Definition of a Mature Student Applicant
Mature Student means an applicant aged twenty-five (25) years or older on or before the commencement of the program, who has not achieved an undergraduate degree or its equivalent and has not engaged in formal education for at least two (2) years prior to applying.
For the purposes of MBA admissions at IBU, a Mature Student applicant is an individual who:
- Does not hold a recognized undergraduate degree; and
- Possesses significant professional experience at a managerial, supervisory, entrepreneurial, or executive level; and
- Demonstrates readiness and potential for success in graduate-level academic work.
- Applications are reviewed individually and on a case-by-case basis.
To be considered, mature student applicants must provide:
- Resume documenting a minimum of 4 years of work experience
- Evidence of extensive work and volunteer experience at a managerial level
- Statement of Purpose (approximately 1,000 words) outlining reasons for pursuing an MBA, career objectives, and how prior experience supports graduate-level study
- Official transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions attended
- Proof of English proficiency, if applicable
Applicants may also be assessed based on their performance in relevant education or training. Prerequisites may be required depending on the applicant’s academic background.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Meet IBU’s standard English language proficiency requirements, if required.
- Submit all required application materials.
- Provide detailed documentation of professional experience.
- Demonstrate substantial managerial-level work experience (typically 5+ years preferred, with significant leadership responsibility).
- Submit a 3–5 page academic essay outlining:
- Motivation for pursuing the MBA;
- Professional accomplishments;
- Evidence of leadership and decision-making responsibility;
- Academic readiness;
- Long-term career objectives.
Extensive work experience and volunteer leadership experience are expected.
Academic Readiness Assessment
Applicants may be assessed through:
- Review of professional certifications or executive education;
- Evaluation of prior post-secondary coursework or training;
- Assessment of quantitative and analytical preparedness;
- Additional documentation as required.
Bridging Requirements
Where appropriate, applicants may be required to complete up to two Bridging Courses prior to or during the early stages of the MBA program.
Successful completion of Bridging Courses may be required as a condition of continued enrolment.
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Step 5
Submit your application and required documents using the online application form.
Application Form
The IBU Admissions team reviews your file. All of the following must be included for evaluation:
- Official transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions attended
- Letter of Intent
- Foreign transcript evaluation by an IBU-approved credentialing service (e.g., WES or ICAS), if applicable
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or equivalent) dated within two years
A decision is issued by the IBU Registrar’s Office. Accepted applicants must pay the deposit to receive a formal Letter of Acceptance.
Apply Today
Upon receiving the Letter of Acceptance, students must pay the balance of tuition fees before the start of each term..
IBU will confirm your start date and welcome you to campus.
This institution has been granted consent by the Minister of Colleges and Universities to offer this program for a five-year term starting April 4, 2023. Prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (e.g., acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies or other educational institutions.)