MBA in Canada
MBA in Canada offers students a unique blend of academic rigor and practical experience. With over 40 universities and colleges offering MBA programs, Canada is one of the most affordable options for international MBA hopefuls. It's no wonder that Canada remains one of the top three countries for international MBA hopefuls, boasting six of the top 100 business schools in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2018. And with attractive post-graduation work permit programs offered by the Canadian government, staying and working in Canada after graduation has never been easier. So, if you're looking to advance your career and expand your horizons, consider an MBA in Canada - the benefits are undeniable!
On this page, we’re covering:
- Why Pursue MBA in Canada?
- Types of Management Programs in Canada
- MBA Specializations in Canada
- How to Choose the Right MBA Specialization?
- Best Business Schools in Canada
- Application Timeline for MBA in Canada
- MBA Requirements in Canada
- Scholarships for MBA in Canada
- In-Demand Job Opportunities for MBA Graduates in Canada
- Work Permit Post MBA in Canada
- Return on Investment (ROI) after MBA in Canada
- FAQ’s
Why Pursue MBA in Canada?
Affordable education
Strong Economy
Post-graduation work opportunities
Cutting-edge curriculum
Diverse Student Body
Global Reputation
Canada is emerging as a preferred study destination for international students due to its affordable education system and globally recognized degree programs. According to a report on cicnews.com, the number of study permit holders in Canada increased from 100,000 in 2000 to 700,000 in 2019. The friendly visa policies make it an attractive option among international students. Further, the cost of studying in Canada is lower than that of other popular study destinations like the USA, Australia, and the UK. Canada's welcoming and inclusive society fosters multiculturalism and diversity, providing an ideal environment for developing global business skills and cultural sensitivity.
Types of Management Programs in Canada
Canadian universities and business schools offer a wide range of MBA programs, catering to diverse student needs and career aspirations. The most common types of MBA programs in Canada are:
PGDM: PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management) is a one-to-two-year, full-time management program in Canada, with an estimated fee range of CAD 15,000 - CAD 17,000. These are often shorter and less expensive than traditional MBA programs, making them a good option for students who want to gain management skills without committing to a longer program.
MBA: MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs in Canada are two-year, full-time management programs with an estimated fee range of CAD 30,000 - CAD 129,190. The MBA programs provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business and management concepts. One can choose from specialization options such as finance, marketing, operations, and more.
MIM: MIM (Master in Management) programs are a one-to-two-year, full-time management program with an estimated fee range of CAD 10,000 - CAD 55,000. If you are looking for a broader understanding of management and want a globally recognized degree with no to minimal work experience, MIM may be the right choice for you.
Deferred MBA: Deferred MBA is a program that allows students to secure a spot in a business school's MBA program and defer admission for two to five years to gain work experience. The fee range for deferred MBA programs varies depending on the school and the length of deferral.
MBA Specializations in Canada
Canadian universities and business schools offer a range of MBA specializations, allowing students to focus on their area of interest and expertise. Some of the popular MBA specializations in Canada are:
- MBA in General Management
- MBA in Finance
- MBA in Marketing
- MBA in Supply Chain Management
- MBA in Entrepreneurship
- MBA in Human Resource Management
- MBA in Economics
- MBA in International Business
How to Choose the Right MBA Specialization?
Choosing the right MBA specialization in Canada requires careful consideration of career goals, interests, and skills. To help you make an informed decision, here are some MBA specializations offered by top universities and colleges in Canada:
- The University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management offers an MBA in finance, marketing, accounting,
economic analysis and policy, operations management and statistics, organizational behaviour/human
resource management, strategic management, and integrative thinking.
Check out MBA specializations at the Rotman School of Management:
- The Schulich School of Business at York University offers MBA specializations in accounting, business
consulting, sustainability, entrepreneurial studies, health industry management, media and entertainment,
and 12 other areas.
Check out MBA specializations at the Schulich School of Business:
- The Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University offers MBA specializations in finance, business
analytics, global strategy & leadership, entrepreneurship, and marketing.
