Is Doing an Online MBA in 2026 a Big Mistake?
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Is Doing an Online MBA in 2026 a Big Mistake?

#MBA
Vivek KumarUpdated on 17 Nov 2025, 04:58 PM IST

Online MBA has emerged as a top management programme choice among working professionals and graduates. From premier institutes to top universities are offering online MBA programmes in diverse specialisations. This proliferation of the online MBA degree has transformed the academic landscape, making management education accessible to everyone.

Is Doing an Online MBA in 2026 a Big Mistake?
Is Doing an Online MBA in 2026 a Big Mistake?

More than 75 higher educational institutions (HEIs) in India offer an online MBA degree, with around 14 IIMs providing this degree. The fee of the programme ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 20 lakhs, depending on the institute. Despite the popularity of online MBA, many question: is it worth pursuing or a mistake?

Online MBA: Is It Worth Pursuing or a Mistake?

Learners choose an online MBA owing to its flexibility and wider accessibility. The programme majorly benefits professionals with busy schedules and those who are unable to attend in-person classes or distant learners. Another factor that makes an online MBA degree worth pursuing is it is offered by UGC-approved universities in India, making the degree credible and valid for jobs.

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What mistakes many learners make when doing an online MBA is that they think of this programme as a game changer in their life. But the truth is after doing an online MBA, the career boost or a career change relies heavily on an individual’s capabilities, adaptability, and career goals. An online MBA is not a magic wand that can boost someone’s career immediately. Learners have to do extra to utilise their learning into practice.

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Concerns About Online MBA That Learners Discuss More

  • Online MBA is a waste of money
  • Online MBA does not provide placements
  • Recruiters do not value online MBA programmes, without solid work experience and a good bachelor’s degree
  • There is zero peer learning or meeting new people physically or making any kind of network in Online MBA.
  • Online MBA just gives an MBA degree without any actual benefits of the degree.
  • Online MBA is not as widely recognised as a regular, on campus MBA.
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This is true that the ROI and industry perception of an online MBA still matter most despite the rising enrolments in the programme. Although digital education has witnessed remarkable growth, not all employers perceive online MBA programmes uniformly.

Online MBA from prestigious institutions drive strong employer confidence, but lesser-known or newly launched programmes may lack recognition. Thus, it is essential for learners to examine the course structure, placement records, alumni outcomes and corporate partnerships before enrolling in an online MBA programme.

Also Read: Key Challenges Every Online MBA Student Faces and How to Overcome Them

Online MBA vs On-Campus MBA: Things To Consider

Many students see online MBA programmes as similar and valuable as learning new skills without disrupting their careers. Many reported that online MBA programmes approved by UGC are just as good as offline ones. They saved on commuting costs and did not have to pause their careers.

An online MBA is considered more economical than full-time programmes. However, learners should still evaluate the course outcomes and return on investment. The true ROI relies on career progression, salary growth and access to strategic roles.

Resource Links for Online MBA:


So, the matter is not whether an online MBA is a mistake, but the wrong choice of an online MBA is a mistake. A thoughtfully and judiciously selected programme from an accredited institution can enable learners to upscale their career and broaden their professional horizons.

It becomes a mistake only when pursued without research and alignment with long-term career aspirations. Prospective students must conduct a thorough research, verify accreditation, faculty experience, digital infrastructure and global exposure before enrolling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes an online MBA invalid?
A:

Lack of accreditation, outdated curriculum, minimal industry exposure, poor student support, and weak corporate partnerships and employer recognition make an online MBA invalid.

Q: How to know if an online MBA is recognised?
A:

Verify if the online programme is accredited or recognised by UGC, AICTE, AACSB, EQUIS, or AMBA. Check curriculum structure, faculty experience, digital infrastructure and alumni testimonials.

Q: Is doing an online MBA while working full-time really worth it?
A:

Online MBA programmes are typically designed to cater the needs of working professionals, providing them with flexibility and accessibility to study any time and from anywhere.

Q: Are online MBA programmes valued by employers?
A:

Employers value an online MBA from accredited, reputable institutions. A recognised degree creates various career avenues, with a wide industry exposure.

Q: Who should choose to pursue an online MBA?
A:

Online MBA is beneficial for professionals seeking flexibility, working individuals balancing job and studies and learners who prefer self-paced digital environments.

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