.
Who is eligible to apply for IEMB?
Applicants must have:
A bachelor’s degree
Minimum 9 years of work experience
English proficiency
Current full-time employment
GMAT/GRE score or SDA Bocconi Test
Is the SDA Bocconi test mandatory?
No. Applicants can submit GMAT/GRE scores taken after Jan 2021 or opt for the SDA Bocconi internal test.
What is the selection process for IEMB?The 3-step process includes:
Online application + fee (₹4,000)
Test score submission + interview
Offer letter and admission confirmation
What is the fee for SDA Bocconi IEMB?
The tuition fee is ₹21 lakhs + GST. It includes the Milan immersion fee, learning materials, and online resources.
Is accommodation during modules included?
No. Travel and lodging are not included, except for mid-day meals during India modules.
Are scholarships available for IEMB?Yes. Limited tuition waivers are available for self-sponsored candidates with strong academic/professional profiles. Women in Leadership Awards are also offered.
Are loans available for IEMB?
Yes. The school supports financing through partners like Axis Bank, HDFC Credila, Eduvanz, and IDFC Bank.
What is the average work experience of IEMB participants?
Participants typically have 15+ years of experience. The average class age is 37, with representation from diverse sectors like BFSI, IT, manufacturing, and consulting.
Does IEMB offer career services?
Yes. Participants benefit from an Executive Career Curriculum, including:
1:1 career coaching
Leadership and mindfulness workshops
CV, personal branding, and salary negotiation training
Access to headhunters and HR panels
Do IEMB graduates get alumni access?
Yes. Graduates become part of the 130,000+ Bocconi alumni network, gaining access to events, learning resources, and job market intelligence globally.
SDA Bocconi IEMB vs ISB PGPMAX Comparison Table
Feature | SDA Bocconi IEMB | ISB PGPMAX |
Program Name | International Executive Master in Business (IEMB) | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Senior Executives (PGPMAX) |
Institution | SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy) – Asia Center, Mumbai | Indian School of Business (ISB) |
Credential | Master's Degree (65 ECTS, Bologna-compliant) | Post-Graduate Certificate (EMBA equivalent) |
Program Duration | 15 months | 15 months |
Format | Hybrid: 3-day in-person + 2-day online per month | Modular: 1-week in-person every 5–6 weeks |
Eligibility | 9+ years of work experience, English proficiency, Bachelor’s degree, SDA/GMAT/GRE test | 10+ years of work experience, Bachelor’s degree, no test required |
Average Cohort Experience | ~15 years | ~16–18 years |
Location | Mumbai + Milan (SDA Bocconi HQ) | Hyderabad + Global Immersion (Wharton/Kellogg/LBS/IESE) |
International Immersion | 2-week residential in Milan | Two 1-week global modules at top B-schools |
Faculty | SDA Bocconi Italy + Asia Center | ISB + visiting faculty from Wharton, LBS, Kellogg |
Focus Areas | ESG, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Digital Strategy | Strategy, Leadership, Governance, Digital Transformation |
Career Support | Executive Career Curriculum, 1:1 coaching, HR panels | Career coaching, executive branding, alumni access |
Peer Profile | Senior Managers, Entrepreneurs, Cross-industry | CXOs, VPs, Entrepreneurs, Army Officers, Specialists |
Alumni Network Access | SDA Bocconi global alumni (130k+) | Full ISB alumni access (16k+) |
Fee (INR) | ₹21 lakhs + GST | ₹43.9 lakhs + GST |
Scholarships / Waivers | Limited tuition waivers, Women in Leadership awards | Partial waivers for merit or early application |
Placements | No formal placement; career services included | No formal placement; leadership transitions via network |
What resources are available to support my career progression and global opportunities?
1. Global Faculties: At SDA Bocconi Asia Center, we have a panel of world-renowned faculties that fly from SDA Bocconi, Italy to teach the IEMB candidates in Mumbai.
2. International Immersion: IEMB candidates have a mandatory 2-week immersion at the SDA Bocconi campus in Milan. Classroom teaching blended with Company Visits, Case Studies, Networking events in Milan, and Leadership Interactions create an unforgettable learning experience.
3. Executive Career Curriculum: The IEMB offers comprehensive one-on-one coaching modules and career cafés will empower you to excel in your career and develop essential leadership skills. Bocconi has a long-standing partnership with Michael Page - PageGroup, to assist you to discover opportunities over the period of program.
4. Networking opportunities in Mumbai: IEMB candidates get the opportunity to interact with industry leaders, guest speakers, Bocconi alumni and international immersion students in Mumbai. Candidates from GEMBA, SDA Bocconi, Italy, Rotman Business School, Canada, Copenhagen business school, Denmark meet the executives from IEMB at the Asia Center in Mumbai that foster long term connections worldwide.
