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?
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 nature of an MBA programme is such that a large part of the learning is collaborative learning which takes place in the classroom, and during formal and informal work done in syndicates.
If a candidate with a postgraduate academic qualification in a subject area related to one of the MBA subjects were to receive recognition for that learning and hence not be required to attend the MBA subject, the learning in class would be poorer owing to the absence of this knowledgeable participant. Thus, although the USB supports the principle of recognition of prior academic learning, it is only applied in very selective instances on the MBA programme. In cases of merit, where a candidate transfers from another MBA programme, the USB will acknowledge prior learning experiences for subjects that make up the MBA programme.
Once a student has been admitted to the MBA programme he or she may apply for accreditation of prior learning. In the application the student must indicate which prior learning experiences relate to which MBA subjects. The application must be fully documented, including full course outlines which show the number of SAQA credits, the overall learning outcomes, the number of class contact hours, prescribed textbooks, method and weights of assessment, and topics per class session. Additional work or assessments may be required.
To obtain an MBA degree at Stellenbosch University, a student must be registered for at least 50% of the prescribed residential period for the specific programme at Stellenbosch University. 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 prepare yourself by following 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.