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5th Dec 2022

Afia Azmi

MBA in Canada for Indian Students: Top Universities, Fees and Courses

Pursuing MBA in Canada has become even more appealing for international students when considering the synergy between Canada's high-quality education and vibrant economy. This dynamic economy draws strength from a multitude of flourishing enterprises based in Canada, alongside the expansion of pivotal industries such as oil and gas, mining, forestry, agriculture, and manufacturing. Considering all these factors, opting for an MBA makes perfect sense.

The outstanding academic standards of Canadian universities have played a key role in elevating Canada's presence within the upper echelons of global higher education. Many universities have achieved exceptional global rankings for MBAs in Canada.

In view of this, we have compiled a list of some of the best MBA programs in Canada that you should consider pursuing.

McGill University – Desautels Faculty of Management

McGill University, a globally renowned institution, is one of the best universities in Canada for MBA. This prestigious university has a distinguished track record, with its alumni achieving the esteemed titles of Nobel laureates and Rhodes Scholars. McGill University’s Desautels MBA programme is considered one of the best MBA programs in Canada. This course places an emphasis on real-world learning, encouraging students to immerse themselves in it – whether through a mandatory 10-day international study tour, a paid internship, a field practice, or an enriching study experience abroad.

Program Details

Program variations available - Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA, Executive MBA, MBA in Japan
Full-time MBA cost - 89,000 CAD
Length of program - 20 months
Concentrations - Global Strategy and Leadership, Finance, Marketing and Business Analytics
Language/s of Instruction - English
Dual Degree combinations - MBA/MD, MBA/Law

University of Toronto – Joseph L. Rotman School of Management

Spanning across three massive campuses, this university has been the nurturing ground for many successful and famous people. The University of Toronto is notable for harbouring one of the top MBA programs in Canada, which imparts students with a wealth of practical wisdom spanning a broad spectrum of business domains. After completing their first year here, students can choose from 14 majors and over 90 elective courses.

Program Details

Program variations available - Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA (Morning and Evening), Executive MBA, Global Executive MBA
Full-time MBA cost - 107,800 CAD
Length of program - 20 months
Concentrations - Business Design, Brand Management, Global Management, Financial Reporting and Analysis, Funds Management, Health Sector Management, Investment Banking, Leadership and Change Management, Real Estate, Process and Supply Chain Management, Sustainability, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Risk Management and Financial Engineering
Language/s of Instruction - English
Dual Degree combinations - MBA/MGA, MBA/JD, MBA/ PharmD, Collaborative Program in Asia Pacific Studies, Collaborative Program in Environmental Studies, Jeffrey Skoll BaSc/MBA

York University – Schulich School of Business

The Schulich Business School offers an immersive curriculum that delves deep into all aspects of international business management. At Schulich Business School, students have the privilege to embark on a journey of specialization across 20 captivating subjects. What truly sets this institution apart is its unique flexibility; it's one of the few business schools that allows you to easily switch between full-time and part-time degree programs making it one of the top MBA colleges in Canada.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA, International MBA, MBA in India, Executive MBA
Full-time MBA cost: 99,500 CAD
Length of program: 20 months
Concentrations: Accounting, Arts, Media and Entertainment Management, Economics, Business Consulting, Finance, Financial Risk Management, Financial Services, Marketing, International Business, Business and Sustainability, Entrepreneurial Studies, Health Industry Management, Global Mining Management, Global Retail Management, Organization Studies, Operations Management and Information Management, Strategic Management, Real Estate and Infrastructure, Social Sector Management, Marketing and Public Sector: Business and Government
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/MFA/MA, MBA/JD

HEC Montreal

HEC Montreal has a versatile MBA degree in Canada for international students. Providing students with the freedom to craft their academic journey through a diverse selection of elective courses. The theme-based instruction at this university places much emphasis on communication, leading, and managing value creation. Students have to participate in a riveting 5-week consulting project. Here, students are teamed up and immersed in real-world corporate environments, putting theory into immediate practice. A newer requirement also requires students to experience different global cultures by working for companies in those countries for a period of 3 weeks.

