EU Business School Admission Requirements
Holistic Admissions Process
EU Business School’s admission requirements are transparent and designed to identify students with the potential to succeed in their international business programs. While there are standard requirements at each level – such as academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, recommendation letters, and essays – EU prides itself on a holistic admissions process.
The school can be flexible with certain criteria like GPA or test scores, especially if an applicant shows strength in other areas .
Bachelor’s Programs Admission Requirements
According to the official admissions guidelines, candidates are assessed on a range of factors beyond grades alone, including leadership potential and extracurricular achievements. In practice, this means EU can be flexible with GPA and will consider your overall profile. Key admission requirements for bachelor’s applicants include:
1. High School Diploma and Transcript:
A certified copy of your high school diploma (or equivalent such as GED) and academic transcripts . If these documents are not in English, you must provide a certified English translation .
2. English Proficiency:
Proof of English level – for example, a minimum IELTS score around 6.0 or TOEFL iBT around 80. EU Business School also accepts its own English placement test as an alternative to external exams . (Native English speakers or applicants who studied in English may be exempt.)
3. Recommendation Letters:
Two letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who can attest to your academic ability and character . (If you have work experience, a letter from an employer can also be useful.)
4. Personal Essay or Video:
A written personal essay or 2–3 minute video essay explaining your goals, experiences, and why you want to attend EU . This helps the admissions committee get to know you beyond your grades.
5. CV/Resume (optional):
While not always required for undergraduate entry, it’s good practice to include a brief CV of any internships, work experience, or extracurricular activities.
6. Passport & Photos:
A copy of your valid passport or ID card and passport-size photos for identification .
7. Financial Documentation:
A bank certificate or letter proving you have the financial means to cover tuition fees (this is often needed for visa purposes as well) .
8. Application Form & Fee:
The completed application form (if not submitted online) and the application fee (€200, non-refundable) .
Note: After you submit the above documents, you may be invited for an admissions interview (in person or via video call). The interview is an opportunity to discuss your motivation and is especially important if any part of your application needs further explanation.
EU Business School does not impose a strict minimum GPA for bachelor’s admissions; instead, they review your overall academic performance and potential. If your grades are below the usual entry level, the school and its admissions counselors can often suggest alternatives such as starting in a foundation program to meet the requirements .
👉 Learn more: Visit the EU Business School Bachelor’s admissions page for detailed information on undergraduate program requirements and the application process.
Master’s Programs Admission Requirements
Applicants are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline (business-related field is a plus but not mandatory) and must demonstrate English proficiency and professional or academic potential.
1. Bachelor’s Degree and Transcripts:
A certified copy of your bachelor’s diploma and undergraduate transcripts . If you have not yet received your diploma, you can provide an official letter stating your expected graduation date. As always, non-English documents should be accompanied by a certified translation .
2. English Proficiency:
Proof of English level – typically an IELTS score of ~6.5 or TOEFL iBT ~89 is expected for master’s programs . Cambridge C1 (Advanced) and PTE are also accepted equivalents. Uniquely, EU Business School offers an internal English placement test which can be taken in lieu of IELTS/TOEFL for those who do not already have a qualifying score . (If English is your native language or you studied your previous degree in English, you may not need a test score.)
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
A current CV or résumé highlighting your educational background and any work experience . Even if you are coming straight from undergraduate studies, include internships, volunteer work, or projects – this helps show your experience and skills.
4. Letters of Recommendation:
Two recommendation letters** – ideally one academic (for example, a professor) and one professional . These letters should comment on your capabilities and readiness for graduate study. If you have been out of school for a while, two professional letters (e.g. from supervisors) are acceptable .
5. Motivational Essay/Statement:
A written essay (or video) describing your motivation to pursue the master’s program and how it fits into your career plans . EU often provides prompts or questions you can address. This essay helps the admissions team assess your communication skills and drive.
6. Passport & ID Photos:
A photocopy of your passport or government ID, plus passport-sized photos for your student file .
7. Financial Solvency Proof:
A bank letter or certificate confirming that you or your sponsor have sufficient funds to cover the program fees .
8. Application Form & Fee:
Completed application form (if not done through the online portal) and a non-refundable application fee of EUR/CHF 200 .
GPA and Additional Considerations:
There is no rigid minimum GPA requirement for admission to EU’s master’s programs. Generally, a GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is recommended, or equivalent academic results .
However, EU Business School evaluates each candidate holistically. In fact, applicants who don’t meet the recommended GPA can still be considered – for example, by submitting a satisfactory GMAT/GRE score or interviewing with the academic dean as alternative evidence of capability .
The admissions committee may ask for an interview in cases where an applicant’s academic background falls slightly short, so they can assess the candidate on a merit basis .
👉 Learn more: See the Master’s programs admission process on EU Business School’s official site for campus-specific details and any updated requirements for graduate applicants.
