Top MBA Programmes in Singapore

What is an MBA programme?

An MBA is a common abbreviation of Master of Business Administration. It is a general graduate business degree that equips students with technical, managerial, and leadership skills. 

As a generalist degree, it covers a broad range of topics such as Finance, Marketing, Economics and International Business.

Throughout the entire programme, students are typically given the opportunity to apply ideas and concepts gained in a classroom setting to real-world business cases and consulting projects. Concurrently, students may be attached to reputable organisations to learn from C-suite executives and business leaders. The end result? A comprehensive set of business and management skills that one can apply to any industry and career tracks.

Why do people want to pursue an MBA?

There are many reasons why people want to pursue an MBA.

Getting an MBA is widely perceived as a stepping stone to secure C-level positions at large corporations or for budding entrepreneurs. 

For others, having an MBA on their resumes opens up a broader range of career opportunities or justifies their request for a promotion or significant pay increment. For some, it is simply part of their professional development journey.

Is Singapore a good place to take up an MBA?

According to a 2019 summary report by the Graduate Management Admissions Council, the top three criteria that people look for when choosing an MBA programme is reputation of the educational programme, progression towards an international career, and career preparation.

Singapore, as a country, is definitely able to deliver on all. As a cosmopolitan city with various reputable organisations and MNCs setting base in Singapore, it is not surprising why our country is a huge draw for MBA candidates.

What kind of MBA can I take in Singapore?

There are a few types of MBA programmes that you take in Singapore, either on a full-time or part-time basis. 

Standard MBA Programme

This would be the regular MBA programme, where students are exposed to the managerial, technical and business skills. The standard MBA programme usually takes one to two years to complete.

Accelerated MBA Programme

This is similar to a standard MBA programme but the entire completion time is compressed to one year.

Executive MBA Programme

The executive MBA programme is a step up from the standard MBA programme and usually spans across two years. This programme is usually targeted at professionals with at least five years of professional management experience.

Dual MBA Programme

There are some graduate schools that offer dual MBA programmes, in which two Master programmes are rolled into one programme. Under the dual MBA programme, students will be able to obtain an additional Masters degree on top of an MBA. For most dual MBA programmes, it has to be taken full-time and usually requires around two to two and a half years to complete.

What are some of the top MBA programmes offered in Singapore?

Given Singapore’s strong emphasis on educational standards, it is not surprising that our nation boosts some of the top-ranking MBA programmes in the world.

If you are thinking of pursuing your MBA in Singapore, here are some of the top MBA programmes offered by the various tertiary institutions.

 

MBA School	Rutgers Business School Asia Pacific
Speciality	The Rutgers Executive MBA program is the premier choice of executive education for the highly motivated professional with aspirations for accelerated career growth and development For years, the Rutgers Executive MBA program has been recognized globally as a leader in executive business education. Learn more about their track record of excellence by viewing their full list of rankings here.#2 in Economics | #3 in Corp Strategy | #3 in Statistics | #10 in Logistics| #19 in the US | Top 100 Worldwide EMBA by FT EMBA Rankings 2018/2019 The Rutgers Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program enables you with the tools and resources to meet the challenges of today’s supply chains head-on. The Rutgers Executive Education open enrollment programs – spanning a variety of the most pertinent business topics – are offered in-class format.
Application for eMBA	Click here
Application for Ms SCM	Click here
Website	https://rutgers.edu.sg/
Address	146 Robinson Road, #07-01/02, Singapore 068909
Contact	Tel: +65 6532 0083 Email: info@rutgers.edu.sg

 

---

MBA School	National University of Singapore – NUS Business School
Speciality	The NUS MBA has consistently ranked among the top MBA programmes in Asia and the world The NUS MBA provides a strong ecosystem for participants looking for deep understanding and insights for business in Asia Participants can tailor the programme to fit their career goals, and amplify their experience through experiential learning with live consulting projects, case competitions, global immersion programmes, international student exchanges, internship opportunities and more.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://mba.nus.edu.sg/
Address	Mochtar Riady Building Level 4, 15 Kent Ridge Drive, Singapore 119245
Contact	65 6516 2068 mba@nus.edu.sg

 