Check out MBA specializations at the Desautels Faculty of Management:
- The Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia offers MBA specializations in
finance, product and service management, technology and analytics leadership, and innovation and
entrepreneurship.
Check out MBA specializations at the Sauder School of Business:
- University Canada West offers MBA specializations in business analytics, consulting, entrepreneurship, leadership, human resources management, finance, marketing, digital marketing, and project management.
- Royal Roads University offers MBA in Executive Management and Master of Global Management. Both the programs are also popular among Indian students.
Best Business Schools in Canada
Canada has many top-ranked business schools that offer high-quality MBA programs. Some of the best business schools in Canada are:
|
University Name |
B-School Name |
Tuition Fees in CAD* |
|
University of Toronto |
Rotman School of Management |
$138,441 |
|
Queen’s Universities |
Smith School of Business |
$105,100 |
|
Western University |
Ivey Business School |
$123,500 |
|
McGill University |
Desautels Faculty of Management |
$99,500 |
|
York University |
Schulich School of Business |
$112, 250 |
|
University of British Columbia |
Sauder School of Business |
$94,559 |
|
Royal Roads University |
School of Business |
$54,219 |
|
University of Alberta |
Alberta School of Business |
$60,000 |
|
Concordia University |
John Molson School of Business |
$47,900 |
|
Dalhousie University |
Rowe School of Business |
$91,320 |
|
McMaster University |
DeGroote School of Business |
$96,000 $101,000 with Co-op |
|
Brock University |
Goodman School of Business |
$70,317 |
|
University of Ottawa |
Telfer School of Management |
$64,000 |
|
Simon Fraser University |
Beedie School of Business |
$60,380 |
|
Saint Mary's University |
Sobey School of Business |
$44,800 |
|
University of Victoria |
Peter B. Gustavson School of Business |
$40,118 |
|
University of Calgary |
Haskayne School of Business |
$29,087 |
|
University of Saskatchewan |
Edwards School of Business |
$60,612 |
*The figures mentioned above serve only as general indicators and can change.
Application Timeline for MBA in Canada
The application timelines for MBA programs in Canada may vary depending on the university and the program. It is recommended that individuals who are considering pursuing an MBA in Canada start preparing for the admissions process at least two years prior to the intended year of enrollment. The main intake seasons are fall, winter, and summer. The primary intake season in Canada is during the fall, which begins in September. This period marks the start of Round 1 for international applicants to the top business schools in Canada.
The table below provides an overview of the tasks that should be completed during each period, as well as the approximate time frame for each task. By following this timeline, you can ensure that you stay on track and complete all necessary tasks on time, increasing their chances of being admitted to your desired MBA program in Canada:
|
Timeline Period |
Tasks to be Completed |
|---|---|
|
Sep - Dec |
Note down admission requirements and evaluate your weak points |
|
Jan - Apr |
Register and start preparing for standardized tests such as GMAT/GRE/IELTS/PTE/TOEFL |
|
Apr - May |
Take the exams |
|
May - Aug |
Draft your resume, Statement of Purpose, essays, LOR’s. Ensure that you have all the documents required for application in place. |
|
Sep - Oct |
Apply for Round 1 |
|
Oct - Nov |
Upon receiving a positive response, prepare yourself for interviews |
|
Dec - Jan |
If you don’t receive admission from your desired college, reflect on previous weaknesses in your application and take corrective measures, such as rewriting essays or improving test scores, to improve your chances of acceptance. After that, apply for Round 2. |
|
Feb |
Upon receiving a positive response in Round 2, prepare yourself for interviews |
|
Mar |
If you have received offers from multiple business schools, you will have to choose your best-fit one and confirm your enrollment by submitting the required deposit and applying for a Canadian student visa. Additionally, it's recommended that you research available scholarship opportunities too. |
|
Mar - Apr |
During this time, your Visa interview is likely to be scheduled |
|
Jun - Aug |
If you receive your visa, start preparing for your travel to Canada |
MBA Requirements in Canada
The admission requirements for MBA programs in Canada may vary depending on the university and the program. However, the general admission requirements are:
- A bachelor's degree from a recognized university
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0
- A minimum GMAT or GRE score
- English language proficiency test score (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
- Work experience (for some programs)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Statements of Purpose or Admission Essays
Scholarships for MBA in Canada
Canadian universities and business schools offer various scholarships and financial aid programs to international students pursuing an MBA degree. Some options you may explore are:
- Rotman School of Management Scholarships: Rotman Scholarships are intended to assist students with their tuition fees and living expenses while studying here. The popular scholarships offered by the school include Fortà Foundation Scholarships valued at CAD 40,000; MGA/MBA Awards valued at CAD30,000; and the Rotman Entrance Awards and Fellowships, wherein a total of five Women in Business Excellence Awards worth CAD10,000, and Two Morning MBA Excellence Awards of CAD20,000 are offered.
