A pretty good list ofFrequently Asked Questions

We’ve talked to lots of students over the years and even though everyone is different, we did notice that some of the same questions are often asked. So we tried to make our Pretty Good FAQs, well, pretty good.

But if there’s something we forgot, or just something else you’d like to know, then just fill out that contact form we’ll make sure the right person gets you the right answer, right away.

Sounds pretty good, right?

The Big Questions

Is an MBA right for me?
People decide to apply to an MBA program for a variety of reasons. Some common reasons include:

Career advancement: Many individuals pursue an MBA to advance their careers and increase their earning potential. An MBA can provide the skills and knowledge needed to move into higher-level management positions, switch industries, or start a new business.

Skill development: MBA programs are designed to provide students with a broad range of business skills and knowledge, including leadership, finance, marketing, operations, and more. Individuals who are seeking to develop their business acumen and gain a deeper understanding of how organizations function can benefit from an MBA program.

Networking opportunities: MBA programs provide opportunities to build a professional network of like-minded individuals who share similar goals and interests. This can be particularly valuable for individuals who are seeking to change careers or industries, or who are interested in starting a new business.

Personal growth: Pursuing an MBA can be a challenging and rewarding experience that pushes individuals out of their comfort zones and helps them grow both personally and professionally. Many people find that the experience of earning an MBA helps them become more confident, resilient, and adaptable, and that these qualities serve them well in their future endeavors.

Still not sure if an MBA is right for you? Contact us to learn more about our program and find out if it’s the right fit for your career goals and aspirations.

Do I need a business background to do an MBA?
If you’re interested in pursuing an MBA but don’t have a background in business, don’t worry – our program is designed to be accessible to students from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. In fact, many of our most successful students come from non-business backgrounds, including science, engineering, liberal arts, and more.

The MBA curriculum includes a number of foundational “Bootcamp” courses that are specifically designed to provide students with a strong understanding of core business concepts and tools and are intended to bring students up to speed on the fundamentals of business.

Is Practical Experiential Learningâ„¢ right for me?

Practical Experiential Learningâ„¢ (PEL) is particularly valuable for students who are looking to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting, or who are interested in pursuing careers in fields that require hands-on experience, such as consulting, entrepreneurship, or project management. By participating in PEL, students can build their resumes, gain valuable professional connections, and develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their careers.

Through PEL, students have the opportunity to work on team projects, case studies, and simulations, as well as to collaborate with companies and organizations in the community. These experiences allow students to develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, and to gain a deeper understanding of how business operates in the real world.

Is Weinberg right for me?
Weinberg United might just be the right fit for you if you value a leading-edge curriculum, practical experiential learning, and the freedom to tailor your degree to your unique interests and career aspirations. Our commitment to innovative education is designed to be highly participative and deeply engaged, ensuring a transformative learning experience that goes far beyond conventional textbook knowledge. We pride ourselves on a community that’s not just flexible and supportive, but one that genuinely cares about each student’s personal and professional growth.

However, it’s also essential to understand that our approach differs from a traditional university setup. If you’re seeking a conventional lecture hall experience or a major focus on academic research, a larger university may be better suited for you. At Weinberg, our size is our strength, allowing us to deliver a personalized, intensive learning journey that connects closely with each student. In essence, we’re not just another business school, but a collaborative, close-knit community focused on nurturing world-ready leaders.

Admissions and Fees

What are the demographics of the typical MBA student?
There is no “typical” demographic for an MBA applicant at our school – we welcome students from all walks of life, with different academic and professional backgrounds, ages, genders, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Our admissions process is designed to evaluate applicants based on their potential for success in the program, regardless of their demographic characteristics.

We believe that a diverse and inclusive student body brings a range of perspectives and experiences that can enrich the educational experience for all students. Our program emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and cross-cultural understanding, and we encourage our students to learn from each other and to build lasting professional and personal relationships.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a community of driven, successful professionals who are committed to making a positive impact in the business world, and we believe that diversity and inclusion are key to achieving this goal.

