MBA plans trigger promotion offer at work - what to do?

Hi gals & guys,

Has this happened to anyone of you? How did you decide what to do in the end? Have you decided yet?

OK, let me summarize what I've done so far and what happened to me recently.

- I'm a 30 years old Argentine citizen.
- I've been working at the same firm since graduation (6 years) from top local Tech U.
- I've had steady progress at work since I joined the company, including a 3-year international experience and my current job (since earlier this year) where I manage a group of 5 people at a quite importante division.

I studied and sat for GMAT earlier this year (scored 710). I started preparing apps. for most UE programs and some E programs a few months ago. Before actually applying to my 1st R choices I talked to my boss about my plans and asked for his recommendation. Since I was talking to him so much in advance and I complemented my case with some plans on how to manage the transition (i.e.: I proposed my replacement from within my group and what skills we should help him develop in the meantime), he was quite understanding. I also told him I knew sponsorship was highly unusual, but that I would like to hear what the company thinked.

A few days later (after discussing with the big guy above) he told me that several progress opportunities would present themselves to me during the following year and that he advised I wait till next year to apply. I gently denied and applied anyways. He provided great recs. All this happened before round 1.

Now, a few days ago, we had a meeting where he communicated to me my bonus and we discussed several issues. I was surprised to see I got a special bonus (wouldn't it make sense to save the bonus budget for someone who will stay at the company? I thought). But he went on to mention there may be an opening at a position abroad in the near future and that I would be considered should I delay my MBA plans.

Notes on the position I was offered.

PROs
- Strongly related to my current job, greater responsibilities.
- 3 year - posting abroad with starting salary similar to average UE / E grads (outside MC and IB).
- Significant chances to shine and progress.
- If successful, significant chances to get sponsorship for Exec MBA in 3 / 4 years time.
- Would make it easier to return home in a few years time as employer has significant ops. at home country.

CONs
- Would specialize at my current industry and employer too much, making my prospects of career switching unlikely.
- The "big guys" in charge of this particular operation are quite tough to handle so there's a risk of falling in disfavour with them and stopping progress at any time.
- I feel I have a reasonable chance (50/50%) of progressing more at other firms after my MBA.

So what do you think? Would you postpone? What would be the "cut-off" point (i.e.: would attend UE but not E?)? I'd appreciate your thoughts on this.

Thanks in advance. L.