In an ever-evolving professional environment, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a crucial catalyst for both current and aspiring business leaders who want to make their mark. The advanced qualification not only increases earning potential but also proliferates career possibilities, making it easier for aspiring and current leaders to change career trajectories without sacrificing seniority.
Putting your best foot forward in the application stage is pivotal. That means that for some applicants, the MBA admission process and entry requirements can feel overwhelming, especially for working professionals already busy with full-time employment.
The good news? Forward-thinking business schools like Melbourne Business School have designed the admission process for its Online MBA to be as intuitive as possible.
Below, we break it down and share MBA application tips, MBA prerequisites and more.
Who can apply for an MBA?
An MBA is a gateway for driven professionals of all kinds who want to expand their knowledge and shape the business landscape of tomorrow.
Every institution has certain MBA entry requirements that dictate who is eligible to pursue the qualification. For example, Melbourne Business School Online welcomes a diverse range of applicants to champion a more agile, inclusive and dynamic educational future.
Lisa Dunlop-Clark, who is a Program Adviser for Melbourne Business School Online, works with students who are navigating the MBA application process. So, what sort of prospective students does she tend to see?
“It’s a really broad range of people,” she says. We have people who are early in their careers, people who have never done a degree but have 20 years of experience, and everything in between.
“Because the program is online, a lot of people who might not be able to access postgraduate education feel like they have permission to apply,” she adds. “I’m seeing an increased number of women, and particularly mothers, who are gaining the confidence to apply for online study because they can study from home.”
This emphasis on varied perspectives has proven beneficial to all students who enjoy high-value networking opportunities as part of their qualifications.
How to apply for an MBA
The process for preparing to submit an application can be broken down into eight achievable steps.
1. Identify your goals
With a number of institutions and MBA programs to choose from, selecting the right one for your outcomes is essential.
To do this, start by identifying what you want to achieve by completing the MBA. Are you looking to expedite your career progression, change trajectories or start your own business? Will you be completing this degree alongside a full-time job, family, and/or busy lifestyle?
2. Research MBA programs
Different MBA programs offer different curriculums and opportunities. Once you’ve clarified what you want to achieve with your MBA, research the various programs, their subjects, faculty or online offerings, and networking opportunities.
Consider how each aligns with your career and personal growth goals and choose the program that best suits you. Would an online MBA – with flexible, agile learning and comprehensive support – be the best option for you?
3. Understand the entry requirements
Give yourself time to locate and digest these to ensure an MBA is a suitable path for you.
At Melbourne Business School Online, the MBA entry requirements include a minimum of two years’ work experience. If you have six years’ work experience, this can serve as a replacement if you do not have a university undergraduate degree. Notably, the Online Graduate Certificate pathway offers a potential alternative route to the Online MBA for those without a bachelor’s degree.
4. Get in contact
At this stage of the process, it’s important to contact the Online MBA’s Program Advisers. They can provide detailed insights on fees, entry requirements, intake periods, and any specific queries you might have and ensure your application is on the right track.
5. Gather your documents
You’ll need to submit a number of documents with your application. At Melbourne Business School Online, this includes:
- An up-to-date CV, showing a minimum of two years’ professional work experience
- A copy of your undergraduate academic transcript and any relevant postgraduate transcripts
- A passport or verified document showing your current citizenship or residency status
Other requirements to consider:
- If required, proof of an excellent command of English (copy of IELTs or TOEFL if needed)
- Personal statements relating to your goals and how you can contribute to the program
- The names and contact information of two confidential professional referees (not required for the Personal Certificate or Graduate Certificate).
You’re welcome to submit additional documentation in support of your application if you or your Program Adviser deems it worthwhile. Melbourne Business School may also request additional information to aid the admission decision.
6. Visit the app portal and create an account
Once everything is in place, you can head to the Melbourne Business School Online website and start your application through the online portal. If you still need to finalise the necessary documentation, you can save this as you go.
Our Online MBA offers six intakes per year.
7. Submit your application
Work with your Program Adviser to prepare your application to be as strong as possible. When you’re ready, submit your application. A life-changing experience may be right around the corner.
Tips for applying for an Online MBA with Melbourne Business School Online
Knowing the steps is important. But what do the experts have to say about specific tips to make your application a success?
Know what drives you to study
Having clarity on your motivations for pursuing an MBA can be a real differentiator during the application process. Highlight your unique experiences and aspirations in your application and tailor it to showcase how the Melbourne Business School Online MBA aligns with your goals.
Polish your resume
As part of your application, it’s critical to update and refine your resume to best represent your working history and experience. However, some students can find this part of the process daunting.
Tamara Hallam, a Program Adviser at Melbourne Business School Online, says that resumes are a key area where a Program Adviser can assist.
“We often help students with CVs, making sure they’ve got all the details they need and providing resources on how to write a CV if they need it,” she says.
Speak to an adviser
When you are considering applying to Melbourne Business School Online, help is just a phone call away. Our dedicated team of Program Advisers are available to discuss whether our program is right for you, including:
- Eligibility requirements
- How learning works at Melbourne Business School Online
- Learning and career outcomes
- Timelines for application and enrolment
Chatting with an adviser is an easy way to ensure you make an informed decision about study and get the best outcome for you.
“We get some students who apply directly for an Online MBA without consulting an adviser and they may miss important parts of their application that could benefit their outcome,” Program Adviser Lisa Dunlop-Clark explains.
“We strongly recommend consulting with a Program Adviser before you apply, because we are here to help. When a student says that they want to undertake this study, we care about them – not just about preparing them for their next study journey but helping them change their lives.”
MBA admission requirements: Frequently asked questions
How long does the application process take?
The application process can vary significantly from person to person – it can take as little as four days. The best way to gain a clear indication of how long the process will take for you is to engage with a Program Adviser for a tailored timeline.
Do my documents need to be verified?
It is a university requirement that applicants provide evidence that they meet the published entry requirements. Uncertified documentation does not provide this evidence; however, we may accept uncertified documents for the purpose of selection and reserve the right to request your certified documentation at any time.
Do I need to provide evidence of English language proficiency?
Non-native English speakers are required to provide proof of English proficiency – in some cases, an IELTS, TOEFL or PTE score is required.
Can international students apply online at Melbourne Business School?
Absolutely. We accept students from all over the world and encourage international students to apply for the Online MBA program at Melbourne Business School Online. Note that students won’t be eligible for an international student visa.
Will I be supported while studying online?
Definitely. Online MBA students have access to our comprehensive support services, and industry and subject matter experts to guide you through your learning journey. With a premier online business curriculum, the Online MBA gives learners the opportunity to learn from the brightest minds in the field.
Learn from experts with Australia’s premier Business School
If you’re considering applying for an Online MBA, we’re here to help. You can set up a 15-minute chat with one of our advisers today to discuss whether this program is right for you, online learning at Melbourne Business School, eligibility requirements and more.
Melbourne Business School is Australia's premier Business School – a name that truly opens doors. Known for its world-class curriculum, unparalleled career-enhancing opportunities and premier business expertise, the globally accredited Online MBA program offers a flexible, agile and invaluable learning experience, fast-tracking careers and opening doors globally.
Get the Melbourne Business School Online experience and transform your career. Learn more about our 100% Online MBA today.
