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Our 10 Most Read Stories Of 2021 | Finance Careers, Visas, MBA Salaries & More!

Visa bans, rankings revolution, and a dean convicted for fraud—it’s been quite the year for business school candidates. Find out your top 10 most popular stories of 2021

Tue Dec 21 2021

BusinessBecause
Careers in finance, rankings, salaries, STEM MBAs, and an outgoing president’s visa ban were among your most popular stories of 2021!

In a year when demand for business education remained high amid the ongoing covid pandemic, we saw McKinsey set out to hire record numbers of MBAs, applicants in India hit by surging Covid cases, and the former dean of Fox School of Business convicted for fraud.

INSEAD topped the Financial Times MBA ranking and HEC Paris was named the best European business school. Stanford topped rankings by US News and Bloomberg, while some business schools snubbed MBA rankings altogether.

The cost of an MBA increased in 2021 despite covid and MIT Sloan was again named the world’s most expensive MBA program, as we released our flagship BusinessBecause Cost of MBA Report.

In 2021, we also published our exclusive application guides for Full-Time MBA, Online MBA, and Master in Management candidates, free to download via our resources page.

We revealed your post-MBA career opportunities in our MBA Jobs & Salary Reviews and went behind the scenes at top business schools in our MBA Application Insider series.

We launched our video application guides and successful alumni stories on our BusinessBecause YouTube channel, alongside our live events and BusinessBecause Presents webinars.

And, in our popular BB Insights series, we drew on the expertise of top professors to investigate trending topics, including beauty bias in the workplace, the future of cinema, and the rise of TikTok entrepreneurs.

Here’s your most read stories of 2021:


10.

Will Biden Lift The H1B Visa Ban?

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©Gage Skidmore

Trump’s H-1B visa suspension prevented international business school students from finding jobs in the United States. With Biden as President, we asked: Will the visa ban be lifted? Answer: Yes, it was!


9.

Best Business Schools In The World | Financial Times MBA Ranking

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©INSEAD-Facebook

Find out which business schools topped the Financial Times MBA Ranking 2021, as Harvard, Wharton, and Stanford declined to participate


8.

Top STEM MBA Programs In The United States—And How Much They Cost

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©Tepper FB

STEM MBA programs are increasingly popular, offering benefits to both domestic and international students. Here are the top US MBA programs with STEM designations


7.

Indian School Of Business MBA Jobs & Salary Review

387bab8c6abfc828aa121de919737d34ed5f93b8.png

© ISB Facebook

Which companies hire MBAs from the Indian School of Business? What do ISB MBAs earn? Find out in our ISB MBA Jobs & Salary Review


6.

The Top 15 Companies That Sponsor H1B Visas

79f344210317aaaf8a8835266006dcac395d1cf0.png

©FinkAvenue

It's the visa that allows international MBA talent to stay and work in the US after graduation. Find out the top companies that sponsor H-1B visas


5.

What Is The Average MBA Salary In The USA?

30d35ac106bdb3a21a5c3be548fec07f22424b37.png

©HBS Facebook

What is the average salary of an MBA graduate in the USA? Explore average MBA salary by industry and MBA salaries at Harvard, Stanford, and more


4.

Are Google Career Certificates Worth It?

2581a08c588349575fe2b6d600c1578a54c4b5c2.png

©JHVEPhoto

Google launched three new certificate courses on Coursera in data analytics, project management, and UX design in 2021. But is studying for Google Career Certificates worth the effort?


3.

Quantic MBA Review: Curriculum, Admissions, Pros & Cons

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©Nadasaki

The Quantic MBA is a low cost, entirely online, accredited MBA. So how does it compare to a traditional MBA?


2.

The 6 Easiest Countries To Get A Work Visa

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©william87

Want to start an international career? We list six of the easiest countries to get a work visa after business school


1.

Is Finance A Good Career Path?

d74b1e7982719a2b301d017394ca09e335cce50b.png

©J2R

It’s one of the most popular industries for graduating MBAs—but is finance a good career path? Find out how much you could earn and how to land the best jobs in finance in our most popular story of 2021.


With 2021 coming to a close, we’re already looking ahead to the year ahead. Check out our MBA professors and MBA entrepreneurs to watch in 2022!

Student Reviews

HEC Paris

Student

Verified

7/07/2022

On Campus

Cultural experience

I have met the most competent and diverse batch in this school. These people not only thrive on their own but also makes sure that you are doing it with them. The professors will take your had and walk you through all milestones and make sure you are not left behind. I have found their extracurriculars extremely engaging. There was always a room to have social life after academic life. The only hindrance is the location of the school, it is slightly outside city and living in city is expensive.

