Cranfield School of Management
Bedford, United Kingdom
- Cost of Living£ 12,576
- Tuition Fee From£ 27,650
- Country Rank-
- Batch Strength5,255
- Global Diversity-
- Gender Ratio58:42
Overview
About
Cranfield School of Management, established in 1967, is one of the oldest business schools in Europe. As part of Cranfield University—the UK's only exclusively postgraduate institution—it uniquely bridges technology and leadership. The university originated in 1946 as the College of Aeronautics on a former RAF base, evolving into a hub of innovation that has significantly influenced societal operations and learning.
The School of Management is globally recognized for its exceptional leadership development programs, robust industry connections, and practical approach. Each year, Cranfield attracts around 5,000 postgraduate students from over 100 countries, offering a diverse range of executive and professional development programs. To meet the needs of both students and organizations, Cranfield designs its programs with flexibility and creativity, supported by advanced learning tools. Study options include full-time, part-time, and flexible modules.
The faculty at Cranfield School of Management are actively involved in consulting and business-relevant research, maintaining direct engagement with the demands of industry and government. This commitment ensures that their teaching remains current and applicable. The school holds the prestigious triple accreditation from AACSB International, AMBA, and EQUIS, placing it among the top 1% of business schools worldwide.
Ranking
Cranfield School of Management is widely recognized as one of the world’s top business schools, consistently ranking among the best in global and European rankings. Its strong industry ties, cutting-edge research, and commitment to career progression make it a preferred choice for ambitious professionals.
Recent Rankings and Recognition:
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Financial Times European Business School Rankings 2024: 4th in the UK and 25th in Europe.
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FT Global MBA Ranking 2025: 1st in Europe and 10th globally for career progression; ranked among the Top 10 in Europe and Top 20 globally for value for money.
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Financial Times MBA Rankings 2024: Full-time MBA program ranked 9th in the UK and 27th in Europe.
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Financial Times Masters in Management 2024: Ranked 4th in the UK, 1st for international student experience and value for money.
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QS World University Rankings 2025 (Management MSc): 6th in the UK and 34th globally, 2nd in the UK for return on investment.
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Financial Times Masters in Finance 2024: Finance MSc ranked 7th in the UK and among the Top 50 globally.
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QS World University Rankings 2025 (Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc): 2nd in the UK and 12th worldwide, 1st in the UK for return on investment.
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QS World University Rankings 2025 (Strategic Marketing MSc): 5th in the UK and 22nd globally, ranked 12th worldwide for employability.
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Bloomberg Businessweek Best B-Schools 2024-25: 4th in the UK, 12th in Europe, 1st in Europe for Learning, and 2nd for Entrepreneurship.
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Executive Education 2024 FT Rankings: Among the Top 10 in the UK, Top 20 in Europe, and Top 25 globally.
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Employability: 8th in the UK, as per The Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) 2023.
These rankings reflect Cranfield’s unmatched focus on career advancement, return on investment, and industry relevance. Whether through its innovative programs, strong employer connections, or real-world learning approach, Cranfield continues to shape leaders who drive meaningful impact in business and society.
Facilities
Cranfield School of Management offers state-of-the-art facilities to enhance the learning experience. It features horseshoe-shaped lecture theatres for interactive discussions, group study spaces, and 24/7 wireless internet access. The School of Management Library houses an extensive collection of printed and digital resources, including the Bloomberg Suite, providing real-time financial data.
The school also boasts a computer lab, a TV and radio studio, and the award-winning Cranfield Management Development Centre (CMDC), which includes 186 en suite bedrooms, lecture rooms, and a fitness centre with a swimming pool—creating an ideal environment for executive education.
Beyond academics, the Cranfield campus offers bars, shops, a post office, and sports facilities, including a gym, playing fields, and tennis courts. Accommodation options such as Chilver Hall and Stringfellow Hall provide a comfortable living environment close to campus amenities.
Cranfield’s investment in top-tier facilities reflects its commitment to a world-class management education, combining academic excellence with industry relevance and professional development.
Notable Alumni
Courses
Admission
Cranfield School Of Management Acceptance Rate
Cranfield School of Management is known for its selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of approximately 30%. While Cranfield University overall has a higher acceptance rate of around 68%, the management school maintains a competitive entry standard, especially for its MBA and MSc programs. Applicants are assessed based on academic qualifications, work experience, and potential contributions to the program, making early applications advantageous.
Cranfield School of Management Entry Requirements
Cranfield School of Management maintains consistent minimum entry requirements across most taught and research programs. However, some courses may have additional prerequisites, so applicants should review the specific course details before applying.
Minimum Entry Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- A UK lower second-class (2:2) or upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate degree with honors in a relevant field.
- An equivalent international qualification (check the International Entry Requirements page for details).
- Relevant work experience combined with a degree below second-class honors.
Even if candidates do not meet the formal requirements, applications are reviewed on merit, and exceptions may be made based on individual potential.
English Language Requirements
International students must provide proof of English proficiency. The requirement can be met if:
- The applicant has obtained a degree from a UK university taught and assessed in English.
