When considering an MBA, two names often come to mind for many applicants: the Indian School of Business (ISB) and the Wharton MBA University of Pennsylvania. Both institutions offer prestigious programs, but they cater to different demographics and have unique strengths.
This detailed comparison will help prospective students understand the nuances between the ISB PGP and the Wharton MBA programs.
ISB PGP vs. Wharton MBA: Key Differences
Feature | ISB PGP (Indian School of Business) | Wharton MBA (University of Pennsylvania) |
Program Duration | 1 year | 2 years |
Tuition & Fees | ₹42-46 lakh (~$50,000-$55,000) | $169,660 (₹1.4 Cr) for 2 years |
Total Cost (Incl. Living) | ₹50-55 lakh (~$60,000-$65,000) | $254,000 (~₹2.1 Cr) |
Global MBA Ranking (FT 2024) | 31 Globally, 1 in India | 6 Globally |
Work Experience Requirement | 2+ years (Avg: 4.1 years) | No minimum, Avg: 5 years |
Class Size | 816 students | 866 students |
Average Age | 26 years | 28 years |
International Students | 5-10% | 31% |
Curriculum Structure | Core + Electives (7 terms in 1 year) | Flexible Core + 200+ Electives (2 years) |
Majors Offered | No formal majors but a custom learning journey | 21 Majors (e.g., Finance, Business Analytics, Healthcare Management) |
Faculty | Resident & Visiting Faculty from Global B-Schools | Full-time Faculty, Many with Active Consulting Practices |
Average GMAT Score | 710-730 | 732 |
Median Salary (Post MBA) | ₹35 LPA (~$42,000) | $175,000 (~₹1.45 Cr) |
Salary Increase (%) | 229% (Ranked #1 in FT MBA ROI Rankings) | ~120-150% |
Top Hiring Sectors | Consulting, Technology, Finance | Consulting, PE/VC, Tech, Investment Banking |
Top Employers | McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Microsoft, Google | McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Goldman Sachs, Google, PE firms |
Alumni Network | 16,000+ Global Alumni | 100,000+ Global Alumni |
Campus Location | India (Hyderabad & Mohali) | USA (Philadelphia, with SF immersion option) |
Scholarships | 25% of students receive merit & need-based scholarships | Merit-based fellowships like Joseph Wharton, Prism LGBTQ+ Scholarship |
Application Rounds | Rolling admissions with final deadline in January | 3 Rounds (Sept, Jan, Apr) |
Interview Process | One-on-One Interview | Team-Based Discussion (TBD) + One-on-One Interview |
Admissions and Class Profile ISB vs Wharton:
Test Scores:
Average GMAT: 728
Average GRE: 162 Verbal, 162 Quant
Average GPA: 3.6 (on a 4.0 scale)
Work Experience:
Average Years: 5 years
No minimum or maximum years of experience required. Emphasis is on the impact of the applicant’s work experience.
Diversity:
Applications: 6,194
Enrolled: 874
Gender: 50% Women
International: 31%
Countries Represented: 70
LGBTQ+: 11%
First Generation: 11%
Test Scores:
Average GMAT: 720 (Median 710)
Average GRE: 328
Range of GMAT Scores: 600-770
Range of GRE Scores: 311-334
Work Experience:
Average Years: 4.3 years (Range: 2-24 years)
Average Age: 26.63 years
Diversity:
Partnerships with over 50 leading schools globally, enhancing the diversity and peer-learning experience on campus.
ISB vs Wharton MBA: Program Structure and Curriculum
Wharton MBA:
Duration: 20 months, including a 3.5-month summer internship
Class Schedule:
Year 1: Early August – May
Year 2: Early September – May
Weekly Schedule: Monday – Thursday (exams may be on Fridays)
Credit Units: 19.0 CU
Core Curriculum: 9.5 CU
Major: Typically 5.0 CU (including up to 1.0 CU from the Core)
Electives: 4.5 CU
Majors: 21 options, with about 40% of students completing dual majors.
Global Experience: Opportunities for dual-degree programs, study abroad, Global Modular Courses, and Global Immersion Programs.
ISB PGP:
Duration: 12 months
Class Schedule: Modular system with terms divided into eight weeks
Curriculum:
Core Courses: Build foundational business skills
Elective Courses: Specializations in areas like Finance, Marketing, Operations, and Strategy
Experiential Learning: Includes consulting projects, international exchange programs, and internships
Global Exposure: Collaborations with leading international institutions and visits from international students.
