Is LBS or INSEAD better for MBA?

Question

T Mehta · Accepted Answer

If you're short on time and clear about your goals, INSEAD is unbeatable&mdash;but if you want more flexibility, LBS gives you room to breathe.
Both are top-tier, but they work for different kinds of students. Here's a clear comparison:

Feature
INSEAD MBA
 LBS MBA

Duration
 10 months
 15&ndash;21 months

Internships
Not offered due to short format
Yes, with summer internship time

Location
France, Singapore, Abu Dhabi
London

Recruitment Focus
Consulting-heavy (MBB stronghold)
Broader&mdash;finance, tech, consulting

Electives
Limited due to shorter timeline
 More options across industries

Average Student Age
 Around 29 years old
Around 27&ndash;28 years old

isa Benefit
 Varies by campus location
 2-year UK post-study visa

LBS offers a lot more flexibility when it comes to electives and industry exposure. Students can explore niche areas like fintech, luxury, or healthcare based on their interests. INSEAD&rsquo;s compressed format packs everything in tightly, but that also means fewer chances to customize the academic path.
For someone who wants a globally recognized MBA with a quick turnaround, INSEAD works really well. But if the goal is to explore more, intern, and spend time figuring out the next move, LBS is a better fit.

Aarushi S · Answer

LBS and INSEAD both offer strong MBAs, but they serve different priorities. INSEAD&rsquo;s one-year format works best for those with 5&ndash;6 years of experience who want to return to consulting or move internationally fast. It's intense, globally spread, and highly favored by MBB firms.
LBS offers more flexibility with its 15&ndash;21 month structure, giving space for internships, electives, and in-depth career changes. It's better suited for those targeting London, especially in finance or tech. The longer format helps for visa access and job hunting in the UK.
If time and global mobility are key, INSEAD fits better. If the goal is UK-based roles with more breathing room, LBS has the edge.

Divakshi Arora · Answer

LBS or INSEAD&mdash;which MBA is better really depends on what kind of experience you&rsquo;re looking for.
LBS is great for students who want time to switch industries, try internships, and build a network in London. The longer program (15&ndash;21 months) gives space to explore roles in finance, tech, and consulting. Also, students can do exchange semesters at top schools like Wharton, which adds even more value.
INSEAD is much faster&mdash;10 months from start to finish. It&rsquo;s known for intense academics and a strong push into consulting jobs. The alumni network is very global, and the school has a strong presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
One thing that stands out at INSEAD is the cultural mix inside the classroom. Students from over 90 nationalities join each year, so group projects feel like working in a real international team. That kind of exposure is hard to match.
Both offer good salaries after graduation, but if the goal is quick ROI and global exposure, INSEAD stands out. If the goal is deep career exploration and UK-based opportunities, LBS is the better pick.

V Ritik · Answer

Both LBS and INSEAD are world-class MBA programs, but the better choice depends on career goals and timeline. INSEAD offers a one-year program that&rsquo;s intense and ideal for those wanting a fast return on investment, especially in consulting or global management roles. LBS, on the other hand, provides a flexible 15&ndash;21 month format, allowing more time for internships and career switches, particularly into finance or tech in London.
INSEAD&rsquo;s global network spans over 170 nationalities, making it perfect for students seeking international exposure. LBS stands out for its strong UK job market access and optional exchange terms with top U.S. schools.
If the goal is to pivot quickly and re-enter the job market, INSEAD fits better. But for those prioritizing internships and deeper regional networks in London, LBS holds the edge.