What are the application deadlines?

We offer rolling admissions, which means that we evaluate applications as they are received and make admissions decisions on an ongoing basis. This allows us to offer admission to qualified applicants throughout the year, and to provide a more flexible and responsive admissions process.

However, we do have an admissions deadline of 1 month before the start of each term, which means that applications must be received by this date in order to be considered for that term. Applications received after this deadline will be considered for the following term.

While we encourage applicants to submit their applications as early as possible in order to ensure full consideration and maximize their chances of admission, we understand that some applicants may need more time to prepare their materials or may have other commitments that make it difficult to meet the deadline. That’s why we offer the option to start in the following term for those who are not able to meet the admissions deadline.

Overall, our goal is to provide a flexible and accessible admissions process that meets the needs of our applicants and allows them to pursue their career goals in a way that works for them. Whether you are ready to start right away or need a bit more time to prepare, we welcome your application and look forward to reviewing it in due course.

What do I do if I've been out of school for a while and can't get an academic recommendation?
If you have been out of school for a long time and are unable to obtain an academic reference, there are several other options to consider:

  1. Professional references: You can consider reaching out to current or former supervisors, colleagues, or other professional contacts who can speak to their skills, experience, and potential for success in an MBA program.
  2. Personal references: You may also consider personal references, such as community leaders, religious leaders, or mentors who can speak to your character and personal qualities.
  3. Customers: If you are an entrepreneur or small business owner (and you’re your own boss), you can seek. a reference from a client with whom you have worked closely  for a long period of time. In such cases, the customer may be able to speak to the your business acumen, leadership skills, and customer service abilities, and could provide a unique perspective on the your potential for success in an MBA program.

Ultimately, the key is to provide references who can speak to your potential for success in the MBA program, even if they are not strictly academic in nature.

What if I'm self-employed and I don't have a boss I can ask for a professional recommendation?
If you are an entrepreneur or small business owner (and you’re your own boss), you can seek. a reference from a client with whom you have worked closely  for a long period of time. In such cases, the customer may be able to speak to the your business acumen, leadership skills, and customer service abilities, and could provide a unique perspective on the your potential for success in an MBA program.
Do I need to submit my GMAT, GRE, and/or IELTS scores, and if so, how?

At our MBA program, we understand that standardized tests like the GMAT, GRE, and IELTS can be a significant source of stress for many applicants. That’s why we have made the decision to make standardized test scores optional for admission, meaning that they are not required to be considered for admission.

We recognize that many applicants may have significant professional or academic experience that can demonstrate their ability to succeed in an MBA program, and we are committed to evaluating applicants based on a range of factors, including their work experience, academic record, personal qualities, and other evidence of their potential for success in the program.

That being said, we also understand that some applicants may choose to submit test scores to support their application, and we welcome these scores as one piece of evidence that can be considered alongside other factors. For applicants who have already taken a standardized test, we encourage them to submit their scores if they believe they will strengthen their application.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a comprehensive and holistic admissions process that takes into account the whole person and their potential for success in the program. By making standardized test scores optional, we hope to create a more accessible and flexible admissions process that recognizes the diversity of our applicant pool and the range of experiences and backgrounds that can contribute to a successful MBA program.

How can I pay for my studies?

At Weinberg, we understand that financing an MBA can be a significant investment, and we are committed to making our program accessible to a wide range of students. To that end, we offer a variety of financial aid options to help our students finance their education and achieve their career goals.

Our financial aid options include:

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: We offer a range of merit-based scholarships to exceptional applicants who have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement. These scholarships are awarded based on a competitive evaluation of the applicant’s credentials and are designed to recognize and reward excellence.

  • Need-Based Scholarships: We also offer need-based scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships are designed to help cover the cost of tuition and other expenses for students who may not be able to afford an MBA program otherwise.

  • Corporate Sponsorships: Many of our students receive support from their employers through corporate sponsorships. These sponsorships may cover some or all of the cost of tuition and other expenses, and may also provide students with opportunities for professional development and networking.