Community and Networking ISB PGP vs Wharton MBA
Wharton MBA:
Student Lifestyle: Highly involved in extracurricular activities, including clubs, conferences, sports, and student-run initiatives.
Family and Partners: Frequent opportunities for participation and networking.
Advising Support Network: Professional advisors offer guidance in academics, student life, and career management throughout the MBA journey.
ISB PGP:
Student Lifestyle: Vibrant campus life with numerous clubs and societies.
Networking: Strong alumni network and partnerships with global institutions provide extensive networking opportunities.
Advisory Support: Access to career services, leadership development programs, and industry-specific mentorship.
Career Services and Outcomes ISB vs Wharton MBA
Wharton MBA:
Career Services: MBA Career Management offers on-campus recruiting for internships and permanent positions.
Company Support/Sponsorship: No formal sponsorship programs required, though some companies sponsor students.
Locations: Primarily in Philadelphia, with an option to study for a semester in San Francisco.
ISB PGP:
Career Services: Comprehensive career support including placement assistance, industry connections, and alumni network.
Recruitment: Strong track record of ISB placements in top companies across various sectors.
Global Opportunities: International exchange programs and global career opportunities.
Both ISB and Wharton offer world-class MBA programs but cater to different sets of applicants. Wharton provides a more traditional, longer-duration MBA with a strong emphasis on global exposure and a diverse class profile. It’s ideal for candidates looking for a broad-based, immersive experience in a global setting.
On the other hand, ISB’s PGP is a fast-paced, one-year program that offers a deep dive into management education with a strong focus on the Indian and emerging markets. It’s perfect for professionals looking to make a swift transition in their careers with significant exposure to international business practices.
Choosing between ISB and Wharton depends on your career goals, experience, and the type of MBA experience you are seeking. Both institutions offer unique strengths that can significantly impact your professional trajectory.
The decision to pursue an MBA is a significant investment in your future. If you're unsure which program aligns best with your aspirations, or if you need expert support navigating the complex application process, GOALisB can help. Our experienced MBA admission consultants have a proven track record of helping applicants gain admission to top programs like ISB and Wharton.
Schedule a free consultation with GOALisB today and let us guide you towards your MBA dreams.
ISB PGP vs. Wharton MBA: FAQs
1. Which program is better for career growth: ISB PGP or Wharton MBA?
Wharton MBA is better for global careers, while ISB PGP is ideal for India & Asia.
Wharton MBA Strengths:
Stronger global brand, especially in finance, consulting, and leadership.
Access to international placements and higher salaries ($175K avg.).
2-year program allows for internships, networking, and deeper learning.
ISB PGP Strengths:
Best 1-year MBA in India with 229% salary increase (FT MBA ROI #1).
Ideal for consulting, tech, and general management in India/Asia.
Lower cost and faster ROI compared to Wharton.
2. What is the main difference between ISB PGP and Wharton MBA?
ISB PGP is a 1-year program, while Wharton MBA is 2 years.
Key Differences:
Cost: ISB PGP ($60K), Wharton ($254K).
Placement Focus: ISB - India & Asia, Wharton - Global.
Curriculum: ISB - compressed 1-year, Wharton - flexible 2-year with internships.
3. Is ISB as prestigious as Wharton?
Yes, while Wharton has stronger global prestige; ISB is India’s top-ranked MBA.
ISB: Ranked 1 in India, 31 globally (FT MBA 2024).
Wharton: Ranked 6 globally, Ivy League status.
If you want to work in India, ISB is highly respected. For global careers, Wharton holds more weight.
4. What is the ROI for ISB PGP vs. Wharton MBA?
ISB PGP has a faster ROI; Wharton MBA has a higher lifetime ROI.
ISB PGP ROI:
Lower cost (~$60K) and high salary growth (229% increase).
Break-even in 2-3 years.
Wharton MBA ROI:
Higher post-MBA salary ($175K+), stronger global placement.
Higher cost ($254K), but greater long-term earning potential.
5. Which MBA has better placement opportunities Wharton or ISB?
Wharton excels in PE/VC & Investment Banking, ISB in Consulting & Tech.
