CEMS Master’s in International Management at Nova SBE – Complete Guide
- Masters Experts
- Jul 30
- 13 min read
In an increasingly interconnected world, the demand for leaders who can navigate international business challenges with cultural fluency and ethical acumen has never been higher. The CEMS Master’s in International Management (MIM) at Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE) answers this call with one of the most globally respected management degrees, backed by a powerful alliance of top-tier schools and multinational corporations.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Choose CEMS MIM at Nova SBE
Nova SBE, located in the scenic coastal town of Carcavelos, Portugal, is not just another business school—it’s a founding member of the CEMS Global Alliance comprising 33 prestigious business schools and over 70 corporate partners worldwide. The school’s CEMS MIM program is consistently ranked among the top international management degrees by the Financial Times, and it’s easy to see why.
What Sets Nova SBE Apart
Nova SBE combines academic excellence, cultural diversity, and corporate engagement to create a distinctive learning environment. Students enrolled in the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE receive:
A dual certification: a Master’s degree from Nova SBE and a CEMS MIM certificate
Access to an active global network of over 20,000 alumni in 75+ countries
A curriculum shaped by real-world business challenges and corporate partnerships
Immersive international experiences, including a mandatory study abroad semester and internship
Personalized career coaching and leadership development tracks
This program is particularly appealing to multicultural, multilingual candidates who aspire to take on leadership roles with a global footprint. It is designed not just to teach international management but to practice it across borders and cultures.
A Launchpad for Global Careers
Graduates of the CEMS MIM program at Nova SBE find themselves in high demand. Over 97% are employed or pursuing further education within months of graduation. Many join top-tier firms in consulting, finance, and tech. According to recent data, 88% of Nova SBE CEMS grads are working internationally—with firms like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Google, and Goldman Sachs among the top recruiters.
Whether your goal is to work in strategy consulting, launch your own venture, or drive social change through sustainable business practices, the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE offers a proven platform for global success.
Program Overview: A Global Management Degree
A Joint Degree with Worldwide Recognition
The CEMS Master’s in International Management (MIM) at Nova SBE stands out as a truly international program, offering a dual credential: a Master’s degree from Nova School of Business and Economics and a CEMS MIM certificate awarded by the CEMS Global Alliance. This alliance includes 33 leading business schools across five continents and integrates over 70 corporate and social partners.
The program is not only academically rigorous but also highly collaborative and practice-oriented. It’s crafted for students who are eager to develop a global mindset, expand their cross-cultural leadership abilities, and apply management theories in diverse organizational settings.
Core Features of the Program
Dual CertificationStudents graduate with both the Nova SBE Master’s diploma and the prestigious CEMS MIM certificate, significantly boosting international career prospects.
Top-Tier Academic and Practical ExposureThe curriculum combines classroom excellence, guided by international faculty, with real-world insights delivered through corporate seminars, business projects, and soft skill seminars.
Global Alumni NetworkWith 20,000+ alumni from 100+ nationalities, the CEMS network is one of the strongest assets for lifelong learning and global career advancement.
Corporate Partner InvolvementCEMS partners include McKinsey & Company, BCG, Bain, Google, Goldman Sachs, and many others. These companies contribute to curriculum development, host business projects, and recruit directly from the program.
Stand-Out Elements
High-Quality TeachingCourses are delivered by professors with strong academic and consulting backgrounds, and students have access to CEMS exclusive courses that focus on hard skills, ethics, and global strategy.
Tailored Coaching and MentoringStudents benefit from one-to-one career coaching and access to alumni mentors across industries and geographies. Nova SBE’s Career Services team also facilitates events like the Annual Career Forum and on-campus company presentations.
Diversity in Learning and TeamworkWith students from multiple academic and cultural backgrounds, the CEMS classroom reflects a miniature version of the global business environment, ensuring learning through collaboration and cross-cultural understanding.
A Mission for Sustainable Leadership
More than a conventional business degree, the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE promotes the development of ethical and responsible leaders who can drive sustainable change. The program's design reflects this ambition—combining academic depth, practical skill development, and international exposure with a firm commitment to social and environmental impact.