  • Interest-Free Loans: We offer interest-free loans to qualified applicants who may need additional financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and other expenses. These loans are designed to be affordable and accessible, and can be repaid over a period of several years.

Overall, our goal is to help you finance your education in a way that makes sense for you and your career goals. We encourage all of our students to explore their financial aid options and to work with us to develop a plan that meets their needs.

Coursework

Where can I see an MBA degree plan?

You can read about our curriculum and see a degree plan here.

How much time can I expect to put in each week?
As a general guideline, students at Weinberg United can expect to commit approximately 6 to 9 hours of study outside of class for each course they undertake. It’s important to note, however, that these numbers can fluctuate based on the student’s individual strengths and the nature of the course. For instance, those with an analytical bent may find they need less time for a statistics course, while others might excel in areas such as leadership, thereby reducing the time they need to spend outside of class.

Remember, though, that these are average figures and the actual time you dedicate can vary greatly, especially as you near the end of a term. During this time, as final presentations are being prepared and assignments are due, you may find yourself investing additional hours. The key is to remain flexible and adaptable, always aiming to find a balance between coursework and personal time.

Do I have to write a thesis?
At Weinberg United, we believe in the power of practical, applied knowledge. That’s why, instead of a traditional thesis, our MBA students have three capstone options that align with our commitment to real-world learning. You can choose based on your career stage and the needs of your current job.

The first option is a business case. This is an applied project that’s directly related to your chosen specialization. Often, students partner with their current employer to develop a business case, allowing them to tackle real-world business challenges and deliver valuable insights for their company.

The second option is an internship. This offers you a hands-on opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in the program to a professional setting. It’s an excellent choice if you’re aiming to gain experience in a new industry or function, or if you’re in the early stages of your career.

The final option is a free elective. This allows you the flexibility to explore a topic of interest, delve deeper into a specific area, or acquire new skills that you feel would complement your career progression.

Remember, our aim is to equip you with skills and knowledge that you can use in your career immediately. The choice of capstone should align with this goal, helping you make a difference in your professional life right from the get-go.

Can I do an internship?
Absolutely, you can choose to undertake an internship as part of the Weinberg United MBA program. We understand that our students come from a broad range of backgrounds and have different career aspirations. That’s why we offer flexibility in our capstone options, which include a business case, an internship, or a free elective.

An internship can serve multiple purposes for our students. If you’re returning to the workforce after a break, an internship can offer you the opportunity to re-familiarize yourself with a professional setting. It can also serve as a stepping stone to re-establish your career.

For those aiming to transition from one discipline to another, an internship provides a valuable chance to gain practical experience in a new field. This first-hand experience can give you a solid foundation and a unique perspective as you shift your career path.

If you’re looking to break into a new industry such as pharmaceuticals, an internship can provide that much-needed industry experience. It offers a window into the workings of the sector, helping you understand the nuances and equipping you with the skills to navigate it effectively.

In essence, an internship as part of the Weinberg MBA can be an excellent catalyst to advance your career in your chosen direction. It’s all about learning by doing, and our internships embody this philosophy.

What can I do if I've already taken a course from the MBA program?

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International Recognition

What is IACBE?
The International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) is a leading specialized accreditation body for business programs that offers accreditation services to colleges and universities around the world. The IACBE’s mission is to promote and recognize excellence in business education, and to ensure that students are receiving high-quality, relevant, and innovative education that prepares them for success in the business world.

The IACBE accredits business programs at all levels, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. To become accredited by the IACBE, a business program must undergo a rigorous evaluation process that includes a comprehensive self-study, an on-site visit by a team of expert evaluators, and ongoing reporting and evaluation to maintain accreditation.

Accreditation by the IACBE is a mark of quality and excellence in business education, and is recognized by employers, academic institutions, and professional organizations around the world. It demonstrates that a program has met rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty, resources, and student outcomes, and is committed to continuous improvement and innovation in business education.

