Hey dxb,
There will always be differing opinions about IE. IE is a relatively new entrant in the Top 10 as opposed to established players like INSEAD. The recruiting in strategy and consulting might still not be as great as INSEAD or LBS. But, I am damn convinced after having read several reviews and rankings that the amount one will learn at IE is in no way less, probably a bit more than at INSEAD because of 3 more months. The only question remains. Does the investment bear fruit i.e. does one get a job as IE Alum comparable to a job one secures as an INSEAD Alum. My take on this is, if you get 10,000€ less as a starting salary, it doesn't matter much because after your starting salary your perks and next career switches are based on your performance and decisions. And how much is 10000€ as a net salary per month (max. 500€). Now whether you earn 4000 or 4500€ is it such a big difference to keep waiting for years just to get started with an MBA?
Those were my 2 cents. By the way, I am in a similar situation, waitlisted at INSEAD and admitted at IE.