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 Frequently asked questions 

01
Do I have to submit an application form or can I send my CV?
02
Can I submit an online application?
03
I started my application for the One year MBA last year but did not submit the form. Can I carry on using the same application form when I am applying for the following year's intake?
04
When should I apply?
05
I submitted my application before the deadline but have not yet had a confirmation. Does this mean you have not received it?
06
Am I suitable for the One year MBA programme?
07
What is the current class profile?
08
Are there any age restrictions?
09
Do I need to have a degree?
10
Do I have to take the GMAT?
11
When should I take the GMAT test? What is the latest date I can take the test by?
12
What level of GMAT score do you expect?
13
If I retake the GMAT, will you take the latest or the highest score?
14
Can I sit the GMAT after the application deadline date of the stage I am applying for?
15
Where can I learn more information about the GMAT test?
16
What level of English is required by the School?
17
What is the minimum work experience I need?
18
I have followed a non-traditional career path, will that have a negative impact on my application?
19
How many references are required?
20
What are the essay questions for the 2013/14 One year MBA application?
21
What should I include under the section 'Professional Qualifications' of the application form?
22
I am applying for a scholarship. Do I need to pay the application processing fee?
23
Can you send scholarship application forms to me?
24
What are the fees for the 2011-2012 course?
25
If I am unsuccessful in my application, will you give me feedback about the decision?
26
If I am unsuccessful in my application, is there a waiting list to enter the Oxford MBA?
27
Can I re-apply in the future if I am not offered a place on the current year's MBA programme?
28
What is the relationship between the Saïd Business School, the Colleges and the University? How does the MBA fit into this?
29
Are all applicants interviewed?
30
Do I have to come to Oxford for an interview?
31
Who will conduct the interviews?
32
Who can I speak to about admissions?
33
I have submitted a 'Request for Information' form to the Admissions team. Why have I not heard anything?
34
Can I visit the Saïd Business School?
35
Can I contact former students for advice?
36
Could you provide me with a brochure?
37
I am studying for an MBA at another University. Can I transfer to Saïd Business School for part of the year?
38
Can MBA students take up courses within the University while studying on the MBA programme?
39
How can I learn more about recruitment activites?
40
What type of accommodation does the School offer?
41
Must I live in College accommodation?
42
If I do not take up my place on the MBA course, will my deposit be returned to me?
43
Can I re-apply to the full time MBA if my application is not successful?
44
Can I commute to Oxford?
45
Can I bring my partner or family to Oxford?
46
How long should my CV/resume be when it is part of an online application?
47
What percentage of the class will be case study based?
  • 01

    Back To TopDo I have to submit an application form or can I send my CV?

    The official online Oxford MBA Application Form must be completed. Applicants must also submit a CV. This should be uploaded to the online application form.

    Please note that only completed applications with the application processing fee and all supporting documentation will be considered. We shall contact you once we have processed your application and let you know if there are any outstanding documents for you to submit.

  • 02

    Back To TopCan I submit an online application?
    Yes, we only accept online applications through 'Apply Yourself', details of which can be found in the 'How To Apply' section of the website.
     
    Transcripts, and other supporting documentation must be scanned and uploaded to the application form.

    Please note that the School’s form is different from the Graduate Application Form, used by the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions Office for other graduate-level courses.
  • 03

    Back To TopI started my application for the One year MBA last year but did not submit the form. Can I carry on using the same application form when I am applying for the following year's intake?
    Yes, you can carry on using the same form.  However, you should review all of the sections you completed previously as there may have been updates to the form, especially regarding essay titles.  Alternatively, you may wish to create new log-in details and start afresh with an entirely new application form.
  • 04

    Back To TopWhen should I apply?
    We have three application stages and you can apply in any of these.  However you are advised to apply as early as possible.  If your college choice and college accommodation is important to you, we recommend that you apply in Stage 1 or 2.
  • 05

    Back To TopI submitted my application before the deadline but have not yet had a confirmation. Does this mean you have not received it?
    Due to the volume of applications we receive, it may take us a few days to confirm the receipt of your application, this doesn't mean we did not receive it. We will be in touch as soon as we can to inform you about the status of your application.
  • 06

    Back To TopAm I suitable for the One year MBA programme?

    The MBA Committee considers a wide range of criteria for admission to the programme as set out on the 'Requirements' section on our website. Please note that it is is not possible for us to comment on an individual's suitability or chances of success prior to application.

  • 07

    Back To TopWhat is the current class profile?