Curriculum and Learning Experience
A Holistic Approach to International Management
The CEMS MIM at Nova SBE offers a carefully curated academic journey that blends core business knowledge with global exposure and practical skills. The program structure supports the development of well-rounded leaders capable of navigating diverse business environments. This is achieved through a mix of classroom learning, project-based experiences, and immersive international components.
Program Components
Students enrolled in the program pursue one of eight Nova SBE Master’s degrees, to which the CEMS MIM is added as an integrated track. These include:
Master’s in Management
Master’s in Economics
Master’s in Finance
International Master’s in Finance (IMF)
Master’s in Business Analytics
Master’s in Impact Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Master’s in International Development & Public Policy
International Master’s in Management (IMM)
Each of these combinations leads to a dual qualification, preparing students for cross-functional roles in global enterprises.
Key Academic Elements
CEMS Core Courses:Courses in strategy, global management, and leadership, often co-developed with corporate partners.
Elective Courses and Skill Seminars:Students can tailor their learning with electives, including CEMS-exclusive hard skills courses. Soft skill seminars focus on negotiation, public speaking, and team dynamics.
Business Projects:Conducted with partner companies, students work in multicultural teams to solve real-world business problems and present their findings to executives.
Language Proficiency:Multilingualism is a CEMS hallmark. Students must demonstrate proficiency in at least two languages beyond English, reinforcing their global readiness.
International Learning Opportunities
Exchange Semester:Each student spends one semester at a different CEMS partner school, deepening their international exposure and broadening academic perspectives.
CEMS Block Seminar:An intensive week-long course at the start of the program year, held in partnership with corporate stakeholders. It’s a signature CEMS event that fosters rapid team bonding and collaborative problem-solving.
Global Citizenship Seminar:Co-designed with social partners, this seminar strengthens the link between management education and societal impact.
Term | Component | Details |
Term 1 | Core Courses, Electives, Block Seminar | At Nova SBE |
Term 2 | Exchange Semester, Skill Seminars, Language Prep | At CEMS Partner School |
Term 3 | Business Project, Global Citizenship Seminar | Partner company & social orgs |
Ongoing | Language Learning, Career Coaching, Events | Throughout year |
A Dynamic, Real-World Classroom
What distinguishes the CEMS MIM experience is its strong integration with the corporate world. Students interact with real managers, solve actual problems, and receive mentorship from alumni and corporate partners. The curriculum isn’t just academic; it is a launchpad for global leadership.
Admissions Criteria and Application Process
Competitive Entry for Globally-Minded Talent
Admission to the CEMS Master’s in International Management at Nova SBE is highly competitive and designed to select candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, global orientation, leadership potential, and a commitment to ethical values. Applicants are expected to bring both strong intellectual capacity and real-world experiences—ranging from internships to community engagement and cross-cultural projects.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
Be admitted to one of Nova SBE’s 8 Master’s programs (CEMS MIM is an add-on degree path)
Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution
Demonstrate proficiency in English, through one of the following:
Accepted Tests | Minimum Score |
TOEFL iBT | 100 |
IELTS Academic/Indicator | 7.0 |
CPE (Cambridge English: Proficiency) | Grade C or above |
CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced) | Grade B or above |
BEC Higher | Grade B or above |
PTE Academic (Pearson) | 68 |
English-taught Bachelor’s from qualified institution | Requires validation |
A valid certificate must be submitted at the time of application; late submissions delay the process.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The CEMS MIM application runs in four structured phases, parallel to Nova SBE's master's program admissions:
1. Application Submission
Candidates apply to Nova SBE's Master’s program using the standard application portal.
Within this form, they indicate interest in adding the CEMS MIM track.