---

MBA School	INSEAD Asia Campus
Speciality	Offers three fully-integrated campuses in Europe, Asia and the Middle East An accelerated 10-month curriculum thats aims to develop successful, thoughtful leaders and entrepreneurs who create value for their organisations and their communities
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.insead.edu/campuses/asia
Address	1 Ayer Rajah Avenue,,138676 Singapore
Contact	65 6799 5388

 

---

MBA School	Singapore Management University – Lee Kong Chian School of Business
Speciality	The SMU MBA is designed to shape individuals into a versatile and dynamic leader that businesses need. Provides an interactive and rigorous curriculum that captures the forefront of management research and proven approaches in management practice
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://business.smu.edu.sg/mba
Address	Graduate Programmes Office, Level 4, 50 Stamford Road, Singapore 178899
Contact	65 6828 0882 Contact via form here

 

---

MBA School	Nanyang Technological University – Nanyang Business School
Speciality	Highly ranked amongst the top MBA programmes in the world The participants, faculty and our partners collaborate to solve real-world challenges through cutting-edge research and distinct pedagogy This 12-month transformational programme allows participants to gain deep, practical real-world insights into business models, management philosophies and rigorous academic theories across a variety of industries to prepare to excel in the global environment
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://nbs.ntu.edu.sg/Programmes/Graduate/NanyangMBA/Pages/Home.aspx
Address	Nanyang Graduate Studies, S3-B3A-03, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798
Contact	+65 6592 3718 / +65 6592 3502 / +65 6908 3470 mba.admissions@ntu.edu.sg​

 

---

MBA School	SP Jain School of Global Management
Speciality	Designed exclusively for business professionals with 3+ years of work experience, the GMBA is an internationally recognised program with a reputation that is built on superior standards of learning engagement, research, innovation and graduate outcomes The 12-month full-time postgraduate program offers insights into some of the latest and most innovative areas of business management. It focuses on helping students appreciate, accept and address various business challenges in different geographic and cultural environments. The program includes a new enhanced curriculum to impart cutting-edge skills of a ‘consultant’ to help students fast-track their career growth in the emerging challenging environment.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.spjain.org/programs/postgraduate/gmba
Address	10 Hyderabad Road, off Alexandra Road, Singapore, 119579
Contact	+65 6270 4748 admissionssg@spjain.org

 

---

MBA School	ESSEC Business School
Speciality	A 12-month full-time program delivered in France and Singapore Through its majors: Luxury Brand Management, and Strategy & Digital Leadership, participants are equipped with a macro-view of core business functions coupled with industry-specific skills and knowledge to help them make a successful career switch to industries such as consulting, tech, or luxury. Provide holistic MBA experience encompassing hard and soft skills through training on in-demand industry certifications, personal branding and development workshops, as well as career development support,
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.essec.edu/en/program/mbas/global-mba/
Address	5 Nepal Park, Singapore 139408
Contact	Contact via form here

 

---

MBA School	Kaplan – Murdoch University MBA
Speciality	The MBA is oriented to the needs of business leaders today and tomorrow. It equips graduates with professional expertise in business administration that is highly prized by employers world-wide. Murdoch MBA graduates are well-placed to pursue rewarding careers and leadership roles within business, government and non-government organisations.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.kaplan.com.sg/course/master/business-and-management/master-of-business-administration-177/
Address	Kaplan City Campus @ Wilkie Edge: 8 Wilkie Road, Level 2, Wilkie Edge, Singapore 228095 Kaplan City Campus @ GR.ID (formerly PoMo): 1 Selegie Road, Level 6, GR.ID, Singapore 188306
Contact	8526 2207 gavin.chong@kaplan.com

 

---

MBA School	Kaplan – Northumbria University MBA
Speciality	With the Dual AACSB accreditation, Northumbria University joins the Top 1% of elite Group Business Schools worldwide, with elite members such as Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University The philosophy of the programme derives from the principles of reflective practice and experiential learning Aims to build strategic capabilities and understand contemporary management and organisational issues in a context of change.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.kaplan.com.sg/course/master/business-and-management/master-of-business-administration-829/?versionb=1
Address	Kaplan City Campus @ Wilkie Edge: 8 Wilkie Road, Level 2, Wilkie Edge, Singapore 228095 Kaplan City Campus @ GR.ID (formerly PoMo): 1 Selegie Road, Level 6, GR.ID, Singapore 188306
Contact	8526 2207 gavin.chong@kaplan.com

