Is MBA Worth It? Real Costs, Returns, and Who Benefits Most

When people ask MBA worth it, a postgraduate business degree designed to build leadership, strategy, and management skills. Also known as Master of Business Administration, it’s one of the most talked-about degrees in India and abroad. They’re not just wondering if it looks good on a resume—they’re asking if it’ll change their life. The answer isn’t yes or no. It’s: it depends. On your goals, your current job, your industry, and how much you’re willing to invest—not just in money, but in time and energy.

The average MBA in India costs between ₹10 lakh and ₹25 lakh, depending on the college. Top schools like IIMs might charge even more. But here’s what no one tells you: the real cost isn’t the tuition. It’s the two years you’re not earning. If you’re making ₹8 lakh a year now, you’re giving up ₹16 lakh in salary alone. That’s before living expenses. So why do people still do it? Because for some, the return is massive. Finance MBAs from top institutes regularly land packages over ₹30 lakh. Marketing and analytics roles are climbing fast too. But if you’re already working in a stable job with growth, an MBA might not move the needle. It’s not a magic wand—it’s a tool. And like any tool, it only works if you know how to use it.

What really matters isn’t the degree itself. It’s what you do with it. An MBA from a mid-tier college won’t automatically get you a job at McKinsey. But if you use those two years to build real skills—learn Excel like a pro, master case interviews, network with alumni, take on internships that matter—you’ll stand out. The same goes for international MBAs. A degree from a US school can open doors, but only if you’re clear on your path. Don’t chase the brand. Chase the outcome. Are you aiming for a switch to consulting? Then focus on case prep. Want to move into product management? Learn analytics and user research. Think of the MBA as a launchpad, not a parachute.

You’ll find posts here that dig into what majors actually pay the most, how your undergrad background affects your MBA chances, and what employers really look for. We’ve got data on IITians who went for MBAs and ended up leading tech teams. We’ve got breakdowns of salary trends in 2025. We’ve even got stories from people who skipped the MBA and built careers anyway. This isn’t about pushing you toward a degree. It’s about giving you the facts so you can decide—without hype, without pressure, without guessing.