Program details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA (Morning and Evening), Executive MBA
Full-time MBA cost: 32,400 CAD
Length of program: 12 months
Concentrations: Finance, Strategy and Consulting, International Management, Entrepreneurship, Markets and Business Intelligence, Digital Enterprise
Language/s of Instruction: English, French

Queen’s University – The Stephen J.R. Smith School of Business

Queen's University is a cornerstone of Canada's academic heritage; its campus is filled with beautiful buildings that blend Romanesque and neo-Gothic architecture and are over a hundred years old. The Stephen J.R. Smith School of Business at Queen's teaches students the fundamentals of business over a period of 12-months, while specialization options include healthcare management, consulting, entrepreneurship, and innovation, allowing students to pursue their ambitions. Recognized for its excellence in executive education and the nation's top undergraduate business program, Queen's makes pursuing an MBA in Canada exceptionally rewarding.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA (Accelerated), Executive MBA, Executive MBA Americas
Full-time MBA cost: 91,000 CAD
Length of program: 12 months
Concentrations: Consulting, Finance, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Marketing and Sales, and Healthcare Management
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/Master of Finance, MBA/Master of Management Analytics, MBA/JD, MBA/MSc in Healthcare Quality

Concordia University – John Molson School of Business

The John Molson School of Business has a rich 35-year history of organizing the oldest and largest international case competition, offering students a chance to tackle real-world problems. The winning team with the best solution is rewarded with CAD $10,000. In a move effective from September 2017, the program credits have been reduced from 57 to 45, allowing students to complete the degree in just 16 months.

An exciting addition to the MBA program is the Van Berkholm Small-Cap Investment Management Program. Here, students can actively manage a $1,000,000 portfolio focused on small-cap stocks, providing a hands-on opportunity to make a real impact in the world of finance.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Full-time MBA (Accelerated), Part-time MBA, Part-time MBA (Accelerated), Executive MBA, Executive MBA Americas
Full-time MBA cost: 37,100 CAD
Length of program: 12 months
Concentrations: Supply Chain and BTM, Finance, Management, Accountancy, Marketing
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/CFA

University of British Columbia – Sauder School of Business

The Sauder School of Business stands out for its international faculty, making it one of the best colleges for MBA programmes in Canada. This school offers students a unique choice among three dynamic career paths: finance, product and service management, and innovation and entrepreneurship. Sauder is also a proud member of the Global Network for Advanced Management program, established by Yale University. This membership grants students access to a broad network of international business institutions. It opens doors to collaborative teaching, online courses, and valuable exchange programs, enhancing the scope of their education.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA, International Part-time MBA, Executive MBA (Strategic Mining Management), Executive MBA (Healthcare)
Full-time MBA cost: 65,998 CAD
Length of program: 16 months
Concentrations: Finance, Product and Service Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/JD

University of Alberta – Alberta School of Business

The University of Alberta is well-known for its research-intensive programs. Given this, it is no surprise that the School of Business follows suit by letting MBA students dabble around in a range of subjects before choosing one of many specializations offered here. One of the newest focuses for the program is leadership, with additions such as applied leadership and women in leadership. For MBA students interested in degrees abroad, the university is tied up with universities in Japan, France and Germany.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Full-time MBA (Fast Track), Part-time MBA (Fast Track), Part-time MBA (Evening), Fort McMurray MBA in Natural Resources, Energy and Environment, Executive MBA
Full-time MBA cost: 51,020 CAD
Length of program: 16 months
Concentrations: Finance, Product and Service Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/Master of Engineering, MBA/Master of Agriculture, MBA, JD, MBA, Master of Forestry, MBA/MD

University of Western Ontario – Richard Ivey School of Business

For students who believe that case studies are the best way of learning how to deal with real-world problems, this business program by Richard Ivey School will meet your needs. The program draws on over 300 real scenarios to ensure that the students gain useful skills and learn about the fundamentals of management and leadership qualities. That is why it is considered one of the best MBA programs in Canada.