 

---

MBA School	Singapore University of Social Sciences
Speciality	Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme offered by School of Business of the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) focuses on training students to acquire in-depth knowledge and skills in selected management areas. DBA curriculum offers exposure to knowledge relevant to the digital economy and provides students with a choice of management courses or a mix of multi-disciplinary courses to suit their applied research objectives. The programme is supported by a flexible learning environment that draws its benefits from SUSS’s close linkage with industries
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.suss.edu.sg/programmes/detail/doctor-of-business-administration-dba
Address	463 Clementi Road, Singapore 599494
Contact	+65 6248 9777 student_recruitment@suss.edu.sg

 

---

MBA School	PSB Academy – University of Nottingham
Speciality	The Nottingham MBA is as much of a personal journey as it is an academic one. The Singapore MBA programmes are specially structured for today’s aspiring managers with the potential for senior positions and with the ability to take on the emerging knowledge-based economy. The MBA courses are taught by Nottingham faculty in short intensive blocks in Singapore.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.psb-academy.edu.sg/university-of-nottingham/master-of-business-administration
Address	Marina Square, 6 Raffles Blvd, #03-200, Singapore 039594 Jackson Square, 11 Lorong 3 Toa Payoh, #01-01, Singapore 319579
Contact	eugene.hwang@psb-academy.edu.sg +65 6390 9083 +65 8102 8389

 

---

MBA School	Manchester Worldwide South East Asia
Speciality	Offers a unique range of corporate education services designed to give business the competitive edge Manchester Worldwide (S.E. Asia) offers innovative learning solutions Manchester Global part-time MBA programme which recognises individuals as a leader from the very beginning
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.manchester.edu.sg/
Address	80 Robinson Road, #13-02 Singapore 068898
Contact	(65) 6226 0761 mbaenquiries@manchester.edu.sg

 

---

MBA School	Strathclyde University
Speciality	Strathclyde’s international reputation, combined with its high academic and selection standards, offers a reputable MBA Its unique delivery structure developed with the local partner incorporating elements of full-time, part-time and open-learning modes of study Successful MBA students (via international centres) will be awarded the same University of Strathclyde MBA as UK students.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.strath.ac.uk/business/internationalcentres/singapore/mba/
Address	58, Lowland Road (Kovan MRT), Singapore 547453
Contact	65 63340600 tamerawee@dimensions.edu.sg

 

---

MBA School	University of London
Speciality	Students will be presented with increasingly complex business scenarios (case studies) and will be encouraged to gain a deeper and wider perspective of the business problem, while at the same time maintaining the strategic view which is the key concern of the postgraduate student.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	http://www.amitysingapore.sg/program/masters/uol-master-of-business-administration-uol-london-mba-uk/
Address	101 Penang Road, Singapore 238466
Contact	info@singapore.amity.edu

 

---

MBA School	London School of Business and Finance – University of Greenwich
Speciality	Prepares students for a career in business development and management Cover contemporary subjects such as global strategy, International marketing, sustainability, International Entrepreneurship among others. Students will benefit from an innovative teaching and learning approach which consists of a mixture of independent studies, tutorials, workshops, discussions, practice research, and case studies
Price	SGD$ 18,000
Website	https://www.lsbf.edu.sg/programmes/postgraduate/business/master-of-business-administration-international-business/
Address	143 Cecil Street, #13-00, #18-00 & #23-00 (School), #23-00 (Main reception), Singapore 069542
Contact	65 6580 7700 info@LSBF.edu.sg

 

---

MBA School	MDIS – University of Sunderland
Speciality	Internationally recognised MBA programme aims at graduates with significant business/management experience The MBA is designed to draw upon the experience of the candidate and in recognition of the applied nature of the award the programme will emphasis an integrated and practical (professional) orientation over a theoretical approach
Price	Contact for school fees
Website	https://www.mdis.edu.sg/master-of-business-administration
Address	501 Stirling Rd, Singapore 148951
Contact	65 6247 9111

 

