Eligibility for MBA in Canada for Indian Students

According to the QS World University Rankings of 2018, seven of the world’s top 150 universities are based in Canada. The high standard of living, safety, quality education, multicultural exposure, and friendly post-graduation work permits make Canada a favorite among international students. The scope and opportunities for an MBA graduate are immense here as the top multinationals are eager to hire fresh international graduates with good management and leadership skills. Now that the stage has been set and we already know why studying MBA in Canada is a great option, let us understand what the eligibility for MBA in Canada is.

 Admission to any of the top B-schools can be a daunting task if the requirements for MBA in Canada are not known.  It needs a lot of planning from the student’s side to ascertain how to prepare for the eligibility tests and how to meet the various general eligibility criteria as set by different Canadian universities.

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Why Study MBA in Canada? 

Canada is one of the top study destinations for international students. Pursuing an MBA degree from the country can open various career pathways for students, allowing them to explore high-paying job roles. Some of the top reasons for studying MBA in Canada are 

Prominent Universities: 

Most of the top universities for MBA in Canada get featured in notable global rankings such as QS Research, Academic Rankings of World Universities, and Times Higher Education. 

The top Canadian business schools for MBA in Canada are- 

1. Harvard Business School
2. Stanford Graduate School of Business 
3. University of Toronto: Rotman 
4. University of British Columbia: Sauder
5. McGill University : Desautels 
6. Western University: Ivey

Read More: Study in Canada Without IELTS

Cost of Living

If you aspire to pursue an MBA in Canada, you would be glad to know that Canada offers a pool of affordable options for university fees. The tuition for MBA in Canada ranges from INR 23 lakh to INR 70 lakh. Not just this, the cost of living is affordable when the returns you get in the future are assessed.

Quality Education

One of the important reasons for pursuing an MBA in Canada is its quality of Education. Being home to top business schools like Rotman school of management ( QS Global MBA Rankings 42) offers a unique learning experience to students through their updated curriculum. Apart from the curriculum, Canada’s wide range of scholarships to international students makes it a preferred choice. 

Value for your Money

Studying for an MBA in Canada allows you to widen your career prospects. The top business schools in the country make your Education worthwhile by focusing on both practical and theoretical learning. The investment to return ratio is relatively high when compared to other countries. One can earn around CAD 1,33,000 (INR 78,19,781) or higher than this per year after completing MBA in Canada. 

Know More: Study in Canada

MBA Colleges in Canada

Compared to the US and UK, with all the facilities available at a very cost-effective expense, Canada is considered to be a good option for pursuing MBA. Given below are the top colleges of Canada where one can pursue both full-time and part-time courses-

University	MBA Courses	Requirements
University of Western Ontario (Ivey Business School)	MBA (Ivey)   Executive MBA Accelerated MBA PhD. MBA	GMAT score range: 520-760
York University (Schulich School of Business)	MBA, iMBA (York)   Executive MBA MBA/JD (MBA/Juris Doctor) Post-MBA Diplomas	GMAT score range: 550 – 800   Average GPA: 3.3/4.0
University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management)	MBA (U of T)   Skoll BASc/MBA JD/MBA Master of Global Affairs (MGA)/ MBA Part-time MBA Omnium Global Executive MBA	GMAT score range: 550 – 780
McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management)	MBA (McGill)   Professional Part-time MBA Program Law MBA Program MD MBA Program McGill-HEC Montreal Executive MBA McGill-HEC Montreal Executive MBA	GMAT score range: 670   Overall GPA: 3.3/4.0
University of British Columbia   (Sauder School of Business)	MBA (UBC)   Part-time MBA International MBA EMBA in Health Care Joint MBA/JD Joint MBA/MAPPS	Average GMAT score: 650   Average GPA: 3.3/4.0 or 76%
Queen’s University (Queen’s School of Business)	MBA (Queen’s)   Executive MBA Cornell-Queen’s Executive MBA Accelerated MBA for Business Graduates	Average GMAT score: 651
HEC Montreal	MBA (HEC)   EMBA	Average GMAT: 630   Average Tage-Mage scores: 345
University of Alberta (Alberta School of Business)	MBA (UofA)   Part-Time Evening MBA Executive MBA Fast Track MBA for Business Graduates Ft. McMurray MBA	Average GMAT score: 630   Average GPA: 3.4/4.0
Simon Fraser University   (Beedie School of Business)	Full-Time MBA (SFU)   Part-Time MBA Executive MBA (EMBA) EMBA in Aboriginal Business and Leadership Management of Technology MBA	Average GMAT score: 630   Average GPA: 3.4/4.0

General Eligibility Criteria

An MBA is a big investment, both in terms of finances and time, for a bright future. Start your journey right with a curated guide to meet the eligibility for an MBA in Canada for Indian students and other international aspirants. Every university or college has one thing in common with regard to the admission process, and that is the general eligibility criteria for seeking admission to an MBA degree in Canada. Here are the general eligibility requirements for MBA in Canada:

1. International students need to have a full-time bachelor’s degree or equivalent, from a recognized university or college. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the stream.