The Ivey Business School has over 50 years of experience in education and has campuses in Hong Kong, Mumbai, Toronto and London.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Full-time MBA (Accelerated), Executive MBA, Executive MBA (Hong Kong)
Full-time MBA cost: 96,750 CAD
Length of program: 12 months
Concentrations: Finance, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Corporate Strategy and Leadership, International Management
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/JD

University of Calgary – Haskayne School of Business

The Haskayne School of Business provides MBA specialisation in global energy management and sustainable development. It is a valuable programme tailored for students aspiring to pursue careers in the energy sector. It stands as a distinguished choice for international students pursuing an MBA in Canada. It equips them with essential industry knowledge while fostering the ability to analyse the sector from environmental, cultural, and political angles. Haskayne is renowned for its strong placement assistance, and securing a placement within this programme is highly sought-after by students.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Full-time MBA (Thesis-based), Part-time MBA (evening), Executive MBA, Global Energy Executive MBA
Full-time MBA cost: 57,616 CAD
Length of program: 20 months
Concentrations: Finance, Marketing, Project Management, Real Estate Studies, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and Global Energy Management and Sustainable Development
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/MBT, MBA/JD, MBA/MD, MBA/MPP, MBA/MSW

Wilfrid Laurier University – Lazaridis School of Business and Economics

The Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, previously known as the Laurier School of Business, underwent a significant transformation with a renewed emphasis on technology-centric management. This shift was mainly due to Mike Lazaridis, co-founder of Research in Motion, who pledged $20,000 to the university.

This institution now offers a diverse array of MBA specialisations. The main aim of this school is to nurture leadership in the technology sector.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Full-time MBA (Accelerated), Full-time MBA (Accelerated for CMAs), Part-time MBA
Length of program: 28 months
Concentrations: Accounting, Golf and Resort Management, Marketing, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Operations Management, Financial Management, Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management, Organizational Behaviour and Human Resource Management
Language/s of Instruction: English
Dual Degree combinations: MBA/CFA, MBA/CPA

McMaster University – DeGroote School of Business

The MBA programme at the DeGroote School of Business provides students with valuable hands-on experience to enhance their practical skills. In the Co-op MBA programme, students engage in three separate four-month work periods. Although the standard MBA programme doesn't demand as much extensive work experience, it includes a compulsory work placement and various specialisation choices.

Program Details

Program variations available: Full-time MBA, Full-time MBA (Co-op), Full-time MBA (Accelerated), Part-time MBA
Full-time MBA cost: 76,500 CAD
Length of program: 16 months
Concentrations: Finance, Accounting and Financial Management Services, Supply Chain Management, Strategic Marketing, Health Services Management, Strategic Business Valuation
Language/s of Instruction: English

Advantages of Pursuing an MBA in Canada

Studying for an MBA is a significant decision, and when it comes to choosing the right destination, Canada stands out as a compelling choice. The advantages make it a smart choice:

- Diverse and Inclusive Culture: Canada's multicultural environment enriches the learning experience.

- High-Quality Education: Canadian MBA programs are known for their academic excellence.

- Global Business Perspective: Courses offer a global outlook on business practices and strategies.

- Strong Job Market: Canada has a robust job market, especially for MBA graduates.

- Networking Opportunities: Access to a wide network of professionals and alumni.

- Research and Innovation: Emphasis on cutting-edge research and innovative business solutions.

These benefits make an MBA in Canada appealing to students seeking high-quality education, job prospects, and a varied, inclusive learning community.

Eligibility And Documents Requirement

Students need to meet specific eligibility criteria to pursue an MBA in Canada. This includes having a solid academic background and relevant qualifications. Canadian universities offer a comprehensive learning experience, and ensuring that applicants meet these standards is crucial for admission.

The essential eligibility requirements are:

An equivalent bachelor's degree, either a 3-year or 4-year course.
Minimum age of 21 years.
For Indian students, a minimum academic score of 60%.
Some universities may require students to pass their entrance tests for MBA admissions.

Documents Requirement

When applying for an MBA in Canada, you must prepare documents to support your application. These documents are essential for the admissions process and vary slightly depending on the university. Here is a general list of what you'll likely need:

- Academic Transcripts: From all previous educational institutions.

- Degree Certificates: If degrees are not listed on transcripts.

