The National University of Singapore (NUS) offers a distinguished MBA program that stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, diverse class profile, extensive scholarship opportunities, and robust support for career advancement.
In this detailed article, we will explore every facet of the NUS MBA program, providing insights into its class profile, employment reports, fee structure, available scholarships, curriculum offerings, and admissions process.
By delving into each aspect, you can gain a deeper understanding of what the NUS MBA has to offer and how it can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in the dynamic world of business.
General Information on NUS Business School
Location – 15 Kent Ridge Drive, Singapore, 119245
Dean – Andrew K. Rose
Admissions Office – Mochtar Riady Building Level 4, 15 Kent Ridge Drive, Singapore, 119245
Email: mab@nus.edu.sg
Social Media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube
NUS MBA Class Profile
The National University of Singapore (NUS) MBA program prides itself on its diverse and accomplished student body, drawn from various backgrounds and industries. Here’s a breakdown of the typical class profile:
| Characteristic | Details |
| Enrollment | 120 Students |
| Average Age | 29 years |
| Nationalities | 24 |
| Women | 37% |
| Average Work Experience | 6 years |
| Industries Represented | 25 |
| Average GMAT Score | 670 |
| Average GRE Score (Verbal/Quantitative) | 155/165 |
Enrollment & Diversity
The NUS MBA program boasts a vibrant cohort of 120 students, each bringing a unique blend of experiences and perspectives to the table.
With an average age of 29, this class represents a dynamic mix of youthful energy and seasoned expertise. Hailing from 24 different nationalities, the program fosters a truly global learning environment.
Notably, women comprise 37% of the cohort, reflecting a commitment to gender diversity in business education. On average, students enter the program with six years of work experience, enriching classroom discussions with practical insights from various industries.
Observations and Inferences:
- The average age of 29 suggests a diverse mix of early-career professionals seeking to accelerate their careers and seasoned individuals aiming for career shifts or advancements.
- The significant representation of 24 nationalities fosters a rich cultural exchange, enhancing global perspectives within the MBA community.
- The 37% female representation signals a concerted effort towards gender inclusivity, reflecting positively on NUS’s commitment to diversity and equality.
- With an average of six years of work experience, students bring valuable insights from diverse industries, enriching peer-to-peer learning and classroom discussions.
Regional Distribution
| Region | Percentage |
| Asia (Excluding South East Asia & Singapore) | 65% |
| South East Asia | 14% |
| Singapore | 8% |
| Europe | 6% |
| North America | 4% |
| South America | 3% |
| Oceania | 1% |
The geographical distribution of the NUS MBA cohort reflects its international appeal, with 65% of students hailing from the rest of Asia. South East Asia follows closely behind, representing 14% of the cohort, while Singapore accounts for 8%. Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania collectively contribute to the remaining 13%, showcasing the program’s global reach and appeal.
Observations and Inferences:
- The significant presence of students from the rest of Asia underscores NUS’s strong reputation in the region and its appeal to professionals seeking top-tier business education.
- The diverse representation of students from different regions enhances cross-cultural collaboration and prepares graduates for success in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
- The smaller but notable presence of students from Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania highlights the program’s international recognition and its ability to attract talent from diverse geographic backgrounds.
Pre-MBA Industries
| Industry | Percentage |
| Financial Services | 24% |
| Technology | 16% |
| Manufacturing | 9% |
| Consulting | 4% |
| Health Care | 7% |
| Energy | 5% |
| Real Estate | 4% |
| Government | 3% |
| Transport and Logistic Services | 3% |
| Media and Entertainment | 2% |
| CPG and Retail | 3% |
| Others | 18% |
The pre-MBA industry distribution reflects the varied career backgrounds of NUS MBA students, with financial services leading the pack at 24%, followed by technology (16%) and manufacturing (9%). Consulting, healthcare, energy, real estate, government, transportation and logistics services, media and entertainment, and consumer packaged goods (CPG), and retail also contribute to the diverse mix, each representing a smaller yet significant proportion of the cohort.
Observations and Inferences:
- The dominance of financial services and technology indicates the program’s appeal to professionals seeking to advance their careers in these rapidly evolving sectors.
- The presence of diverse industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and consulting underscores the program’s relevance across a wide spectrum of business domains.
- The varied industry backgrounds contribute to rich classroom discussions and networking opportunities, enabling students to gain insights from peers with diverse professional experiences.