---

MBA School	S3 Asia MBA
Speciality	There is a growing need for pan-Asian MBA programme that offers an in-depth understanding on theory and practice of business in Asia Students will start their first semester in Shanghai, spend their second semester in Seoul and finish their last semester in Singapore. Upon completion of the program, students will be awarded two MBA degrees-a unique attraction of the S3 Asia MBA program. Each qualified candidate will be granted a “double degree” consisting of their ‘home’ degree, plus one of the two other degrees based on their own preference.
Price	View 2021/2022 school fees here
Website	https://www.s3-asiamba.com/about/why-s3.html
Address	View universities’ locations here
Contact	Contact here

 

---

MBA School	James Cook University
Speciality	Their MBA program consists of 12 subjects chosen from a wide spectrum covering all fields of contemporary management Curriculum is designed to instil mindset of innovative business solution, equip skills and techniques of data-driven decision making and engage students in experiential learning to serve business partners’ demands.
Price	S$37,236
Website	https://www.jcu.edu.sg/courses-and-study/courses/course/master-of-business-administration
Address	149 Sims Drive, Singapore 387380
Contact	admissions-singapore@jcu.edu.au

 

---

MBA School	Aventis School of Management – University of Roehampton, London
Speciality	Helps equip individuals with a holistic understanding of the needs of global business Prepare individuals for the challenges of senior management within an international business environment The programme is delivered by academics and practitioners that are leading experts in their field, and is characterised by quality teaching that is research informed. There will be opportunity to pursue a consultancy project with either a multinational corporation or a leading Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) across Asia.
Price	Contact for school fees
Website	https://www.aventis.edu.sg/university-of-roehampton-mba/
Address	100 Orchard Road #04-100, Concorde Hotel, Singapore 238840
Contact	Contact here

 

---

MBA School	Aventis School of Management – University of Dubuque, Iowa (USA)
Speciality	Dubuque MBA programme would be an intensive management programme that allows graduates to: Lead and manage with in-depth knowledge in key areas of finance, human resources, operations and strategy Exercise character and ethics in decision making Communicate effectively across the global business landscape Think and act both tactically and strategically in complex business situations Be prepared for the challenges of senior management within an international business environment
Price	Contact for school fees
Website	https://www.aventis.edu.sg/university-of-dubuqe-mba/
Address	100 Orchard Road #04-100, Concorde Hotel, Singapore 238840
Contact	Contact here

 

---

MBA School	Aventis School of Management – California State University, Sacramento
Speciality	Sac State MBA program offers the most pertinent business knowledge and advanced management practices right in the heart of Asia with dedicated faculty flown in from California. It is designed with busy executive in mind, providing an optimal learning platform with minimal disruption to career responsibilities. The program focuses on group discussion, case studies and practice-based learning
Price	Contact for school fees
Website	https://www.aventis.edu.sg/california-state-university-mba-im/
Address	100 Orchard Road #04-100, Concorde Hotel, Singapore 238840
Contact	Contact here

 

---

How much are the tuition fees of an MBA programme in Singapore?

The tuition fees of an MBA programme in Singapore varies widely depending on the type of MBA programme you opt for as well as the graduate school. The MBA programme fee in Singapore can range anywhere between SGD33,000 up to SGD70,000. 

For more reputable schools such as National University of Singapore and Singapore Management University, you can definitely expect the tuition fees to fall on the higher end of the spectrum.

Are there any other miscellaneous fees that are included in an MBA programme?

Besides the tuition fees, there are other miscellaneous fees that you should be aware of. This typically includes the one-time application fee, taking of GMAT or IELTS for English test scores, and study materials.

For international students, the miscellaneous fees will typically be higher given that you will have to account for living expenses, airfare tickets, health insurance, transportation, among other factors.

What is the general eligibility criteria?

While most MBA programmes have their own set of criteria, there are some general criteria that most MBA programmes look for in their candidates.

In terms of academic requirements, most MBA programmes will require students to hold a degree with a least second class upper honours from a reputable university. 

Similarly, work experience is a key consideration for most MBA programme admissions.

Besides the educational qualifications and work experience, most MBA programmes will require applicants to submit their GMAT and IELTS scores.

The GMAT score measures the verbal, mathematical, analytical writing, and integrated reasoning skills that you possess. Hence, a high GMAT score would be more favourable during the MBA application. 

