Frequently Asked Questions
Questions
How do I apply to the MBA program?
What entrance exams are required for admission?
What are the application deadlines?
What are the requirements for international students?
How do I confirm that you have received my application materials?
How long will it take to complete the on-campus MBA program?
Is orientation mandatory? Is there a fee for orientation?
When does the MBA program start?
Can I add a minor or concentration?
Is there a dress code for the MBA program?
Does the MBA program accept transfer credits from another college or university?
Are there any computer or technology requirements?
Are there any prerequisite courses?
How much is tuition? Is financial aid available?
Do you offer non-degree or conditional admission where I could take MBA courses prior to being admitted?
What is an assistantship?
How do I get an assistantship?
If I enroll in the on-campus program and then later get a job, can I switch to the Online MBA program?
Who should I contact with additional questions?
How do I apply to the MBA program?
Complete the application to the Graduate School. There is a non-refundable application fee that must be paid before your application will be processed. Make sure to also complete all of the items listed on the application before submitting it. There is no additional paperwork or application required for the MBA program. If you are selected to continue in the application process, our office will contact you to set up an interview, which will include a short presentation on a topic of your choice.
What entrance exams are required for admission?
None.
What are the application deadlines?
The priority deadline is November 15 for entry into our class. Our regular admission deadline is January 15.
What are the requirements for international students?
International students will complete the application to the Graduate School. There is a non-refundable application fee that must be paid before your application will be processed. Any international student not holding a degree from a U.S. institution are required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Transcripts from international institutions will need to be submitted in both English and the native language, if applicable.
How do I confirm that you have received my application materials?
Your application will first be processed by the Graduate School before being sent to the Graduate Studies in Business office. You will receive an automatic email update regarding the status of your application.
How long will it take to complete the on-campus MBA program?
Our program is full-time for three semesters (12 months).
Is orientation mandatory? Is there a fee for orientation?
Yes and yes. Orientation (Springboard Week) is a six-day intensive professional development series that will take place shortly before the start of the first semester. There is a required fee used to fund your orientation experience. The amount of the fee will be specified upon admission into the program. Springboard Week must be completed before you can enroll in your first semester of classes.
When does the MBA program start?
Our one-year program is designed as a cohort system, meaning that you will take all of your courses together as a group with your fellow MBA students. As of the class entering in 2016 and later, the program only begins in Summer Semester, so the entire cohort will begin classes in May/June and graduate the following May.
Can I add a minor or concentration?
It’s possible to direct your MBA toward a specific area of study. If you are interested in pursuing a particular minor, mention it to the MBA Director at the time of the application interview.
Is there a dress code for the MBA program?
We require students to have at least one formal business suit with appropriate footwear for presentations and interviews. Business casual attire is required for classes. For men, this includes collared shirts and nice slacks/jeans. For women, this means nice pants/jeans, skirts of appropriate length, and nice blouses/tops. Shorts, flip-flops, hats, athletic wear, t-shirts, and torn jeans will not be allowed.
Does the MBA program accept transfer credits from another college or university?
If you have graduate or MBA program credits from another institution, you can transfer up to six credit hours toward your MSU MBA.
Are there any computer or technology requirements?
All MBA students should have a laptop or computer with Microsoft Office, wireless internet capability, and appropriate anti-virus software. If a student has a Mac computer, you must download Windows for Mac software in order to run the required programs for your classes. Though a personal printer is not required, it is highly recommended. There are several computer labs around campus that have additional software that you may need for class projects. For more information, please visit the ITS website.
Are there any prerequisite courses?
Yes. The following prerequisites are an admission requirement with a grade of B or better: Financial Accounting, Financial Management, Business Statistics II, Microeconomics, and Information Systems (or equivalent).
How much is tuition? Is financial aid available?
For information about tuition costs, please visit the MSU Office of the Controller & Treasurer. For information about financial aid, please visit MSU Student Financial Aid.
Do you offer non-degree or conditional admission where I could take MBA courses prior to being admitted?
No. Because of our cohort system, all MBA courses must be taken in predetermined semesters. However, electives and prerequisite courses can be taken before admission to the MBA program.
What is an assistantship?
An assistantship is an opportunity to work part-time for the university in addition to your coursework. You will be required to work 20 hours per week. Benefits of assistantship positions include tuition waivers, a twice-monthly paycheck, and work experience. If you are interested in an assistantship based on financial need, please indicate your interest in your statement of purpose during the application process and it will be taken into consideration.
How do I get an assistantship?
Your application will be reviewed for an assistantship position at the time of admissions decisions. You will be informed whether you meet the criteria for a position during the summer before the start of the program. There is no additional application for an assistantship position unless you are interested in a position outside the College of Business.
If I enroll in the on-campus program and then later get a job, can I switch to the Online MBA program?
Yes, as long as you complete the appropriate paperwork and provide advance notice to the program officials. This kind of transfer is done on a case-by-case basis.
Who should I contact with additional questions?
Any further questions can be directed to the Graduate Studies in Business office by emailing gsb@business.msstate.edu or by phone at 662.325.1891.