    The Oxford MBA class is a truly diverse mix of extraordinary individuals from dozens of countries and all kind of backgrounds. This year's class comprises students from about 51 countries.

    The diversity of nationalities, work experience and age range enhances the group dynamics and offers students a rich environment for learning from the course and each other.

    In order to view individual student profiles, please refer to the Student Profiles page.

  • 08

    Back To TopAre there any age restrictions?

    No. The average age of the current class is 29 and ranges from 24 to 42. Younger candidates need to be able to demonstrate a high level of maturity, combined with evidence of leadership ability.

  • 09

    Back To TopDo I need to have a degree?

    A good undergraduate degree or equivalent is usually required. Applicants who do not hold such a qualification may be considered if they have a very strong employment record demonstrating a high degree of responsibility.

  • 10

    Back To TopDo I have to take the GMAT?
    Yes, all candidates are required to take the GMAT test. It is  mandatory to sit all sections of the exam.
    Please ensure that the test scores are forwarded by GMAC (Graduate Management Admissions Council) to the Saïd Business School (code Q0G-4B-59). GMAT scores will not be valid if they are more than five years old on the application deadline date of the stage in which you are applying.
    Please contact GMAC directly to arrange to take the test.
  • 11

    Back To TopWhen should I take the GMAT test? What is the latest date I can take the test by?
    You should take the GMAT test at the very latest by the application deadline date of the stage you are applying for.
     
    If your official test score sheet is not available at the time of submitting the application, please upload your unofficial test score to the GMAT section of the application form and arrange with GMAC to give the School access to your official results on-line, as soon as possible. It can take up to 21 days for us to gain access to the results.
     
    We do not accept GRE test results.
  • 12

    Back To TopWhat level of GMAT score do you expect?

    We recommend that candidates apply with a GMAT score of 600 or above.  The average for the 2011 class is 700.  A high score does not guarantee a place, nor does a low score disqualify you.  It is important to remember that GMAT test scores are only one element of your application and you should not over-estimate their importance. Nevertheless,  given the analytical and quantitative aspects of some of the core courses of the programme,  we shall look at the test scores for evidence of strong quantitative skills.

  • 13

    Back To TopIf I retake the GMAT, will you take the latest or the highest score?

    We will accept the highest score achieved on your test. If you wish to improve your existing score before you apply, you may retake the test.  

    Please note that you cannot combine scores from different tests.

  • 14

    Back To TopCan I sit the GMAT after the application deadline date of the stage I am applying for?
    No.  A full and complete application must be submitted by the deadline date.  This includes a valid GMAT result.  If you submit an incomplete application on the deadline, your application may be moved to the next stage, while we await your missing result. 
  • 15

    Back To TopWhere can I learn more information about the GMAT test?
    More information on the GMAT test can be found on the GMAT website.
  • 16

    Back To TopWhat level of English is required by the School?
    If your first language is not English*, you must supply suitable evidence that you have reached the relevant level before submitting your application.
     

     

     TOEFL iBT

    IELTS

     Minimum Score

     110

    Minimum required on each component:

    Listening - 22
    Reading - 24
    Writing - 24
    Speaking - 25

    7.5

    Minimum required on each component:

    7.0

    Waivers:  The requirement to provide proof of English language proficiency may be waived, at the discretion of the University, in cases where you have successfully completed a full-time degree-level course of a minimum of nine months at a recognised institution where the medium of instruction and assessment is entirely in English.

    If you wish to apply for a waiver to the English language requirement, you must:

    Click on the relevant option at the TOEFL/IELTS section of the application form indicating  that you would like to request a waiver of the English Language Test requirement for one of the following reasons:

    (a) You have completed a degree in a majority English speaking country.*

    As evidence we will review the transcripts you submit with your application.

    (b) You have completed a degree at a recognised institution where the medium of instruction was English. 

    As evidence we will require either that the transcripts you submit with your application state that the sole language of instruction was English
    or
    an official letter from your university stating that the medium of instruction throughout your course was English.  This letter must be also be uploaded to the TOEFL/IELTS section of the on-line form.

    *List of majority English speaking countries as defined by the UKBA

    Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, Guyana

    Exchange programmes/ distance learning/ on-line courses can not be considered for the waiver.

    The institution code for ordering your official TOEFL score sheet from ETS is 0807.  There is no department code, this can be left blank.
    If you choose to take the IELTS you need to sit the Academic test.  If you sit the TOEFL it must be the general test.

