LinkedIn Poll: What Really Drives People to Pursue an MBA? Let’s Break It Down

Did you know? According to Forbes, the MBA ranks #1 among the top six highest-paying master’s degrees to pursue in 2025. Here’s why it’s more relevant than ever!

In today’s competitive job market, an MBA serves as a gateway to managerial roles for many. The degree offers an abundance of specialisations, from finance, accounting, and marketing to IT and healthcare management. Whether you aim for leadership roles, are planning a career shift, or simply want to enhance your professional journey, an MBA provides access to a wide range of career opportunities across various industries.

However, here’s the thing — not everyone chooses an MBA for the same reason.

While some value returns on investment (ROI) and long-term visions, others may prioritise networking opportunities to thrive in the corporate realm. This is why we @LearningRoutes decided to run a “LinkedIn Poll” to understand what truly influences the decision-making process behind “pursuing an MBA” today. And here is what we found —

The Question: “If you are considering an MBA, what’s the biggest factor in your decision?”

Option 1: ROI and Cost of the Programme

Option 2: Flexibility and Convenience

Option 3: Global Exposure and Networking

Option 4: Personal Growth and New Skills

The responses were eye-opening:

ROI and Cost of the Programme – 35%

It is no wonder that the majority of respondents chose to prioritise “returns on investments” and affordability. With the tuition fees rising and the job market getting more competitive, most people give preference to value-driven programmes that fit their budget.

Here is Why It Matters

According to a GMAC survey (2025), 47% of MBA grads include ROI in their top three decision-making factors. Whether fresh graduates or professionals, candidates now seek practical outcomes for their investments in MBA courses. ROI outcomes can take the form of promising placements, faster career growth, promotion to leadership roles, and more.

Types of MBA Courses to Consider

• ✅
  Manipal online MBA for placements in the budget.
• ✅
  Full-time MBAs from Symbiosis, NMIMS, or XLRI.
• ✅
  Executive MBA from IIM Ahmedabad for transition to leadership roles.

Also Read: LinkedIn Poll: The #1 Career Growth Priority in 2025 Might Not Be What You Think!

Global Exposure and Networking – 30%

Professional connections and exposure to global business insights shone as the first runner-up in the poll, with 30% of individual votes. In today’s modern job market, your professional connections often determine your next opportunity. Access to diverse peers, cross-cultural teams, and industry leaders is something that young enthusiasts seek during an MBA course.

Here is Why It Matters

Approximately 67% of employers value global exposure and international experience while hiring MBA grads. Another recruiter survey (2024) stated that 74% of recruiters actively seek MBA grads with international experience and cross-cultural skills. Global exposure in an MBA provides varied perspectives on the international business market, while a robust professional network helps you get noticed, referred to, and promoted, ensuring career growth.

Types of MBA Courses to Consider

• ✅
  Freshers can consider the IIM full-time MBA to ensure international immersion.
• ✅
  SP Jain Global MBA to gain cross-cultural insights.
• ✅
  IIM hybrid executive MBA for international exposure for working professionals.

Personal Growth and New Skills – 26%

Beyond pay hikes and promotions, 26% of respondents chose an MBA for personal growth and self-improvement. From business ethics to critical thinking, MBA courses could be a catalyst for your future growth, personally and professionally.

Here is Why It Matters

According to a GMAC survey (2024), the majority of recruiters prioritise continuous skill development, especially interpersonal/intellectual, problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills that contribute to an individual’s personal growth. Learning new skills helps you gain confidence, a leadership mindset, and adaptability—crucial aspects to thrive in a corporation.

Types of MBA Courses to Consider

• ✅
  Great Lakes online MBA for leadership development.
• ✅
  IIM online/hybrid MBAs for executives.
• ✅
  NMIMS online MBA for personal growth.

Flexibility and Convenience – 9%

Less than 10% of individuals prioritise flexibility and convenience when choosing an MBA course. However, this does not make it any less important. The need for flexible learning could be a significant decision-making factor for people with multiple commitments.

Here is Why It Matters

63% of students opt for online education due to flexible learning hours, says a report from Bay Atlantic University. Flexible MBA education has given a platform to full-time executives, homemakers, and parents to upgrade their qualifications and skills anywhere, anytime, while fulfilling their commitments. Part-time MBAs, executive MBA with weekend classes, and online MBA ensure the flexibility that individuals may need.

Types of MBA Courses to Consider

• ✅
  Amity online MBA for flexible and self-paced learning.
• ✅
  IGNOU distance MBA programme to learn at your convenience.
• ✅
  NMIMS online executive MBA for working professionals.

The Conclusion

The poll shows an explicit shift in how today’s MBA aspirants make decisions. It is no longer about chasing degrees these days, but outcomes. While ROI-backed growth led the chart, factors like global connections, skills development, and flexibility are still relevant for an MBA, depending on individual needs. Where online MBAs are driving a shift for professionals, full-time and global MBAs are a hype among freshers, and executive MBAs are gaining traction for leadership roles.

Your career goals deserve the right MBA — make your move wisely!