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Top 14+ Affordable Online MBA Programs for Skill Growth in 2025

Top 14+ Affordable Online MBA Programs for Skill Growth in 2025

Q: 1. Is an online MBA degree valid?

Yes, an online MBA degree is valid if it is accredited by recognized bodies like UGC, AICTE, AACSB, or AMBA, making it valid for jobs and further education.

Q: 2. Do MNCs accept online MBAs?

Yes, MNCs accept accredited online MBAs from reputed universities, especially when combined with relevant experience and skills.

Q: 3. Is an online MBA better than an offline MBA?

An online MBA offers flexibility and affordability, while an offline MBA provides campus networking and immersive learning.

Q: 4. Does an online MBA need an entrance exam?

Most online MBA programs do not require an entrance exam, but some universities may ask for CAT, GMAT, or university-specific tests.

Q: 5. Which university is best for an online MBA?

Top online MBA universities include IGNOU, UPES, Jain University, DY Patil University, IE Business School, and Warwick Business School.

Q: 6. Which MBA job has a high salary?

Roles in Investment Banking, Product Management, Consulting, and AI & Business Analytics offer the highest salaries.

Q: 7. Which skills can I gain from an online MBA?

You develop skills in strategic decision-making, financial management, data analytics, leadership, and digital marketing.

Q: 8. Which MBA specialization is high in demand?

Business Analytics, AI & Machine Learning, Digital Marketing, Finance, and Supply Chain Management are among the most in-demand specializations.

Q: 9. What are the benefits of online MBA programs?

An online MBA offers flexibility, career growth, global networking, and industry-relevant learning without leaving your job.

Q: 10. Does an online MBA give placements?

Many universities offer career support, virtual placement drives, resume building, and networking opportunities with hiring partners.

By upGrad

Updated on Feb 14, 2025 | 14 min read

An online MBA offers the flexibility to continue working while gaining specialized skills like strategic decision-making, preparing you for roles such as Project Manager and Operations Lead.

With online users expected to grow to 14.8m users by 2029, there is a clear indication that professionals prefer affordable online MBA programs to advance their careers without a break. In this blog, you’ll explore the top online MBA courses to upskill for career growth.

Top 14+ Affordable Online MBA Programs to Explore in 2025

Online programs offer flexibility to upskill while working, ideal for those seeking data-driven decision-making skills without full-time commitments. An online MBA not only gives management skills like leadership but also industry specializations like digital marketing, finance, and Human Resources.

Before checking out the courses in detail, here’s an overview.

MBA Program	Duration
MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University	1 year
MBA from UGNXT	15 months
MBA from Business & Law from O.P.Jindal Global University	1 year
Post Graduate Diploma in Management (BIMTECH)	2 years
Advanced General Management Program	11 months
MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University	1 year
CopilotXcelerate: The AI-Powered MBA	5 months
Online MBA from Manipal Academy of Higher Education	2 years
Online MBA from Warwick Business School	2 years
Online MBA from IGNOU	2 - 4 years
Online MBA from UPES	2 years
Online MBA by IE Business School	18 to 24 months
Online MBA from Chandigarh University	2 years
Online MBA from DY Patil University	2 years
Online MBA from Jain University	2 years

Here are some affordable online MBA programs you can explore in detail.

1. MBA from O.P.Jindal Global University by upGrad

Cost: INR 1.8L (total cost)

This program offers a specialized curriculum with seven options to tailor your learning. You can gain hands-on experience through real-world case studies in areas like financial modeling and behavioral finance.

You can also earn micro-certifications to showcase your expertise, gain alumni status in a distinguished network, and learn from elite faculty with industry knowledge.

Here are the features of this program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree in any stream with a minimum 50% aggregate score from a recognized university.
Specialization	Finance Human Resource Management Marketing Strategy and Leadership Supply Chain and Operations AI for Business Digital Finance
Placement Assistance	Guidance from career coaches on job search, interview prep, and career path planning. Practice mock interviews
Skills Gained	Familiarity with tools such as R Studio and Python. Understanding consumer behavior to design effective marketing strategies. Ability to lead teams and organizations effectively.