MBA Programs Admission Requirements
MBA applicants are expected to have work experience. In fact, EU Business School explicitly states that the MBA is designed for business professionals with over two years of professional work experience.
1. Bachelor’s Degree:
A certified copy of your bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts is required (just like for the master’s programs) . The degree can be in any field, but a strong academic performance in your undergraduate studies will strengthen your application.
2. Work Experience:
Two or more years of full-time work experience in a professional business setting. This is a crucial requirement for the MBA program. Your CV should clearly indicate your roles and responsibilities over at least 2 years. (EU Business School may consider applicants with slightly less experience on a case-by-case basis if the rest of the application is exceptional, but 2+ years is the general benchmark.)
3. English Proficiency:
Proof of English fluency is required. The expected level is comparable to other graduate programs – e.g., IELTS around 6.5 or TOEFL 89 (and above) . Some MBA programs at EU (in partnership with other institutions) list a slightly lower minimum like IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80 , but in all cases you must demonstrate strong English skills. As always, you can opt to take EU’s internal English placement test if you don’t have an IELTS/TOEFL score. Alternatively, being a native English speaker or having completed prior studies in English would satisfy this requirement .
4. CV/Resume:
A detailed CV is mandatory for MBA candidates. You should highlight your professional experience, including job titles, duties, achievements, and any leadership or project experiences. This lets the admissions team verify that you meet the experience requirement and understand the trajectory of your career.
5. Letters of Recommendation:
Two recommendation letters are typically required, similar to the master’s application. At least one letter should ideally come from an employer or supervisor who can speak about your professional performance and leadership potential . The second letter could be either professional or academic.
6. Motivation Essay:
A written or video essay explaining why you are pursuing an MBA and how it aligns with your career goals. You might discuss your managerial experience, what you intend to learn, and your post-MBA ambitions. This is an opportunity to showcase your communication skills and motivation to join the program.
7. Passport, Photos, Financial Docs, Application Fee:
These administrative items are the same as for other programs – copy of passport/ID, passport photos, proof of financial means for the tuition, and the €200 application fee.
Flexibility on Academic Background:
MBA applicants who meet the work experience requirement but come from a non-business academic background or have a lower undergraduate GPA are not automatically turned away. EU Business School can evaluate professional experience as part of an alternative pathway. For instance, candidates who do not hold a traditional business bachelor or who have a lower classification can be admitted through recognition of prior learning (RPL) procedures, where relevant professional experience is taken into account on a case-by-case basis .
In some cases, an interview with the academic department may be conducted instead of a standardized test if the candidate’s academic credentials need bolstering . The philosophy is that strong professional experience and leadership potential can offset a lower GPA, reflecting EU’s practical approach to MBA admissions.
👉 Learn more: Check out the EU Business School MBA programs page for specifics on MBA specializations and detailed admission guidelines.
Foundation Programs Admission Requirements
EU Business School offers several foundation programs for students who need extra preparation before starting a degree. These programs are pathways that bridge the gap if you don’t yet meet the requirements for direct entry into a bachelor’s, master’s, or MBA program.
English Foundation Program (EFP)
The English Foundation Program is designed for applicants who meet the academic qualifications for their desired degree but need to improve their English language skills. This is a full-time intensive language course that brings students up to the required English level. Key points for EFP admissions:
- Academic Requirement: High school completion (for those aiming to enter bachelor’s) or a bachelor’s degree (for those aiming for master’s/MBA) is required, as this program is taken in conjunction with your intended degree . Essentially, you must otherwise be eligible for admission aside from the language level.
- English Level: This program is for students who do not yet reach the minimum English scores for direct entry. There is no strict test score required to join EFP, but you should have an intermediate level of English (for example, roughly equivalent to B1/B2 level). If you have any English test results (even if below the degree requirement), you should submit them as part of your application . EU may also assess your level via an interview or their placement test to ensure the EFP is suitable for you.
- Application Documents: The documentation for the English Foundation Program is similar to that for bachelor’s admissions: completed application form, high school diploma and transcripts, one letter of recommendation, a motivation letter explaining your goals, passport/ID copy, photos, proof of finances, and the application fee . (The difference is that EFP requires one reference letter instead of two .)
- Progression: Upon successfully finishing the English Foundation Program (by passing the EFP final exams and meeting the exit requirements), you are automatically admitted into your chosen EU degree program – bachelor’s, master’s or MBA – without needing to retake IELTS/TOEFL. In other words, EFP guarantees your place in the degree program as long as you complete it successfully, and it removes the English proficiency barrier.
