National University of Singapore MBA: Fees 2026, Living Costs, Test Scores & Entry Requirements.

NUS MBA Deadline, Fees, Application, Deadline 2026.

Singapore, SingaporeLocation
UniversitySchool type
Estd1980established year
51568enrollment
Public
7.3/10

Master of Business Administration [MBA]

17 months
Full Time
On Campus

Field of Study

Ranked #23 out of 389 by QS Global Ranking 2026

₹73.1 L/Yr

S$99,953 /Yr
2 Students Applied
Jasmine Grover's profile photo

Jasmine Grover

Education Journalist | Study Abroad Strategy Lead | Updated on - Apr 8, 2026

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School is a 17-month full-time program designed for highly motivated professionals seeking to become global business leaders with a strong Asia focus. The program combines rigorous academic training with experiential learning, offering over 50 specialized electives across concentrations including Digital Business, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Strategy & Organisation, Consulting, Finance, and more. The NUS MBA attracts a highly diverse cohort of 92% international students from over 40 countries, providing an unparalleled opportunity to build a global professional network while developing a unique outlook on business with emphasis on Asian markets.

NUS Business School is ranked 1st in Asia and 23rd globally for MBA programs according to QS Global MBA Rankings 2026 (third consecutive year at #1 in Asia). The university ranks 8th globally and 1st in Asia according to QS World University Rankings 2026. Graduates achieve 93% employment within 3 months of graduation with an average post-MBA salary of USD 77,109 and 148% salary increase.

Current Admission Status:

Applications for August 2026 intake are now closed. Application opens: August 1, 2025. Round 1 deadline: October 30, 2025. Round 2 deadline: January 15, 2026. Round 3 deadline: March 31, 2026 (Final). Admission outcomes released: April 2026 onwards.

Why Study MBA at National University of Singapore

  • NUS Business School ranked 1st in Asia and 23rd globally for MBA programs (QS Global MBA Rankings 2026, third consecutive year at #1 in Asia).
  • 92% international student cohort from 40+ countries provides unparalleled global networking and cross-cultural learning opportunities.
  • Singapore positioned as gateway to Asia, one of the world's best-connected cities for business with abundant career opportunities.
  • Over 50 specialized electives across concentrations: Digital Business, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Strategy & Organisation, Consulting, Finance, ESG Integration, Blockchain, and more.
  • Experiential learning through case competitions, international study trips, exchange programs, internships, and industry networking sessions.
  • 93% employment rate within 3 months of graduation with average post-MBA salary of USD 77,109 (148% salary increase).
  • Strong alumni network with graduates in senior leadership roles across Asia and globally.
  • Flexible format options: Full-time (17 months) or part-time (24-30 months) to suit different career stages.

National University of Singapore MBA Tuition Fees for International Students 2026-27

The Master of Business Administration program charges tuition on a flat-rate basis for the full 17-month program for August 2026 intake.

Exchange Rate Note: All INR conversions based on SGD 1 = INR 72.46 as of April 8, 2026. Exchange rates are subject to change.

Fee Component Amount (SGD) Amount (INR)
MBA Tuition (International, Full Program, before GST) 91,700 66.45 Lakhs
Goods & Services Tax (GST, 9%) 8,253 5.98 Lakhs
MBA Tuition (International, Full Program, with GST) 99,953 72.43 Lakhs
Acceptance Fee (due upon admission) 10,900 7.90 Lakhs
Total Program Cost 110,853 80.33 Lakhs

Key Fee Details:

  • The MBA tuition fee of SGD 91,700 (before GST) or SGD 99,953 (with GST) is charged for the full 17-month program (August 2026 to December 2027)
  • Acceptance fee of SGD 10,900 is due upon admission confirmation
  • Tuition includes Goods & Services Tax (GST) at 9%
  • Fees are typically billed in installments during the program
  • Payment is due by the start of each term
  • Program fees do not include accommodation, meals, or travel expenses
  • Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents pay lower fees (approximately SGD 61,200)

Cost of Living in Singapore for International MBA Students 2026-27

Living expenses in Singapore for international students typically range from SGD 1,500 to SGD 2,500+ per month, excluding tuition. Singapore has a tropical climate year-round with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F).

