Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 4 November 2026
Alba English scores
From Alba's admission requirements page. The MBA and MSc entries use the same English requirement. The page asks for an "excellent command of English language".
| Programme | IELTS | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| MBA (The Alba MBA, The Alba MBA with Shipping) | 6.5 | TOEFL 100; Duolingo 125; Cambridge, Michigan or MSU Proficiency |
| MSc in Management, Strategic HRM, Finance, Marketing, Shipping Management | 6.5 | TOEFL 100; Duolingo 125; Cambridge, Michigan or MSU Proficiency |
| Executive MBA | Not stated on this page | Page asks for proof of English and links a separate PDF |
Exemptions and other requirements
Native English speakers, and graduates of undergraduate or graduate degrees taught exclusively in English, do not need to submit English certificates. This is useful for applicants with an English-medium bachelor's from India, Pakistan, Nigeria or Bangladesh, but confirm with Alba what evidence it wants for the medium of instruction.
MBA applicants need a bachelor's degree and at least 3 years of work experience. MSc applicants need a bachelor's degree. GMAT (minimum 515) or GRE (minimum 155) strengthens an application but the page does not state it as mandatory. Every applicant sends transcripts, two recommendation letters, three essays, a recent photo and English proof.
Free test: are you at Alba Graduate Business School's score yet?
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Fees, dates and how to check
The application fee is a non-refundable EUR 60. Applications are accepted year-round, and those received after a programme starts are considered for the next intake. The page lists no fixed deadlines.
Alba does not state a PTE Academic score on this page, so do not assume one is accepted.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Alba programme page and in your offer, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Alba Graduate Business School publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score does Alba Graduate Business School need?+
IELTS 6.5 for the MBA and MSc programmes, with no band minimums on the page.
Does Alba accept Duolingo?+
Yes. The page lists Duolingo at 125, alongside TOEFL 100 and IELTS 6.5.
Can I skip the English test at Alba?+
Native English speakers and graduates of degrees taught exclusively in English do not need to submit English certificates.
Is GMAT compulsory at Alba?+
The page says a GMAT (minimum 515) or GRE (minimum 155) strengthens an application but does not state it as mandatory.
How much is the Alba application fee?+
EUR 60, non-refundable.
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Guide updated on 4 November 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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