The Programme starts in late August, and continues for 13.5 months.
What is the language of instruction?
All courses are in English, and everyone at the school speaks it.
How intensive is the programme?
Classes are held on 5 days of the week, from 8:30AM to 1:30 PM, and you are required individual study and team work which typically takes place in the afternoons and weekends.
How big are the teams?
Depending on the particular course or assignment, the teams are typically of 4 or 5 elements.
How big is the class?
Magellan is a small programme, with about 28 to 38 students. Be prepared for plenty of interaction and intensive study.
Can credits be transferred?
Only after the completion of the programme can the
students submit an application request to a range of MSc Programmes within the
University of Porto (Faculty of Economics) or the partner University of Aveiro
(DEGEI) in order to get partial or total equivalences to the curricular part of
that particular programme and subsequently deliver a Master thesis.
.
What kind of teaching methods can I expect?
You will have lectures, case discussions, team activities, presentations and assignments, class workshops, seminars and field visits. Expect a hands-on approach.
What are the evaluation criteria?
You will be evaluated through written exams, homework and team assignments, as well as participation in the class discussion.
Can I build a specialization within my MBA?
Yes and it is optional. During the elective period in the third term you will be able to choose electives from 4 specific functional areas and build a specialization in Marketing, Organizational Development, Finance & Accounting or Operations.
How are the elective courses chosen?
Students vote for the elective courses in their second term and the classes with the greatest number of students' votes are offered. They are also contingent on the availability of faculty.
Will there be many social and networking events?
Yes. There will be numerous Career Services, Personal Development programmes and networking events that usually will happen in the evenings.
Professionals with 3-15 years of experience who want to accelerate their careers, or change the area of their expertise.
Is work experience required?
At least 3 years of work experience are needed to fully benefit from the programme.
How old are the students?
Average age is 29, but the age range in recent class was 23-41.
How many women participate in the programme?
About 1/3 of the class are women and we encourage women to apply to the programme.
How high should be my GMAT score?
Average GMAT score in the applicants' pool is about 600. We do not have a minimum requirement, but encourage the applicants to get a score above 500.
Can anyone apply?
Anyone with 3 years of work history, undergraduate degree and knowledge of English certified by an English language test. All applicants need to take GMAT and submit their test result with their application to be considered for admissions.
If I have a degree in a field other than economics or business, would this be a problem?
MBA is open to all students who would like to learn the principles of management. A preparation in quantitative classes and economics would be advisable. The foundation term will ensure that you are on the same level as the other students.
Do I need to attend an interview?
Interview is a part of the recruiting process and all candidates interview with the Programme's Director. In special circumstances, EGP ambassadors abroad can conduct interviews with international candidates.
We encourage you to submit your application in early spring before the first deadline of March 31st. We will be accepting application through the end of June, but admission will depend upon the availability of seats and diversity of the class.
Does the Admissions committee consider some parts of the application more important than others?
No. We look at the full picture, and assess your academic performance, professional experience, and personal values. Your high GMAT score may compensate a low GPA, a strong interview may offset a lack of professional experience, and a strong essay package may remedy your academic gap.
I've taken the GMAT more than once. Which score will be considered?
We will consider your best score.
Is there any financial aid available to international students?
We offer academic scholarships based on merit. All applicants are considered for the Magellan scholarship, but priority is given to international applicants from developing countries. The Magellan scholarship is awarded on the strength of a candidate's entire application. We encourage early applications.
Foreign students should arrive no later than August 15-20 to get to know the city and find an apartment.
Does the school help with lodgings?
Yes, as the process may be difficult if you do not speak Portuguese. The University of Porto International Students' office has numerous contacts and will assist you as well.
How much money do I need to live in Porto?
Your Euro goes much further in Porto than in other major cities in Europe. You will need 400-550 Euro a month depending if you want to rent a room or a flat to yourself.
Can I get around easily without a car?
Yes, Porto has a great public transportation system. A subway station is 10 min. away from campus and you can get to the airport or the city center within 15 minutes.
Where is the school located?
The Magellan Program meets at the EGP-UPBS campus in Ramalde district of Porto. The closest subway station is Sete Bicas.
EGP-UPBS has over 7000 alumni worldwide, and over 500 of them graduated from the full time MBA programme in the last 22 years.
Do students have access to the alumni?
We organise several events during the year to connect the students with alumni, especially through the career development services. Alumni also participate in the mentoring programme offered to the students by the end of the programme.
