How to Get Into ESADE’s BBA in Barcelona - Admissions Guide for 2025
ESADE’s global focus, practical approach to learning, and emphasis on innovation make it an ideal place for students eager to lead with purpose in a rapidly evolving business world.
What’s covered
Why Choose ESADE & Barcelona?
Program Overview – BBA at ESADE
Who Is It For?
Admission Requirements
Application Timeline & Process
Language Requirements
Motivation Letter & Interview Tips
Campus Life & Student Experience
Final Thoughts
Why Choose ESADE & Barcelona?
ESADE offers a world-class business education rooted in innovation, entrepreneurship, and global impact. Its Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) is consistently ranked among Europe’s top programs, taught entirely in English or in a bilingual format, and designed to prepare future leaders for international careers.
Located just outside Barcelona, in the modern Sant Cugat campus, ESADE students benefit from learning in one of Europe’s most dynamic and entrepreneurial hubs. Barcelona is home to global tech firms, venture capital networks, and a thriving startup ecosystem - providing direct access to real-world business opportunities. With a Mediterranean lifestyle, strong international community, and deep cultural history, the city offers the perfect environment for students looking to grow academically, professionally, and personally.
Ranked among Europe’s most sought-after and dynamic business programmes, ESADE’s BBA attracts the best and brightest.
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Program Overview – BBA at ESADE
Degree: 240 ECTS credits.
Intake: ~450 students, divided into bilingual (Spanish/English) and English-only tracks .
Curriculum:
Core management subjects: management, marketing, finance, operations, HR, statistics.
Elective minors (e.g., Marketing & Sustainability, Ethics in AI, Derivatives ) .
Starts with a strong foundation, then allows thematic specialisation .
Who Is It For?
Students seeking a top-tier European business education in an international, collaborative setting.
Those interested in a practical, real-world curriculum with group work and case studies.
Candidates drawn to innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
Admission Requirements
ESADE seeks ambitious, well-rounded applicants with strong academic performance and international outlooks. While extracurriculars and personal fit are essential, specific academic and test requirements are clearly defined:
Academic Requirements
IB Diploma:
Predicted score of 32/42 minimum (final scores must be no more than 3 points below).
Average score of admitted students: 36/42 (excluding TOK, EE, CAS).
Accepted math subjects:
Analysis & Approaches HL (≥4) / SL (≥5)
Applications & Interpretation HL (≥4) / SL (≥6)
A-Levels:
Minimum of 5 IGCSEs and 3 A-Levels.
Typical grade range: AAB to AAA.
Math is mandatory (≥B) for BBA, Law, Global Governance, and Leadership tracks.
For BBA & AI, Math A-level required (≥A*); Further Math highly recommended.
Admission Tests
ESADE Admissions Test is mandatory for most applicants and tests logic, numeracy, and English proficiency.
Alternatively, ESADE accepts:
SAT: Minimum 1200, average 1350
ACT: Minimum 24, average 30
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Application Timeline & Process
Rolling admissions with limited spots - apply early.
Steps:
Submit application:
Test scores (A-level, IB etc.)
Answer a few internal questions (e.g. why you want Esade etc.)
Complete admissions test (or submit SAT score).
Receive offer & start visa procedures (if international).
Language Requirements
(If previous education was not in English)
Accepted tests:
Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency: Minimum 190 (≥175 per component)
IELTS Academic: Minimum overall 7 (≥6 per component)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100 (≥20 per component) (Code: B051)
PTE Academic: Minimum 76 (≥50 per component)
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 160
Motivation Letter & Interview Tips
Motivation Letter: Explain why ESADE BBA, why the bilingual or English track, and long-term goals. Show leadership, global mindset, ethical drive.
Examples: Entrepreneurship, sustainable projects, internships, international exchanges, case competitions.
Interview: Expect questions on your motivation, teamwork, ethical reasoning, awareness of current business trends.
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Campus Life & Student Experience
Based at the scenic Sant Cugat campus, part of ESADE Creapolis, a hub for innovation.
Close to Barcelona for culture, sports, beaches and entrepreneurship.
Numerous student clubs (entrepreneurship, consulting, social impact), events, internships locally and globally.
Strong global exchange programs and internship pipeline with multinational companies.
Final Thoughts
ESADE’s BBA is a dynamic, globally ranked programme combining solid management education, cutting-edge digital innovation and sustainability minors . Located near vibrant Barcelona, it attracts ambitious, international students looking to launch impactful careers in business, consulting, marketing, finance, and beyond