NUS MBA Employment Reports
The NUS MBA employment report showcases not only the immediate success of graduates in securing lucrative job offers but also their sustained growth and advancement in the professional landscape. With competitive salaries, diverse career transitions, and partnerships with top employers, the NUS MBA continues to empower individuals to achieve their career aspirations and make significant contributions to the global business community.
Employment Statistics
| Metrics | Figures |
| Received at least one job offer within 3 months of graduation | 93% |
| Average Post-MBA Salary (3 months after graduation) | US$ 77,109 |
| Employed 3 Months After Graduation | 87% |
| Increase in Salary After 3 Years | 170% |
| Average Alumni Salary (3 Years After Graduation) | US$ 165,973 |
Observations and Inferences:
- High Job Offer Rate: An impressive 93% of NUS MBA graduates received at least one job offer within three months of graduation, reflecting the strong demand for talent among employers and the effectiveness of the program in preparing students for the workforce.
- Competitive Post-MBA Salary: With an average post-MBA salary of US$ 77,109, graduates demonstrate their market value and the return on investment from their NUS MBA education.
- High Employment Rate: The employment rate of 87% within three months after graduation underscores the program’s ability to facilitate successful transitions from academia to industry, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.
- Significant Salary Growth: The substantial 170% increase in salary after three years highlights the long-term value and impact of the NUS MBA, with graduates experiencing significant career advancement and financial rewards over time.
- Steady Alumni Salary: The average alumni salary of US$ 165,973 three years after graduation indicates sustained career progression and continued success in the professional arena.
Career Transitions
| Transition | Percentage |
| Changed Location | 69% |
| Changed Industry | 65% |
| Changed 2 Dimensions | 43% |
| Changed 3 Dimensions | 31% |
| Internships Converted to Full-time Role | 28% |
Observations and Inferences:
- Geographical Mobility: A significant portion of graduates, 69%, embraced career opportunities in new locations, demonstrating their flexibility and willingness to explore diverse markets and cultures.
- Industry Diversification: The fact that 65% of graduates transitioned to new industries underscores the versatility and adaptability fostered by the NUS MBA program, empowering individuals to pursue their passions and explore new career paths.
- Multi-Dimensional Changes: A substantial proportion of graduates, 43% and 31% respectively, made transitions involving multiple dimensions, such as changing both location and industry or making triple transitions, showcasing their agility and strategic career planning.
- Successful Internship Conversions: The conversion of internships to full-time roles for 28% of graduates reflects the program’s emphasis on experiential learning and its effectiveness in facilitating seamless transitions from student to professional life.
Top Employers
The NUS MBA program boasts partnerships with esteemed organizations across various industries. Some of the top employers for NUS MBA graduates include:
- Alibaba Group
- Amazon
- Amcor
- Deloitte
- Arthur D Little
- Dell
- EY
- Grab
- Microsoft
- JP Morgan
- Johnson & Johnson
- Tata
- Total Energies
- Wipro
NUS MBA Fees
For the August 2024 intake, the tuition fees for the NUS MBA program stand at S$87,000 before Goods & Services Tax (GST). This competitive fee structure positions the program as an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality MBA experience.
Tuition Fees Breakdown
| Component | Amount (S$) |
| Tuition Fees (Full-time MBA) | S$94,830* (Inclusive of GST) |
Payment Schedule
Understanding the payment schedule is essential to plan your finances effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the payment schedule for full-time students:
| Payment Milestone | Amount (S$) |
| Upon Acceptance | S$10,900 |
| Semester 1 | S$41,965 |
| Semester 2 | S$41,965 |
- Initial Payment: Upon acceptance into the program, you are required to make an initial payment of S$10,900. This upfront payment allows you to secure their spot in the program and initiate the enrollment process.
- Semester Payments: The remaining tuition fees are divided into two equal installments, with each semester requiring a payment of S$41,965. This structured payment schedule offers you flexibility in managing your finances while pursuing your MBA studies.
- Total Cost: While the total tuition fees may seem substantial, it’s important to consider the value proposition offered by the NUS MBA program. With its reputation for academic excellence, global recognition, and strong alumni network, the program provides a solid return on investment for graduates.
Exploring scholarship opportunities, student loans, and other forms of financial aid can also help alleviate the financial burden. Let’s explore them in the next section.
