Frequently Asked Questions

As a prospective SIM student you may have some questions about the SIM programme. This page gives answer to general questions. For information about specific topics please see the links above.

How do SIM students differ from the typical MBA student?
The SIM Master's is typically chosen by applicants who have completed a Bachelor's degree in business administration, economics or a similar field within the last three years. Previous work experience is not a necessary admission requirement. On average students are 25 years of age when they begin the SIM program. The typical SIM student will enjoy a top-tier general management education in an international setting. In contrast, an MBA programme welcomes participants from a very diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds. MBA students ought to have approximately 5 years of work experience and the average student is 30 years old. MBA programmes generally cost substantially more than the SIM program, as the latter is subsidized by the Swiss cantonal and federal governments.

Which semester do you recommend for an exchange semester?
The SIM programme encourages all of its students to benefit from studying abroad for a semester. We recommend the third semester for an exchange as all compulsory courses ought to have been completed by then. However, an exchange is also possible during the second semester.

How do I apply for the SIM-Nanyang double degree program (DDP)?
General information about the application requirements and process can be found here. SIM Students have the opportunity to attend a comprehensive information session during their first semester in St.Gallen. It is not possible to apply for this DDP prior to the first semester of the SIM programme.

Does the SIM program allow students to work simultaneously?
The SIM programme is designed as a full-time programme, with a demanding workload during the first two semesters, which not only includes lectures but also multiple group projects. However, students are able to individually choose when they want to fulfil their electives and contextual studies course requirements. It is therefore possible for you to spread the academic workload over more than three semesters and subsequently to work part time.

I have been assigned supplementary coursework at the Bachelor's Level. Why?
Supplementary work ensures that the subject-specific requirements for studying the SIM program are satisfied by students who received their Bachelor's degree from another institution.