What are the entry requirements to study for an MBA in the UK?
Deciding to study an MBA is a huge commitment, and you must be fully aware of the criteria needed before beginning the application process. Entry requirements for all UK business schools vary, but as a general rule applicants will need the following:
- A minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience
- A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- GMAT (see below)
- IELTS score of at least 6.0-6.5
Indian student entry requirements for a UK MBA
For Indian students aspiring to study an MBA in the UK, the process is highly structured, with specific criteria to meet:
Bachelor’s Degree: Indian applicants must hold a recognised undergraduate degree, typically a three- or four-year Bachelor’s degree such as a B.A., B.Com., or B.Tech. A minimum percentage requirement is often stipulated, ranging between 50% to 60%, depending on the university.
Work Experience: Indian students must provide evidence of a minimum of three years of full-time work experience. This experience should ideally be in a relevant field that aligns with their intended MBA specialisation.
GMAT Scores: Most UK institutions will expect a GMAT score from Indian applicants (see below). While a score of around 600 is acceptable for many universities, more competitive programmes may require scores above 650. Preparation for the GMAT should include at least six months of study, focusing on weaker areas such as quantitative reasoning or verbal analysis.
English Language Proficiency: Indian students must prove their English proficiency by obtaining an IELTS score of at least 6.0-6.5. Some universities may also accept TOEFL or PTE scores as alternatives, but IELTS is the most commonly accepted.
Supporting Documents: Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees are usually required, as well as the submission of a strong SOP detailing their career aspirations, the reasons for choosing an MBA, and why they have selected that particular institution.
Visa Requirements: Indian students will need a Student visa to study in the UK. Along with an offer letter from a UK institution, they must also show proof of funds, including tuition fees and living expenses.
The GMAT
A number of business schools require students to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). The GMAT tests ability in:
- Analytical Writing: Argument analysis
- Integrated Reasoning: Graphics and table analysis
- Quantitative Aptitude: ability to read a passage and problem-solve
- Verbal: Critical reasoning and sentence correction
The GMAT is unique because if you answer questions correctly, you are given harder ones worthy of more points. Incorrect answers will be met with easier questions, which reward fewer points.
GMAT Exam Preparation
Students should spend at least six months preparing for the GMAT. If your use of English is better than your mathematics, then focus on solving quantitative problems. If it is the opposite, then read.
GMAT Exam Scoring
| Test Module | Scoring |
|---|---|
| Verbal Scaled | 0 to 60 (75 minutes) |
| Quantitative | 0 to 60 (75 minutes) |
| Analytical Writing | 0 to 6 (30 minutes) |
| Integrated Reasoning | 1 to 8 (30 minutes) |
| Total Scaled Score | 200 to 800 |
In the quantitative and verbal sections, students score between 0 and 60. Scores of over 50 in either are very rare.
Temporary scores are generated at the end of the test and the final scores go online after 20 days once the essay is manually read and graded. Your GMAT score is valid for five years, with a score of 600 considered good and over 660 excellent.
Study an MBA in the UK
Are you interested in studying an MBA at a UK business school? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today to learn more about how we can help you submit a strong application ahead of the upcoming intake.