Sarah

Verified

18/03/2022

On Campus

Internationality and diversity of opportunities

About my programme I would say it is very international and flexible: we have the opportunity to choose exactly the courses we want. But at the same time, the frame of the campus is crucial in students' life and enable us to create friendships.

Student

Verified

29/10/2021

On Campus

Great selection of people

While HEC's MBA is highly selective, I really enjoy the type of people HEC's selects to make sure everybody gets the best out of their MBA experience and networking opportunities. Not only it's an incredibly diverse pool of people (~60 nationalities) but most importantly they make sure to let in friendly empathic and curious people.

Veronique

Verified

28/10/2021

Blended

Best in France for Grande ecole

A prestigious business school. Languages ​​are important. It is better to have a scientific baccalaureate with excellent grades in high school and good assessments. The courses are well designed as per the latest trends and practicality of learning in stressed upon. Overall, a very good experience.

Ghadi

Verified

11/06/2022

On Campus

Diversity and quality of fellow students

Very international and interesting place to be and opens a lot of opportunities, however the administration is very french and facilities are subpar (gym, classrooms) meaning the academic affairs is pretty much useless and lastly we are graded on a curve which can create a toxic environment because of the competition. With that being said the pros outweighs the cons by far.

Student

Verified

27/03/2022

On Campus

The quality of the teachers, the campus, the clubs

The school is very international indeed, we have courses with international students and share things with them within the extra academic life (in the social clubs especially). We have great career prospects if we prepare ourselves well - however, the global curriculum is still very finance-oriented, which is a pity for other interesting domains of the company world, which does not rely on finance only. The social clubs are good practice for the management and for now, are quite independent.

Lb

Verified

26/03/2022

On Campus

HEC Paris awaits you

HEC Paris is really a nice place to do a master's in business. Many classes are useful and interesting (corporate finance, financial accounting, contract law…), some are less - but the curriculum is to be reviewed in the year to come. Regarding the student life, it is incredible, with about 130 clubs, lots of great parties with even greater people. The Jouy campus offers a lot of opportunities to do sports, and you can breathe fresh air every day. HEC also helps a great deal to find an internship or a job.

Rajarshi

Verified

28/10/2021

Blended

A dream institute

Enrolling in the HEC MBA was by far the best decision I made for myself. The people and faculty are great, with lots of opportunities to meet people and expand your horizons. Very nice campus where I have had some good running sessions. The alumni network is superb and very helpful. It also has a good support system for entrepreneurs. Would definitely recommend it!

Student

Verified

19/10/2021

On Campus

Good choice for a career boost

The classes were extremely practical and relevant to the current challenges that businesses are facing. You have access to a wide range of professionals and good career prospects once you leave the university.

Student

Verified

7/07/2022

On Campus

Cultural experience

I have met the most competent and diverse batch in this school. These people not only thrive on their own but also makes sure that you are doing it with them. The professors will take your had and walk you through all milestones and make sure you are not left behind. I have found their extracurriculars extremely engaging. There was always a room to have social life after academic life. The only hindrance is the location of the school, it is slightly outside city and living in city is expensive.

Sarah

Verified

18/03/2022

On Campus

Internationality and diversity of opportunities

About my programme I would say it is very international and flexible: we have the opportunity to choose exactly the courses we want. But at the same time, the frame of the campus is crucial in students' life and enable us to create friendships.

Student

Verified

29/10/2021

On Campus

Great selection of people

While HEC's MBA is highly selective, I really enjoy the type of people HEC's selects to make sure everybody gets the best out of their MBA experience and networking opportunities. Not only it's an incredibly diverse pool of people (~60 nationalities) but most importantly they make sure to let in friendly empathic and curious people.

Veronique

Verified

28/10/2021

Blended

Best in France for Grande ecole

A prestigious business school. Languages ​​are important. It is better to have a scientific baccalaureate with excellent grades in high school and good assessments. The courses are well designed as per the latest trends and practicality of learning in stressed upon. Overall, a very good experience.

Ghadi

Verified

11/06/2022

On Campus

Diversity and quality of fellow students

Very international and interesting place to be and opens a lot of opportunities, however the administration is very french and facilities are subpar (gym, classrooms) meaning the academic affairs is pretty much useless and lastly we are graded on a curve which can create a toxic environment because of the competition. With that being said the pros outweighs the cons by far.