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2. MBA from UGNXT by upGrad

Cost: INR 1.7L (total cost)

This Woolf MBA, a European-licensed degree, is recognized as a Master’s equivalent in the US and Canada. It offers 13 specializations, industry-led learning, and blended classes (live + recorded).

The program includes soft skills training, project & MCQ-based evaluation, and 100% European ECTS credits.

Here are the highlights of the programs.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Candidate who has completed a bachelor’s degree.
Specialization	Finance Marketing Data Analytics Executive Leadership International Business Entrepreneurship Human Resources General Digital Marketing Product Management Supply Chain Management Healthcare Management Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Skills Gained	Data Analytics skills like financial modeling. Entrepreneurship skills like startup management. HR skills like communication and negotiation.

3. MBA from Business & Law from O.P.Jindal Global University by upGrad

Cost: INR 1.8L (total cost)

This 1-year online MBA in Business and Law provides holistic business knowledge with experiential projects each term for practical learning.

Recognized as an Institution of Eminence by India’s Ministry of Education, the program offers live & recorded classes, world-class faculty, and dedicated student support. The university is also a member of AACSB, the gold standard for American accreditation.

Here are the highlights of this program

Feature	Details
Eligibility	A bachelor’s degree in any field. If you have less than 50% marks in graduation, you need to appear for an online JMAT Entrance examination.
Specialization	Contractual Obligations for Enterprises Industrial Relations Regulation of New Technologies, AI Data Protection Framework for Business Regulation of Corporations Competition, Business and Markets M&A and Private Equity Banking and Financial Regulations The Fundamentals of Arbitration Negotiation and Mediation for Business
Placement Assistance	Access to job postings from upGrad’s 500+ hiring partners. Access to AI-powered resume builder tool.
Skills Gained	Knowledge of corporate law and regulatory frameworks. Knowledge of intellectual property law and startup regulations Contract negotiation and conflict resolution skills

4. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (BIMTECH) by upGrad

Cost: INR 2.7L (total cost)

This program, accredited by AACSB, offers dual specializations in Marketing, Finance, IT, Analytics, BIFS, Operations, and General Management.

Taught by BIMTECH faculty and industry experts, it features blended learning (live & recorded lectures), 360° career support, career coaching, and alumni status from BIMTECH.

Here are the details of the program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	A bachelor’s degree from a UGC-approved institute with a minimum score of 50% for General/OBC category students and 45% for students of the SC/ST category.
Specialization	IT Analytics BIFS (Banking, Insurance & Financial Services) Marketing Finance Supply Chain & Operations
Placement Assistance	Personalized mentorship by industry experts. 6-months of coaching by top career coaches Mock interview preparations and resume-building tools. Access to the upGrad career portal with job listings.
Skills Gained	Business intelligence and IT-driven decision-making. Strategic decision-making and organizational management. Knowledge of consumer behavior and product positioning.

5. Advanced General Management Program (IMT Ghaziabad) by upGrad

Cost: INR 1.5L (total cost)

This certification from IMT Ghaziabad provides associate alumni status and hands-on learning with 10 industrial case studies.

You can receive mentoring sessions with industry experts and career assistance with placement support. EMI options are available for flexible payment. The credits gained here can be used to pursue an MBA degree in the future.

Here are the highlights of the program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	A 50% score in any bachelor’s degree
Specialization	Marketing Management Business Communication Decision Sciences Accounting and Finance Business Economics Sales and Distribution OB, HR Legal Supply Chain Management Business Strategy Leadership, Engagement and People Performance Leading Change for Sustainable Futures Enterprise and Risk Management Digital Business Innovation
Placement Assistance	1:1 Sessions with career experts. Feedback session with industry mentors.
Skills Gained	Knowledge of business law and ethics. Fundamentals of business analytics and hypothesis testing. Principles of supply chain management. Understanding consumer behavior and marketing channels.