    TOEFL and IELTS scores will not be valid if they are more than two years old on the application deadline for the stage in which you are applying.

    Please note that we reserve the right to request a test of English to be taken at any time.

  • 17

    Back To TopWhat is the minimum work experience I need?
    We do not have a minimum requirement but most of our students have more than three years work experience. We want you to actively contribute to the Oxford MBA by sharing your views, experience and skills. 
  • 18

    Back To TopI have followed a non-traditional career path, will that have a negative impact on my application?
    No. Previous students have come from the non-profit sector, the armed forces and fields including scientific research and academia. If you are interested in what we have to teach you and have a great story to tell about your life to date, we are interested in hearing from you.
  • 19

    Back To TopHow many references are required?
    You will need to provide us with two references (professional or academic). Please note we only accept online recommendations.
  • 20

    Back To TopWhat are the essay questions for the 2013/14 One year MBA application?

    There are two essays to complete as part of the application form:

    1) Explain why you chose your current job. How do you hope to see your career developing over the next five years? How will an MBA assist you in the development of these ambitions? (750 words)

    2) What should Oxford expect from you? (750 words)

    Re-applicants will need to complete the two essays mentioned above and a third essay on the topic:

    What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (250 words)

  • 21

    Back To TopWhat should I include under the section 'Professional Qualifications' of the application form?
    You should include details of courses that you have undertaken (via your employer) that have led to a qualification. Although the form indicates that this section is to be completed by all applicants, you may leave this section blank if you do not have anything appropriate for inclusion. 
    This section allows applicants with specialised employment based training to list qualifications achieved in a professional capacity, as well as traditional 'academic' qualifications. Other employment related experience should be included in the 'Employment and work experience' section.
  • 22

    Back To TopI am applying for a scholarship. Do I need to pay the application processing fee?
    Yes. All applicants must pay the application fee.
     
    Some scholarships may cover all fees for the MBA programme including the application fee. If you successfully secure a scholarship, you may be eligible for a refund.
  • 23

    Back To TopCan you send scholarship application forms to me?
    Each scholarship has a particular application process. Please see the 'Scholarships' section of the website for more information.
  • 24

    Back To TopWhat are the fees for the 2011-2012 course?

    The tuition fee for the 2011/12 MBA is £36,300. There is also a college fee of approximately £3,300. 

  • 25

    Back To TopIf I am unsuccessful in my application, will you give me feedback about the decision?

    It is the policy of the University of Oxford not to offer feedback regarding application decisions.

  • 26

    Back To TopIf I am unsuccessful in my application, is there a waiting list to enter the Oxford MBA?
    Decisions of the MBA Committee are final. Although there are limits to the size of the class, the MBA Committee will make offers to all applicants who are considered to be suitable for the course. If you are not offered a place, you may reapply in future years, but you should consider revising your application before doing so.
     
    Re-applicants will be required to complete a third essay on the topic:
     
    What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (250 words)
  • 27

    Back To TopCan I re-apply in the future if I am not offered a place on the current year's MBA programme?

    Yes, we encourage applicants who we feel are not totally suited to the MBA programme at the time of applying, to re-apply in the future. Often this is due to age or work experience.

  • 28

    Back To TopWhat is the relationship between the Saïd Business School, the Colleges and the University? How does the MBA fit into this?
    The University of Oxford operates a collegiate system. This means that, in addition to being a member of a University Department (which, in the case of the MBA, is the Saïd Business School), MBA students are also members of one of Oxford's many colleges. The MBA course is taught centrally at the Saïd Business School and not the colleges, so choice of college does not affect your teaching.  The One year Oxford MBA degree is awarded by the University of Oxford.
     
     
  • 29

    Back To TopAre all applicants interviewed?
    No. Applications are short-listed by the MBA Admissions Committee and successful candidates are then invited for interview.
  • 30

    Back To TopDo I have to come to Oxford for an interview?

    If you are selected for an interview, you will be invited to come to the School.  You may wish to be interviewed on an Open Day or an Interview Day (these are offered in all our application stages) in the UK.  Overseas applicants are also offered an interview at an overseas Interview Day.  If it is not possible for you to have a face-to-face interview, we will arrange a Skype interview. UK applicants must attend a face-to-face interview at Saïd Business School.

  • 31

    Back To TopWho will conduct the interviews?

    Your interview will be conducted by a member of the Saïd Business School faculty, a sector consultant or a senior member of the School's administration. Final decisions are made by the MBA Admissions Committee.  The decision of the Committee is final.