- The applicant is from a UKVI-recognized majority English-speaking country, including the USA, Australia, Canada, and others.
- The applicant has worked continuously in the UK for five years, with an employer reference confirming English proficiency.
- The applicant submits a valid English language test result.
Accepted English Tests and Scores
Cranfield accepts various English language tests, with specific score requirements:
- IELTS: 7.0 overall, with 6.0 in all components.
- TOEFL iBT: 92 overall (minimum scores: Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17).
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (minimum 180 overall, 160 in all components).
- Duolingo English Test: 120 overall, with at least 95 in all sections.
- Pearson PTE Academic: 65 overall, with 59 in all components.
- Trinity ISE III (C1): Accepted.
Test scores must be recent (within two years of the course start date) and verified directly with test providers. Some courses may require higher scores, so applicants should check individual course pages for details.
For visa-related requirements, students planning to take pre-sessional English courses should ensure their chosen test meets UKVI criteria.
Cranfield School of Management fees
Cranfield School of Management offers a variety of postgraduate programs, each with specific tuition fees. Below are the latest available fees for some of the most sought-after courses:
- Executive MBA: £27,650
- Full-Time MBA: £46,405
- Executive Logistics and Supply Chain Management: £19,250
- Management and Leadership: £19,250
- Marketing and Leadership: £19,250
- Strategic Human Resource Management: £22,000
- Sustainability: £18,350
- Sustainable and Digital Banking (Retail): £21,000
Please note that tuition fees are subject to change, and it's advisable to verify the current fees on the official website or contact their admissions office directly for the most up-to-date information.
Scholarship
1. Cranfield School of Management India Scholarships
For Indian students applying to full-time MSc programs at Cranfield School of Management, this scholarship offers financial support.
Details
- Funding: 12 scholarships worth £10,000 each
- Eligibility: Indian nationals with an offer for an MSc course
- Courses Covered:
- Accounting and Finance MSc
- Banking, Economics and Finance MSc
- Business Data Analytics MSc
- Finance MSc
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc
- Management MSc
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management MSc
- Strategic Marketing MSc
Application Process & Timeline
- Submit a short personal statement after receiving an offer.
- First Round: Closes 31 January 2025 (Results: 28 February 2025)
- Second Round: Closes 25 April 2025 (Results: 30 May 2025)
2. Global Clinical Supplies Group Scholarship
A £5,000 scholarship is available for students interested in logistics, supply chain management, and the pharmaceutical sector.
Details
- Funding: £5,000 toward tuition fees
- Eligibility: Applicants from the UK, Europe, and worldwide with an interest in the pharmaceutical sector
- Deadline: 2 May 2025
- Courses Covered:
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management MSc
- Additional Benefit: Invitation (with expenses paid) to the Global Clinical Supplies Group European Knowledge Forum in Budapest, October 2025.
Awarding Criteria
The selection process considers merit and demonstrated interest in the pharmaceutical sector. Applications are reviewed by Professor Hendrik Reefke.
3. Cranfield Merit Scholarships
Cranfield School of Management offers up to 20% tuition fee reductions to students enrolling in full-time MSc programs.
Details
- Funding:
- 10%-15% for international applicants
- 20% for home fee-paying applicants
- Eligibility:
- Overseas applicants: UK upper second-class honours degree or equivalent
- Home applicants: UK lower second-class honours degree or equivalent
- Courses Covered:
- Accounting and Finance MSc
- Banking, Economics and Finance MSc
- Business Data Analytics MSc
- Finance MSc
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc
- Management MSc
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management MSc
- Strategic Marketing MSc
How to Apply
- No separate application required.
- If eligible, the scholarship will be confirmed in the offer letter.
- If still studying, the final degree result must be submitted for confirmation.
Additional Information
- Scholarships are only for 2025/26 entry.
- Not available as a cash alternative.
- Other Cranfield scholarships, such as regional and country-specific awards, may override this scholarship.
Finances
Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the Cranfield School of Management. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!
Accommodation
There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend the Cranfield School of Management. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, en-suites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.
UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.
Cost of Living
Bedford is a historic town located in the county of Bedfordshire, England, and is close to Cranfield University. The town offers a range of amenities and activities to suit different interests and is well-connected to other nearby towns and cities. Bedford has a range of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as a cinema and a theatre. The town also has a large shopping centre and a number of supermarkets. Bedford has seen strong growth over recent years. There is an increasing demand for housing in the city. This has led to the cost of accommodation going up. However, Bedford is still an affordable city, especially for international students who are planning to study in the UK. Below is a list of the expenses that prospective students at Cranfield School of Management should keep in mind.
|
Particulars |
Cost (Monthly) |
|
Off-Campus Accommodation |
£ 468 |
|
On-Campus Accommodation |
£ 584 |
|
Transportation |
£ 90 |
|
Food Cost |
£ 398 |
|
Entertainment |
£ 48 |
|
Groceries |
£ 128 |
|
Clothes |
£ 60 |
|
Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation |
£ 1,192 |
|
Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation |
£ 1,308 |
|
Annual Cost of Living |
£ 14,304 |