A Closer Look at GIBS, University of Pretoria

The Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) is the business school of the University of Pretoria. Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, it stands as one of Africa‘s most prestigious business schools. Since its establishment in 2000, GIBS has earned global recognition through its Triple Crown accreditation (AMBA, AACSB, and EQUIS). This accreditation places GIBS among only 149 business schools worldwide that hold all three signals of quality. 

It stands out for its focus on quality experiential learning and entrepreneurship. The GIBS Business School at the University of Pretoria blends uniquely African insights with a global perspective, creating a unique learning environment. Among the best business schools in South Africa, GIBS consistently ranks as a top choice for ambitious professionals.

What Is the GIBS MBA?

The school offers a unique MBA program, titled the GIBS MBA. The program is a comprehensive, internationally recognized qualification designed to shape strategic leaders.

The GIBS MBA offers several formats, including part-time, short-block, long-block, and intensive. Depending on the path chosen, the program takes 11 to 14 months to complete. The MBA program is largely based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Who Thrives in the GIBS MBA Program?

The GIBS MBA is ideal for those looking to advance their careers. The program fosters leadership skills, strategic decision-making, critical thinking, and problem-solving. MBA candidates learn through case studies, simulations, and real-world projects.

Mid-career professionals are ideal candidates for the GIBS MBA. The program caters to those ready to take on senior management roles or entrepreneurs seeking to scale their business ventures. 

Furthermore, the GIBS MBA offers extensive networking opportunities. MBA candidates connect with diverse peers, alumni, and industry professionals. With 8 focus streams and over 90 electives, the GIBS MBA offers a wide range of possibilities to personalize your learning.

Find Your Future Self at GIBS

Does this sound like something for you? GIBS has identified 10 distinct candidate types who thrive in their MBA program. You may be a combination of a few types, or one might jump out and say, “That sounds like me!” Let’s take a look at these candidate types below and see if you can find your archetype:

1. The Shapeshifter

You’re a dynamic blend of a high-flyer, an entrepreneur, and an intellectual who thrives on diverse challenges.

  • You enjoy varied roles and challenges
  • You have an ambitious mindset and like to test your limits
  • You want to develop multiple skill sets simultaneously
  • You seek leadership opportunities in teams

2. The Human Ripple

You create meaningful impact in your communities and organizations. People gravitate toward your leadership naturally.

  • You are a natural leader
  • You like to be at the heart of meaningful change
  • You seek communities with like-minded change-makers

3. The Pioneer

You’re ready to launch or scale your own venture. Ideas are your currency, and innovation drives you.

  • You want to tackle society’s issues and cause change, or start a for-profit business
  • A dreamer
  • A desire to create something uniquely yours
  • Always push boundaries and aren’t deterred by setbacks
  • An innovative thinker full of new ideas

4. The Career Adventurer

  • You are not one for stagnation and complacency
  • You enjoy challenges
  • Are highly motivated
  • Seek out adventure and change
  • Searching to redefine your professional identity

5. The Fixer

You’re an experienced professional eyeing the consulting space. You’re a natural problem solver who thrives under pressure.

  • You enjoy challenges and working under pressure
  • A desire to leverage your extensive experience
  • A problem solver
  • Keen to share your insights and mentor others

6. The Globetrotter

You’re ambitious about launching a global career. Travel and knowledge-gathering fuel your success and growth.

  • Motivated to gain international business perspectives
  • A desire to expand your global network
  • Learns from the world around you and experiences
  • Courageous & ambitious
  • You inspire others
  • Willingness to learn and try new things

7. The Lightchaser

You’re focused on personal and professional growth simultaneously. You seek meaning beyond paychecks and titles.

  • Achieve holistic development
  • Build self-awareness and emotional intelligence
  • Align personal values with professional goals
  • Are guided by your inner belief system

8. The Intellectual

You aspire to build an academic career. Knowledge pursuit drives you.

  • Desire to build a foundation for PhD studies
  • Enjoy being around like-minded people
  • The desire to pass on your knowledge
  • Want to master research methodologies and be challenged with academic rigor

9. The Highflyer

You’re climbing the corporate ladder with ambition and intelligence.

  • Ambitious, motivated, and intelligent
  • A desire to climb the corporate ladder and achieve senior leadership roles
  • A hope of building something bigger than yourself
  • Keen to work hard and build something lasting
  • The ability to inspire others to do their very best

10. The Fresh Canvas

You value individuality and freedom. You are carving your own unique path in the business world.

  • You love freedom and self-directed initiatives
  • You are intelligent and independent
  • Value individuality highly
  • Doesn’t usually fit the mold 
  • Create space to define your own success metrics
  • A desire to paint your own future on your own terms

Your All-in-One Guide: How to Apply to the GIBS MBA

If any of these archetypes resonate with you, you may be the right fit for the GIBS MBA. The next step is to apply. Follow these application steps to apply for the GIBS MBA and take the next step into your future.

Entry criteria

Ensure that you meet this entry criteria before applying.

  • Relevant Honours or postgraduate degree (NQF 8), completed within the last 5 years
  • A minimum of 5 years of work experience (a minimum of 2 years of management experience)
  • Leadership potential shown through experiences, references, and your application essay
  • Proficiency in English and MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and web browsing
  • NSC-level Mathematics (or equivalent), or first-year level Maths/Stats
  • The GMAT test may be required for those who do not hold a degree or a SAQA-accredited NQF qualification
  • International applicants with foreign qualifications require the SAQA Certificate of Evaluation (SCoE)
  • Applicants from non-English speaking countries must complete an English Proficiency Test

Your MBA Application Checklist

Next, be prepared to submit the correct documentation in your application. Prepare these documents for your application to the GIBS MBA:

  • Academic records/transcripts
  • Degree certificates
  • ID/passport
  • CV
  • Motivational Essay “Why should you be accepted into the MBA program?” (250 words)
  • SAQA certificate (If your qualification was obtained outside of South Africa)
  • English proficiency test (for international students only)
  • Proof of payment

Ensure that all copies are clearly readable.

Navigating the Application Process

Follow these steps to navigate through the GIBS MBA application process.

  1. Compile all supporting documents from the checklist above
  2. Submit your online application with all necessary documents and pay the application fee
  3. Forward the reference link to your referees. The application processing takes two to four weeks
  4. You’ll receive a GIBS entrance test invitation once your documents are verified.
  5. Complete the entrance test (for degree applicants) or submit GMAT results (for non-degree applicants)
  6. Await test results and verification of references (this takes approximately two weeks)
  7. The admissions team reviews your profile and provides feedback on your application

Find Your Archetype & Shape Your Future with GIBS

GIBS states, “At GIBS, we understand that everyone is different. That’s why we’ve created an MBA as unique as you are.” Whether you’re the shapeshifter who thrives on diverse challenges or the fresh canvas painting an entirely new future, the GIBS MBA provides everything you need to set you on your desired career path. You’ll gain the framework, network, and credentials to achieve your most ambitious career goals.

Your future self will thank you for empowering yourself with an MBA. Visit the GIBS MBA program page to explore the program in depth and to begin your application journey. Your transformation awaits at South Africa’s premier business school.

Want to study at GIBS – University of Pretoria? Take our eligibility quiz to see if you qualify!