Similarly, IELTS, also known as the international english language test score, is a test that measures your language score. Potential MBA candidates that come from a non-English speaking country will need to take an IELTS score if they wish to pursue an MBA in Singapore.

The big question: should I take up an MBA in Singapore?

There is no right answer and it really depends. The key questions to ask are: what you hope to achieve out of your MBA? Are you hoping to transition towards a managerial role? Are you looking to switch industries? Or is it to expand your professional network?

It is important to bear in mind that not all MBA programmes are created equally. Similarly, certain industries may not necessarily require you to have an MBA in order to advance in your career. 

Given that the cost of taking an MBA programme is no doubt a hefty one, you will need to consider your return on investment. Are you guaranteed that job promotion or pay increment with an MBA degree? As such, giving up your career and perhaps personal life for one to two years, may end up hindering your career progression instead.

Before deciding on whether to take up an MBA programme, it may be helpful to speak with your peers and do some industry research as to whether an MBA is valued in the career path that you ultimately want to go for.

---

 

How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA in Singapore?

It takes one to two years to earn an MBA in Singapore. Most weekdays start with a morning lecture, followed by breakout sessions and workshops in the afternoon. 

The MBA program typically runs from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM, with most full-time students taking an average of two years to complete their MBA.

Some MBA programs have an accelerated study format allowing students to earn their MBA degrees in one year.

Funding an MBA in Singapore: What Options do You Have? 

Let’s admit, MBA is a big financial commitment.

There are many funding options for your MBA in Singapore, ranging from government scholarships to company reimbursements and personal loans.

You can choose between one of the following scholarships:

• Scholarships from business institutions and their affiliates
• Companies also offer scholarships for those who want to upgrade their skills and move to a better position
• Government scholarships
• Private scholarships. Scholarships from a variety of sources, including cultural, religious, or academic associations.

The best way to find out about funding options is to contact the school directly – they will be happy to assist you with information on different scholarship options.

There are also several other ways to fund your MBA in Singapore:

• You may use your credit card to pay the tuition fees and get a cashback rebate.
• Join an employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement program where the company pays for your courses, allowing you to reimburse them over time.

Employer-sponsored funding is the most common way to fund your MBA in Singapore. Employers typically pay for the tuition costs, and employees reimburse them over one or two years. The simplest way is to have your employer place a certain sum into a savings account every month, which you can then draw from to pay for school fees and other expenses.

• Apply and qualify for personal loans so you can continue working while studying.

If all the options suggested fail, consider taking up a POSB Further Study Assist Loan.

Also, consider taking up a POSB Further Study Assist Loan. They’ll offer you an education loan at an interest rate of 4.38% per annum, with a loan amount that’s up to ten times the combined monthly salary of you and your guarantor.

Eligibility and Fees

Borrower

• Must be a Singaporean citizen/ permanent resident
• Must be between 17 and 65 years
• Have at least annual gross income of $S 18,000

Guarantor

• Must be between 21 and 65 years old 
• Must have an annual gross salary of at least S$24, 000
• Must be your immediate family member

The loan comes with flexible repayments of up to 10 years. 

University Specific Eligibility Criteria in Singapore

The table below highlights the specific scores and additional eligibility that international students must fulfil to qualify for an MBA in Singapore:

University/institution	Scores	ELP Test Scores	Application Portal
INSEAD	GMAT Score required	TOEFL – 100, IELTS – 6.5, PTE-68	Click here to apply
NUS	GMAT: 600	TOEFL cBT – 260, IELTS – 7.5	Click here to apply
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)	GMAT: 600	IELTS – 6.5, TOEFL – 100	Click here to apply
Singapore Management University (SMU)	GMAT: 600	TOEFL – 100, IELTS – 7.0	Click here to apply
James Cook University (JCU)	Preferred	TOEFL iBT – 90, IELTS – 6.5	Click here to apply
SP Jain School of Global Management	GMAT: 650	IELTS- 6.5 PTE-600	Click here to apply
Nanyang Institute of Management (NIM)	GMAT: competitive score	IELTS – 6.0 TOEFL – 100	Click here to apply
PSB Academy	GMAT preferred, with at least three years of work experience	TOEFL- 93 IELTS-6.5 PTE- 64	Click here to apply
Amity Global Institute (AGI)	GMAT: 610	TOEFL – 92 IELTS – 6.5	Click here to apply
ESSEC Business School	GMAT: Competitive Score	TOEFL – 100 IELTS – 7.0	Click here to apply

Note that having prior working experience is always an advantage in the application process. Since GMAT scores and work experience are the two most important deciding factors, it’s suggested that you do not miss to include them in your application. Don’t forget to include a well-written cover letter as well.