Wharton MBA Top Employers:
McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Goldman Sachs, Blackstone, Google.
High placement in Investment Banking, PE/VC, and Leadership roles.
ISB PGP Top Employers:
McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Microsoft, Tata, Reliance.
Strong in Consulting, Tech, and General Management in India/Asia.
6. What GMAT score do I need for ISB PGP and Wharton MBA?
Average GMAT scores for ISB and Wharton MBA are as follows - ISB PGP: 710-730 and Wharton MBA: 732 (Avg).
Both accept GRE. Wharton has higher score expectations, especially for scholarships.
7. Which MBA is better for consulting careers?
Both are strong, but Wharton has better global reach.
ISB PGP: McKinsey, BCG, Bain hire for India & Asia roles.
Wharton MBA: McKinsey, BCG, Bain hire for US, UK, and Europe.
Choose ISB if you want MBB in India; Wharton if you want MBB globally.
8. Which MBA is better for entrepreneurship?
ISB has produced 13+ unicorn founders; Wharton has a strong VC ecosystem.
ISB PGP:
750+ entrepreneurs & $4.5B+ VC funding.
Strong in India-focused startups, family business.
Wharton MBA:
Access to Silicon Valley VCs & entrepreneurship incubators.
Strong in tech startups & US-based ventures.
If you plan to launch a startup in India, ISB is a better ecosystem. If you need global funding, Wharton is stronger.
9. What is the interview process for ISB PGP vs. Wharton MBA?
ISB PGP has a One-on-One Interview whereas Wharton MBA has a Team-Based Discussion (TBD) + Personal Interview.
ISB PGP Interview:
Traditional Q&A format about goals, leadership, and career trajectory.
Wharton MBA Interview:
Team-Based Discussion (TBD) - assesses teamwork, leadership, adaptability.
10-minute personal interview follows the TBD.
10. Should I apply to both ISB and Wharton?
Yes, if you meet the GMAT and work experience requirements!
ISB is a great backup if you don’t get into Wharton. Wharton is better for global careers, but ISB offers strong ROI in India.
If you are internationally focused, prioritize Wharton. If you want a high-impact career in India, ISB is unbeatable.
Final Takeaways: ISB PGP vs. Wharton MBA
Choose ISB PGP if:
✔ Fast-tracked career boost in India/Asia.
✔ Lower cost and faster ROI.
✔ Consulting, tech, or general management focus.
Choose Wharton MBA if:
✔ Global opportunities in the US, UK, or Europe.
✔ Investment banking, PE/VC, leadership roles.
✔ Higher salary potential and stronger alumni network.
Need help deciding which MBA is best for you? GOALisB’s expert MBA consulting can guide you.
ISB Resource Guide
Comparing ISB with Other Top Programs
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Understand the differences between ISB and IIM.
Key points to consider between ISB and INSEAD’s MBA programs.
How the MBA programs at NUS and ISB compare.
A closer look at the distinctions between IIMA and ISB.
Comparing ISB’s PGPpro and IIMB’s PGPEM.
Understand the differences between ISB’s PGPpro and PGPMAX programs.
Additional Resources for ISB Applicants
The Evolution of ISB Essay Topics
A look at how ISB’s essay topics have changed over the years.
Key dates and steps for applying to ISB in 2025.
What Makes a Strong ISB Applicant?
Traits and qualities common among successful ISB admits.
Tips for strengthening your application if you’re reapplying.
Insights into GMAT score expectations for ISB admissions.
Engineers Transitioning to ISB
Advice for engineers considering an ISB MBA.
Guidance for banking professionals applying to ISB.
Life at ISB and Beyond
A look into the student experience at ISB.
What ISB Hyderabad Has to Offer
Explore the unique environment at ISB Hyderabad.
ISB’s Rankings and Global Standing
Learn where ISB ranks nationally and globally.
ISB Placement Services and Career Support
Insights into ISB’s placement statistics and career resources.
Expert Consulting and Support
ISB Admission Consulting Services
Discover how consulting can enhance your ISB application.
An Overview of ISB’s MBA Program
Learn about the curriculum and structure of ISB’s MBA.
Information on ISB’s Executive MBA options for senior professionals.
A guide to applying to the PGPpro program at ISB.
A program designed for senior executives seeking an MBA.