Apply for an MBA

Closing date for applications

  • The closing date for the January and February intakes of the MBA is 30 November.
  • The closing date for the May intake of the Modular MBA is 15 April.

Before you complete the application form

Take the SHL or GMAT selection test, write three essays (see below), prepare a comprehensive CV, get certified copies of your academic records and pay your application fee. Next, apply directly on the USB website by completing the 2014 application form online, and upload your supporting documents.

Write three essays

Write an essay of approximately 250 words on each of the following topics:

  • Competencies: Your achievements, developed abilities and significant learning to date, and areas of competence that you still need to develop.
  • Career objectives: Where would you like to be five and ten years after completing your MBA and how do you intend getting there?
  • Personal motivation: How do you deal with adversity and stress, what keeps you motivated and focused, and how do you intend coping with the additional stress that the MBA will create?

Apply in four steps

  • Apply online: Go to www.usb.ac.za/apply and complete the online MBA application form. You will be able to complete the form in steps without losing information. The application process is the same for South African and foreign students
  • Do a selection test: USB accepts the SHL or GMAT selection test. Both tests are recognised internationally. Make an appointment with USB to do the SHL selection test, or contact GMAT at www.gmat.com. Click here for selection test fees and further information.
  • Pay your application fee: Bank: Standard Bank. Type of account: cheque account. Account number: 073003069. Branch name: Stellenbosch. Branch code: 050610. SWIFT code: SBZAZAJJ. Proof of payment of your application fee can also be e-mailed to mba@usb.ac.za.
  • Upload your supporting documentation online:
    • Proof of application fee payment
    • Comprehensive CV
    • 3 essays of 250 words each
    • Copies of degree certificates (please note that the original certificate must be shown on the day one, or shown together with a transcript of the subjects)
    • Proof of school-leaving mathematics results
    • SHL or GMAT selection test results (if these were not sent to USB directly)
    • Copy of your ID (or passport for non-South African students)
    • A marriage certificate (where the applicant’s new surname does not match that on the degree certificates)

Proof of payment of your application fee can also be e-mailed to mba@usb.ac.za.

Further information

 PDF of comprehensive MBA brochure in English [Read]