Learn how to design your marketing strategy by understanding customer behavior. Join the free course on Introduction to Consumer Behavior.

6. MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) by upGrad

Cost: INR 2.1L (total cost)

This 12-month fast-track MBA offers 7 specializations, hands-on learning through real-world case studies and micro-certifications. You can gain alumni status and learn from top faculty and industry leaders, ensuring a practical, career-focused education.

Here are the details of the program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
Specialization	Finance Human Resource Management Marketing Strategy and Leadership Supply Chain and Operations Management Digital Finance AI for Business
Placement Assistance	Receive 1:1 guidance from career coaches Practice interviews at your convenience Access to the career portal
Skills Gained	Data-driven decision-making and market analysis Knowledge of digital marketing techniques Knowledge of corporate laws and regulations Negotiation and communication skills

Learn fundamental communication skills like writing, gesturing, speaking, and broadcasting. Join the free course on Fundamentals of Communication.

7. CopilotXcelerate: The AI-Powered MBA by upGrad

Cost: INR 20K (total cost)

This course provides AI-driven productivity training with 5 live sessions led by experts and 1-month access to Microsoft 365 Copilot Pro.

You will learn to optimize business strategies, streamline workflows, and improve communication using Copilot in Word. Other features include personalized feedback, exclusive community access, and a certificate of completion.

Here are the program’s features.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Individuals enrolled in an MBA program. Business leaders aiming to use AI for strategic decision-making. Professionals looking to increase their productivity and efficiency.
Skills Gained	Improving efficiency using AI tools Create professional reports and charts using Copilot AI-powered resume-building

8. Online MBA from Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Cost: 1.75L (total cost)

This is a 2-year program designed for professionals looking for career advancement. It offers 10 specializations, including Business Analytics and Marketing, with blended learning (live & recorded classes).

The program also offers placement assistance, career mentorship, resume building, and industry-readiness sessions.

Here are the features of the program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	A bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% score. One year of professional work experience
Specialization	Business Analytics Data Science Marketing Healthcare Management Finance Human Resource Management Information Systems Operations Management Pharmaceutical Management Fashion Management
Placement Assistance	Resume and LinkedIn profile building. Industry-readiness sessions to familiarize you with current trends and expectations. Interview preparation, including mock interviews.
Skills Gained	Analytical skills to drive business strategies. Problem-solving skills to discover issues and implement effective solutions. Make strategic decisions that are in line with organizational goals.

9. Online MBA from Warwick Business School

Total Cost: GBP 41,500 (INR 49.3L)

It is a part-time program designed for professionals aiming to improve business skills without taking a career break. Along with flexible online learning, you can specialize in areas such as the economics of the business environment or sustainable energy.

The program’s features include the following.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Minimum of three years of professional experience.
Specialization	Social and Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Healthcare Management
Placement Assistance	Access to a global network of alumni and opportunities for professional growth.
Skills Gained	Strategic leadership development Understanding global businesses Communication skills Sustainable business practices

10. Online MBA from IGNOU

Cost: INR 15,500 per semester

This course offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University is a two-year postgraduate program aimed to provide comprehensive business administration education through a flexible online platform. It has a maximum duration of 4 years to complete.

The highlights of the programs include:

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) from a recognized university.
Specialization	Human Resource Management Financial Management Operations Management Marketing Management
Placement Assistance	No specific services are offered
Skills Gained	Human Resource Management skills like communication Strategic decision-making Operations management

11. Online MBA from UPES

INR: 1.75L (total cost)

This program is designed for working professionals looking to upskill in energy, logistics, business analytics, and digital business. It includes real-world case studies, leadership training, and strategic decision-making modules to make you job-ready for managerial and leadership roles.