Required documents:
CV in English with photo
Completed language proficiency template
Valid English test certificate
Motivation video (max 5 minutes)
2. Motivation Video Requirements
The video must be in English and “unlisted” on YouTube. Candidates answer:
How have you contributed to communities between high school and now? (1 min)
Describe a personal success and your learnings. (2 min)
Describe a failure and your learnings. (2 min)
3. Assessment Center Interview
Pre-selected applicants are invited to an online Assessment Center between January and May.
Involves a presentation and group discussion with Nova SBE faculty and corporate partners.
Monthly assessments mean early applications are highly recommended.
4. Decision & Enrollment
Final decisions are communicated soon after the Assessment Center.
Successful candidates must:
Enroll in their Master’s program (pay respective fee)
Enroll in the CEMS MIM (pay additional €1,500, deductible from total fee)
Note: No deferrals are allowed for the CEMS MIM program.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Investment in a Prestigious International Degree
The CEMS MIM at Nova SBE is a dual-degree track combined with one of the school’s eight Master’s programs. As such, tuition varies depending on the chosen degree, but the investment reflects the program’s international reputation and access to elite career paths. While the fees are competitive among top European business schools, Nova SBE also offers scholarship opportunities to ensure equal access for talented candidates from all backgrounds.
Fee Structure: CEMS MIM + Nova SBE Master’s
Below is an overview of the combined tuition for the CEMS MIM and each corresponding Master’s program:
Nova SBE Master’s Program | Total Tuition (CEMS MIM Included) |
Master’s in Management | €20,650 |
Master’s in Economics | €20,650 |
Master’s in Business Analytics | €20,650 |
Master’s in Impact Entrepreneurship & Innovation | €20,650 |
Master’s in International Development & Public Policy | €20,650 |
International Master’s in Management (IMM) | €20,650 |
Master’s in Finance | €22,000 |
International Master’s in Finance (IMF) | €22,000 |
Enrollment Fee
Once admitted, candidates pay two fees:
Nova SBE Master’s Enrollment Fee (varies by program)
CEMS MIM Enrollment Fee: €1,500
This is deductible from the total tuition fee and confirms your place in the CEMS program.
Note: Installments already paid are non-refundable, even if a student decides to withdraw before the official CEMS year starts.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Nova SBE is deeply committed to ensuring financial constraints do not hinder academic potential. As part of this commitment, several scholarship options are available:
CEMS Alumni ScholarshipSponsored by CEMS alumni, this scholarship supports students with demonstrated need and merit.
BNP Paribas Portugal – Nova SBE ScholarshipSpecifically aimed at supporting CEMS MIM students who aspire to careers in sustainability, finance, or development.
Additional Support
Beyond tuition scholarships, students may explore:
External funding from home countries
Merit-based scholarships offered by Nova SBE for its Master’s programs
Need-based assistance assessed on a case-by-case basis
Why It’s Worth the Investment
The CEMS MIM at Nova SBE provides access to:
Dual certification with international prestige
A global alumni network across 75+ countries
Recruitment opportunities with elite firms like McKinsey, Bain, and Google
Personalized coaching and mentoring from corporate and academic leaders
When seen as a launchpad to global careers, the ROI on the CEMS MIM is substantial—both in terms of salary potential and long-term professional growth.
Global Exposure through Study Abroad and Internships
Real-World Learning, Worldwide
One of the defining features of the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE is its commitment to international learning—both in and out of the classroom. The program offers structured global immersion through academic exchange, international internships, and cross-cultural teamwork, giving students a head start in navigating global business environments.
Semester Abroad at CEMS Partner Schools
Students spend one of their first two semesters at another CEMS Alliance school, which includes 33 globally ranked institutions like HEC Paris, London School of Economics, National University of Singapore, and University of St. Gallen. This exchange:
Expands academic and cultural perspectives
Enables cross-border collaboration on projects
Creates lifelong connections in new countries
By studying abroad, students are immersed in new educational systems, enhance their adaptability, and build resilience—critical skills in today’s globalized economy.