NUS MBA Scholarships
The array of scholarships offered by NUS MBA reflects its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence. Whether based on merit, demographics, specialization, or regional focus, these scholarships ensure that talented individuals from around the world have access to transformative MBA experiences.
Dean’s Awards
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award Details |
| NUS MBA Dean’s Award | Full-time and part-time MBA candidates | Full coverage of tuition fees plus a S$5,000 NUS MBA Experiential Learning Grant for experiential learning expenses |
Merit-Based Awards
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award Details |
| NUS MBA Excellence & Achiever Awards | Outstanding full-time MBA candidates | Funds 20% or more of the tuition fees, based on academic and professional achievements, competitiveness of application, and leadership potential |
| NUS MBA Future Leaders Scholarship | Outstanding full-time MBA candidates | Funds 20% or more of the tuition fees, based on academic and professional achievements, competitiveness of application, leadership potential, and strong GRE scores |
| NUS MBA ASEAN Scholarship | Citizens of ASEAN member countries (excluding Singapore) | Awards based on academic and professional background, strength of application, overall leadership potential, and financial need |
| Dhanabalan Scholarship | Talented full-time MBA candidates with demonstrated financial need | Up to S$20,000 award value to be used towards tuition fees |
| Derwin Pereira MBA Scholarship | Outstanding full-time MBA candidates from Singapore and Southeast Asian countries | S$25,000 award value to be used towards tuition fees |
Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award Details |
| NUS MBA Scholarship for Women | Female candidates demonstrating outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing women-led causes | Partial coverage of tuition fees |
| NUS MBA Diversity Scholarship | Exceptional candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences enriching the MBA cohort | Partial coverage of tuition fees |
| NUS MBA Resilience Scholarship | Individuals demonstrating remarkable resilience in overcoming challenges to achieve success | Partial or full coverage of tuition fees |
Specialized Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award Details |
| NUS MBA Entrepreneurship Scholarship | Candidates with entrepreneurship experience | Partial coverage of tuition fees |
| Lam See Chiew Memorial Scholarship in Social Entrepreneurship & Philanthropy | Candidates involved in social entrepreneurship ventures, philanthropy, or non-profit sectors | Available to full- and part-time candidates, appraised based on involvement in social ventures or volunteer work for a minimum of two years |
Regional and International Scholarships
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award Details |
| NUS APEC Scholarship | Candidates from APEC member countries (excluding Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents) | Full coverage of tuition fees, plus stipend, flight allowance, and book allowance |
| NUS MBA Scholarships for Latin America, Africa, North America, Europe, and Middle East | Outstanding candidates from specified regions demonstrating strong leadership experience and potential | Partial coverage of tuition fees |
| LPDP Indonesia Scholarships | Indonesian citizens pursuing masters or doctoral studies abroad | Full coverage of tuition fees and related costs |
| ADB-Japan Scholarship Program | Citizens of ADB borrowing member countries | Full coverage of tuition fees and some expenses |
Other Opportunities
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award Details |
| Private Equity Award | Current NUS MBA students | Funding for a semester-long exchange program with partner schools, preference given to those interested in Private Equity |
| NUS MBA ESG Scholarship | Candidates demonstrating strides in Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) | Partial coverage of tuition fees |
NUS MBA Curriculum
The structure and curriculum of the NUS MBA program are designed to provide you with a holistic and customizable learning experience. With a blend of academic rigor, experiential learning opportunities, and specialized tracks, NUS equips you with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Program Options
At NUS, students have the flexibility to choose between a full-time 17-month program or a part-time 24-30 months program tailored for working professionals. This flexibility allows individuals to select the program format that best fits their career aspirations and personal commitments.