- Ivey MBA Scholarships: Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario provides an extensive merit-based scholarship program for MBA applicants. The scholarships are highly sought after and provide substantial financial aid for MBA students in Canada, ranging from CAD 10,000 to half the tuition fees. Applying for these scholarships can be done twice a year, with application deadlines in November and January.
- Alberta MBA Scholarships: The Alberta School of Business offers international scholarships worth CAD10,000 to deserving MBA students. These scholarships are available for the entire MBA program and are awarded based on outstanding academic accomplishments and a valid GMAT score.
- Accelerated Career Scholarship: The University of British Columbia offers the Accelerated Career Scholarship to recognize exceptional candidates who exhibit exceptional leadership potential and career aptitude. The scholarship is valued between CAD 5,000 and 10,000, and eligible candidates are chosen based on a variety of criteria, including GPA scores, GMAT/GRE, TOEFL/IELTS scores, and other factors. If accepted into the university’s Sauder School of Business, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship.
- Global Business Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship: The Sauder School of Business offers the Global Business Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship, which provides financial support of up to CAD 10,000-15,000 for eligible MBA applicants. To qualify for the scholarship, candidates must meet certain criteria, including minimum GPA and standardized test scores such as GRE/GMAT and TOEFL/IELTS. If accepted into the Sauder School of Business, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship.
- Schulich School of Business Scholarships: The Schulich School of Business provides Indian students pursuing their MBA from here with various scholarships to finance their education. These scholarships can be categorized as either entrance scholarships or continuing student awards. Entrance scholarships are based on merit and academic performance and include the Seymour Schulich MBA Entrance Scholarship valued at CAD 24,200; the Tanna H. Schulich MBA Entrance Scholarship worth CAD 24,200; the Robert Krembil Scholarship of Merit with a value of CAD 33,000; and the CAD 20,000 Scotiabank Scholarships in International Business.
In-Demand Job Opportunities for MBA Graduates in Canada
MBA graduates in Canada can find a range of job opportunities across various industries, including finance, marketing, consulting, technology, and healthcare. Some of the popular jobs for MBA graduates in Canada are:
|
Jobs |
Average Salary per Year* |
|---|---|
|
Investment Banker |
CAD 59,000-CAD 114,000 |
|
Marketing Manager |
CAD 46,000-CAD 91,000 |
|
Management Consultant |
CAD 59,000-CAD 119,000 |
|
Financial Analyst |
CAD 46,000-CAD 80,000 |
|
Operations Manager |
CAD 48,000-CAD 109,000 |
|
Human Resource Manager |
CAD 52,000-CAD 98,000 |
|
Project Manager (IT) |
CAD 59,000-CAD 115,000 |
|
Human Resources Manager |
CAD 52,000-CAD 98,000 |
|
Business Development Manager |
CAD 49,000-CAD 107,000 |
|
Senior Business Analyst |
CAD 64,000-CAD 108,000 |
Source: https://www.payscale.com/
*The figures mentioned above serve only as general indicators and can change.
