One of the strengths of business education in Australia is how many doors it has. A full-time MBA at a highly selective school may ask for a strong degree, a competitive GMAT score and several years of experience. A part-time or online MBA at another university may admit an experienced manager with no degree at all, as long as they complete a Graduate Certificate first. Both routes lead to a masters degree.
Every school sets its own requirements, and they change. Use this guide to understand the patterns, then check the exact rules for each program.
What schools usually look at
Academic background
Most MBAs ask for a bachelor degree in any discipline. Some ask for a minimum grade average. Others accept a degree plus work experience, or an equivalent qualification. If your degree is from overseas, the school will assess it for equivalence.
Work experience
Experience is central to the MBA. Many programs ask for a minimum number of years of full-time professional work, and some specify managerial experience. Executive programs usually expect considerably more. If you have little experience, consider a Master of Management instead.
Tests
Some programs require or recommend a test, most commonly the GMAT or the GRE. Many Australian part-time and online MBAs do not require a test at all. Some full-time programs may waive a test for applicants with strong academic results or substantial experience.
Application materials
Expect to provide a CV, academic transcripts, a personal statement or essays, and one or two referees. Many programs also interview applicants.
The GMAT Focus Edition
The current GMAT, the GMAT Focus Edition, is run by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). It has three sections, each worth the same towards the total score:
| Section | What it tests |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Reasoning | Problem solving with arithmetic and basic algebra |
| Verbal Reasoning | Reading comprehension and critical reasoning |
| Data Insights | Interpreting and analysing data from tables, graphs and multiple sources |
Each section is scored from 60 to 90. The total score ranges from 205 to 805, and all total scores end in 5. That makes them easy to tell apart from the older GMAT (10th Edition), which used a 200–800 scale. GMAC says the two scales should not be compared directly, so if you see an old score target from a school, check whether it has been updated.
How to prepare
- Take an official practice test first to find your starting point.
- Focus on your weakest section, especially Data Insights if you have not done much data work.
- Book the test with enough time to resit before application deadlines.
- Check whether the school wants the test taken at a test centre or accepts the online version.
Getting in without a degree
If you do not have a bachelor degree, you still have options:
Experience-based entry. Some universities admit applicants with substantial management experience directly into a Graduate Certificate, and sometimes into the MBA, after assessing their CV, references and an interview.
Graduate Certificate pathway. This is the most common route. You complete a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration (usually four units). If you pass at the required level, you can progress into the MBA with credit.
Recognition of prior learning. Some schools grant credit for relevant professional qualifications or previous postgraduate study, which can shorten your degree.
The old MBA Guide called these "alternative entry requirements", and they remain one of the most useful features of Australian business education.
English requirements
If you did not complete a degree in English, you will usually need an accepted English test result such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic. The university sets minimum scores for the overall result and for each band. International students should check that the test and scores also meet student visa requirements.
International students
As well as academic entry, international students need a Confirmation of Enrolment from the university and a Student visa (subclass 500). The Department of Home Affairs assesses whether applicants are genuine students and have enough money for their stay. Check the current requirements on its website.
A strong application
- Explain your goals clearly. Why an MBA, why now and why this school?
- Show impact. Use examples of results you have achieved at work, with numbers where you can.
- Choose referees who know your work. A direct manager is usually better than a senior figure who barely knows you.
- Apply early. Scholarships and early-round places often close well before the final deadline.
Timeline for applying
Start researching programs about a year ahead. Allow time to take the GMAT or GRE if required, gather transcripts and references, and prepare essays. Apply early for scholarships.
Format finder
Which MBA format suits you?
Answer all four questions to see your best-fit formats.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good GMAT score?
It depends on the program. The GMAT Focus Edition is scored from 205 to 805. Schools that use the GMAT publish their own expectations or class averages, so compare against the programs you are applying to rather than a general benchmark.
Can I do an MBA without a bachelor degree?
Often, yes. Many Australian universities accept substantial management experience instead of a degree, or let you start with a Graduate Certificate and progress to the MBA if you pass.
How long are GMAT scores valid?
GMAC reports scores for five years from the test date. Check whether each school sets a shorter limit.
Do I need an English test?
If your previous study was not in English, you will usually need an accepted English test such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic, with minimum scores set by the university. International students should also check visa requirements.
Is the GRE accepted instead of the GMAT?
Many schools that ask for a test accept either the GMAT or the GRE. Check each program.
Sources and further reading
Facts on this page were checked against these primary and official sources. Conditions change — confirm before you travel or buy.
- GMAT exam scores — GMAC
- Understanding your GMAT score — mba.com (GMAC)
- Australian Qualifications Framework — AQF
- Student visa (subclass 500) — Department of Home Affairs
