How Much Does an MBA Cost in Singapore?

The average cost of an MBA in Singapore ranges from S$40,000 to S$140,000, depending on the institution. The main costs of an MBA are tuition fees, followed by additional expenses such as textbooks and course materials, accommodation, living expenses, and incidental fees like administrative charges or participation in networking events and overseas study trips. 

As tuition fees continue to increase, it’s essential to consider the total cost of an MBA and explore strategies to reduce expenses and maximise the value of your investment.

>> Learn more: When is an MBA worth it?

Why choose Singapore for your MBA programme?

Singapore is a good place to take an MBA due to its world-class educational institutions and diversified metropolitan setting. The country is home to world-class business schools such as INSEAD Asia Campus, NUS Business School, and Nanyang Business School (NTU).

There are also options to take your MBA full-time or part-time. The former allows you to maintain your current employment and financial stability, while the latter allows an immersive experience and stronger networking opportunities.

MBA programmes in Singapore provide a strong foundation in business principles with an emphasis on the Asian market, equipping you with the skills and knowledge essential to succeed in today’s competitive global business environment.

>> Learn more: Which is More Important — Education or Experience?

MBA programmes in Singapore

National University of Singapore

To help you grow professionally and personally, the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) MBA offers an all-encompassing educational experience. The curriculum equips you with the skills and information you'll need to thrive in a fast-evolving world by combining academic rigour with a hands-on approach. 

Beyond the classroom, you can extend your learning via exchange programmes, international study trips, case competitions, internships, and many other opportunities. Getting an MBA at NUS costs S$99,190, and it offers full-time (17 months) and part-time (24–30 months) study options. 

NUS MBA prerequisites:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or institution.

• A competitive score on the GMAT or GRE

• At least two years of job experience after graduating from college

• If the applicant’s undergraduate degree was not in English, they must take the TOEFL.

Nanyang Technological University

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a public research university in Singapore. According to the QS World University Rankings, it is now the 12th best university globally. NTU boasts excellent research facilities, a welcoming environment, and some of the top professors in the world.

Aspiring MBA candidates often view NTU as a top choice. The challenging, comprehensive and condensed programme at NTU’s Nanyang Business School is attended by international students from more than 20 countries. 

The school also offers double master's programmes, which aim to broaden your international exposure, in conjunction with Waseda University (Japan), the University of St Gallen (Switzerland) and ESSEC (France).  

You can opt for a 12-month full-time MBA or the 18-month part-time Professional MBA. The MBA costs S$81,750 for the full-time programme and S$87,200 for the part-time programme.

NTU MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor’s degree

• Minimum of two years of work experience

• Competitive GMAT or GRE score

• TOEFL score > 100 IBT or IELTS score > 6.5, if English was not the medium of instruction used at the undergraduate level​

NTU Professional MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor’s degree

• At least three years' full-time work experience

• Competitive GMAT or GRE score

• TOEFL score > 100 IBT or IELTS score > 6.5, if English was not the medium of instruction used at the undergraduate level​

Singapore Management University

The Singapore Management University (SMU) is Singapore's first American-style and publicly-funded autonomous university. The SMU MBA programme aims to develop the next generation of Asian business leaders who can think, decide and act in a complicated world. 

Its curriculum is based on the latest management research and proven approaches in management practice. Its programme aims to cultivate leaders who are versatile and dynamic. 

The programme runs for 15 months full-time (with the flexibility to complete in 10 months) and 20 months part-time (with the flexibility to complete in 10 months). Getting an MBA from SMU will cost you S$81,750.

SMU MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor's degree from a reputable university 

• At least two years of post-university work experience 

• Competitive GMAT or GRE score

• Interpersonal skills, international outlook, ability to work in groups 

• Factors such as professional accomplishments, leadership experience and community impact are bonuses

Singapore Institute of Management

The University of Alberta and the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) collaborate on a Master of Business Administration (FastTrack) program delivered on SIM's campus. This MBA program, awarded by the University of Alberta, offers a programme that is designed to be completed in a shorter timeframe than traditional MBA programmes. It has full-time and part-time options with the full-time programme taking 12 months to complete while the part-time programme will take 24 months. The course costs S$39,240 for local students and S$41,202 for international students.

