Admission Requirements
Our program is designed for ambitious individuals who are ready to embark on an intensive learning journey. It requires excellent time management, a strong work ethic, communication skills and active engagement. We firmly believe in the value of hard work and dedication, qualities that are highly appreciated by employers. Our program provides an environment that fosters and supports your personal growth
The process of admissions and selection for our program is rigorous, as we carefully evaluate each student to ensure a high-quality cohort. We seek individuals who demonstrate exceptional potential and a genuine passion for business analytics. Rest assured, we are not looking to intimidate or be pretentious. Our aim is to bring together the best of the best, fostering a collaborative and inspiring community of like-minded individuals. This is all in order to prepare you to be exceptionally employable professionals in Business Analytics upon graduation.
Applicants should read Message from Academic Director - HKUST MSc in Business Analytics to ensure they have a proper overview of the vision and purposed design of the program.
Applicants to the HKUST MSBA are expected to have the following credentials:
1. A Relevant First Degree
Applicants seeking admission to MSBA program should have obtained a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, or an approved equivalent qualification.
2. English Proficiency
Applicants have to fulfill English Language requirements with ONE of the following proficiency attainments:
- With TOEFL score in minimum 80 (iBT); 550 (pBT) or 60 (Revised paper-delivered test);
- With IELTS (Academic Module) overall score in minimum 6.5 (and ALL sub-scores in 5.5 or above);
- First language is English;
- The bachelor's degree (or equivalent) was awarded from an institution where the medium of instruction was English.
Click HERE for more information.
3. GMAT/GRE
Applicants are highly recommended to take the GMAT/GRE test, but it's NOT a compulsory requirement.
4. Work Experience
For the full-time program, relevant work or business experience will add weight to the application under consideration. For the part-time program, two years of full-time relevant post-qualification work experience is preferred.
5. Programming Proficiency
Students are expected to have a basic proficiency in SQL and Python programming prior to entering the program. Our courses primarily build upon these foundational programming skills. While the program offers opportunities for further skill development, it is essential that students have a solid understanding of SQL and Python to actively engage in coursework and successfully complete assignments. Students will also have access to the usage of Auto/ML platforms such as (https://www.dataiku.com/ 
) while in the program.
How to prepare
Here you can find some links to materials that are useful for your preparation to our MSBA program.
Python
Introduction to Python
Data Manipulation with pandas
Python Data Fundamentals (To advance your self-study)
SQL
Introduction to SQL
SQL Fundamentals (To advance your self-study)
Applied math
Maths Essentials
Animated Math YouTube channel (To advance your self-study)