International Internship Requirement
The CEMS International Professional Experience is a mandatory internship that spans a minimum of 8 consecutive weeks of full-time work. It must take place in a different country than the student’s nationality or home institution, unless:
The company operates across multiple countries, or
The role has a distinctly international scope
Approved internship formats include:
Standard Internship (after undergrad or between CEMS years)
Pre-existing Work Experience
First 8 Weeks of Full-Time Employment
Entrepreneurial Experience (with program approval)
These roles may be in corporate, NGO, or public sector settings and can be either paid or unpaid. The key is the development of cross-cultural, real-world skills, such as project leadership, stakeholder communication, and navigating multicultural teams.
Program Support for Global Exposure
To support these global journeys, Nova SBE provides:
Internship guidance through the Career Services Office
Mentorship from CEMS alumni in host countries
Pre-departure workshops and cultural preparation
Access to the CEMS Corporate Partners list, which includes companies like L’Oréal, Deloitte, Maersk, and ABB
Beyond Borders: A Truly Global Network
Studying at Nova SBE doesn’t just give you a Portuguese perspective. It connects you to a global classroom, a worldwide alumni network, and career opportunities in 75+ countries.
By the time they graduate, CEMS MIM students at Nova SBE are not only fluent in management theory but also equipped with the practical international experience to apply it confidently across borders.
Career Support and Placement Highlights
Launching Global Careers from Day One
At Nova SBE, the CEMS MIM is not just an academic credential—it’s a strategic career accelerator. The program offers robust career support from the outset, designed to help students navigate competitive industries, secure international roles, and define impactful career paths. This is achieved through a unique blend of personalized coaching, corporate engagement, and global networking opportunities.
Career Coaching Tracks at Nova SBE
Each CEMS student is placed into one of five distinct coaching tracks, based on career goals and interests. These tracks offer specialized support and access to mentors and resources tailored to each path:
Tactical Career Planning
For students with a clear post-program plan or job offer in hand
Delivered by AMROP, a top executive search firm
Owning Your Career Path
For those still exploring industries and functions
Personalized coaching to align values with career direction
Social & Environmental Impact
Focused on careers in sustainability, social enterprise, or NGOs
Guided by the Nova SBE Leadership for Impact Knowledge Center
Entrepreneurship Track
For aspiring founders or those interested in venture capital
Support from the Nova SBE Haddad Entrepreneurship Institute
Consulting & Investment Banking
Geared toward careers in strategy consulting and finance
Mentorship from Nova SBE alumni working at top-tier firms
Career Events and Exclusive Platforms
CEMS MIM students benefit from exclusive career development initiatives, including:
Annual Career Forum:A two-day recruiting event featuring skill seminars, CV reviews, company presentations, and speed interviews
CEMS Job Market Database:Access to global job postings from CEMS corporate partners
Global Advisory & Mentoring Program:One-on-one guidance from seasoned CEMS alumni and business leaders
CEMS Corporate Partner Seminars:Hands-on projects and guest lectures by leading firms
Employment Outcomes: Nova SBE CEMS Grads
Nova SBE’s CEMS alumni are highly sought after across industries and borders. The most recent data shows:
97% employed or in further studies shortly after graduation
88% working outside Portugal
52% placed in consulting roles
15% in finance; 11% in tech
Top Employers: McKinsey & Co., BCG, Bain, Google, Goldman Sachs
Nova SBE is recognized as one of the top CEMS schools for recruiting talent into partner firms.
A Career-Ready Global Leader
From personalized coaching and global mentorship to strategic job fairs and alumni connections, the career development ecosystem at Nova SBE ensures that students leave with more than a degree—they leave with a blueprint for global leadership success.
Who Should Apply: Ideal Candidate Profile
Designed for Ambitious, Globally-Oriented Changemakers
The CEMS Master’s in International Management at Nova SBE is not a conventional graduate program—it’s tailored for individuals who are ready to lead responsibly, adapt across cultures, and solve complex global challenges. If you're driven by purpose, fueled by curiosity, and eager to make an international impact, this program is built for you.
