Esade Business School – Barcelona, Spain

Overview

Esade Business School, founded in 1958 and part of Ramon Llull University, is one of Europe’s premier institutions for business and legal education. Located in Barcelona, a city known for its cultural richness and innovation, Esade has cultivated a reputation for academic excellence, entrepreneurship, and global leadership. The school consistently ranks among the top business schools in Europe and attracts students from over 100 nationalities, creating a truly international learning environment.

Programs and Majors

Esade offers a range of programs across undergraduate and graduate levels, all of which are designed to meet the demands of a globalized world. Undergraduate options include the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Global Governance and Law, and Transformational Leadership. These programs integrate liberal arts with business acumen and are entirely taught in English. At the graduate level, Esade provides specialized MSc degrees in Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Innovation, and more, along with a globally competitive MBA program with flexible durations of 12, 15, or 18 months.

Admissions Requirements

Esade adopts a holistic admissions approach. For undergraduate applicants, academic transcripts, English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS), a personal statement, and a personal interview are considered. Graduate admissions typically require a recognized undergraduate degree, standardized test scores (GMAT, GRE, or Esade’s own test), proof of English proficiency, and letters of recommendation. Professional experience is an additional requirement for MBA candidates. Turkish students from rigorous high schools like Robert Kolej or Istanbul Erkek Lisesi are especially well-prepared for Esade’s academic environment.

Tuition & Costs

Tuition at Esade varies by program. Undergraduate fees are posted annually, while MSc programs cost between €19,900 and €21,800. The Full-Time MBA ranges from €78,000 to €89,900 depending on the program length. Students should also budget €810–€1,390 per month for living expenses in Barcelona, which covers housing, food, and transportation. Compared to similar institutions in the U.S., Esade offers a high return on investment in terms of academic quality and international recognition.

Scholarship Opportunities

Esade is committed to making education accessible and offers numerous financial aid options. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and financial need. International students, including those from Turkey, are encouraged to apply early to increase their chances of receiving aid. Some awards cover full tuition, and others assist with living costs, ensuring that qualified students are not deterred by financial constraints.

5M€

The amount dedicated to the Scholarship Program

295

scholarship recipients

84%

of recipients’ tuition fees covered

8.4%

of undergraduate students are scholarship recipients

Campus Life

The main campus is located in Sant Cugat, just outside central Barcelona, and offers a collaborative and cutting-edge learning environment. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, innovation hubs, and a wide array of student-led organizations. Esade fosters a sense of community through workshops, competitions, and cultural events that encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and social engagement.

International Student Support

Esade offers tailored support services for international students, including orientation programs, visa assistance, and integration workshops. A dedicated international student office helps newcomers settle in and make the most of their academic journey. Language support and career counseling are also readily available to help students thrive both academically and socially.

Internships & Career Services

Career development is a central pillar of the Esade experience. Students benefit from personalized coaching, access to a global job board, and regular recruitment events. The school maintains strong ties with multinational corporations and startups, offering internships and job placements in Spain and abroad. These services are especially valuable for Turkish students aiming for international careers in business, finance, or consulting.

Alumni Network

Esade’s alumni network includes over 80,000 professionals in more than 100 countries. This global community actively supports current students through mentorship and networking. In Turkey, Esade alumni have established a strong presence in business, entrepreneurship, and academia, offering valuable local connections and career opportunities for new graduates.

80,000 Alumni

We are a responsible, global, diverse and connected community

74 Chapters

International communities connected and adding value

1.4M€ invested

During 2023/2024 course. We encourage the network to create their projects and we connect entrepreneurs and investors

+3,700

Alumni that have participated in the pro-bono social consultants. Offering their knowledge and expertise in different management areas, through 19 years

Location & Accessibility

Barcelona offers an exceptional quality of life, blending Mediterranean lifestyle with cosmopolitan energy. The city’s affordable cost of living, reliable public transport, and cultural richness make it ideal for international students. Esade’s campus in Sant Cugat is well-connected to the city center and offers a safe, student-friendly environment.

Visa and Residency

Turkish students must apply for a student visa to study in Spain. Upon arrival, they must register and apply for a residence card within 30 days. Esade’s international office provides step-by-step guidance on visa and residency applications, ensuring compliance with Spanish immigration regulations.

Application Process

Applications are submitted online via Esade’s dedicated portal. Undergraduate programs follow a rolling admissions policy with final deadlines in June for fall entry. Graduate and MBA programs have multiple rounds throughout the year, and early application is recommended to secure scholarships and housing.

Why Turkish Students Choose Esade

Turkish students are drawn to Esade for its global outlook, academic rigor, and strong career outcomes. The English-medium instruction, diverse student body, and proximity to Turkey make it especially attractive. Esade’s emphasis on ethical leadership and entrepreneurship also resonates with students aiming to make a meaningful impact in their careers.