Studying in Asia — what you need to know
For our audience that compares career pathways beyond medicine, we include Asia's top MBA schools: INSEAD (Singapore campus), NUS Business School, Nanyang Business School, CEIBS Shanghai and HKUST Hong Kong. These are not medical destinations — they are comparison guides for students weighing an MBA versus a medical career, which is a real crossover conversation we have with clients.
Universities we compare in Asia
Frequently asked questions
Why include MBA schools on a medical placement site?
Some of our clients weigh an MBA against a medical career, and Asian business schools frequently come up in these conversations. We provide guides so the comparison is fair.
Do you place students in Asian MBA programmes?
No — this is a comparison area only. We do not have placement partnerships with business schools.
Are these programmes English-taught?
Yes — INSEAD, NUS, Nanyang, CEIBS and HKUST all teach in English.
What is the entrance requirement for these MBAs?
GMAT or GRE, plus 3–5 years of professional experience for most programmes.
How much does an MBA at INSEAD or NUS cost?
INSEAD Singapore: SGD $110,000 total programme (one year). NUS: SGD $72,000. CEIBS: US $60,000. HKUST: HKD $580,000.
Which Asian MBA has the best global reputation?
INSEAD is regularly ranked in the world's top 5 MBAs; NUS and Nanyang are Asia's top-tier alternatives.
Is an MBA a good alternative to medicine?
Different career, different life. Medicine takes 6+ years and offers clinical practice; an MBA takes 1–2 years and opens business leadership roles. Neither is universally 'better'.
Can I switch from medicine to business later with an MBA?
Yes — physician-MBAs are common in healthcare leadership, medical device firms and hospital administration.
Which Asian city is best for MBA students?
Singapore (INSEAD, NUS, Nanyang) — high salaries, safe, English-medium and the region's business hub.