Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


What are the minimum requirements for admission to the Executive MBA program?

  • Bachelors/Masters (16 years) or HEC equivalent qualification with 2.50 CGPA/first class (whichever applicable) plus three years of post-qualification experience.
  • ACCA Qualification with three years of post-membership experience.
  • CA or ACMA with 3 years of post-qualification experience.
  • Foreign degree holders are required to submit Equivalence Certificate from HEC

    • The minimum work experience requirement to apply is 3 years of post-qualification experience. Preference will be given to those candidates who are carrying 5 years plus experience.


      What kind of experience is preferred?
      Verifiable work experience is a mandatory requirement, and it should be supported by appropriate documentation.


      Does IBA accept experience acquired during qualification?
      We only accept work experience that has been obtained after completing the relevant qualification for the Executive MBA program.


      Is there any alternative to IBA aptitude test for Executive MBA?
      Indeed, if a candidate achieves a GMAT score of 600 or higher within the past two years, the requirement for an aptitude test can be waived.


      What are the contents of the IBA aptitude test?
      The Executive MBA assessment comprises sections on Mathematics, English, and Case Study. Upon successful completion of the test, candidates are invited for an interview. For more information and access to previous test papers, please visit the following link: https://mbaexecutive.iba.edu.pk/NewEMBATestPaper.php


      How many times I can take the aptitude test?
      There are no restrictions or limitations in place.

       
      What if I clear the test and my circumstances do not allow me to join the program after passing the test & interview?
      Candidates are generally expected to commence their studies in the semester in which they are admitted. However, under exceptional circumstances, the IBA management may review and consider such applications on a case-by-case basis.


      I hold ACCA qualification. Do I need to obtain Equivalence Certificate from HEC?
      As per the HEC Notification dated December 14, 2018, it is stated that ACCA membership is considered equivalent to a Master's degree (M. Com) in Pakistan. Therefore, based on this notification, you meet the eligibility criteria to apply for the Executive MBA program, provided that you have a minimum of 3 years of post-ACCA membership experience.


      Is there any limit of seats/quota/self-finance etc.?

      Admissions for the Executive MBA program at IBA are strictly based on merit. There is no predetermined or fixed number of seats available. The selection process focuses on identifying highly qualified candidates who meet the program's criteria. Seats are filled based on the quality and suitability of the applicants. It is important to note that IBA does not have any quota system or self-financed scheme in place for the admissions process.

      Is Executive MBA equal to 18 years of qualification?
      The Executive MBA program is fully recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and is considered equivalent to 18 years of education, which is comparable to an MS/M.Phil degree. This recognition is in accordance with the HEC Notification No. 9 – 48 (Business)/Acad(Curri)/HEC/2018/2634 dated March 28, 2019. As a result, graduates of the Executive MBA program receive the same level of recognition and qualification as those who have completed a traditional master's degree.

      Can I do Ph.D. after Executive MBA/Morning/Evening?
      Yes, it is possible to pursue a Ph.D. after completing the Executive MBA program. However, the eligibility and requirements for admission into a Ph.D. program vary depending on the specific university and the criteria they have set. It is important to check the admission criteria of the university where you intend to pursue your Ph.D. to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements for enrollment. Apart from holding an Executive MBA degree, you may need to fulfill additional criteria such as research experience, qualifying exams, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Each university has its own set of guidelines, so it is advisable to thoroughly research and inquire about the specific requirements of the Ph.D. program you are interested in.

      Can I transfer from MBA (Morning or Evening) to Executive MBA or vice versa?
      Yes, it is possible to transfer from the MBA (Morning / Evening) program to the Executive MBA program, or vice versa, subject to certain conditions. To transfer between the two programs, you will need to successfully pass the test and interview of the program you wish to transfer into. It's important to note that transfer requests made after completing 50% of the coursework will not be considered.

      The transfer process will involve an assessment of your eligibility and the availability of seats in the desired program. Meeting the requirements and criteria set by the respective program is essential for a successful transfer. It is recommended to consult with the admissions office or the program coordinator for detailed information and guidance on the transfer process and any specific requirements that need to be fulfilled.

      Please note that the decision to approve a transfer ultimately rests with the institute and is subject to their policies and regulations.

      Is there any possibility of transferring credit?

      A limited number of course credit exemptions may be given to those students who have been enrolled in degree programs at top ranked foreign universities. These exemptions shall be given on case-to-case basis on the following criteria:

      Course credits must be from any of the top 50 universities derived from the international rankings complied by Shangri Jiao Tong University’s Institute of Higher Education or by the Times Higher Education Supplement (THES) or Quacquarlli Symonds (QS) in the discipline applied for.


      Is there any age limit for Executive MBA?
      There is no age limit. All the candidates without any discriminations welcome to apply. Women and minorities are particularly encouraged to apply.


      What is the maximum / minimum duration to complete Executive MBA?
      The maximum duration to complete the program is 7 years and the minimum is 3 years.


      Is there any requirement of minimum CGPA during studies at the IBA?
      Yes. A participant must maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.20 on a cumulative basis during his/her stay at the IBA. Any participant with a CGPA of less than 2.00 is dropped out from the rolls of the Institute. A student securing a CGPA between 2.00 and 2.20 is put up on probation for one semester.

      How many courses are required for completing Executive MBA?
      The Executive MBA program comprises 14 core courses, 8 elective courses, and 1 research project (which is equivalent to 2 courses).

      What are the specialization options offered for the Executive MBA program?
      The Executive MBA program provides specializations in the fields of Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, and Human Resource Management

      When and where classes are conducted?
      The Executive MBA classes take place primarily at IBA Main Campus, Karachi University. The classes are scheduled on Saturdays from 2:00pm to 9:15pm and on Sundays from 9:30am to 5:15pm. It is important to be aware that some courses may also be offered during morning hours on Saturdays.

      What is the tuition cost for the program?
      The fee structure for the program is outlined as follows:

      The cost per credit hour is Rs. 26,600/-, and an additional admission fee of Rs. 100,000/- is applicable. The complete EMBA program consists of a total of 72 credit hours. Please take note that a 5% tax is applicable, and you can adjust it when filing your tax return. The fee can be paid on a semester-wise basis. It is essential to be aware that the fee is subject to revision without prior notice.

      Where to contact for further details.
      Muhammad Munawar
      Program Manager
      Executive MBA Program Office, IBA Main Campus, Karachi University
      Ph: 38104700 Ext. 2880/2877
      mmunawar@iba.edu.pk
      Website: http://mbaexecutive.iba.edu.pk
      (Updated on July 3, 2023)

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