If you have specific questions about the SSE Nordic Defense MBA, the different modules, field trips, or the application process, you are welcome to contact our Program Advisor.
Application and admission
Interested in applying to the SSE Nordic Defense MBA? This page explains the application process for the SSE Nordic Defense MBA, including eligibility requirements, application steps, and important deadlines. The program starts on October 19, 2026.
The next program start is on October 19, 2026
If you plan to start the SSE Nordic Defense MBA in October 2026 and have been notified by our Program Advisor that you qualify, you may fill in and submit your application now.
Application timeline
Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis across four application rounds. Places in the program are filled continuously throughout the admissions period.
- Application deadline 1: May 7, 2026
- Application deadline 2: May 31, 2026
- Application deadline 3: August 10, 2026
- Application deadline 4: September 7, 2026
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the SSE Nordic Defense MBA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- At least five years of professional experience as a senior military officer or civilian employee, defense or security industry executive, or senior government official.
- A Bachelor degree or equivalent qualification.
- A high level of English proficiency.
- An open and collaborative mindset.
Applicants should also belong to one of the following categories:
Military: Senior officers, such as Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, and experienced Majors, as well as senior civilian personnel within the armed forces.
Defense and security industry: Senior executives and managers from Nordic defense or security companies.
Industry: Senior leaders working with security, resilience, and total defense in industry and infrastructure sectors.
Government and agencies: Senior personnel from Nordic ministries, government agencies, and related public-sector organizations working with defense and security.
To verify your eligibility, complete the CV review form, upload your CV, and submit your information for review.
Application process
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Complete the CV review form to determine whether you qualify to apply for the SSE Nordic Defense MBA. Applications are reviewed continuously, and you will be notified by email regarding your eligibility status.
Step 2: Start and submit your application
Applicants who qualify will receive access to the application portal.
To begin your application, click “Apply now” at the top of the page to access the portal.
The online application saves information automatically, allowing you to return and continue your application until you are ready to submit it.
The admissions board evaluates applicants based on professional experience, qualifications, essays, and assessment results.
After submission, reference requests with standardized questions are automatically sent to your selected referees. Two professional references are required.
One referee should be your direct manager or another representative from your organization. This confirms organizational awareness of, and support for, your application to the program.
Step 3: Assessments and interview
Applications are reviewed continuously throughout the admissions process. Candidates considered a strong fit for the program will be invited to an admissions interview.
Applicants will also receive links to an aptitude test and a short video assessment. Both assessments must be completed before the interview.
Step 4: Admission decision
Admission decisions are made by the admissions board.
Applicants who are admitted to the program will receive a written offer to review and sign electronically.