  • 32

    Back To TopWho can I speak to about admissions?
    You can reach the Admissions Office by completing a 'Request for Information' form. This can be found at the 'Contact us' section of our website. We will be delighted to answer your questions.
  • 33

    Back To TopI have submitted a 'Request for Information' form to the Admissions team. Why have I not heard anything?
    We aim to answer your enquiries as quickly as possible. At busy periods the volume of queries and applications we receive means that it may take a while for us to respond.
  • 34

    Back To TopCan I visit the Saïd Business School?
    Yes, we welcome visits from prospective students. The best way to see the School and find out more about the MBA course is to attend one of our Open Days. Visit the 'Meet us' section of the website to find out about suitable dates and register for one of our Open Days.
     
    If you are not able to attend one of these you can arrange an appointment for a drop-in session at the School. Please note that we are only able to offer drop-in sessions during office hours, from Monday to Friday.
  • 35

    Back To TopCan I contact former students for advice?
    Complete and submit the following Alumni Country Champion request form to be matched with an alumnus:
  • 36

    Back To TopCould you provide me with a brochure?
    We do not offer hard-copy brochures. You can view, download and print out a copy of our electronic Oxford MBA e-brochure 2011/12. Use one of the right hand side boxes on this page to access the brochure.
  • 37

    Back To Top I am studying for an MBA at another University. Can I transfer to Saïd Business School for part of the year?
    The University of Oxford does not accept transfer students.
  • 38

    Back To TopCan MBA students take up courses within the University while studying on the MBA programme?
    Due to the intensive and challenging nature of the programme, students are highly recommended not to take up any extra courses while studying the Oxford MBA.
  • 39

    Back To TopHow can I learn more about recruitment activites?
    You can visit the section 'Career prospects' of our website to learn more about our careers service. In these pages you will find the latest employment report which you can download. Alternatively, you can contact our career service by emailing careers@sbs.ox.ac.uk
  • 40

    Back To TopWhat type of accommodation does the School offer?
    Students coming to Oxford have the option of choosing either to rent privately or to apply for college accommodation. Although rental property in Oxford is plentiful, many students' first choice is college accommodation. However, colleges have limited accommodation available, and are not able to offer this to every student. As accommodation is allocated on a first come, first served basis, it is essential that candidates seeking college accommodation apply early.
     
    The University's Accommodation Office offers advice on seeking privately rented accommodation, please email accommodation.office@admin.ox.ac.uk
  • 41

    Back To TopMust I live in College accommodation?
    You are not required to live in college accommodation and students are welcome to rent private accommodation. It is also possible for you to commute to Oxford. However, the University of Oxford's policy stipulates that students will not be allowed to reside/commute beyond a distance of 25 miles from the city centre.
  • 42

    Back To TopIf I do not take up my place on the MBA course, will my deposit be returned to me?
    The deposit payment is non-refundable. Payment of the deposit demonstrates your commitment to the MBA programme and allows you to secure a place on the course. If you later decide not to join the course, whether for professional or personal reasons, the deposit cannot be refunded in any circumstances. 
  • 43

    Back To TopCan I re-apply to the full time MBA if my application is not successful?

    If you are unsuccessful in gaining a place on the programme, you are welcome to submit an application again for the following or subsequent year. To do this, a new application will have to be created.

  • 44

    Back To TopCan I commute to Oxford?
    No. Please bear in mind that MBA students are frequently involved in group work during evenings and weekends and students living outside Oxford could find this a disadvantage. Colleges also have the advantage of offering printing and library facilities.
    We recommend strongly that students live in the city centre.
  • 45

    Back To TopCan I bring my partner or family to Oxford?

    Some colleges offer accommodation to couples and families. However, this is limited and booked up very quickly. The MBA Admissions Office will be pleased to help in this regard, and will liaise with colleges on your behalf.

    To learn more about the facilities available to MBA students moving to Oxford with their families, please visit the pages under the section 'MBA Community'.

  • 46

    Back To TopHow long should my CV/resume be when it is part of an online application?
    The maximum page length is one page.  We suggest that you do not go over this limit in your online application, as any extra pages may not be read by the Admissions Committee.
  • 47

    Back To TopWhat percentage of the class will be case study based?

    The teaching on the MBA programme is split as follows:

    • 25% Case study
    • 40% Lecture
    • 10% Simulations
    • 25% Team project
Created at 21/09/2009 12:05  by Raquel Lison 
Last modified at 07/10/2009 12:14  by Raquel Lison