SIM University of Alberta MBA prerequisites:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business (BCom, BMgmt, BBA or equivalent) with a minimum B+ Grade over their last 60 credits from a recognised university that was completed within the last ten years. AND

• To have a grade of B or higher in these or equivalent subjects.

• Business Statistics

• Finance

• Financial Accounting

• Marketing

• Organisational Behaviour

INSEAD

Renowned as a premier business school, INSEAD’s MBA programme is ranked fourth in Financial Times’ 2025 ranking of Global MBA programmes. INSEAD prides itself on developing thoughtful leaders and entrepreneurs who create value for their organisations and communities. It offers a robust multicultural experience with over 80 nationalities attending its programme.

Its MBA programme is a full-time course which runs for 10 months. The school’s fees are EUD 103,500, or around S$154,430, making it the priciest programme on this list. 

INSEAD MBA prerequisites:

•     Bachelor's degree from a reputable university 

•     Competitive GMAT or GRE score

•     Strongly encouraged to have a minimum of two years of work experience

London School of Business & Finance

The London School of Business & Finance’s (LSBF) MBA programme provides a systematic, broad and integrated approach to global business. Designed and awarded by the University of Greenwich, students may choose from various subjects designed to keep up to date with global market trends. 

It's a recommended option if you have some job experience to learn more about corporate strategy and change management. This approved institution can provide you with an internationally recognised master's degree in business administration with an international emphasis. Both the 12-month full-time and 18-month part-time programmes cost S$19,184 for local students and S$22,890 for international students, making it one of the cheaper options on our list.

London School of Business & Finance MBA prerequisites:

•     Bachelor's degree from a reputable university 

•     Two years of work experience in managerial/professional capacity

James Cook University

Learners who want to enhance their careers and extend their managerial horizons can consider James Cook University’s (JCU) MBA programme.

Furthermore, professionals without a bachelor's degree can also apply to the programme, recognising real-world expertise via a structured evaluation procedure. 

The programme offers six majors to focus on, including Analytics and Business Solutions, Creative Marketing, and Finance. You will learn new skills and gain information you can put to use right away in your company. Through a combination of in-person and online delivery, you will have the chance to network with other professional managers and gain knowledge with practical applications. 

The full-time programme takes 12 months to complete, while the part-time programme takes 16 months. Singapore residents pay fees of S$40,221, while international students pay S$41,529.

JCU MBA prerequisites:

• AQF level 7 bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject or AQF level 8 honours degree / Graduate Certificate in Business Administration

• Or four years of management experience that meets the course’s standards 

How to choose an MBA

Step 1: Determine your career goals

The most crucial factor to consider when selecting the best MBA programme is to be clear about what you want to pursue. Because business schools in Singapore are expensive, you should consider why you want to attend one. Do you want to change industries or advance in your current one? Are you seeking a job at the next management level or as CEO?

Step 2: Determine if an MBA is suitable for you

Investing in an MBA will cost you money and effort, so be sure it is the best fit for your professional aspirations. If it isn't, you may want to save your money and focus on other pursuits.

Step 3: Decide on the kind of MBA programme required

MBA programmes are available in various formats, including full-time, part-time, online, and executive MBAs. Choose the one that best matches your schedule and budget.

Step 4: Apply for the MBA

Prepare the relevant education transcripts, proof of work experience, and personal/reference statements as needed.

How much does an MBA in Singapore cost?

Tuition fees are relatively higher when pursuing an MBA in Singapore, compared to other parts of Southeast Asia. You should also budget for additional expenses such as books and supplies, lodging and food. The cost of living in Singapore is among the highest globally, so planning your budget for your MBA if you’re coming from another country is critical. The good news is that some MBA programmes offer scholarships. 

Tuition fees for degree programmes vary based on the institution, degree level, and type of course selected. 

Here is a summary of the fees of the top MBA programmes:

>> Learn more: What’s the Difference Between Tuition Fee Loan and Study Loan?

Is getting an MBA worth it?

What you do with your MBA will determine its worth. While an MBA may give you a leg up in terms of qualifications and networking, it’ll be how you use the experience, connections, and knowledge gained that will ultimately make the difference in your career.

>> Learn more: Guide to MBA Programmes in Singapore