MBA Application Requirements in Singapore

Here’s a list of all the documents you might be required to provide in your MBA application in Singapore:

• Passport details
• Applications fees receipt
• Student pass (for international students)
• Financial aid applications
• Tuition grant
• Past academic certificates
• Awards/extracurricular activities/competitions /co-curricular activities/criminal offence records/recognitions, if any
• Medical reports stating any condition, illness, or disability
• GMAT, TOEFL, and IELTS scores

Predeparture Expenses

There are several things you might be required to pay for before leaving for your studies (e.g., legal residency status or work permits). You may also need to pay for passport processing, medical tests, health certificates, etc.

Type of Expense	Cost (Range is USD)
Visa Application Fees	$42
IELTS Fees	$185 to $190
TOEFL Fees	$160 to $250
GRE Fees	$205 to $230
GMAT Fees	$250

Living Expenses in Singapore

After arriving in Singapore, you need to set up your new life. Living expenses can be quite high here – the average spending on food per month is S$500, and that’s not all! You might have to pay for transportation, textbooks, student ID cards, residence permits, accommodation deposits, and a whole lot more:

Particulars	Average Monthly costs (USD)
Accommodation	$142 to $490
Travel	$100
Food	$400
Miscellaneous	$200

Government Grants for MBA

International students who are pursuing their MBA in Singapore are also eligible to apply for government grants. While they don’t have to pay these grants, they’re required to sign a bond that requires them to work in Singapore for at least three years after graduating.

The amount of the grant you receive also depends on your course and the institution you are studying at.

External Scholarships for MBA Students in Singapore

All students in Singapore are eligible to apply for external scholarships. However, they need to make sure that the Singapore Government recognizes the scholarship they’re applying for.

Here are some scholarships that are available to international students:

• Singapore International Graduate Award: Awards about US$1500
• Financial Sumo Educational Scholarship Program: Awards about US$1000 to international students.
• Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship: Awards about U$15400 to international students
• Go Clean Scholarship: Awards about US$3500 to international students
• Broker Fish International Student Scholarship: Awards about US$1000 to international students
• Global Study Awards: Awards about U$12,995 to international students

University Specific Scholarships to Checkout

Some of the top universities in the country offer scholarships, bursaries, and other funding strategies for MBA students. While these are usually awarded based on merit, financial need is sometimes also considered during the application process.

Here’s a list of scholarships available to international students at different top universities in Singapore:

• Lee Kong Chian Graduate Scholarships at NUS: Awards up to U$16,000
• INSEAD Antonio Borges Endowed Scholarship: Awards up to S$11,286
• NUS MBA Study Awards: They have plenty of scholarships available to international students
• Nanyang Scholarship:  Offers US6500/year plus coverage of subsidized tuition fees.

The Scope of MBA in Singapore

If you’re looking for a career option that will allow you to earn good money, then doing an MBA in Singapore is an option worth considering.

With an employment rate of only 2.2%, Singapore faces a serious shortage of work-ready professionals.

In addition, the average starting salary of MBA graduates here is about US$50K, and top executives from multinational companies can earn as much as S$120K a year!

With a population of over 5 million people, Singapore has a thriving economy, which has made it one of the most competitive countries in the world. The public education system is also one of the best, with an excellent 100% literacy rate and quality infrastructures available to all students.

What’s more? Singapore has been ranked as the fifth most competitive economy globally by the  GlobalIMD World Competitiveness Ranking Report and the eighth-most innovative country by the Global Innovation Index.

Business schools in Singapore have one of the highest placement rates in Asia. About 90% of graduates from local universities receive job offers from top multinationals, including Dell, Microsoft, Boston Consulting Group, Ernst & Young, and Procter Gamble, JP Morgan Chase, among others.

