Preparing for your MBA
Start your MBA journey with confidence. Explore key information and guidance. Whether you’re exploring your next steps or preparing to join us, we’re here to help.
We understand that deciding to study an MBA is a big commitment. But it’s also an exciting opportunity to develop yourself.
Below you’ll find everything you need to:
- explore whether an MBA is the right next step
- consider an application to the Newcastle University MBA
- prepare to accept your offer
- plan your move to Newcastle before the programme begins
The sections below are designed to help you understand the programme and prepare for the next stage of your MBA journey.
Is an MBA right for me?
In exploring the Newcastle University MBA programme, you've already taken the first step in the next stage of your professional development.
Our MBA is an intensive and transformative experience. It is designed for professionals who want to:
- broaden their perspective
- strengthen their leadership capabilities
- engage with complex business challenges
Explore our MBA with our Consultations Week webinars
Every year we hold MBA Consultations Week – a week of events and sessions designed to help you learn more about the programme, meet the team and prepare for the MBA journey. The sessions provide useful insight into the MBA experience, careers opportunities and the themes shaping modern business.
Consultations Week 2026 included two live webinars. Recordings of these webinars are now available to view.
Scholarships for MBA study
We offer a range of MBA scholarships and funding opportunities to support talented applicants from around the world.
Our scholarships recognise candidates who demonstrate:
- strong leadership potential
- a commitment to responsible business, sustainability and positive impact
These awards recognise individuals who will contribute strongly to the MBA cohort and the wider Business School community.
Our MBA Scholarships page provides information on available scholarship opportunities. It also includes profiles of previous scholarship recipients. These profiles can give you a clearer idea of:
- the types of candidates who receive scholarships
- how the funding can support your studies
Relocating to Newcastle
Our MBA is a full time, 12-month programme taught on campus, so living in the region is essential. Many MBA students relocate to Newcastle to study with us, so planning your move can be an important part of preparing for the programme.
About the city
Newcastle offers a compact, well-connected city environment, making it easy to settle into life here. The Business School is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by public transport, walking or cycling.
Accommodation
There are a range of accommodation options available. They include university-managed residences and private accommodation. Options are available for individuals, couples and families.
All university accommodation is either on campus or close to the city centre. The Business School is within walking distance or a short journey away.
Visa guidance for international students
Every year we welcome a large of number professionals from both the UK and overseas. If you are joining us from outside the UK, you may need a student visa to study the Newcastle University MBA.
Newcastle University has a dedicated Visa Support Team. They can provide guidance throughout the process. This includes helping you to:
- understand the requirements
- prepare your application
- ensure that you have the correct documentation in place before travelling to the UK
We recommend reviewing this information as soon as you accept your offer so that you can begin preparing your application.
Preparing financially
Studying for an MBA is a significant financial commitment. Planning ahead can help ensure that you can focus on your studies.
Budgeting in advance helps ensure that you can concentrate on the academic and professional opportunities offered by the MBA.
As a minimum, we advise you consider the potential costs of:
- travel and/or relocating to Newcastle
- accommodation
- transport and commuting
- day-to-day living
Preparing academically
As our MBA programme is for professionals with significant professional experience, we understand that returning to academic study may seem daunting. We advise taking a little time to prepare for the transition back into an academic environment. This can help you feel more confident when the programme begins.
MBA study is fast-paced and collaborative. You will work regularly in teams, take part in discussion-based learning, and apply theory to real business situations. Assignments may include group projects, presentations and consultancy-style reports.
Before the programme starts, you may find it helpful to:
- spend some time getting back into the habit of reading and analysing business topics
- explore current global business trends, particularly in areas such as leadership, technology and sustainability
- reflect on your professional experience and career goals, and how these might inform class discussions
- think about how you can contribute your perspectives and learn from others in a diverse cohort
Aim to arrive ready to share ideas, engage in discussion and collaborate with peers. This will help you make the most of the MBA experience from the very start.
We will share further information on recommended preparation or reading materials before the programme begins.
Need support?
We have a dedicated MBA team who are here to support you no matter where you are in your application journey. They can help to make things as straightforward as possible.
You can contact the team directly for guidance if you need support with:
- programme queries
- general guidance and information
- application advice