Expense Category Monthly Cost (SGD) Annual Cost (SGD) Annual Cost (INR)
Housing (shared apartment/HDB) 700 - 1,000 8,400 - 12,000 6.09 Lakhs - 8.70 Lakhs
Food (3 meals a day) 300 - 500 3,600 - 6,000 2.61 Lakhs - 4.35 Lakhs
Public Transport 100 - 200 1,200 - 2,400 87,000 - 1,74,000
Utilities (Electricity, Water) 80 - 150 960 - 1,800 69,600 - 1,30,428
Internet & Phone 50 - 100 600 - 1,200 43,500 - 87,000
Personal Expenses & Entertainment 200 - 300 2,400 - 3,600 1,74,000 - 2,61,000
Clothing & Miscellaneous 100 - 150 1,200 - 1,800 87,000 - 1,30,428
Total Monthly (Estimated) 1,530 - 2,400 18,360 - 28,800 13.31 Lakhs - 20.88 Lakhs

Annual Total Cost (Tuition + Living for 17 months): SGD 135,213 - SGD 161,653 (approximately 98.01 Lakhs - 1.17 Crores INR)

Accommodation Options for International MBA Students 2026-27

On-Campus Residence:

On-campus housing is available for graduate students, though limited and not prioritized for MBA students. Most international MBA students prefer off-campus shared housing due to cost and flexibility.

Residence Type Room Type Monthly Cost (SGD) Annual Cost (SGD) Annual Cost (INR)
University Hostel Single Room 900 - 1,800 10,800 - 21,600 7.83 Lakhs - 15.66 Lakhs
Private Halls of Residence Single Room 1,000 - 1,500 12,000 - 18,000 8.70 Lakhs - 13.05 Lakhs

Off-Campus Housing:

Private rental apartments and HDB (Housing & Development Board) flats near NUS campus typically cost SGD 700 - SGD 1,000 per month for shared accommodations. International MBA students often prefer shared apartments in neighborhoods like Clementi, Bukit Timah, or near the university to reduce costs and build community.

Note: On-campus residence fees are NOT included in tuition fees and must be paid separately. Off-campus housing costs are the student's responsibility.

Part-Time Work Opportunities for International MBA Students 2026-27

International students on valid student passes can work up to 16 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. However, MBA students are expected to focus primarily on their studies.

Minimum Wage in Singapore: No statutory minimum wage; market rates typically SGD 15 - SGD 25/hour

Common Part-Time Jobs for International MBA Students:

  • Research Assistantships: SGD 15 - SGD 25/hour (business research, case studies)
  • Teaching Assistantships: SGD 15 - SGD 22/hour (tutorials, marking, course support)
  • On-Campus Employment: SGD 15 - SGD 20/hour (library support, administrative roles)
  • Consulting & Business Support: SGD 20 - SGD 40/hour (business analysis, market research)
  • Tutoring & Academic Support: SGD 20 - SGD 35/hour (business tutoring, exam prep)

Estimated Monthly Earnings (Part-Time, 10-15 hours/week during academic sessions): SGD 600 - SGD 1,200 (approximately 4.35 Lakhs - 8.70 Lakhs INR annually)

Admission Requirements for International Students 2026-27

The National University of Singapore MBA program is highly selective, with admission based on academic achievement, professional experience, and demonstrated leadership potential.

Academic Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree from a recognized university
  • Minimum GPA equivalent to 3.5/4.0 or equivalent (approximately 85%+)
  • For international credentials, use NUS's International Qualifications Assessment Tool
  • Strong academic record in quantitative courses (mathematics, statistics, economics)

Professional Experience Requirements:

  • Minimum 2 years of full-time post-bachelor's work experience (at point of application)
  • Preferred: 3-5 years of professional experience in business, finance, technology, or related fields
  • Average work experience in cohort: 6 years
  • Demonstrated leadership potential and career progression

Required Application Documents:

  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing professional experience, education, and achievements
  • Statement of Purpose (2-3 pages) describing career goals, reasons for pursuing MBA, and how program aligns with objectives
  • Two professional reference letters from supervisors or colleagues
  • GMAT or GRE scores (highly recommended; average GMAT: 670; GMAT Focus Edition also accepted)
  • English Language Proficiency (ELP) test scores (if applicable)
  • Application fee: SGD 100

Admission Process:

  • Submit application through NUS's online application portal
  • Provide all supporting documents by application deadline
  • NUS admissions team reviews applications and may contact applicants for interviews
  • Admissions decisions released on rolling basis starting April 2026

English Language Requirements for International Students 2026-27

English is the language of instruction at NUS, and all international students whose undergraduate degree was not taught entirely in English must provide proof of English proficiency.

Exemptions Available:

  • Undergraduate degree earned at a university where language of instruction and examination is uniformly English
  • Four or more years of full-time study in a recognized English-language school in a country where English is the dominant language (USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, etc.)

Accepted English Proficiency Tests for MBA:

Test Minimum Score Required
TOEFL iBT Overall 100
IELTS Academic Overall band 7.0
Duolingo English Test Overall 120
PTE Academic Overall 65
Cambridge C1 Advanced Overall 180

Key Points:

  • Test results must be sent directly by the testing agency to NUS
  • Results must be received by application deadline
  • Scores are valid for two years from test date
  • GMAT/GRE verbal section scores can also demonstrate English proficiency
  • Only TOEFL iBT scores from a single test date are accepted; MyBest scores are not accepted

NUS Business School Rankings 2026-27

NUS Business School is ranked among the top business schools globally and in Asia.

Ranking Body Global Rank Asia Rank Year
QS Global MBA Rankings 23rd 1st 2026
QS World University Rankings 8th 1st 2026
Financial Times MBA Rankings 37th - 2026
Times Higher Education (Overall) 71st - 2026

Note: NUS Business School is consistently ranked #1 in Asia for MBA programs and among the top 25 globally. The university ranks 8th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026.

Scholarships for International MBA Students 2026-27

International students in the MBA program have access to merit-based scholarships and funding opportunities.

Funding Source Award Amount (SGD) Eligibility Application
NUS MBA Scholarships Varies (15-100% tuition) Merit-based, outstanding candidates Automatic consideration + essay
ASEAN Scholarship Varies (50-100% tuition) ASEAN citizens (excluding Singapore) Automatic consideration
Regional Scholarships Varies (15-50% tuition) Candidates from Latin America, Africa, North America, Europe Automatic consideration
ADB Scholarship Full tuition + living allowance Asian Development Bank member countries Apply directly to ADB
NUS Graduate Scholarship SGD 3,000/month Merit-based, current students Apply via NUS Graduate School

Key Points:

  • Merit-based scholarships automatically considered upon admission
  • Additional essay required for scholarship consideration
  • ASEAN scholarships available for citizens of ASEAN member countries (excluding Singapore)
  • Regional scholarships available for specific geographic regions
  • ADB Scholarship provides full funding including living expenses
  • External scholarships available from home country governments and organizations

Program Format and Duration 2026-27

The MBA program is offered in two formats:

Full-Time MBA:

  • Duration: 17 months (August 2026 to December 2027)
  • Format: Intensive, full-time study with classes typically held on weeknights and weekends
  • Curriculum: 10 core modules + 50+ electives across specializations
  • Experiential learning: Case competitions, international study trips, exchange programs, internships
  • Capstone: Consulting project or thesis option

Part-Time MBA:

  • Duration: 24-30 months
  • Format: Classes held on weeknights and weekends to accommodate working professionals
  • Curriculum: Same as full-time program
  • Flexibility: Study while maintaining full-time employment

Program Timeline (Full-Time, August 2026 Intake):

  • August 2026: Program begins with orientation and Launch Your Transformation (LYT) 5-day bootcamp
  • August-December 2026: Fall term with core modules and electives
  • January-April 2027: Spring term with core modules and electives
  • May-August 2027: Summer term with electives and capstone project
  • December 2027: Degree conferral and graduation

Career Outcomes for MBA Graduates 2026-27

Employment Statistics:

  • 93% employment rate within 3 months of graduation
  • Average post-MBA salary: USD 77,109
  • Average alumni salary (3 years post-MBA): USD 159,877
  • Salary increase: 148% on average

Career Paths for MBA Graduates:

  • Management Consulting (McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Accenture)
  • Investment Banking & Finance (Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, UBS, DBS)
  • Technology & Digital Business (Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Alibaba, Grab)
  • Private Equity & Venture Capital (Sequoia, Temasek, Vertex Ventures)
  • Corporate Strategy & Operations (Fortune 500 companies, regional corporations)
  • Entrepreneurship & Startups (founding own ventures, joining early-stage companies)
  • Government & Public Sector (Singapore Economic Development Board, regional governments)
  • Non-Profit & Social Enterprise (NGOs, social impact organizations)

Top Employers:

  • One-third of graduates work in Singapore's top financial institutions
  • Significant representation in technology, consulting, and multinational corporations
  • Strong presence in Southeast Asian regional offices of global companies

Return on Investment for MBA (International Students) 2026-27

Total 17-Month Cost Breakdown:

Cost Component Total (SGD) Total (INR)
Tuition (MBA with GST) 99,953 72.43 Lakhs
Acceptance Fee 10,900 7.90 Lakhs
Living Expenses (17 months at SGD 23,580/year) 33,470 24.26 Lakhs
Total 17-Month Cost 144,323 104.59 Lakhs

Post-Graduation Salary Progression:

  • Entry-level (0-2 years, post-MBA): USD 77,109 (approximately 64.35 Lakhs INR)
  • Mid-career (3-5 years): USD 120,000 - USD 150,000 (approximately 1.00 Crores - 1.25 Crores INR)
  • Senior-level (5+ years): USD 159,877+ (approximately 1.34 Crores+ INR)

Break-Even Analysis:

  • Total 17-month investment: SGD 144,323 (104.59 Lakhs INR)
  • Average starting salary: USD 77,109 (approximately 64.35 Lakhs INR or SGD 86,200)
  • Break-even period: Approximately 1.5-2 years post-graduation
  • Long-term ROI: Exceptional, with 148% average salary increase and strong career advancement

Key Insights:

  • The NUS MBA provides strong return on investment with high employment rates and significant salary increases
  • International students gain valuable Asia-focused business experience and credentials
  • Singapore's strategic location provides access to regional and global career opportunities
  • MBA careers offer continuous growth opportunities, with senior roles commanding significantly higher salaries
  • Strong alumni network facilitates career transitions and business opportunities
  • Post-graduation work visa options available for eligible graduates to work in Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques: What is the employment situation for international MBA graduates in Singapore?

Ans: 93% of NUS MBA graduates are employed within 3 months of graduation with an average post-MBA salary of USD 77,109. However, international students face stricter visa requirements for employment in Singapore. International MBA graduates can apply for Employment Pass (EP) if they earn a fixed monthly salary of SGD 5,000+, or Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) if they earn SGD 18,000+. Many graduates secure positions with multinational corporations, consulting firms, and financial institutions that sponsor work visas. Alternatively, graduates can leverage the NUS brand and network to secure positions in their home countries or other regional markets.

Ques: Can I work part-time while studying the full-time MBA?

Ans: International students on valid student passes can work up to 16 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. However, the full-time MBA is an intensive 17-month program, and students are expected to focus primarily on their studies. Most MBA students do not work part-time due to the demanding curriculum, though some engage in consulting projects or internships as part of their experiential learning. Part-time MBA format is available for working professionals who prefer to maintain full-time employment while studying.

Ques: What is the diversity of the NUS MBA cohort for August 2026 intake?

Ans: The NUS MBA attracts a highly diverse cohort with 92% international students from over 40 countries. The program provides an unparalleled opportunity to build a global professional network while developing a unique outlook on business with emphasis on Asian markets. Students come from diverse professional backgrounds including finance, technology, consulting, manufacturing, healthcare, and non-profit sectors. The average cohort size is 120 students with average work experience of 6 years, average age of 29, and 37% women representation. This diversity creates a rich platform for cross-cultural learning and exchange of ideas.