With an MBA from INSEAD, NSU, or one of the top universities in the country, you’re eligible for an average salary of US$76K annually

These reasons make an MBA in Singapore one of the best opportunities for students, especially international students seeking to further their education and careers.

ROI of an MBA in Singapore

According to NUS, MBA graduates earn between S$88 000 and S$180 000 a year. 

The highest placement occurs in Australia, in sectors like technology, consulting, and financial services.

According to Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the salary of an MBA graduate with at least three years of working experience is $126 000.

The following table details NTU’s alumni absorption in different continents and countries: 

Continent/Country	Percentage of Alumni Placed
East Asia	30
Singapore	37
Europe	12
Southeast Asia	9
USA	7

According to FT MBA ranking, here are the weighted salaries of MBAs from top universities in Singapore and their respective tuition fees:

ROI for Top Business Schools in Singapore

From the graph, it’s clear that the salary offered to an MBA graduate in Singapore is super-competitive, and the tuition fee is only about half of what you’ll be earning in a year after you graduate.

Choosing to do your MBA in Singapore over the US or UK, and more than likely even over Australia or Hong Kong, is a sure way of getting the best of both worlds: high-earning potential and affordable living.

The USA might be an economic powerhouse, and the UK might be an attractive study destination all around, but prices like these make studying in Singapore stand out even more.

Jobs after an MBA in Singapore

With around 76,000 Singaporean students enrolling in local universities (https://www.statista.com/statistics/624429/enrollment-in-universities-in-singapore/) every year, the demand for fresh talent is incredible.

Source: 

So, where do these bright new minds end up after they graduate? 

Most graduates stay for between 5 to 10 years working in some of Asia’s most reputable firms like DBS Bank, Google, Deloitte, and PwC. Most take up managerial roles or consulting positions, while others seek further education, teaching jobs, and even open their own businesses.

Job Designation	Average Annual Salaries (in USD)
Business Consultant	83,900
Business Development Manager	96,800
Product Manager	79,200
General Manager	104,500
Accounting Manager	92,600
Asst Business Development Manager	74,300
Manager	112,200

Study Visa for Singapore

After receiving the offer letter from your preferred education provider, you can apply for an appropriate study visa at the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). 

The fee for a student pass tends to vary from college to college. Usually, it takes between 2 to 3 weeks to process your application and get the student pass. However, before you apply for the student pass, you have to make sure you have the following list of documents in order: 

• Student Visa application Form-ICA form 16 and form V36 
• Passport
• Visa application fee bill 
• Student Pass (for non – Singapore citizens)
• Tuition grant: if applied for any 
• Bank loan sanction letter
• Transcripts (Mark sheets from class 10 to graduation) 
• Work experience Certificate 
• Test score

One interesting aspect you should consider while applying for an MBA in Singapore is that most universities collaborate with both local and international companies, most of which organize business seminars and workshops. 

These are great opportunities to get your name out there and build up a network of potential employers. So, you might even consider doing an internship while you study for your MBA in Singapore!

Students are usually assigned teams projects to teach them how to explore and develop organizational and managerial communication skills.

The MBA courses are usually well organized, allowing students to work for approximately 16 hours for their pocket money. 

Getting an MBA in Singapore could give you a salary hike of as much as 148%!

Why an MBA in Singapore?

Above all, higher education is a hot commodity here as the nation strives to develop its intellectual capital and preserve its position as one of the preeminent business hubs in Southeast Asia.

In addition, universities offer loads of practical learning opportunities, excellent quality facilities and resources, and highly competitive programs that provide you with many employment and career options.

MBA Intakes in Singapore

MBA courses in Singapore usually have three major intakes: 

• February/March
• July/August
• October/November

Of the three intakes, July/August is the biggest, with most of the programs available at this time of the year.

However, if you are looking for flexibility in your schedule, opt for the October/November intake. This way, you can enrol for an MBA in Singapore just when you’re wrapping up your studies in your home country.

Admission Criteria in Singapore

The admission criteria for an MBA student in Singapore are usually pretty much standard across all local universities.  Most educational bodies follow the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) standards for selecting students.