Work Permit Post MBA in Canada
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed a program of study from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to stay and work in the country after graduation. To be eligible for a PGWP, one must have completed a course of at least 8 months long. The length of the PGWP depends on the length of the program. A student who completed an academic program that is 8 months or longer, but less than 2 years long is eligible for a PGWP that is valid for the same length as their program. If the program of study is 2 years or longer, one is eligible for a PGWP that is valid for 3 years.
Additionally, the Canadian government offers various immigration programs, such as the Express Entry program, that allow skilled workers, including MBA graduates, to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
Return on Investment (ROI) after MBA in Canada
According to Talent.com, MBA graduates in Canada typically earn CAD 55,189 when they just start working and around CAD 117,000 in more senior positions. On average, they make CAD 74,751 per year. The job opportunities and salaries may vary depending on the MBA specialization, the reputation of the business school, and the industry trends.
Let’s learn the potential salary and return on investment you could achieve by studying at a top university in Canada.
|
University Name |
Average Salary in CAD* |
|---|---|
|
University of Toronto |
$83,000 |
|
Queen’s University |
$77,000 |
|
McGill University |
$97,000 |
|
York University |
$107,000 |
|
University of British Columbia |
$83,000 |
|
Royal Roads University |
$41,000 |
|
Concordia University |
$75,000 |
|
Dalhousie University |
$58,000 |
|
McMaster University |
$101,000 |
|
Brock University |
$30,000 |
|
University of Ottawa |
$105,000 |
|
Simon Fraser University |
$65,000 |
|
University of Victoria |
$104,000 |
|
University of Calgary |
$47,000 |
Source: https://www.emolument.com
*The figures mentioned above serve only as general indicators and can change.
Overall, the ROI of an MBA program in CAD can be calculated by taking into account the total cost of the program, the cost of living during the program, and the expected salary upon graduation. Assuming a median tuition fee of CAD 84,220 and a cost of living of CAD 900 per year, the total cost of the program would be CAD 86,020. Assuming average salary upon graduation is CAD 73,500, the total salary earned would be CAD 220,500 in a three-year time frame. Using these figures, the ROI of the MBA program would be 155.1% in three years of your graduation. This indicates that the investment in the program is beneficial over the long run. Please keep in mind that some circumstances such as job market demand, networking, and personal effort in obtaining a job can impact the ROI.
FAQ’s
The average cost of an MBA program in Canada is around CAD 30,000 to CAD 50,000 per year.
Yes, Canadian business schools offer internships and co-op programs that provide practical work experience to students.
The duration of an MBA program in Canada is generally 1 to 2 years.
The work experience requirements for MBA programs in Canada can vary depending on the school and program. Generally, most MBA programs in Canada require applicants to have at least two to three years of work experience. However, some programs may require more or less work experience depending on their specific admissions criteria.
No, work experience is not mandatory for admission to all MBA programs in Canada. However, some programs may require work experience as a prerequisite.
To apply for an MBA program in Canada, follow these steps:
- Research MBA programs in Canada to find the best fit for your career aspirations.
- Review the admission requirements for each program, including work experience, academic qualifications, and standardized test scores.
- Submit your application, along with supporting documents such as transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation, and essays.
- Wait for the admission decision from the school.
Most MBA programs in Canada require applicants to submit a GMAT or GRE score as part of their application. However, some programs may waive this requirement. It's best to check the admission requirements of each program to confirm whether the GMAT is required.
The cost of getting an MBA degree in Canada depends on the school, program, and location. Typically, it can cost between CAD $30,000 and CAD $60,000 for tuition fees. Students should also keep in mind additional expenses such as books, housing, transportation, and personal costs. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid may be available to help reduce the cost.




























