Student

Verified

27/03/2022

On Campus

The quality of the teachers, the campus, the clubs

The school is very international indeed, we have courses with international students and share things with them within the extra academic life (in the social clubs especially). We have great career prospects if we prepare ourselves well - however, the global curriculum is still very finance-oriented, which is a pity for other interesting domains of the company world, which does not rely on finance only. The social clubs are good practice for the management and for now, are quite independent.

Lb

Verified

26/03/2022

On Campus

HEC Paris awaits you

HEC Paris is really a nice place to do a master's in business. Many classes are useful and interesting (corporate finance, financial accounting, contract law…), some are less - but the curriculum is to be reviewed in the year to come. Regarding the student life, it is incredible, with about 130 clubs, lots of great parties with even greater people. The Jouy campus offers a lot of opportunities to do sports, and you can breathe fresh air every day. HEC also helps a great deal to find an internship or a job.

Rajarshi

Verified

28/10/2021

Blended

A dream institute

Enrolling in the HEC MBA was by far the best decision I made for myself. The people and faculty are great, with lots of opportunities to meet people and expand your horizons. Very nice campus where I have had some good running sessions. The alumni network is superb and very helpful. It also has a good support system for entrepreneurs. Would definitely recommend it!

Student

Verified

19/10/2021

On Campus

Good choice for a career boost

The classes were extremely practical and relevant to the current challenges that businesses are facing. You have access to a wide range of professionals and good career prospects once you leave the university.

Student

Verified

1/06/2024

On Campus

Diverse

HEC, as an academic institution, serves as a launching pad for students to excel in their pursuits and careers. The diversity among students and professors is truly remarkable. The chance to attend seminars across five major continents is unparalleled. The exposure and relationships it fosters are invaluable.

Student

Verified

31/05/2024

On Campus

Super diverse

It's a super diverse and fascinating environment with tons of chances, but the management is very French, and the facilities like the gym and classrooms are not great. This makes the academic side quite ineffective. Plus, we're graded on a curve, leading to a competitive and sometimes toxic atmosphere. Despite all that, the benefits definitely overshadow the drawbacks.

John

Verified

10/06/2024

On Campus

Surreal academic experience

What stood out to me about HEC was the direction and insight it offered on coding approaches. Prior to joining the program, I attempted self-learning, but I felt disoriented and lacked a starting point.HEC enabled me to grasp the basics of programming and provided support when I encountered obstacles. Without that guidance, I doubt I would have achieved the progress I have made to date.

John

Verified

10/06/2024

On Campus

Good security

HEC boasts a dedicated team of security personnel who undergo rigorous training to ensure the perpetual maintenance of tranquility and orderliness within the institution. Their unwavering efforts are directed towards fostering a sense of security among the student body, thereby enabling them to channel their energies predominantly towards their academic pursuits.

Student

Verified

17/07/2024

On Campus

Innovative teaching method

I am thoroughly enjoying my time at HEC, from the innovative teaching methods to the welcoming campus environment, which is particularly supportive of international students. The extracurricular opportunities, such as sports and associations, are incredibly valuable. Additionally, the career services offered are exceptional. Overall, I find my experience at HEC to be truly enriching.

Student

Verified

3/10/2024

On Campus

mim

HEC Paris has been a transformative experience for me. The caliber of the faculty, the diversity of the student body, and the global network it offers are unmatched. The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their career goals, and the focus on real-world application through case studies and consulting projects provides invaluable hands-on experience. The campus itself is beautiful, and the opportunities to engage with leading companies through internships, competitions, and networking events have been incredible. HEC truly prepares you to be a leader in today's complex business world. I couldn’t have asked for a better program to propel my career forward.

Student

Verified

21/09/2024

On Campus

Unwavering enthusiasm

Here's the first paragraph: I embarked on a journey to Paris, where HEC University welcomed me with open arms. As I stepped onto its prestigious campus, I was captivated by the infectious energy and innovative spirit that filled the air. The passionate faculty, industry experts, and fellow visionaries from around the globe shared their knowledge with unwavering enthusiasm."

Student

Verified

9/10/2024

On Campus

Exceptional Experience

HEC offers an exceptional experience that I highly recommend. The small-town setting allows for a unique blend of academic rigor and community engagement. The peaceful campus and close-knit student body create a warm environment. Proactive engagement with professors yields valuable guidance. Friendships may blossom slowly, but persistence pays off. The city's beauty, scenic views, and diverse eateries near campus enrich the experience. University dining may not impress, but it's decent.

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