MBA Admission: Frequently asked questions

Can I do an MBA even if I don't have a prior degree?
Can I transfer credits from subjects I've completed elsewhere?
How can I make up for my non-mathematical and non-financial background?
May I come to an Open Day or Information Session?
Why do the MBA's admission requirements include a minimum number of years of work experience?

Can I do an MBA even if I don't have a prior degree?

According to Stellenbosch University's policy framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) a limited number of non-degree students may join graduate programmes.

ARPL candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of Full-time work experience, of which at least 5 years should be in management.

A GMAT selection test is compulsory and the minimum overall score required is 550.

Stringent assessment criteria will determine whether the applicant possesses the generic competencies that graduates develop during undergraduate learning. An interview is mandatory

ARPL candidates should follow the normal application process. However, because the candidate's effective learning in the workplace has to be assessed based on his/her work experience, an extended CV is required. The CV must show the candidate's growth over time in the responsibilities associated with successive jobs.

 The downloadable MBA brochure has more details.

Can I transfer credits from subjects I've completed elsewhere?

The USB supports the principle of recognition of prior academic learning although this is only applied in selective instances on its MBA programme. The reason for this is collaborative learning, which makes up a large part of the MBA programme and which takes place in the classroom, and during formal and informal work done in syndicates.

A student who has been admitted to the MBA programme may apply for accreditation of prior learning, provided that it was obtained on another MBA. The student needs to supply:

  • A fully documented application which includes course outlines, the number of SAQA credits, learning outcomes, the number of class contact hours, prescribed textbooks, method and weights of assessment, and outcomes or topics per class session.
  • Additional work or assessments may be required for a successful application.

To obtain an MBA degree at Stellenbosch University, a student must be registered at Stellenbosch University for at least two years. At least 50% of the credits for a specific degree have to be obtained at this University.

How can I make up for my non-mathematical and non-financial background?

If you have a non-mathematical and non-financial background and would like to prepare yourself for MBA subjects such as Statistics, Operational Research and Financial Management, you can opt for the five-day MBA Foundation Programme before the start of the MBA.

May I come to an Open Day or Information Session?

The USB hosts several Open Days on campus in Bellville as well as a country-wide and cross-border road show each year. This is the ideal place to obtain answers to your questions and meet USB faculty, support staff and alumni. Click here for the dates and venues.

Why do the MBA's admission requirements include a minimum number of years of work experience? Why is this applied so stringently?

Firstly, relevant work experience of at least three years (if you have a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent) or six years (if you have a national diploma or equivalent) is a requirement of the USB's international EQUIS accreditation. Secondly, collaborative learning – where students learn from each other – forms an important part of the USB's MBA. The expertise, depth and value that each participant brings to the class depend largely on authentic work experience.