At our MBA program, we are proud to be accredited by the IACBE, and we believe that this accreditation is a testament to the quality and excellence of our program. It is our commitment to provide our students with the highest quality business education, and to prepare them for success in the global business environment.

What is eduqua?
EduQua is a Swiss quality label for providers of adult and continuing education. It is the first Swiss quality certification for public and private educational institutions that offer continuing education programs. The label was introduced in 2000 and is recognized by the Swiss Federal Government.

EduQua certification provides an external validation of the quality and effectiveness of educational institutions and programs. The certification process includes an assessment of the institution’s management and administrative processes, teaching quality, curriculum, and student support services. EduQua also requires ongoing quality control, including regular audits and evaluations, to ensure that educational institutions continue to meet the highest standards.

EduQua is designed to help students make informed decisions about their continuing education options by providing them with a reliable measure of quality and standards. EduQua-certified institutions and programs are recognized for their commitment to quality and excellence, and their certification provides assurance to students that they are receiving a high-quality education.

At our MBA program, we are proud to be certified by EduQua, and we believe that this certification is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of our educational programs. We are committed to providing our students with the highest quality education, and to preparing them for success in the global business environment.

What is CHEA?
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) is a non-profit organization that represents over 3,000 degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States. CHEA is a leading advocate for academic quality and accreditation, and it works to promote and strengthen the role of accreditation in ensuring high-quality education.

CHEA is an independent organization that is recognized as a reliable authority on higher education accreditation. It sets standards for accreditation agencies and provides guidance and support to colleges and universities seeking accreditation.

CHEA is committed to ensuring that accreditation is a rigorous and meaningful process that promotes academic quality and student success. It advocates for accreditation as an essential component of higher education, providing assurance to students, employers, and the public that academic programs meet recognized standards of quality.

At Weinberg, we are committed to meeting the highest standards of quality and excellence in education. We are proud to be part of a community of institutions and programs committed to ensuring the best possible education for our students.

Flexibility

Can I transfer between campuses?
At our MBA program, we understand that our students have busy lives and demanding schedules, and we are committed to providing a flexible and accessible learning environment that meets their needs. That’s why we offer a unique and innovative program that allows students to seamlessly transfer between our three campuses in Basel, Zurich, and our online campus.

Our program is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the needs of our students. This means that students can choose to take classes at any of our three campuses, depending on their location and availability. If a student needs to move to a different city, they can easily transfer to the campus in that location and continue their studies without interruption. Similarly, if a student needs to travel or work remotely, they can take advantage of our online campus to stay connected and engaged in their studies.

This flexibility allows our students to create a personalized and customized learning experience that meets their unique needs and goals. It also means that our students have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities at all of our campuses, including faculty, staff, student services, and professional development opportunities.

What happens if I have to miss a class?
At Weinberg United, we completely understand that our MBA students are often balancing their studies with busy professional and personal lives. Our program is designed with this flexibility in mind. If you are unable to attend a class in person, you have the option to join virtually via Microsoft Teams. This ensures that you won’t miss out on any important discussions or learning experiences.

For those with particularly unpredictable schedules, we also offer an asynchronous online option. This gives you the freedom to access class materials and lectures at your own convenience, whenever it suits you best. It’s another way we strive to accommodate the unique needs and demands of our students, ensuring that you can continue your education without compromise, regardless of your commitments.

Can I take additional or fewer courses each term?
The Weinberg MBA program is designed to be adaptable to the needs of our students. This means that you can choose to take more or fewer classes each semester, depending on your personal or professional requirements. For example, if you have a particularly demanding work schedule, you can choose to take fewer classes to better manage your time and workload. Similarly, if you have more time and availability, you can choose to take more classes to accelerate their progress through the program.
What happens if I need to pause my studies?

We recognize that life is unpredictable, and sometimes unexpected events or circumstances can arise that may require you to pause your studies. That’s why we offer the option for students to take a leave of absence from the program if necessary. This allows you to put your studies on hold for a period of time, and then resume your studies when you are ready to do so.

