Want to Earn Your MBA Abroad? Here's What You Need

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If you plan to pursue an MBA overseas, the application process may be slightly more complicated than if you stay in your home country. Here are five things to ask yourself as you look ahead toward your advanced degree...

Can you prove your English proficiency?
If you plan to study at an English-speaking university in countries like the U.S., England, Australia, or New Zealand, you'll have to demonstrate that you have the language skills needed to thrive. Here are the exams that are most acceptable by major universities (but always be sure to see if schools have specific requirements).

PTE Academic - The Pearson Test of English (PTE), created by Pearson Language Tests, is an international, computer-based, English language test. More than 2840 programs recognize the exam. You can schedule your exam for whatever date fits your schedule at a test center near you.

TOEFL - The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is administered by the New Jersey-based Educational Testing Service, is a popular English language test that measures how well you read, listen, speak, and write in English in an academic setting. More than 7,000 institutions in 130 countries, including almost every university in the U.S., UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, use TOEFL scores as a factor in their admission process. The TOEFL is offered as a paper-based and an Internet-based test (iBT).

IELTS Academic - International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which is jointly managed by British Council; IDP: IELTS Australia; and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, is recognized by more than 6,000 institutions across 120 countries, including more than 2,000 academic institutions in the U.S. The two-hour, 45-minute test is offered in 500 locations worldwide.

Are you ready to tackle the GMAT?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized (given in English) that is accepted by more than 1,500 universities and institutions in82 countries as part of the admissions process. The test helps assess your verbal, math, and analytical writing skills to determine if you can study at the graduate level.

Is your school of choice AACSB Accredited?
When choosing an MBA school -- especially as an international student -- you'll want to pick one that has worldwide recognition. The AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is an accreditation program that has 637 member institutions (you can review the list here). Naturally there are many fine universities that might not hold this status, but this designation is one that sets institutions apart.

Did you gather the other items needed for the school application?
An MBA application for admission will likely require an essay, letters of recommendation, your undergraduate transcript, and other materials. Application requirements and deadlines do vary, however, so visit the school of your choice online to see if they have an international MBA application.

Once you're accepted, is your Visa and other paperwork in order?
Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover you tuition and living expenses, a requirement you'll likely need to qualify for a student Visa. You'll also need an up to date passport, a letter from the school that states you have been accepted into their program (in the U.S., it's an I-20 form).

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