FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
In this page you will find the common answers to most of the questions frequently asked by students / applicants
# About student resources / services
How long does the MBA Program last?
The IAE’s complete MBA Programs last 2 academic years (1 academic year: approximately from the end of September till the beginning of April, including the exam periods). This means GDBA + second year.
Graduations take place in December of the following year. (E.g.: for students enrolled in 2009-2010 academic year, the graduation ceremony takes place in December 2010)
What teaching and learning methods are used?
While each class requires a high level of participation and involvement from the students, faculty are free to choose the teaching method that best fits the content of each session. You will therefore experience a wide variety of teaching styles, including case-studies, computer simulations and role-plays.
What does the IAE look for in a candidate?
We are looking for intellectual curiosity coupled with a desire to learn and grow within a rigorous academic program. We also pay special attention to those personal qualities which will contribute to the many activities of the school. We evaluate each applicant against four central criteria: leadership potential and work experience; academic capacity; international motivation; and ability to contribute to the IAE experience. For more information, visit Program Prerequisites.
I don't have a business background. Will this impact my chances for admission?
At the IAE, we value diversity at every level. We welcome applications from people with a variety of professional and academic backgrounds, including the arts, law, non-profit, etc. No matter the field of your professional and academic background, we will be looking for you to demonstrate your potential as a leader. Your professional experience and past performance will be examined closely when assessing your application.
How many years of work experience do I need in order to be admitted?
The IAE does not have an absolute requirement for years of work experience, although at least two years is preferred. However, applicants with less experience who demonstrate exceptional maturity and outstanding leadership through their professional and personal experiences will also be considered.
Is there any age limit for entry?
There is no age limit for entry. However, the MBA is aimed at those who are at an early stage in their career. IAE participants in the current class have a range of between two and ten years of post-graduate work experience.
I don't have an undergraduate degree. Can I still be considered for admission?
No. Nevertheless, candidates who do not hold an undergraduate degree, but who have an excellent career record and test scores can ask for a VAE “Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience”: an equivalence for the experience achieved. In this case, you must contact ASURE FORMATION (permanent and continuing education service at UNS) before applying.
Is an interview required for admission?
Yes. All applications go through a process of first selection (eligibility), whereby a short-list of interviewees is compiled. At this stage, only those selected for interview continue with the application process.
Who conducts admissions interviews and where?
Interviews are conducted in person by the IAE Admission Committee at the University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, or for international students by a variety of messenger services (subject to previous approval).
When will I hear if I have been selected for interview?
The short-list of eligible candidates (interviewees) is published on the site (in the “News”) during the first week of July.
I was selected for interview. When will I hear if my application has been successful?
The short-list of admitted candidates (future students) is published on the site (in the “News”) during the last week of July.
How will my admissions decision be communicated?
You will be advised on the mba web site of your final admission decision.
Can I defer admission?
In general no. You should apply for the academic year in which you intend to enrol. In truly exceptional circumstances, the Admissions Committee may grant a deferral. All requests should be made in writing and will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
If my application has been unsuccessful, may I reapply in the next round?
If your application has been unsuccessful, you must wait until the next academic year to re-apply. In general, we do not encourage reapplications unless there has been a significant professional or personal development since the initial application was submitted.
What GMAT score do I need?
Concerning the GDBA or the MBA, major in Int’l Finance or Marketing, you do not have to pass the GMAT.
Concerning the MBA MIB, the minimum required GMAT overall score is 500. This is not restricted criteria. San Francisco State University only indicates an average score, generally obtained by admitted students.
Please keep in mind, however, that the GMAT is just one of several admission criteria. A high score does not guarantee admission, and a below average score does not automatically eliminate a candidate.
I have taken the GMAT more than once. Which score will you consider?
We prioritise your most recent score. However, if you have achieved a higher score on a previous test within the last five years, we will consider your higher score along with your most recent score.
For how long is my GMAT score valid?
Your GMAT score is valid for five years.
Can I apply before taking the GMAT?
Yes. The evaluation process cab start without the GMAT score, but the GMAT results sheet must be sent before June 30th.
How can I make the GMAT Centre send the results sheet directly?
When you enrol for a session, you have to provide the following code: S80K337
What is the TOEFL Centre Code of the University of Nice?
5999
What is the GMAT Centre Code of the University of Nice?
S80K337
How do I prove fluency in English?
For the GDBA, this can be demonstrated by submitting any of the following:
- Official test score reports such as the TOEIC, Cambridge tests, TOEFL...
- Official English language grades from recognized educational institutions
- Jusitification of language studies abroad programs
- Language by language teacher(s) indicating the candidate English level, as well as the criteria used to evaluate him/her
For the MBA Marketing or the MBA International Finance, you can submit the score report of one of the following tests: TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS.
For the MBA MIB, you can submit the score report of one of the following tests: TOELF or IELTS.
For all eligible candidates (who have successfully passed the 2nd step - 'Eligibility'), the English level will then be evaluated by the Admission Committee during the interview.
English is not my native language, but I have been living and working in an English speaking country for many years. Do I still need to provide additional proof of fluency in English?
Yes. Living and working in an English-speaking environment is not accepted as proof of fluency in English on its own. If you possess a full university degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) where all courses were taught exclusively in English, we will accept your degree as proof of your fluency in English.
What do 'fluent', 'practical' and 'basic' knowledge mean, exactly?
'Fluent' knowledge is defined as the ability to communicate precisely and effectively in complex situations.
'Practical' knowledge is defined as the ability to communicate about familiar matters regularly encountered at work, school, and in leisure activities.
'Basic' knowledge is defined as the ability to communicate in a direct exchange of information in the simple present, future and past tenses.
# About Student resources / Services
How can I connect with an IAE alumnus?
Our alumni are always happy to share their experience. They regularly attend our MBA events, and the best way to connect with them is to look on the student part of the web site. You will find there the student cohort as well as commentary of alumni.
How can I obtain general information about the IAE?
The Web is the best source of information. Go to the Web site to get information about degrees and programs, housing, financial aid and more. You can also download our brochure from the website where you will find basic information or come at the IAE and ask for further information (office 3A50, 3rd floor.)