Here are the highlights of the program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% score.
Specialization	Oil and Gas Management Power Management Logistics and Supply Chain Management Business Analytics Infrastructure Management International Business Marketing Management Human Resource Management Operations Management Financial Management
Placement Assistance	Resume building, interview preparation, and access to a network of industry partners.
Skills Gained	Leadership and Management Abilities Communication and interpersonal skills Problem-solving skills

Discover the various tools and frameworks to approach problems in a structured manner. Join the free course on Complete Guide to Problem Solving Skills.

12. Online MBA by IE Business School

Total Cost: €60,000 - 62,000 (INR 54.2L - 56.1L)

It is a flexible program designed for professionals aiming for leadership roles without career disruption. Its flexible online learning offers a practical, case-based approach to business strategy, innovation, and leadership.

Here are the features of this program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	A bachelor's degree from a recognized institution and a minimum of 3 years of professional experience. You may also need to provide entrance exam scores like GMAT.
Specialization	Digital Transformation & Innovation Entrepreneurship & Corporate Venturing Finance & Investment Strategy Marketing & Consumer Insights
Placement Assistance	Access to a global network of alumni Career counseling Job placement assistance resources like resume-building sessions
Skills Gained	Capability to communicate ideas clearly Data analysis to drive business decisions Knowledge of international markets

13. Online MBA from Chandigarh University

Cost: 1.58L (total cost)

This flexible learning program is designed for professionals seeking industry-aligned business expertise with flexible online learning. It offers 16 specializations, including Marketing, International Business, and HR, catering to diverse career goals.

The course includes real-world case studies, hands-on projects, and placement assistance with 300+ hiring partners.

Here are the main features of this program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree in any stream from a recognized university.
Main Specializations	Marketing Management Human Resource Management Finance International Business Digital Marketing Entrepreneurship Operations Management Logistics & Supply Chain Management Banking and Insurance Retail Management
Placement Assistance	Access to a job portal Internship opportunities Career support services like interview guidance
Skills Gained	Ability to analyze complex business scenarios Analytical thinking to drive business strategies Strong written and communication skills

14. Online MBA from DY Patil University

Cost: INR 1.89L (total cost)

This 2-year online course offers 15+ specializations, including Finance, Digital Marketing, and AI & Machine Learning. It includes real-world case studies, industry-aligned projects, and placement assistance in the form of mock interviews and virtual placement drives.

Here are the main features of the program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Specialization	Marketing Management Human Resource Management Finance Management IT Management Operations Management Hospital Administration and Health Care Management FinTech Management Business Analytics Management Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Management Logistics, Materials & Supply Chain Management Blockchain Management Digital Marketing Management AgriBusiness Management
Placement Assistance	Skills training sessions Internship opportunities Career services like job search strategies
Skills Gained	Data interpretation skills to drive business strategies Management skills to handle organizational resources

15. Online MBA from Jain University

Cost: INR 49K (total cost)

This online program offers 22+ specializations, including Finance, Digital Marketing, and International Finance (ACCA-UK accredited). It offers features like flexible learning, hands-on industry projects, and global networking opportunities.

You can also avail dedicated placement assistance, career mentorship, and access to 300+ hiring partners.

Here are the main features of this program.

Feature	Details
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks. A relaxation of 5% is given to SC/ST candidates.
Major Specializations	General Management Systems and Operations Management Data Science & Analytics Digital Marketing & E-Commerce Project Management Logistics and Supply Chain Management Healthcare Management Entrepreneurship and Leadership Information Technology Management Banking and Finance Human Resource Management and Finance Marketing and Human Resource Management Retail Banking Operations
Placement Assistance	Career assistance includes counseling, resume building, interview guidelines, and access to a network of industry partners.
Skills Gained	Knowledge of global trade policies and financial regulations. Knowledge of emerging technologies and automation strategies. Startup management and compliance knowledge.

Also Read: The Emerging Technologies to Watch for

Now that you’ve explored the top online MBA courses offering various specializations at affordable costs, let’s look at how to choose the best program.

