A Realistic Look at the $690 Online MBA Program
With online MBA programs multiplying fast, distinguishing a credible option from a diploma mill is harder than ever. Singapore Business School (SBS) is one of those programs that gets mentioned a lot, both in praise and in skepticism.
So, what exactly is it? And is it legit?
What Is SBS?
Singapore Business School offers a fully remote MBA program aimed at professionals and entrepreneurs who want flexible, low-cost business education.
- Cost: $690 with scholarship / $2,990 without
- Includes: 6 core modules, optional electives, final business project, MBA degree (PDF + optional hard copy)
- Delivery: Self-paced, LMS with video/text materials
- Duration: 4 to 24 months
- Language: English
- Website: www.sbs-online.world
Legitimacy: what we found
SBS has been discussed on forums like Reddit, often with skepticism. Most of the negative claims stem from two points:
- The program is “too cheap” to be real.
- Lack of major academic accreditations.
However, we reviewed dozens of student testimonials (public and submitted directly) and couldn’t verify a single case where a student claimed to pay for the course and not receive what was promised.
In fact, several graduates confirmed:
- They used PayPal to pay (buyer protection included).
- They completed coursework, submitted a project, and received a diploma.
- Projects using AI tools were rejected, which suggests some academic standards are enforced.
We also reached out in open discussions to critics who labeled the program a scam, asking them to confirm whether they had actually enrolled or paid. None responded with proof of payment or course access.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One of the most affordable MBA-style programs available | Not accredited by top-tier academic institutions |
| Instant access after payment | No live classes or peer interaction |
| Degree certificate with transcript of records (digital + optional hard copy) | Simple platform, no advanced features |
| Can be used on LinkedIn/CV | Final project requires actual independent work |
| Clear pricing, no hidden fees or upsells | No official academic ranking |
| Accepts PayPal for secure transactions |
The Final Project
Graduation requires submission of a business project. AI-generated work is explicitly rejected, and students who submitted such content report being asked to revise it manually.
Once the project is approved, students receive:
- A digital degree certificate with academic transcript in PDF
- Optional printed version by mail
- Letter of recommendation + certified true copy (upon request)
Final Verdict
SBS is not a traditional university-backed MBA, and it’s not trying to be. It offers a structured, low-cost alternative for those who need a business qualification without long-term commitment or high tuition fees.
For independent learners who don’t expect networking or elite accreditation, but want something tangible to show for their efforts, it delivers on what it promises.
Common Questions about Singapore Business School
Here are some of the most common questions about Singapore Business School, based on what we reviewed:
Q: Is Singapore Business School (SBS) legit?
A: Based on our review and multiple student reports, yes. People who paid via PayPal received access to the course, completed the materials, submitted the final project, and received completion documents. No confirmed reports of fraud or non-delivery were found.
Q: How much does the SBS program cost?
A: $690 if you apply with a scholarship. Without one, the listed price is $2,990.
Q: What’s included in the SBS online program?
A: 6 structured modules, optional electives, a final business project, and supporting documents after completion. The course is entirely self-paced.
Q: How long does it take to finish?
A: Anywhere from 4 to 24 months, depending on how fast the student progresses.
Q: Is this an accredited program?
A: On their website, they list affiliations with organizations such as IABS, BESA, AABE, ABECB, and ESMBA. We looked into them, the process wasn’t as straightforward or fast as it would be with top-tier academic bodies, but we did receive confirmation that these organizations exist and are active.
Q: What happens at the end of the course?
A: Students submit a final business project. If the project is approved, SBS sends digital documents confirming course completion, a transcript, and upon request, a printed copy or letter of recommendation.
Q: Do they allow AI tools for assignments?
A: No. Students who submitted AI-generated work reported that their projects were rejected and they were asked to resubmit with original content.
Q: Is there any live teaching or interaction?
A: No. The platform is fully asynchronous. There are no Zoom sessions, group work, or live support, aside from email-based assistance.
