International MBA

#1 MBA in Portugal 

#24 MBA in Europe

#4 in the world in International Course Experience

#11 in Europe in Sector Diversity

#12 in Europe in Career Progress     

Why choose our International MBA

The Lisbon MBA International, among the best 100 in the world and in the top 25 in Europe by the FT ranking*,  is a one-year full-time program for high-potential professionals who aim to boost or change their career paths focusing exclusively on a life-changing experience, in an entrepreneurial and international environment.

Our International MBA offers rigorous learning from two top European business schools, Católica-Lisbon and Nova SBE, and is provided in collaboration with MIT Sloan. 
With the focus on an action learning methodology, a holistic approach to education, and a solid international component, you will develop a multicultural vision that will enhance your career in a meaningful way. (*Financial Times Global MBA ranking 2026)

At a glance

Duration
12 months
Avg. Work Experience
9 years (min. 3)
Location
Lisbon / Boston
Avg. Weighted Salary
USD 138 232
Salary increase
77%
Employability
94%

Get to know us better

Meet our team

Are you ready for an MBA?

Action Learning

Learning by doing is at the core of the Lisbon MBA. You will have the following hands-on experience:

In-Company Assignment
A 2-month internship in a company working on a business MBA-level challenge.

Entrepreneurship Hub
A solid opportunity to accomplish your ambitions as an entrepreneur.

Social Impact Project
Working individually or in a team, you will develop a business solution for a strategic challenge within the area of ESG in a specific organization.

International Consulting Lab
Engaging in a unique initiative, students collaborate on a real-life business case across diverse global settings with top MBAs.

LEAD

Our MBA goes beyond business fundamentals: we are committed to empower students with the knowledge, skills and capabilities that companies seek in managers and leaders to thrive at all times.

At the LEAD, you will develop the interpersonal skills that will enable you to build cooperative relationships, respond effectively to multiple priorities and work well with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

From self-awareness and empathy to communication skills and resilience, you will train transversal capabilities that will help you become a principled leader, with purpose and vision, to make a positive impact in business and in your community.

Testimonials

MIT Immersion

The Lisbon MBA is the only MBA in Europe that offers an immersion experience at MIT Sloan. Our long-lasting partnership with MIT provides our students with an unparalleled opportunity to learn with the best professors in the world in the fields of entrepreneurship and innovation, based on the motto “mens et manus”, (learn by doing).

The MIT experience also allows students to discover Boston’s entrepreneurial eco-system and develop cross-cultural competencies to thrive in an ever-changing global business environment.

2026 Class Profile

32

Average age

9

Average years of work experience​

78%

International Students​

53%

Female Students​

Admissions, Fees and Funding

Career Impact

Find your Purpose, Explore & Experience, Prepare to Make an Impact.

The commitment of the Career Management Center is to partner with students to succeed in achieving a meaningful and life-long career fulfillment by supporting them in defining a career strategy and an action plan customized to their personal journey.

Life in Lisbon

The perfect place to do an MBA, to live, learn and grow.

Lisbon is a welcoming, vibrant and authentic European city, built on values of diversity, tolerance and open-mindness, with a dynamic entrepreneurial environment.

Everything You Need to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions | IMBA Essentials

Who can apply for The Lisbon MBA International full‑time program in Portugal?

This MBA is designed for early-to mid-career professionals with a Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of full-time professional experience. We actively seek candidates from a wide range of academic backgrounds and professional sectors, from engineering and humanities to the arts and sciences, believing that a diverse classroom is the foundation for true innovation and rich peer-to-peer learning.

This program is the ideal fit for ambitious individuals looking to pivot or completely change their career paths, whether that involves shifting industries, functions, or moving into new international markets. We look for candidates who show high ambition, leadership potential, and a global mindset. Because we believe that diversity is our greatest strength, we welcome applicants from all over the world who bring unique perspectives and a collaborative spirit to our community. Since the program features a one-month immersion at MIT Sloan, a high level of English proficiency and a drive to thrive in a fast-paced, international environment are essential

Does The Lisbon MBA in Portugal accept GMAT or GRE waivers for International MBA applicants?

Yes, we offer Admissions Exam Waivers for exceptional candidates who can demonstrate their analytical readiness through a strong academic and professional track record. While the GMAT or GRE is a standard requirement, we recognize that your career achievements and prior education can also serve as powerful evidence of your potential.

Waiver Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a waiver, you typically need to have:

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in a quantitative field (such as Engineering, Finance, Economics, or Mathematics) from a reputable university.
  • Over 8 years of professional experience, which must include at least 4 years in a management or leadership role.

How the Process Works
The request is made directly within your online application form. Once you have submitted your application with your updated CV, official university transcripts, and diploma (all in English), the Admissions Committee will conduct a holistic review of your request.

Important Note on Decisions
Please be aware that granting a waiver is at the sole discretion of the Admissions Committee. The Committee evaluates each request carefully to ensure you can thrive in our rigorous academic environment. If the Committee determines that a standardized test score is necessary to further demonstrate your analytical aptitude or to strengthen your overall candidacy, the waiver request may be declined. In such cases, you will be invited to submit a GMAT or GRE score to complete your application.

Are travel and accommodation expenses for the MIT Sloan Immersion covered by The Lisbon MBA tuition fees?

