Apply now to join the Business Export Exchange Programme

You’ll be eligible for the MBA by satisfying the following academic, work experience and language requirements.

Use of the OUBS MBA curriculum for this programme is pending validation

Academic requirement

Confirmed upon application.

Your academic results as well as additional information will be required to determine if you are academically suited to enrol on this programme.

Work experience requirement

You’ll need to have gained a minimum of three years’ experience in a managerial, technical or professional role, so that you have a practical business base on which to build your MBA learning.

Language requirement

Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum score of 6.5 under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Please see their website for details.

Is this right for you?

The programme entry requirements for SME business leaders are:

  • Turnover of a minimum of £500K or equivalent depending on location
  • Supported by three-years business accounts
  • Running payroll for a minimum of three staff
  • Meet the MBA academic acceptance criteria.

If the answer to these questions is ‘yes’, the Business Export Exchange Programme could be for you.

Open University Business School logo

To be accepted onto the Business Export Exchange Programme

You’ll be required to show how you meet these requirements. You will be asked to submit your CV and proof of qualifications (where applicable), including English translations of non-UK degrees. Evaluation of the MBA and SME entry requirements evidence, will take place before confirmation of your acceptance will be provided.

Register your interest

Excited to start your local to global journey with us?

We’ve made it easy, just fill in your details below, so we can tell you more about how we can help you to become export ready.

Does your company turnover a minimum of 500k in revenue?

Can you provide 3 years of business accounts to support this turnover?

Does your business employ at least 3 full-time staff?

If you wish to upload your CV No Files ChosenAccepted file types: mka, 7z. Max. file size: 2 MB

How long does it take?

Open University Business School logo

Most students study the MBA part time, completing 60 credits a year over three years. Typically, this means 12 – 14 study hours each week.

You can however study certain modules concurrently depending on your study intensity and complete it within 18 months. This will require you to be able to devote 24 – 28 hours each week to your studies.

You must complete the MBA within seven years.

Flexible learning

Some answers to your questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about the Business Export Exchange Programme

What support will I receive?

We’re committed to making study accessible to all, whether you have a disability, health condition, mental health difficulty, or a specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia). When you sign up for a qualification or module, we’ll ask you to let us know about any additional circumstances that may impact on your studies. For each MBA module, you’ll be assigned a tutor. They’ll help you with your studies, mark your assignments and give you an extra helping hand when you need it. Most of your contact with them will be through email, phone and the module forums. The support we can offer you will depend on the modules you choose to take, but our services include:

  • Accessible study materials
  • Specialist equipment
  • Tailored assessment
  • Residential studies support
  • Additional support accessing tutorials and activities.
How much does the 3-year programme cost?

Fee | Year 1: £12,750 | Year 2: £9,250 | Year 3: £9,750

In partnership with The Open University, we have developed a world-class programme which includes a globally recognised postgraduate qualification. As an established SME business entrepreneur who is committed to international expansion this is an investment you can afford.

Is the programme available in my country?

While our main campus is in Milton Keynes in the UK, you can participate on the programme with us from anywhere in the world. As long as you’ve got access to an internet connection. Some MBA modules have in-person residentials that you’ll need to be present for, but otherwise you can do your everyday studies from home, your office, or the beach if you like.

When do I find out about key activity dates and module timelines?

About two weeks before your core activities or module is due to start, you’ll have access to your event invitation or module website. On the website, you’ll have a week-by-week study plan and assignment deadlines, so you can start to plan your studies. If your MBA module includes a residential school or exam, you may have to wait a little longer to find out these dates. But, don’t worry, we’ll let you know in plenty of time