2. An MBA is a professional program that imparts experiential and practical learning to students. Therefore, international students with work experience are preferred. It gives them an extra edge and sets them apart from students without any work or industrial exposure. It is a known fact that students with prior work experience are preferred. The work experience should be relevant to the specialization of the MBA degree.

3. A good GMAT score is an important criterion that international students need to fulfill. It is an eligibility criterion set by the top-ranked Canadian universities.

4. To get admission to any reputed B-school or university, students need to appear for English proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. A good score will help students get admission to reputed and leading business schools.

How to Apply for an MBA in Canada? 

To apply for an MBA program in Canada, you can simply visit the website of the University you want to apply to and fill out the application form for the program.

The documents that you will need to complete the application process are

• Educational mark sheets 
• GMAT test scores 
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS and TOEFL)
• Work experience letters 
• Statement of Purpose 
• Letter of recommendation ( academic and professional) 
• Visa documents 
• Bank statements and proof of funds

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Eligibility for MBA in Canada – List of Important Documents

 The application process for an MBA in Canada is time-consuming, so students must make sure that they start the process at least 15 to 18 months before the beginning of their target session. He/she must be aware of all the requirements for MBA in Canada for international students. The application forms for different B-schools are available on the official university websites. Along with the application form, students need to attach all the original copies of documents as required by the university/college for admission.

Read More: How to settle in Canada from India?

Documents Required for the Application Process 

1. All academic records and transcripts (It will include all the documents related to educational qualifications, certificates, and degrees.)

2. Statement of Purpose (It is an important requirement, and it will help the officials to understand the applicant’s background)

3. Work experience proof (if any)

4. Letter of recommendation (At least two past or present supervisors, managers, or any professional with whom the students have worked closely)

5. MBA Essays (if asked)

6. Updated CV/Resume

7. Scorecard of proficiency exams (Attach the test scores of IELTS or TOEFL)

8. Bank statement (It should be from the last 6 months. It is asked to understand the availability of funds for education)

9. Photographs

10. Visa

11. Study permit

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Different types of MBA in Canada and Their Durations

Full-time MBA

An MBA program from Canada prepares a student to enter the job market as a leader. The duration of a full-time MBA program is 2 years and it is an offline mode of study. It can be pursued by students who have a recognized graduation degree from any authorized university.

Part-time MBA

The part-time MBA degree in Canada is of at least 8 months and can go up to 2 years. The duration of the course varies for different B-schools. This can be pursued by international students who are doing an MBA along with part-time or full-time jobs.

Executive MBA

Designed for executives and those with a managerial level of experience, the duration ranges from 13 months to 24 months for this type of course. This program helps professionals brush up on their managerial skills.

Exams required for MBA in Canada

There are few compulsory examinations that form a significant part of the eligibility criteria. To study in Canada, the most important exams are TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, and PTE.

TOEFL

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test to measure the English language ability of non-native speakers wishing to enrol in English-speaking universities. It tests proficiency by measuring the level of English in all aspects, such as writing, speaking, reading, and listening. It is one of the most popular and preferred language tests accepted by reputed colleges and universities in Canada.

IELTS

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally accepted English language proficiency test. It has two types: academic and general. All four aspects of the English language, such as writing, speaking, reading, and listening, are tested for non-native English speakers.

GMAT

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is an examination to test analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in written English for admission to a graduate management program, such as an MBA program. A GMAT score is an important eligibility requirement that should be met by every international student aspiring to study an MBA in Canada.

GRE

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills for higher education degrees and courses.

For international students, Canada offers a promising education system that allows them to work and settle there. This opportunity, with some of the global brands and multinationals, attracts several MBA aspirants from all over the world.

SOP for MBA in Canada

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a 500-1500 word application essay that you provide to the University’s admissions committee. An SOP outlines an applicant’s motivation for applying to a specific university and course.

A perfect SOP should reflect your personality and provide your target university with an understanding of your reason for following that particular stream, your future plans after completing your course, and other topics not covered in your academic documents.

LOR for MBA in Canada

A Letter of Recommendation (LOR), which you give to the universities as part of the application process, should certify and evaluate your candidacy by individuals who have evaluated you or your abilities in a professional or academic setting. A LOR should always be modest as well as provide details to the university’s admissions committee about your skills, academic records, talents, certificates, and so on. Top Canadian institutions have strict requirements for application documentation such as letters of recommendation, resumes, essays, and statements of purpose. As one of the five characteristics that universities look for in a possible candidate, it plays a critical role in highlighting your profile in front of the admission committee.

MBA in Canada without GMAT

For testing the skills and knowledge of MBA applicants, most Canadian and international colleges require GMAT scores. Nonetheless, certain Canadian colleges and business schools admit applicants without GMAT scores. However, many of them have extra prerequisites, such as two to three years of professional experience or particular TOEFL scores. Candidates may also be required to have a minimum GPA.

MBA in Canada without Work Experience

Overall proportions of those who attend business school have shifted dramatically over time. B-schools in Canada place a greater emphasis on potential than on performance. It shows they’re interested in what you can do, not just what you’ve done previously.

So if you’re an undergraduate hoping to study an MBA in Canada with no prior work experience, these are the eligibility criteria you must meet in order for your background to work out.