The tuition fees for both programs cover the Immersion costs at MIT Sloan, including world-class faculty instruction, access to MIT’s specialized libraries, and all required educational materials. Travel and accommodation expenses for the immersion in Boston are not included in the tuition fees. Students are responsible for coordinating and covering their own flights, housing, and living expenses. 

To ensure your journey to Boston is seamless, we provide support to obtain a U.S. visa. We provide comprehensive administrative support and the necessary institutional information to assist you in obtaining your Visa. Our team will guide you through the process to ensure your documentation is prepared correctly and on time.

Estimated Immersion Budget
Please note that these figures are highly subjective and act as a general guideline. Actual costs vary significantly based on your choice of airline, accommodation preferences (private vs. shared), and personal dining habits in the U.S.

Round-trip Flight €550 – €900
Accommodation €1,800 – €3,500
Meals & Transport €900 – €1,600
U.S. Visa & Fees ~$470 – $550
Total Estimated Budget €3,700 – €6,500

What visa, relocation, and arrival support does The Lisbon MBA offer international students moving to Portugal?

Relocating for an MBA is a major life step, and we are committed to making your transition to Lisbon as smooth as possible. Our support is designed to be personalized and proactive:

  • Dedicated Visa Assistance: Once you are officially accepted into the program and have secured your spot by paying the registration fee, you can formally request visa support. At this stage, we will put you in touch with our Relocation Team, which will provide you with the institutional documents needed for your Portuguese Student Visa application.
  • The Importance of Timing: We strongly advise international candidates to apply as early as possible. Depending on your country of origin, obtaining a student visa can be a lengthy process that may take several months. Applying in the earlier rounds ensures you have a comfortable buffer for appointments and processing times.
  • Relocation & Local Logistics: Beyond the visa, our team provides comprehensive guidance on the essentials of life in Portugal. You will receive access to tips and resources for:
    • Housing: Guidance on finding the best neighbourhood’s in Lisbon.
    • Banking & NIF: instructions on obtaining your Portuguese Fiscal Number (NIF) and opening a local bank account.

Our goal is to ensure that by the time classes begin, your logistics are settled so you can focus entirely on your academic and professional transformation.

What career support, career coaching, job placement, and networking services does The Lisbon MBA International provide?

Our Career Management Center (CMC) acts as a lifelong partner in your professional growth, offering a high-touch experience designed to translate your MBA into a powerful career trajectory. We provide a robust suite of tools and services designed to align your profile with the demands of top-tier global recruiters:

  • Strategic Career Plan:  Whether you want to pursue your defined career objectives or you are still trying to find your true passion, we will support you with tools and resources customized to your personal career journey. You will work one-on-one with the CMC to define a Strategic Career Plan, ensuring your path is backed by expert guidance and clarity.
  • Professional Development & Career Workshops: To prepare you for the global stage, we host a series of workshops. These cover essential competencies, from advanced negotiation and networking techniques to specialized “Case Interview” preparation.
  • Talent Book: As an optional but highly effective tool, you can choose to be featured in our annual Talent Book. This publication showcases our students’ profiles and is promoted directly to our network of global partner companies, serving as a powerful bridge to elite recruiters.
  • Meet the Industry & Executive Networking: We organize “Talks with C-Level Executives” and senior managers to broaden your knowledge of the corporate world. These sessions allow you to gain an in-depth understanding of industry insights and trends while getting inspired by the visions and career journeys of CEOs and decision-makers.
  • Action Learning & Alumni Community: The program bridges the gap between theory and practice through In-Company Assignments and International Consulting Labs. For those looking to innovate, our Entrepreneurship Hub provides an ecosystem to launch new ventures. Finally, you gain lifelong access to an elite Alumni Community, providing a global network of mentors and peers that will support you throughout your entire career.

What our students say

Because of the small scale character of the MBA, you are seen as a promise, understood as a human being who has a leadership potential to fulfill. Investment Manager Public Programs at Invest International, Netherlands

Wendeline Van Der Feltz

NETHERLANDS

In addition to the focus on soft skills, the small, intimate classes provide focused learning and interaction that you don’t get in larger programmes. Global Supply Chain Principal - Innovation at Anglo American, Australia

Philip Nelson

AUSTRALIA

The program emphasizes your development as a person and as a professional. This is a differentiating factor, not only for the program, but also for yourself. AD Global Marketing Oncology Women’s Cancer at Merck, USA

Rita Andrade

PORTUGAL

The Lisbon MBA International enhanced me personally and professionally. The Entrepreneurship Hub was a game-changer, contributing to winning the Web Summit 2023 PITCH Contest. Co-Founder of Inspira, Brazil

Henrique Prado Ferreira

BRAZIL

The MBA gave me the knowledge in subjects such as Marketing, Strategy and Finance, but also the frameworks and tools that allowed me to explore new business opportunities. Business Manager Partnerships at H&M Home, Sweden

Cristina Ferreira

PORTUGAL

The hybrid format of the MBA brings out the best from each school. Vice President at JPMorgan Chase & Co., India

Neha Singh

INDIA

This MBA will take you out of your comfort zone and challenge you to be better. It's a unique opportunity to learn and develop valuable business skills. Public Policy and Business Development Manager at EDP, Portugal

Alan Augusto

BRAZIL

My life will forever be changed by my wonderful experience in Portugal. The Lisbon MBA has put me in a position far greater than I could have ever expected. Consultant at Propeller, USA

Julian Thomas

USA