Curriculum Overview
| Aspect | Details |
| Intake | Every August |
| Format | Full-time and part-time |
Core Courses
The NUS MBA curriculum comprises two core components: Academic Core and Experiential Core. These components ensure a well-rounded educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Academic Core
| Course | Description |
| Corporate Strategy | Equips students with strategic thinking skills and frameworks essential for organizational decision-making. |
| Financial Management | Provides a comprehensive understanding of financial principles and practices in a business context. |
| Financial Accounting | Covers fundamental accounting concepts and techniques necessary for financial analysis and reporting. |
| Managerial Economics | Explores economic theories and principles relevant to managerial decision-making in business environments. |
| Marketing Strategy | Focuses on developing marketing strategies and tactics to achieve organizational objectives. |
| Managerial Operations & Analytics | Examines operations management and analytical techniques to optimize processes and drive efficiency. |
| Leading with Impact | Develops leadership capabilities and interpersonal skills crucial for effective managerial roles. |
Experiential Core
| Course | Description |
| Launch Your Transformation | Sets the foundation for personal and professional growth, fostering self-awareness and goal setting. |
| MBA Survival Kit | Provides essential tools and resources to navigate the MBA journey successfully and maximize learning outcomes. |
| MBA Consulting Project | Offers hands-on consulting experience, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world business challenges. |
Specializations and Electives
NUS MBA offers a variety of specializations and elective courses, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to align with their career interests and goals.
MBA Specializations
| Specialization | Description |
| Analytics & Operations | Focuses on leveraging data and optimizing operations to drive business performance. |
| Consulting | Equips students with consulting skills and strategies for effective client engagement. |
| Digital Business | Explores the intersection of technology and business, preparing students for the digital era. |
| Finance | Provides in-depth knowledge of financial markets, investments, and corporate finance principles. |
| Real Estate* | Offers insights into real estate markets and investment strategies. (*Offered with NUS SAW SWEE HOCK SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH) |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | Cultivates entrepreneurial mindsets and skills for innovation-driven ventures. |
| Marketing | Focuses on developing marketing strategies and consumer insights for market success. |
| Strategy & Organisation | Examines strategic management theories and practices for organizational effectiveness. |
| Healthcare Management* | Addresses the unique challenges and opportunities in the healthcare industry. (*Offered with NUS SAW SWEE HOCK SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH) |
NUS MBA Admissions
Navigating the admissions process for the NUS MBA program is a pivotal step in your journey towards professional advancement. By understanding the requirements, adhering to deadlines, and presenting a compelling application, candidates can position themselves for success in securing admission to one of Asia’s premier MBA programs.
Admission Requirements
| Criteria | Details |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree |
| Work Experience | Minimum 2 years of post-bachelor’s full-time work experience (at the point of application). For part-time program applicants, non-Singaporeans/ Singapore PR candidates need proof of Singapore-based full-time employment or residency at the time of application. |
| GMAT/GRE/EA | Good GMAT/GRE scores for full-time MBA applicants. Part-time MBA applicants with 5 or more years of work experience can submit an Executive Assessment (EA) score instead. |
| TOEFL / IELTS | Required if medium of instruction during undergraduate or postgraduate studies was not fully in English. |
Application Deadlines
For the August 2024 intake, the application deadlines for the NUS MBA program are as follows:
| Round | Deadline |
| Round 1 | 31 October 2023 |
| Round 2 | 17 January 2024 |
| Round 3 | 02 April 2024 |
Application Process
- Apply Online: Fill out the online application form with personal details and upload required documents.
- Complete Admission Essays: Respond to two compulsory (plus one optional) essay questions. Re-applicants must complete an additional essay.
- Provide Referees: Nominate two professional referees and initiate the sending of the online referee report form.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload resume, undergraduate degree scroll & transcripts, test score reports, passport/NRIC/Employment Pass, photograph, and financial documents.
- Pay Application Fee: A fee of SGD100 must be paid via credit card before submitting the application.
- Declaration & Submission: Review all information, declare accuracy, and submit the application.
Interview
Shortlisted candidates can expect to receive an invitation to a 30-minute virtual interview with the Admissions Committee within 2-4 weeks of submitting a complete application.
Final Decision
The Admissions Committee assesses application materials and interview performance. Applicants receive notification via email within 2-4 weeks of the interview date. Accepted candidates must follow the instructions provided in the acceptance email and pay an acceptance fee of SGD10,000 (before GST) by the offer acceptance deadline.
Final Thoughts
With a diverse and accomplished class profile, robust employment outcomes, competitive tuition fees supplemented by numerous scholarship opportunities, a well-rounded curriculum catering to various interests and career paths, and a streamlined admissions process, the NUS MBA stands as a premier choice for individuals seeking to elevate their careers and make a lasting impact in the global business landscape.
As you contemplate your educational journey, be assured that the NUS MBA program provides the tools, resources, and support needed to unlock your full potential and thrive in today’s competitive business environment.