Business Bridging Program (BBP)
The Business Bridging Program is a one-semester preparatory course for students who have completed high school but need to strengthen their academic knowledge or study skills before entering an EU bachelor’s program. It’s essentially a foundation semester focused on business basics and learning techniques. Key points for BBP admissions:
- Academic Requirement: High school diploma or equivalent is required for admission to the bridging program (since it leads into the undergraduate programs) . This program is ideal if your high school grades or curriculum did not fully meet EU’s bachelor entry standards, or if you are changing academic streams and need fundamental business knowledge.
- English Level: You should have an intermediate level of English to follow the Bridging Program coursework. Typically, an IELTS score of ~5.0 or TOEFL iBT ~60 is sufficient to join the program . (If you fall just below that, EU’s internal English test can determine if you can cope with the courses.) The idea is that you do not yet meet the B2 level required for the degree, but you have enough language ability to take classes in English with additional support.
- Application Documents: The application for the Business Bridging Program is very similar to the English Foundation requirements. You need to submit your high school transcripts and diploma, one recommendation letter, a motivation letter, proof of English level (if any), passport/ID, photos, financial solvency letter, and the application fee . Ensure you indicate that you are applying for the Business Bridging Program. Since BBP is a pre-bachelor program, you do not need to submit SAT/ACT scores – just your secondary school records.
- Progression: The bridging program lasts 13 weeks (one semester). Upon successful completion, students are automatically admitted into the first year of EU’s undergraduate (bachelor’s) programs . In fact, 97% of students in the foundation programs go on to successfully earn a bachelor’s degree at EU, which shows the program’s effectiveness in preparing students . After bridging, you will start as a regular bachelor student (no need to reapply) as long as you have also provided all other required documents (like the final high school diploma, if you were finishing it while in the program).
Executive Bridging Program (Executive BBA)
The Executive Bridging Program, also referred to as the Executive BBA, is a one-year, two-semester program that enables professionals who do not have a bachelor’s degree to gain access to EU’s graduate programs (Master’s or MBA). This program bridges the gap for mature students by providing undergraduate-level business knowledge and academic skills, culminating in a qualification that is equivalent to a bachelor’s for the purpose of progression. Key points for Executive Bridging Program admissions:
- Professional Experience: To qualify for the Executive Bridging Program, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in a business or management role . This substantial work experience requirement reflects the program’s target audience: working professionals (typically in their mid-20s or older) who have developed practical knowledge but lack a formal degree. You will need to detail your work experience in your CV and may be asked to provide references or employment letters to verify your experience.
- Educational Background: There is no formal degree prerequisite (since this program is specifically for those without a bachelor’s), but you should have a high school diploma or a equivalent secondary education as a minimum. The admissions team will want to see your high school transcripts and any other certificates or courses you may have completed .
- English Proficiency: As with other programs, you must demonstrate English proficiency to join. The expected level is similar to bachelor’s entry (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80) since the bridging coursework is conducted at undergraduate level. If you haven’t taken an English test, you can take EU’s placement test or show other evidence of English ability. Given that many Executive BBA candidates may have been working in English-speaking environments, a letter from an employer attesting to your English skills or an interview in English can also suffice.
- Application Documents: In addition to the standard application form, passport, photos, financial statement, and fee, Executive Bridging applicants should submit a CV/résumé (highlighting the required 5+ years of work experience) , at least one letter of recommendation (preferably from an employer or business associate who can speak to your professional accomplishments), and a motivation letter or essay describing why you want to pursue further business education. Essentially, the docs are akin to an MBA application minus the bachelor’s degree – your work history plays the central role.
- Progression: After successfully completing the Executive Bridging Program, you will earn an Executive BBA certificate and become eligible to enroll in EU Business School’s MBA or master’s programs. You’ll be treated as having the equivalent of a bachelor’s for admissions purposes. This means upon completion, you can directly commence your chosen graduate program at EU (MBA or MSc), provided you meet any other specific requirements (like the English level, which presumably will be met by then). The Executive Bridging Program is a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to fast-track their education; it builds on practical managerial knowledge and formalizes it into an academic qualification .
👉 Learn more: For more details on these pathways, visit the EU Business School Foundation Programs page. If your current qualifications don’t match EU’s entry requirements, these preparatory programs can be an excellent stepping stone.
A Flexible, Student-Centered Admission Approach
Importantly, English proficiency is a must, but EU offers an accommodating solution by accepting its own English placement test instead of TOEFL/IELTS , making it easier for students who might not have access to those exams. And if you’re worried about your grades, remember that no single factor will make or break your application – the admissions committee looks at your whole profile, including personal and professional experiences. EU Business School and its admissions agents will work closely with you to find the right program for your background, whether that’s direct entry into an MBA or a preparatory route leading to a bachelor’s degree.
Contact us for our special scholarship before you apply.
Our scholarship office offers scholarships that you cannot obtain by applying directly to the school. All applicants who contact us before application are eligible for scholarships. For inquiries, please use the form below.