These criteria include:

1. The applicant should hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any field from an accredited university
2. Work experience – at least one year of work experience is required, although two years is ideal  
3. GMAT or GRE scores – GMAT score 750 (50th percentile) and GRE Quantitative and Verbal scores at 123 and 155, respectively
4. Personal statement – a brief essay in which you should explain your educational and career goals, as well as how an MBA will help you achieve these goals

In addition to these credentials, most universities also have their own selection criteria that include factors such as: 

• Academic performance in Bachelor’s degree
• GMAT or GRE scores 
• Language ability – if the medium of instruction is international English, a TOEFL score of between 600 – 719 (or IELTS) will suffice 
• Work experience
• Other relevant work experience

The Application Process

• Most universities in Singapore offer online application facilities, allowing the applicants to apply for MBA programs in Singapore through the internet. Applicants can either complete online application forms (attaching the required documents) or download them from the website and submit them by post.
• You’ll also be required to pay a small amount as the application fee. The amount to pay will always vary depending on the university you choose.
• Make sure you get your application in well before the deadline to avoid any inconvenience.

The Admissions Process (MBA in Singapore)

• After receiving applications, universities will carry out stringent selection processes depending on their selection criteria and shortlisting norms. Shortlisted applicants will be required to appear for an interview session, group discussion, or personal interview.

The Selection Criteria

Universities look at several factors for shortlisting applicants to study MBA in Singapore. Academic qualifications, work experience, and other achievements are the prime selection criteria used by most universities. Specialized areas of interest play an important role as well.

The Curriculum

Most universities in Singapore follow the semester system, and MBA programs usually last for 12 to 16 months. The first semester is generally dedicated to core courses, while electives are taken up in the second semester.

The Core Courses

Core courses cover essential areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, management, and economics.

The Electives

Courses offered in MBA programs are largely management-oriented. Candidates can opt for one of the many elective courses offered by universities to enhance their career prospects.

MBA Specializations

Specialization is available in specific areas, including Finance, Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, Microeconomics, and Business Analytics.

Examination Pattern

The MBA programs offered in Singapore are of two main types — full-time and part-time. Those opting for the full-time course will have to appear for exams at set intervals, while those on the part-time track might have to undertake tests only at the end of each semester.

Can You Fail an MBA?

It is highly improbable that you’ll fail an MBA, but it is possible. If you miss the required number of exams or perform poorly in your coursework, you may be asked to leave the program.

MBA programs in Singapore are recognized for their world-class curriculums and rigorous selection processes. The country’s top universities offer their MBA programs through a blend of specialization and flexibility.

5 Things to Consider When Applying for an MBA in Singapore

1. Cost Vs. Returns

Run the numbers to ascertain whether studying for an MBA in Singapore makes sense for you. Take into account the cost of education, fees, living expenses, and other recurrent expenses. 

An MBA is expensive, and the odds are good you’ll take in debts in the process. However, if you can see a clear return on your investment — in terms of salary increase and career prospects — an MBA is definitely worth the expense.

2. Location

Singapore is an international city-state with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. If you’re looking to experience new cultures and make global connections, an MBA in Singapore is perfect for you.  

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more relaxed environment, some of the other Asian countries, such as Thailand or Malaysia, might be a better fit.

3. Know What Your GMAT Scores Mean

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a key component of the MBA application process. Your GMAT score reflects your ability to succeed in a rigorous business program. 

Most universities require a GMAT score of 600 or above for admission into their MBA programs. If your scores are below the requirement, you may want to retake the GMAT before applying.

4. Your Bonafides

The application process is rigorous and competitive, and your credentials play a significant role in determining your chances of getting into a university. 

Contentious issues such as citizenship and work permits can disqualify you from applying for specific courses, so make sure there are no constraints before going for an MBA in Singapore.

5. Visit the University Campus

Take a tour of the university campus and familiarize yourself with the admission requirements, courses on offer, facilities, and student life. Prospective students can learn more about an MBA program by visiting the campus and talking to administrators and students.

 

---

Editor’s Note:

While every precaution has been made to ensure the accuracy and fairness of this listing, we acknowledge that they may be inaccuracies. Therefore, we urge you to contact the service provider above for the correct information and/or contact us with the correct information.

If you are a service provider and wish to be featured in this listing (MediaOne reviews are read by hundreds of thousands of Singaporeans), please contact us at enquiry@mm.com.sg. There is no charge! Please allow us up to 3 working days to review before adjusting the information or including your entry.