If you want to advance your career by pursuing an MBA without work experience in Canada, the following are the only requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree from a reputable university is required.
• To demonstrate your English competence, you must obtain a competitive TOEFL/IELTS score.
• A high GMAT score is required.

Without job experience, an MBA can help you get a head start in your career. The biggest benefit of starting early and getting an MBA without prior work experience is the ability to quickly shift and adapt to new situations. Another thing that working professionals find difficult is deciding whether to leave their jobs and return to school. Aside from the loss of income, leaving a job feels like a career setback.

Following is the list of colleges offering MBA without work experience:

University	Province	Fees(in CAD)
New York Institute of Technology	Vancouver	31,920.00
Thompson Rivers University	British Columbia	45,908.00
Cape Breton University	Nova Scotia	18,515.00
Carleton University	Ontario	60,000.00
University of Windsor	Ontario	11,550
Brock University	Ontario	32,550
Dalhousie University	Nova Scotia	82,205

Source- University Website

In general, an MBA in Canada without prior work experience is a fantastic option. However, one’s choice is influenced by personal preferences, specialization, and budgetary restrictions. Otherwise, rest confident that earning an MBA from a Canadian university is a sensible decision.

Scholarships & Eligibility for MBA in Canada for Indian Students 

To make their Education affordable, students often look for scholarships that can fund a part or whole of their program. Some of the best scholarship options for Indian students in Canada are as follows:

Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program ( OGS )

Ontario Graduate Scholarship offers 22 merit-based scholarships to students in all academic fields. The province allocates the awards to universities that specify the number of awards they might offer to their students annually. 

Students who wish to pursue a master’s degree or a two-year course in Ontario province can apply for this scholarship program. 

Eligibility Criteria 

• You must have enrolled in any of the universities in Toronto 
• The length of your course should be two-year 
• You must hold an A– Average (Ontario equivalent of 80%) in both the years of full-time study. 
• You must be familiar with the English language at the time of application.

The amount awarded is INR 3 76684 per semester. 

Ivey MBA Scholarship

The Ivey MBA scholarship is fully funded and awarded every year to students enrolling in the MBA Program at the Ivey Business School. 

Eligibility criteria 

• Students applying for this scholarship are selected based on their GMAT score, academic grades, professional experience, and leadership skills. 

The amount awarded – The scholarship amount ranges from INR 7,53369 to INR 48 96898. 

half of the MBA tuition fee.

Alberta MBA Scholarships

University of Alberta’s business school offers a wide range of scholarships ( 49 to 50 in total) to international students. These scholarships cover the entire tuition fees of the MBA program. 

The University of Alberta offers the top scholarships are the Claude Winspear MBA Award, Michael Lang MBA Award, and AIMCo MBA Award. 

Eligibility criteria 

• Valid GMAT score
• High GPA (3.5 or above)
• Academic merits
• Work experience

The amount awarded is INR 75 336 to INR 7.53369

Sauder School of Business Scholarship 

Sauder School of Business offers various scholarships for international students applying for MBA programs. These scholarships include the Accelerated Career Scholarship and Global Business Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship. 

Eligibility criteria 

• You must have an excellent academic record 
• You must clear the entrance exam for the scholarship 

Students with leadership skills and previous business experience have high chances of getting selected for the scholarship. The amount awarded to the students under this scholarship ranges between INR 5,92217 to INR 23,68870. 

Some of the scholarships offered by Sauder School of Business are 

• Asia Top Talent Scholarships
• South & Latin America Top Talent Scholarships
• Europe Top Talent Scholarships
• The Middle East & Africa Top Talent Scholarships
• Canada Top Talent Scholarships

Rotman School of Management Scholarships

University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management offers fully-funded MBA scholarships for students in Canada. Rotman offers 14 scholarships. The amount of the scholarship ranges between INR 5,92217 to INR 14,80543. 

However, students get financial benefits through each of them. 

Eligibility criteria: You must be enrolled in the MBA program of Rotman School of Management 

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What is PGWP (Post-graduation work permit) in Canada?

MBA graduates in Canada after receiving final marks in their degree programs have 180 days to apply for a post-graduation work permit. International students need to have an MBA degree from a recognized college or university under the government of Canada to apply for the same. Students can be eligible if their study permit or visa is valid at some point during the 180 days period after the results are declared. Students pursuing an MBA degree of at least 8 months and a maximum of 3 years are eligible for a post-graduation work permit.

International students with a visitor card or a student visa can apply for a PGWP after completion of their MBA degree from any recognized Designated Learning Institute (DLI). With a PGWP, an international student can work as a permanent employee for any employer in Canada. The work permit after completion of a degree is one of the reasons why students from across the globe visit Canada for an MBA degree. The scope of work opportunities and global exposure is vast with a PGWP.

An opportunity to apply for permanent residency in Canada is also possible for international students who have completed an MBA degree through the Express Entry Program. For more details regarding permanent residency eligibility, students can consult the counselors of upGrad Abroad.

Read More: Degree or Diploma in Canada: Which is best fit for you

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Disclaimer! All the figures are indicative and sourced from various portals.

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