What salary can you expect with an MBA?
Pursuing an MBA can lead to substantial financial gains. On average, graduates experience a salary increase of 20% to 30% upon completion of their degree. Within five years, this uplift can reach 50%, reflecting the long-term value of the qualification.
For those completing an Executive MBA, the outcomes are encouraging:
82% of graduates earn over €60,000 annually upon graduation, and more than 40% exceed €100,000.
Source: 2023 KEDGE Alumni Annual Survey
More Than Just Salary Growth
The return on investment of an MBA extends well beyond salary. Among graduates of the Global Executive MBA at KEDGE,
88% reported meaningful personal transformations within two years of completing the programme.
Furthermore, 70% transitioned to a new role during the course of their studies, underscoring the MBA’s immediate impact on career trajectory.
Source: KEDGE Alumni survey
What factors influence an MBA graduate’s salary?
Several factors can influence the salary of an MBA graduate:
• The institution or business school where the MBA was earned
• The prestige and specialisation of the MBA programme (General MBA, Specialised MBA, Executive MBA, etc.)
• The hiring company (national, international, SME, start-up, etc.)
• The industry in which the graduate is employed
• The graduate’s cumulative professional experience
• Bonuses, incentives, and other forms of compensation
Which countries offer the highest salaries after an MBA?
Here are the top five countries offering the highest post-MBA salaries, based on annual gross earnings including bonuses, in US dollars:
1. Australia: $133,100
2. Switzerland: $129,700
3. Denmark: $121,400
4. United Kingdom: $106,100
5. France and the United States (tie): $98,300
Other countries with notable post-MBA salaries include Brazil at $97,200, Germany at $93,700, Spain at $92,900, and Canada at $91,600.
For more information, you may also be interested in our article on the cost of an MBA