Frequently Asked Questions

What are SIM students like?

As a SIM student (SIMmie), you want to develop your strategic, creative and global mindset, and you are both able and willing to embrace all kinds of diversity and think not only outside, but beyond the box. You are highly-skilled, mature and self-aware. Your unique combination of meaningful life experiences, strong values, outstanding talent and high ambitions puts you right on track to becoming a responsible global leader with the will and potential to bring positive change to society as a whole.

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 24 years of age when they begin the SIM programme. 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 programme, as the latter is subsidised by the Swiss cantonal and federal governments.

When can students start the SIM programme?

You can only start the SIM programme in the autumn semester, usually on calendar week 38. Prior to the start of your studies, you will be required to attend the SIM-Start Professional introductory sessions, which usually happen on calendar week 36.

In what language is the programme taught?

The SIM programme is completely taught in English.

Is it possible to study part-time or via distance learning?

The SIM programme is designed as a full-time programme with a challenging workload during the first two semesters. Students have to attend classes in person, on campus.

Which courses are mandatory? What are the elective courses?

You find all the courses following this link.

What is the SIMagination Challenge?

The SIMagination Challenge is a course and curricular pillar of the SIM. Students are required to plan, execute and reflect upon a challenging project which aims at leaving a positive and sustainable social impact in our society. The course format allows for meaningful experiences and insights regarding the realization of international projects; it supports participants to sharpen their strategic thinking and team competencies as well as learn about how to apply global leadership ethics and improve effectiveness (www.simaginationchallenge.com)

What is the SIM International Project?

A SIM International Project is a mandatory international internship. This requirement allows the students to equip themselves with necessary skills and experience to manage complex problems in international settings prior to graduation. The SIM students independently plan, initiate and successfully conduct the internship. Upon completion, the student needs to reflect upon the project on the basis of completed SIM course-work.

Where can students do the SIM-MBA double degree?

The SIM programme offers two exclusive double degree programmes together with INCAE Business School – MBA (Costa Rica/Guatemala) and Nanyang Business School – MBA (Singapore).

How do students apply for the SIM-MBA double degree programme (DDP)?

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.

What other double degree programmes are available?

Other international double degree programmes include the CEMS MIM, double degrees from the partner institutions ESADE Barcelona, HEC Paris, RSM Erasmus University Rotterdam and FGV-EAESP (Fundação Getulio Vargas, Escola de Administração de Empresas de São Paulo). 

Is a normal international exchange semester possible?

Yes, the University of St. Gallen has an extensive partner network with over 190 universities worldwide.

During which semester can a student go for an exchange semester?

The SIM programme encourages all of its students to benefit from studying abroad for a semester. The third semester is an option for an exchange as all compulsory courses ought to have been completed by then.

Does the SIM programme 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 fulfill 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.

Why do I have to do a video interview?

The SIM video interview is as a mean to strengthen our selection process and offer you a chance to complement the traditional application documents with a window to display your qualities, values, personality and overall potential. We have selected and recorded a series of insightful questions and information videos that also provide you with a good glimpse of our programme’s culture, values and high standards of performance, as well as a good understanding on what we are looking for in the future members of our dynamic global community.

When is the best time to apply?

It is recommended to apply well before the end of each application round in order to avoid application peaks and increase the chances of obtaining feedback within the corresponding decision round.

For further questions regarding admission please see the Admission to the Master's programme in Strategy and International Management (SIM) page.

What happens if students are accepted or waitlisted?

In this case, students are invited to an exclusive consultation (via phone, Skype, or in person) with a member of the SIM Management Unit. We will then discuss together about the next steps, scholarships and loan opportunities available, and assist the students with any questions they may have.

How can I finance my studies and how high are the tuition fees?

The tuition fee is 3’326.- CHF per semester for foreign students(not including text books and other teaching material).
Scholarships are available and the university and its institutes are regularly looking for students to do project work. International students are allowed to work 15 hours per week. Students from outside the EU/EFTA area need a work permit in order to work in Switzerland.