NUS vs ISB
- Goalisb
- Feb 24
- 4 min read
Picking the best business school is tough. Especially when you’re left to choose between two of the top-tier institutes on earth: the Indian School of Business (ISB) and National University of Singapore Business School (NUS). We’ll compare the two so you can decide for yourself. Our analysis is based on the data provided by the Financial Times (FT) MBA Rankings 2025 rankings.
NUS vs ISB: A Comprehensive MBA Comparison Based on Rankings and Career Outcomes
When considering an MBA from Asia’s top business schools, the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School and the Indian School of Business (ISB) often come up as leading choices. Both schools have strong regional and global reputations, impressive career outcomes, and rigorous academic programs.
But how do they compare based on global rankings, career progression, return on investment, and other key factors?
This blog will break down the differences between NUS and ISB based on various ranking methodologies and employment statistics.
Global MBA Rankings Comparison (2025)
Both NUS Business School and ISB consistently rank among the top business schools in Asia. Let’s compare their rankings from different sources:
MBA Rankings 2025: NUS vs ISB
Ranking Source | NUS Business School Rank | ISB Rank |
Financial Times Global MBA 2025 | Rank 37 | Rank 27 |
QS Global MBA 2025 | Rank 24 | Rank 31 |
Economist MBA Rankings | Rank 19 | Rank 23 |
Key Takeaways:
ISB ranks higher than NUS in the Financial Times Global MBA ranking, suggesting stronger career outcomes and alumni impact.
NUS performs better in QS Rankings, indicating a stronger global academic reputation and international faculty.
Both schools are among the top MBA programs in Asia, often competing with HKUST and CEIBS for leadership in the region.
Career Outcomes: Salary and Employment Comparison
One of the most crucial aspects of choosing an MBA program is the return on investment (ROI). Let’s compare salary outcomes and employment rates from the Financial Times MBA 2025 rankings.
Salary and Employment: NUS vs ISB
Metric | NUS Business School | ISB |
Weighted Salary (USD) | $170,898 | $185,885 |
Salary Increase (%) | 148% | 247% |
Employed within 3 months (%) | 85% | 85% |
Career Progress Rank | Rank 46 | Rank 33 |
Key Takeaways:
ISB graduates earn a higher average salary than NUS graduates.
ISB has a significantly higher salary increase percentage (247%), reflecting the strong career advancement opportunities post-MBA.
Both schools have similar employment rates (85%) within three months of graduation.
What does this mean?If your goal is to maximize salary growth after an MBA, ISB offers better ROI, especially for professionals transitioning from mid-level to senior roles. However, NUS offers better access to international job markets, particularly in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Diversity and International Exposure
A critical factor for MBA applicants is the international student body and faculty exposure.
International Diversity: NUS vs ISB
Metric | NUS Business School | ISB |
International Students (%) | ~80% | ~5% |
International Faculty (%) | 40% | 15% |
Global Mobility Rank | Rank 43 | Rank 59 |
Key Takeaways:
NUS has a highly international cohort (80%), making it one of the most globally diverse MBA programs in Asia.
ISB is primarily focused on the Indian market, with only ~5% international students.
If you seek a globally diverse classroom, NUS is the stronger option. However, if you aim for India-focused career growth, ISB is the better choice.
Return on Investment (ROI) and Value for Money
MBA programs require significant financial investment. Let’s compare the cost and value-for-money rankings of ISB and NUS.
ROI and Value-for-Money: NUS vs ISB
Metric | NUS Business School | ISB |
Total MBA Cost (Tuition + Expenses) | ~$65,000 | ~$48,000 |
Value-for-Money Rank | Rank 43 | Rank 59 |
Key Takeaways:
ISB is more affordable than NUS, costing around $17,000 less.
ISB has a stronger ROI due to its higher salary post-MBA and rapid salary growth.
If affordability is a concern, ISB offers better value. However, if you’re targeting international markets, NUS provides better global exposure.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your decision between NUS and ISB should depend on your career goals, budget, and international mobility aspirations.
Choose ISB if:
✔️ You want high salary growth and ROI.
✔️ You plan to work in India post-MBA.
✔️ You want strong connections with Indian corporate recruiters and alumni networks.
✔️ You prefer a fast-paced, intensive 1-year MBA program.
Choose NUS if:
✔️ You seek a globally recognized MBA with international career opportunities.
✔️ You want a more diverse classroom with 80% international students.
✔️ You plan to work in Singapore, Southeast Asia, or globally post-MBA.
✔️ You prefer a strong academic and research-driven MBA experience.
Final Verdict: NUS vs ISB
ISB is the better choice for professionals targeting high-growth careers in India with strong placement opportunities in consulting, tech, and finance. NUS is ideal for those seeking global exposure and international job markets.
If your goal is salary growth, ISB wins.
If your goal is international mobility, NUS wins.
ISB Admissions & MBA Programs - Complete Resource Guide
This category includes all key resources related to ISB’s MBA programs, admissions guidance, interview preparation, and placement insights.