Did you ever wonder…

What's the difference between an MBA and an Executive MBA?
Traditional MBA programs, like ours at Weinberg United, typically hold classes during the week and are geared towards individuals in the operational level of businesses, often serving in middle to upper-middle management roles. Our students usually come with a substantial wealth of professional experience, ranging from 7 to 14 years, which they bring to the classroom discussions and group work, enriching the learning experience for everyone.

On the other hand, Executive MBA (EMBA) programs are designed for professionals who are further along in their careers and usually hold leadership positions, such as executives or entrepreneurs. These programs tend to be more flexible, often offering weekend or evening classes to accommodate busy schedules. The curriculum in an EMBA program is typically more strategic in nature, focusing on executive decision-making, leadership, and the larger, strategic implications of business decisions.

In both types of programs, students learn important business and leadership skills, but the level of professional experience and the depth of strategic focus differentiate an MBA from an EMBA. Ultimately, the right choice depends on where you are in your career and your personal and professional goals.

Why are some schools AACSB accredited while others are IACBE accredited?
There are various accreditation bodies worldwide, and each one has its own unique focus. AACSB (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and IACBE (The International Accreditation Council for Business Education) are two well-respected entities in the realm of business education.

AACSB traditionally caters to larger research-focused institutions, while IACBE was specifically designed to serve smaller to medium-sized business schools with a strong emphasis on student-centered teaching and learning. This difference in focus makes IACBE a perfect fit for Weinberg United, given our commitment to personalized, hands-on learning experiences, and the size of our community.

However, when comparing schools and their accreditations, one crucial aspect to pay attention to is the difference between membership and accreditation. While membership signifies that an institution is part of an accrediting body, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s accredited. Some schools may display the logo of an accrediting body on their website, which, while not illegal, can be misleading.

Accreditation, on the other hand, signifies that a school has successfully undergone a comprehensive evaluation process and meets the rigorous standards set by the accrediting body. Here at Weinberg United, we’re proud to be fully accredited by IACBE, affirming our commitment to providing high-quality, student-focused business education.

What's life like as an MBA Student?
The life of an MBA student at Weinberg United is a test of will, a trial by fire, and ultimately a triumphant journey. Juggling professional responsibilities, personal obligations, and an intense academic schedule, our students discover an impressive resilience they may not have known they possessed. Time management becomes not just a skill, but an art form.

Between work, family, and school, sleep can be scarce. Finding time for late-night study sessions, team meetings, and project deadlines becomes a familiar routine. However, amid the busyness, there is a sense of purpose and excitement. Each assignment tackled, each project completed, and each presentation delivered, brings our students one step closer to their goal.

But it’s not all hard work. There’s a vibrant camaraderie among our faculty and student community, networking events, and moments of revelry that break up the routine. And there’s an immense satisfaction that comes from the application of learned concepts to real-world situations, from seeing theories come alive in the boardroom or the marketplace.

At the end of the journey, the sense of achievement is profound. Completing an MBA at Weinberg United is more than an academic accomplishment. It is a testament to determination, tenacity, and the ability to overcome significant challenges. It is an indication to the world, and more importantly, to oneself, that no matter how high the mountain, one can scale it. After all, at Weinberg United, ‘Different is Everything’. Our students don’t just earn an MBA; they earn the indisputable proof of their own resilience, adaptability, and capability to thrive in any business environment.

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Still Got Questions?

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The Weinberg MBA

Discover the difference that our supportive community, forward-thinking curriculum, flexible scheduling, and Practical Experiential Learningâ„¢ can have. Return to the main MBA page to learn more.

The MBA Curriculum

Discover a curriculum that transcends theory, invites you into the heart of innovation. Design your own learning journey with engaging content that fosters leadership and impacts change.

Steps to Admission

Understand the roadmap to becoming a Weinberg MBA student. This step-by-step guide will take you through the application process, ensuring you know what to expect at each stage.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Explore the financial investment of an MBA at Weinberg. Understand our fee structure and the various financial aid opportunities available to assist you in your educational journey.