Top 10 Best Business Schools for Finance in Europe (2025)
by Pavel Danilyuk
For students looking to build a successful career in finance, Europe offers some of the world’s top business schools with outstanding academic programmes, global networking opportunities, and strong industry connections.
European business schools are renowned for their practical education, constantly updated courses reflecting the latest industry trends, and access to financial hubs such as London, Frankfurt, and Paris.
Whether you aim to work in investment banking, asset management, fintech, or corporate finance, earning a finance degree from a prestigious European institution will give you a competitive edge in the job market.
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Based on the Financial Times (), here are the best business schools in 2025 for Finance degrees in Europe:
| Rank in Europe | University | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ESCP Business School | France |
| 2 | HEC Paris | France |
| 3 | Skema Business School | France |
| 4 | Essec Business School | France |
| 5 | Edhec Business School | France |
| 6 | Nova School of Business and Economics | Portugal |
| 7 | University of Oxford: Saïd | United Kingdom |
| 8 | London Business School | United Kingdom |
| 9 | University of St Gallen | Switzerland |
| 10 | IE Business School | Spain |
Keep in mind that rankings can differ based on specific factors like academic reputation, employability, alumni success, and industry partnerships. A school may excel in some aspects but not rank highly overall. Some other top universities to consider applying to are:
Many of the above are target schools for investment banks and consulting firms. Enrol in one of them and chances are high you will have a lucrative job offer well before graduation.
Additionally, the right business school for you will depend on your specialisation. Some schools are better than others in specific areas, or may have better ties with certain banks or companies that make it easier to pursue your desired path. Another important decision factor may be that some top business schools also offer preparatory courses for professional exams and qualifications like the or .
When choosing a business school for finance, accreditation plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality of education and global recognition of your degree. Many of the top business schools in Europe hold triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, often referred to as the “Triple Crown.” Schools with this distinction meet the highest international standards in business education, making them more recognized and valued by employers worldwide.
Different European countries have strengths in specific areas of business and finance. Depending on your specialization, you may want to explore programmes in:
France – A hub for luxury brand management, corporate finance, and consulting.
Spain – Known for entrepreneurship, international business, and innovation.
Switzerland – Leader in wealth management and banking.
Scandinavia – Focused on sustainable finance, digital business, and leadership.
When considering institutions, it is important to understand the differences between business schools and universities.
...but it is difficult to generalise like this across the board. Choose between those options ensuring that the curriculum aligns with your aspirations - and that the practical opportunities (like internships) line up with your goals.
If you’re unsure whether Finance is the right degree for you, a traditional university may offer better alternatives or at least electable courses to learn things in other areas.
On average, Bachelors in finance at European business schools range from €10,000 to €20,000 per year, while Master’s degrees typically cost between €15,000 and €30,000 per year. However, tuition fees vary depending on the university, country, and level of study.
At top-ranked business schools and private institutions, tuition fees can exceed €40,000 per year. For example, at London Business School (LBS), a Master in Finance can cost around €70,000, while at HEC Paris, fees for a similar programme are around €45,000 per year.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, consider public universities in Germany, Austria, or the Nordic countries, where tuition fees can be significantly lower and sometimes even free for EU/EEA students. However, admission to these programs can be highly competitive.
The cost of living should be also considered in your budget, especially in major financial hubs like London, Zurich, and Paris, where rent and daily expenses can be high. Like a good Finance graduate, crunch the numbers in your favourite spreadsheet software and make sure you can afford the investment!
50業子 Tip: Research scholarships, early-bird discounts, and other financial aid options offered by universities. You can also join student groups on social media to get budgeting tips and insights from current students. Finance students are usually quite outspoken on discussion forums and share insights on recruitment interviews and other aspects of the admissions process.
The admissions requirements for finance degrees in Europe typically includes the following:
Application deadlines typically fall between May and July, but they can vary depending on the institution and country. Many business schools offer rolling admissions throughout the year and may provide multiple intake options. At EU Business School, enrollment is available year-round, with up to 5 different start dates.
Alumni success is a key indicator of the programme’s effectiveness and the opportunities it offers. Successful graduates can provide valuable information on the quality of education, networking opportunities, and the career pathways available.
Most business schools often have strong networks, with alumni working in prestigious finance roles worldwide. Given the high tuition fees at many business schools, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask alumni about their experiences and the return on investment they’ve seen in their careers. Don’t be shy: Professionals especially mid-career (like Vice Presidents at investment banks or Managers / Senior Managers at advisory firms) are more responsive than you might think, because they are often actively involved in hiring for entry-level positions. Their insights can guide you in making an informed decision about your future.
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