5. Bocconi Alumni Network: Bocconi has a wide network of 140,000+ alumni worldwide. IEMB graduates get SDA Bocconi alumni status with access to exclusive resources, platforms and network offered to the support lifelong learning opportunities to the graduates.
How will the program impact my career?
From internal promotions to getting the role that you’ve always wanted, to relocating for a senior role in a different country, pursuing IEMB at SDA Bocconi Asia Center has been an integral part of the journey for our esteemed alumni. We have observed our alumni taking up international roles and transitioning to leadership roles. Check the SDA Bocconi EMBA.
Is the IEMB program offered at SDA Bocconi Asia Center recognised?
SDA Bocconi is among the leading Business Schools in Europe and holds triple accreditation - EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB and ranks 1st Business School in Europe by Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 and at the 3rd position in the world for full time MBA by Financial Times 2024. Choosing to study at SDA Bocconi means choosing one of the most coveted institutions in the world.
Upon successful completion of this course, graduates are awarded the International Executive Master in Business by SDA Bocconi School of Management, Italy.
The course carries 65 Credit Points under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) that are recognised by WES, making it internationally valid.
Comparing IIT Bombay-WashU Executive MBA (EMBA) and SDA Bocconi International Executive Master in Business (IEMB):
Feature | IIT Bombay-WashU Executive MBA (EMBA) | SDA Bocconi International Executive Master in Business (IEMB) |
Duration | 18 months | 15 months |
Format | Part-time: Monthly in-person classes (Thu-Sun) in Mumbai, 2-week international residency in Washington DC and St. Louis | Part-time: In-person once a month (Fri-Sun) in Mumbai, online alternate weekends |
Location & Fees | Mumbai, Washington DC, St. Louis. Fees: INR 42 Lacs | Mumbai, Milan. Fees: INR 21 Lacs |
International Immersion | 2-week residency in Washington DC and St. Louis | 2-week mandatory immersion in Milan |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree, 7+ years work experience, 5 years in managerial role, proficiency in English | Undergraduate degree, 9+ years work experience, proficiency in English, GMAT/GRE or SDA Bocconi test |
Application Process | Online application & interviews. | Online application, letters of recommendation, 30-minute internal test |
Learning Method | In-person classes, international residencies, case studies, industry visits, executive coaching | In-person and online classes, case studies, company visits, networking events |
Financial Support | Student loans available, contact admissions for details | Scholarships for Professional Diversity, Women in Leadership, merit-based tuition waivers |
Career Impact | Prepares for leadership roles, global perspective, strategic and collaborative skills development | Alumni take up international roles, transition to leadership roles |
Alumni Network | Lifelong benefits from both IIT Bombay and WashU, access to a network of over 130,000 alumni | Access to 140,000+ Bocconi alumni worldwide |
Are there scholarships or financial support options available?
SDA Bocconi IEMB scholarship program is designed to support talented individuals who demonstrate exceptional potential and leadership capabilities. Scholarships are offered for Professional Diversity, Women in Leadership, and Tuition Waivers up to 30% on merit. These awards are limited to meritorious candidates based on their academic background, considering the quality of the education Institutions attended, professional achievements, application and interview feedback.
Can my employer sponsor my education at SDA Bocconi at IEMB?
Yes, many students receive financial support, fully or partially from their employers. Company Nominations are invited from both Public and Private sector, that would like to engage in knowledge partnership for their employees to upskill in the weekend-based Executive MBA program.
What are the admission requirements and application process for SDA Bocconi IEMB?
Admissions Requirements:
Undergraduate degree in any discipline.
9+ years of entrepreneurship or full-time work experience.
Proficiency in English.
GMAT/GRE scores (taken after January 1, 2021) or SDA Bocconi test.
Application Process:
Submit your application by July 31, 2024.
Submit letters of recommendation.
Take a 30-minute internal online test.
Showcase your potential and school fit during your interview.
Receive your results before 15th August, including information on scholarships if awarded.
Classes begin in the second week of October 2024.
Unlock your path to success with GOALisB, your trusted MBA admission consultants.
Ready to make your MBA aspirations a reality? Contact us today and let's work together to make it happen.
Join Our Community!
Stay updated with the latest MBA admission trends and tips by following us on social media:
LinkedIn: GOALisB on LinkedIn
Instagram: GOALisB on Instagram
Youtube: GOALisB on Youtube
Quora: GOALisB on Quora
Twitter: GOALisB on Twitter