How to Choose the Best Affordable Online MBA Programs in 2025?

You can choose an affordable online MBA based on specializations (e.g., Digital Marketing), career services (e.g., resume building), and industry focus (e.g., finance).

Here’s how you can choose the best affordable online MBA programs.

Recognition & Credibility

Make sure that the program is approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., UGC, AICTE in India or AACSB, AMBA globally) and recognized by employers.

Example: IE Business School’s Global Online MBA is AACSB-accredited, ensuring global credibility.

Curriculum & Flexibility

Choose a course that is regularly updated, offers practical learning, and has self-paced or live class options for working professionals.

Example: Warwick Business School’s Online MBA offers a flexible, case-based curriculum with optional in-person residencies.

Investment & Returns

Compare tuition fees, scholarship options, and long-term career benefits to ensure a strong ROI. The course should ultimately help you secure growth in salary.

Example: IGNOU’s Online MBA costs INR 62,000 total, making it an affordable option with value for money.

Available Specializations

Choose programs that offer industry-relevant specializations like Digital Marketing, AI & ML, or Business Analytics based on career goals.

Example: Jain University’s Online MBA offers 22 specializations, including International Finance (ACCA-UK accredited).

Also Read: List of MBA Specializations: Which One Should You Do?

Career Support & Alumni Connections

Check if the program offers resume-building, mock interviews, job placement support, and a strong alumni network to boost job prospects.

Example: DY Patil University’s Online MBA offers virtual placement drives and 300+ hiring partners.

Industry Alignment

The programs must be designed for real-world applications (e.g., digital marketing) with case studies, hands-on projects, and industry tie-ups.

Example: UPES Online MBA specializes in Oil & Gas, Logistics, and Business Analytics, aligning with energy and tech industries.

After looking at the tips to choose the best affordable online MBA programs, let’s check out the potential job roles after completion of the course.

Top Career Opportunities After an Online MBA

Online MBA programs help you gain skills like strategic decision-making and business communications, helping you land jobs like HR manager and operations manager.

Here are some job roles you can land after online MBA programs.

Job Roles	Average Annual Salary
Investment Banker	INR 11L
Operations Manager	INR 10L
Product Manager	INR 20L
HR Manager	INR 8L
Business Analyst	INR 8L
Digital Marketing Manager	INR 8L

Source: Glassdoor

After exploring the job roles available after an online MBA, let’s look at how you can develop the skills needed to succeed in this field.

How Can You Advance Your Career with upGrad’s Online MBA Programs?

Online MBA programs help you develop strategic communication, financial management, marketing, and data-driven decision-making skills.

With upGrad, you gain these skills through affordable programs, industry-led mentorship, and real-world projects. You will also receive career services like resume building and mock interviews, ensuring strong career growth.

Here are some free courses that can also help you upskill on the side:

Unsure which course aligns with your career goals? upGrad offers personalized counseling to help map your learning journey and choose the right path. You can also visit your nearest upGrad offline center for an interactive experience!

Enhance your expertise with our Popular MBA Courses. Explore the programs below to find your ideal fit.

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Master of Business Administration from Golden Gate University	Master of Business Administration (MBA) Liverpool Business School	MBA from Deakin Business School
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is an online MBA degree valid?

2. Do MNCs accept online MBAs?

3. Is an online MBA better than an offline MBA?

4. Does an online MBA need an entrance exam?

5. Which university is best for an online MBA?

6. Which MBA job has a high salary?

7. Which skills can I gain from an online MBA?

8. Which MBA specialization is high in demand?

9. What are the benefits of online MBA programs?

10. Does an online MBA give placements?

11. Which project is best for online MBA programs?

References
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/investment-banker-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/operations-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/product-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,15.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/human-resources-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,23.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/business-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,16.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/digital-marketing-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
https://www.statista.com/outlook/emo/online-education/online-university-education/india

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