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Nov 104 min read

ISB vs Wharton

When considering an MBA, two names often come to mind for many applicants: the Indian School of Business (ISB) and the Wharton School of the 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.




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 Resource Guide


Comparing ISB with Other Top Programs


Additional Resources for ISB Applicants


Life at ISB and Beyond


Expert Consulting and Support


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