upGrad, Asia’s leading integrated skilling and higher-education majors, has announced a strategic partnership with Munich Business School (MBS), Germany, to launch two accelerated hybrid programs for Indian professionals: an MBA 60 ECTS (1 Year) and a Master’s in Finance.
The collaboration addresses a critical gap for mid-career professionals seeking international credentials without the exorbitant cost of mobility or the need to transition out of their jobs for the entire duration of the degree. By splitting the curriculum between a top-tier Indian institute and a coveted B-School in Munich, the program offers a direct, structured pathway into the European job market.
Disrupting the Cost of International Education
A standard MBA at Munich Business School typically costs approximately €32,000 (₹35 lakh). Through the upGrad pathway, the on-campus tuition is reduced to €10,000 (₹11 lakh), plus the Indian institutional fee. This model significantly extends access and equity for Indian talent while providing the same degree, alumni status, and post-study work rights as full-time international students.
Program Breakdown:
• 1 Year MBA in General Management (with IIM Udaipur): A 12-month program– including a six-month online PG Certificate in Business Management from IIM Udaipur, followed by six months on-campus at Munich Business School in Germany.
• Master’s in Finance (with IMT Ghaziabad): A 19-month pathway, beginning with a seven-month online PG Certificate program with IMT Ghaziabad, followed by 12 months of specialized on-campus study in Munich.
Commenting on the launch, Praneet Singh, AVP – University Partnerships, Study Abroad at upGrad, said: “Indian professionals are no longer just looking for degrees; they are looking for global career mobility and ROI. Germany has emerged as a powerhouse for skilled talent, and upGrad’s innovative partnership with Munich Business School upheld by the academic rigor of IIM Udaipur and IMT Ghaziabad, enables a fast paced, democratized bridge to a European career. We are completely insulating the students from financial or professional risks typically associated with global mobility.″
Why Germany?
Beyond its academic prestige, Germany remains a top destination due to its robust economy, scale of opportunity and favourable immigration policies for skilled workers. MBS graduates report an average salary of €83,000 (~₹90 lakh), and the 18-month job- seeker visa visa provides a stable window for graduates to secure roles within Germany’s tech, automotive, and finance sectors.
Felix Ewald, Head of Marketing and Sales, Munich Business School, added: “We are excited to welcome Indian talent to Munich. This partnership combines the foundational excellence of Indian management education with our deep industry linkages in the EU, ensuring students are 'job-ready' the moment they step onto our campus.”
Munich Business School is recognised for its global curriculum and strong industry linkages across European markets. The partnership reflects growing demand among Indian professionals for flexible, internationally recognised degrees that combine academic credibility with global career opportunities, particularly as Germany continues to emerge as a preferred destination for higher education and skilled talent mobility.