Core Traits of a CEMS MIM Candidate
Nova SBE, in collaboration with the CEMS Alliance, seeks applicants who demonstrate a balanced mix of academic rigor, cultural agility, and social responsibility. Ideal candidates typically embody the following:
Strong Academic RecordHigh-performing undergraduates from any academic background are welcome, provided they exhibit excellence and intellectual curiosity.
Cultural Sensitivity & Global MindsetApplicants must show evidence of cross-cultural competence—through international experiences, language skills, or multicultural teamwork.
Leadership and InitiativeWhether through student government, entrepreneurship, volunteering, or creative pursuits, candidates should show initiative and a track record of impact.
Commitment to Ethical and Responsible ManagementCEMS MIM students are expected to lead with integrity and a sense of accountability towards society and the environment.
Multilingual ProficiencySince CEMS is inherently international, applicants should be fluent in English and at least one additional language, or be committed to developing that capability during the program.
Key Admission Differentiators
What strengthens your application beyond academic transcripts?
Professional Experience or InternshipsWhile not mandatory, prior internships, work placements, or startup initiatives strengthen a candidate’s profile.
Volunteer Work or Social Impact ProjectsContributions to NGOs, sustainability initiatives, or community organizations are seen favorably.
Motivation VideoThe 5-minute recorded video allows applicants to share their personality, values, and motivations. It’s your chance to show authenticity, creativity, and a clear alignment with the program’s ethos.
Who Should Reconsider?
The CEMS MIM is not designed for those seeking a narrowly specialized or highly technical program. It's best suited for individuals who:
Thrive in diverse, fast-paced environments
Value collaboration over competition
Are flexible, mobile, and open to relocating globally
Want to drive sustainable change through business and innovation
Join a Purpose-Driven Global Network
Graduates of the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE don’t just enter the workforce—they join a powerful global alliance that spans continents, industries, and ideologies. If you see yourself as a future leader in consulting, entrepreneurship, development, or international business, this program could be the launchpad to your vision.
Conclusion: Is CEMS MIM at Nova SBE Right for You?
A Launchpad for International Business Leaders
The CEMS Master’s in International Management at Nova SBE is more than a degree—it’s a transformative journey that prepares future leaders to thrive in dynamic, global environments. It combines rigorous academics, real-world corporate engagement, international mobility, and deep personal development into a single, cohesive experience.
If you’re seeking a Master’s program that will:
Equip you with the skills and confidence to lead across borders
Surround you with a diverse cohort of global high-achievers
Offer unparalleled career access to top employers worldwide
Encourage you to think ethically and act with purpose
Provide international exposure through study abroad and internships
… then the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE could be your ideal next step.
Who This Program Is Best Suited For
You’ll thrive here if you are:
Globally minded and open to new cultures
Strong academically, yet humble and eager to learn
Motivated to contribute to social and environmental change
Interested in consulting, finance, entrepreneurship, or impact-driven sectors
Ready to be part of an elite, lifelong global network
Final Thoughts
In today’s competitive job market, a global mindset is not optional—it’s essential. Nova SBE, through its membership in the CEMS Alliance, offers a program that delivers far more than just credentials. It delivers transformation.
So, if you’re ready to challenge yourself, step outside your comfort zone, and build a career that’s both successful and
Connect with an admissions mentor at GOALisB to boost your chances of success with personalized advice.
FAQ
What is the CEMS MIM at Nova SBE?
It is a dual-degree program combining a Nova SBE Master’s and the CEMS MIM certificate, designed for global leadership and international careers.
Who can apply to the CEMS MIM?
Applicants must apply to one of Nova SBE’s Master’s programs and demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and cultural adaptability.
How much does the CEMS MIM cost?
Total tuition ranges from €20,650 to €22,000 depending on the Master’s track, with an additional €1,500 enrollment fee.
Is an international internship required?
Yes, students must complete a minimum 8-week full-time international internship in a professional setting.
What are the job prospects after graduation?
97% of graduates are employed or in further study, with top recruiters including McKinsey, BCG, Google, and Goldman Sachs.
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