Upcoming MBA Entrance Exam Dates & Application Process
If you’re planning to study MBA in Australia, whether you’re from Australia or another country, you’ll need to follow a few clear steps. One of the most important ones is preparing for and taking an entrance exam like the GMAT or GRE. Some universities also ask for English tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE if English isn’t your first language.
This guide will help you understand:
-
Which exams do you need
-
When to take them
-
How the application process works
All in simple, clear language – no complicated terms, just straight facts.
Which Exams Do You Need for an MBA in Australia?
Not all MBA programs require a test score, but many well-known universities do. Here are the most common ones:
-
GMAT – Tests math, reasoning, and writing skills
-
GRE – Similar to GMAT, accepted by some universities
-
IELTS / TOEFL / PTE – Needed if English is not your first language
Before you book any test, check the university’s website to confirm what’s needed.
Upcoming Exam Dates for 2025
Most of these exams can be taken at any time of the year. But it’s smart to take them 6 to 8 months before your MBA application deadline. That gives you enough time to prepare and retake the test if needed.
GMAT Dates
-
Available year-round
-
You can take it online or at a test centre
-
Can be repeated up to 5 times in a year
-
Booking: www.mba.com
GRE Dates
-
Also available throughout the year
-
You can take it at home or to a centre
-
Can be repeated every 21 days (up to 5 times per year)
-
Booking: www.ets.org/gre
IELTS / TOEFL / PTE
-
Multiple test dates every month
-
Required mostly for international students
-
Booking:
-
IELTS: www.ielts.org
-
TOEFL: www.ets.org/toefl
-
PTE: www.pearsonpte.com
-
MBA Application Timeline (for 2025–2026 Intakes)
Australian universities usually offer two main MBA intakes:
-
February
-
July
Some also offer a smaller intake in November. It’s important to start preparing at least 10–12 months before your chosen intake. Here’s a rough timeline if you’re aiming for February 2026:
Timeline | What To Do |
---|---|
July–August 2025 | Take GMAT/GRE, IELTS/TOEFL if needed |
Sept–Oct 2025 | Prepare documents, and apply to universities |
Nov–Dec 2025 | Receive offers and arrange your visa |
Jan 2026 | Travel to Australia & begin orientation |
Step-by-Step MBA Application Process
Here’s how the whole MBA application process works for students coming from Australia or overseas:
1. Choose Your Universities
Start by picking universities that fit your goals, budget, and location. Some popular options include:
-
Melbourne Business School (University of Melbourne)
-
AGSM (UNSW)
-
Monash University
-
Macquarie Business School
-
University of Queensland
-
RMIT University
Check their course structure, fees, scholarships, and entry rules.
2. Check the Entry Requirements
Each university lists its own entry criteria on its website. Most will ask for:
-
A Bachelor’s degree
-
GMAT or GRE score (some may waive it)
-
2 to 3 years of work experience (some accept fresh graduates)
-
Proof of English (if needed)
-
Resume (CV)
-
Personal statement or SOP
-
Letters of recommendation
Some universities might ask for an interview, too, usually done online.
3. Take the Required Exams
Based on the university requirements, register and prepare for:
-
GMAT or GRE for academic entry
-
IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE for English proof
Book your test early to get your preferred date and location. Results usually take 5–15 days, depending on the exam.
4. Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need to gather a few things before you apply:
-
Resume: List your education and work experience
-
SOP (Statement of Purpose): Talk about why you want to study an MBA and your plans
-
Recommendation Letters: Ask your past teachers or employers
Make sure everything is written clearly and is free from spelling or grammar mistakes.
5. Apply Online
Most universities let you apply directly on their websites. Some also use central platforms like UAC or StudyLink. Here’s what the online form usually asks for:
-
Your details
-
Education background
-
Test scores
-
Upload of required documents
-
Application fee (varies, usually between AUD 75–150)
Double-check everything before submitting.
6. Wait for Your Offer Letter
If your application is accepted, you’ll get a Letter of Offer by email. Read the conditions carefully. If you’re happy with it, accept the offer and pay the deposit fee to secure your place.
7. Apply for Your Student Visa
To study in Australia, you’ll need a Subclass 500 Student Visa. You can apply online at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Here’s what you need:
-
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
-
Passport
-
Proof of funds
-
English test results
-
Health insurance (OSHC)
Visa processing time is usually 4–8 weeks, so apply early.
Final Tips for MBA Applicants
-
Start preparing at least one year in advance
-
Not all MBAs need GMAT, but having it helps for scholarships
-
Practice tests can help improve your score
-
Reach out to the admissions office if you’re unsure about anything
-
Keep backup options in case one university doesn’t work out
Summary Table
Step | Action |
---|---|
1 | Choose 3–5 MBA programs |
2 | Check entry rules for each one |
3 | Book exams (GMAT/GRE, IELTS, etc.) |
4 | Prepare your documents |
5 | Apply to the universities |
6 | Accept the offer and pay the deposit |
7 | Apply for a visa |
8 | Book a flight and get ready to go |
Need Help with MBA Applications?
If you’re stuck with any step – entrance exams, SOP writing, university research – you don’t have to do it alone.
You can get support from experienced academic mentors at:👉 GetAssignment.com.au
They offer help for test preparation, writing support, and guidance to make your application process smoother and less stressful.