Below follows a listing of frequently asked MBA-related questions that have been posted using the "Ask an MBA Expert" facility:
Could you send me information regarding the MBA options, programme structures, programme content, programme duration, fees, registration dates and application procedures?
A comprehensive listing of leading business schools together with their MBA programme outlines, fees, admission requirements, registration dates, contact details etc. can be obtained by visiting the MBA.co.za School Directory.
Do I meet the admissions criteria for an MBA?
Generally speaking, business schools look for an individual with an undergraduate degree, or its equivalent, plus several years’ work/management experience. The following articles provide further information:
Visit the MBA.co.za School Directory for the specific admissions criteria at the leading business schools.
Which MBA programme would best suit me?
Write down your reasons for undertaking an MBA as well as your desired career goals on completion of the programme. Then, visit the MBA.co.za School Directory and familiarise yourself with the options that are available, in order to determine what the various business schools can offer you. Look for MBA programmes that will fit in with your objectives, and further narrow down the options by selecting the programmes that meet your requirements i.e. location, cost, duration etc. The following articles may prove useful:
Once you have completed the preliminary research, make contact with the selected business school/s and ask specific, detailed questions (i.e. course content/structure, faculty expertise, student mix, career facilities, alumni networks etc.) to establish if you will be able to achieve your objectives. This contact could take the form of a meeting/conversation with the relevant admissions officer, a visit to one of the schools' open days or a trip to the Business School Expo.
You could also ask the school/s if it would be possible to arrange meetings with alumni (or obtain their relevant contact details) in order to run your questions by them. Alumni will be able to provide you with their views of the programme and their experiences post graduation.
Having a thorough understanding of the various options that are available to you is an important step in choosing your MBA. This, together with a comparison of your objectives/requirements with the comments received from the business schools/alumni, should go a long way in helping you to decide which MBA would suit you best.
How long will it take for me to get my MBA?
There are an increasing range of options available at most business schools, from studying part-time to pursuing your MBA over the Internet. Depending on the option selected, the programme duration can vary from 1 to 5 years.
What is the cost of an MBA?
Depending on the business school selected, MBA fees can range from ± R50 000 to R150 000. A summary of the costs involved can be obtained by visiting the MBA.co.za School Directory.
Are there any bursary, scholarship or loan/finance options available to MBA students?
Bursaries and sponsorships are limited in the South African context. The majority of students are funded by their employers or are self-funded. That said, visit the MBA Bursaries and Scholarships page to view the latest funding opportunities.
In most scenarios, however, you might find that a student loan becomes your best option. Many of the major banks do offer preferential loans to prospective students. You could also enquire about EduLoan's finance options.
Failing all of the above, you could look at the flexible payment options that are offered by most business schools.
How do I apply/enrol for an MBA?
The relevant information can be obtained by visiting the MBA.co.za School Directory. Click on the respective school listings and on the right-hand side of the page, click on the "How to Apply" button.
Where can I get a list of the CHE-accredited institutions in South Africa?
A list of CHE-accredited institutions can be viewed by clicking here. Alternatively, you can visit the CHE web-site at www.che.ac.za.
Where can I find the latest rankings of South African MBAs?
MBA/Business School rankings are conducted by independent publications/media. Further information regarding two prominent South African surveys can be obtained by contacting the Financial Mail and PMR. We would suggest, however, that you read our MBA Rankings article first.
What is the GMAT?
The Graduate Management Admissions Test is a comprehensive, computerised examination that combines essay and multiple-choice formats. The GMAT score, in conjunction with other criteria, is utilised by some South African business schools to select applicants. Click here for further information.
Are there any GMAT preparation centres/courses in South Africa and where can the test be taken?
Click here to read the GMAT preparation and testing centres article.