Tuition Fees

Year1st Year Fees
Tuition Fees₹7309563 (SGD 99953)

Other Expenses

HeadAvg Cost Per Year
Accomodation₹394902 (SGD 5400)
Food₹190138 (SGD 2600)

Previous Year Tuition Fees

Year1st Year Fees
2025₹7309563 (SGD 99953)
2024₹685228 (SGD 9370)
2023₹2848414 (SGD 38950)
2021₹4826580 (SGD 66000)

Important Dates

EventApplication Date
Round 2 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake Jan 15, 2026
Round 3 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake Mar 31, 2026

Scores Required

100 / 120

Avg. Score in

TOEFL

7 / 9

Avg. Score in

IELTS

670 / 800

Avg. Score in

GMAT

100

Application Fees

68

ECTS Credits


Ranking

2026202520242023202220212020201920182017

QS World University logo
Business 23 out of 389 in Global Ranking
( #1 out of 4 in Singapore 2026)

Do you think the Rankings are wrong ?  Report Here

TOP Scholarships

Scholarship nameAward amountEligibility
NUS MBA Excellence & Achiever Awards20% or more of the tuition feesMerit Based
NUS MBA Future Leaders Scholarship20% or more of the tuition feesMerit Based

Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey

Programs Comparison

ranking# 23 for Business by QS World University 2026
# 12 for Business by Times Higher Education 2025
# 20 for Business by Times Higher Education 2025
# 31 for Business by QS World University 2025
# 41 for Business by QS World University 2026
# 201 for Public Policy by Academy Ranking of World Universities 2022
# 7 for Management by QS World University 2022
# 23 for Business by QS World University 2026
# 12 for Business by Times Higher Education 2025
application------
exam scoresGMAT - 670/800IELTS - 7/9TOEFL - 100/120IELTS - 7/9TOEFL - 100/120IELTS - 6.0/9PTE - 55/90TOEFL - 82/120IELTS - 6/9PTE - 55/90TOEFL - 90/120IELTS - 7.5/9PTE - 70/90TOEFL - 5.5/6GMAT - 670/800IELTS - 7/9TOEFL - 100/120
cost to studyTotal Cost (Tuition + Living) -INR 7982358.89Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -INR 9628953.97-Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -INR 1537119.47-Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -INR 7982358.89
documents required#Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose#Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose#Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose#Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose#Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose#Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose
application datesJan 15, 2026 (Round 2 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake)
Mar 31, 2026 (Round 3 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake)
Oct 30, 2025 (Round 1 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake)
Apr 7, 2026 (Round 3 Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake)
May 15, 2026 (Round 3 Decision Date For September 2026 Intake)
Feb 28, 2026 (Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake Round 2)
Mar 15, 2026 (Application Deadline For January 2027 Intake Round 1)
May 31, 2026 (Final Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake Round 3)
Jul 15, 2026 (Application Deadline For January 2027 Intake Round 2)
Nov 30, 2026 (Final Application Deadline For January 2027 Intake Round 3)
Nov 30, 2026 (Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake Round 1)
Jan 31, 2025 (Application Deadline For August 2025 Intake)
Aug 31, 2025 (Application Deadline For January 2026 Intake)
Feb 24, 2026 (Round 3 Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake)
Apr 28, 2026 (Round 4 Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake)
Oct 7, 2026 (Round 1 Application Deadline For August 2027 Intake)
Dec 9, 2026 (Round 2 Application Deadline For August 2027 Intake)
Jan 15, 2026 (Round 2 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake)
Mar 31, 2026 (Round 3 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake)
Oct 30, 2025 (Round 1 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake)
Return on Investment/Average Package#Average SalaryINR 6003607.35----#Average SalaryINR 6003607.35
-Read Full ComparisonRead Full ComparisonRead Full ComparisonRead Full ComparisonRead Full Comparison



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Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids

NameScholarship Per StudentLevel of StudyType
Axol Science ScholarshipScholarship per student₹ 1.5 L/Yr$2,000Level Of StudyBachelorTypeCompany-Sponsored
Business Administration ScholarshipsScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based
VueVille Future Technology ScholarshipScholarship per student₹ 73,130/Yr$1,000Level Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based

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