- GMAT/GRE Scores: As per university requirements.

- English Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL, IELTS, etc., if applicable.

- Work Experience Evidence: If required by the program.

- Additional Specific Documents: As required by certain programs.

- Resume/CV: Detailing work experience and skills.

- Recommendation Letters: Usually two or three.

Intakes For MBA in Canada

Pursuing a management degree in Canada provides various intake choices to accommodate students from all over the globe. Canadian universities often offer multiple intakes throughout the year, allowing prospective students to select the best start date for their schedule and degree of preparation. Understanding these intake times is critical for effectively planning your application and enrollment process.

Main Intakes:

Fall Intake (September): The most popular intake, with the greatest course selections and funding possibilities available. Ideal for students who want to resume their studies following a summer break.
Winter Intake (January): This season also has many courses, a viable option for individuals who missed the Fall intake. It is appropriate for students seeking a rapid start following the New Year.

Secondary Intakes

Spring/Summer Intake (May): While less frequent, some colleges provide a limited selection of courses beginning in the spring. This intake may suit specialized programs or students who desire a less crowded academic environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of doing an MBA in Canada for an International Student?

Pursuing an MBA in Canada opens the door to various career opportunities. The MBA programs in Canada aim to develop the practical skills required to work in a business environment. Here are some benefits of doing an MBA from Canada:

Global Recognition: Canadian Universities are recognized worldwide for their quality education and standard facilities.
Networking Opportunities: You get to connect with a diverse population of students, promoting the exchange of languages, thoughts, and cultures.
Work opportunities: Students get ample job opportunities due to Canada’s strong economy
Global Perspective: The education system in Canada prepares students to work in an international environment.
Leadership Skills: The education pattern here allows students to develop leadership skills through strategic thinking, experiential learning, and decision-making.
Competitive Salary: Students land an excellent working opportunity that offers a good salary range.

What are the requirements for doing an MBA in Canada for International Students?

Here is a list of documents that are required for pursuing an MBA degree from Canada:

Academic Qualifications: Graduation degree from a recognized University.
English Proficiency Test: Score of English proficiency test such as IELT (International English Language Test System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
GMAT or GRE Score: Canadian Universities conduct the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for aspiring MBA students. The score may vary by university and specialization.
Prior Work Experience (if any)
Letter of Recommendation: Letter Of Recommendation from your professors or employers states that you have the skills and potential to pursue the degree.
Personal Statement: A statement of purpose or Personal Statement is required to explain your motivation, career objectives, and why you are applying to study in Canada.
Resume/ CV: A detailed resume or a portfolio is required to outline your previous work experiences.
Passport Copies and Photos: Recent passport-size photographs and copies of your passport.
Visa Requirements: Visa documentation is required further to get a permit to study in Canada.

Is it easy to get a job after pursuing an MBA in Canada?

Jobs in Canada after MBA offer competitive and standard opportunities to the students. Cities like Toronto, Canada, and Vancouver have great opportunities for students who want to work in finance and consulting. Canada’s strong economy and welcoming environment towards international students make it a most demanding education and work destination worldwide. Students can surely get excellent career opportunities by upskilling themselves in their leadership skills, efforts, and adaptability. Your networking skills with alumni, faculties, and industry experts there can lead to excellent career opportunities. Further, the likelihood of finding a job after graduation can also increase if you have prior work experience.

What is the scope of pursuing an MBA in Canada?

Students get many job opportunities after completing their MBA from Canadian universities. Canada is home to established industries and emerging companies that provide ample job opportunities in technology, finance, and consultancies. The global perspective and networking opportunities allow students to work with top companies. With a strong qualification background, communication skills, and practical skills, students can build careers and grab opportunities to work in Canada and other international countries.

Is it easy to get PR after doing an MBA in Canada?

Canada offers several pathways and programs for international students, including the Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that may help you earn a permanent residence status in the country for those with Canadian education and work experience. Pursuing MBA in Canada can increase the chance of obtaining your PR in Canada within six months after completing your degree and a high-paying job. However, it is essential to meet the eligibility criteria of the PR, such as duration of the program, type of program, offer letter, and other documents.

How much does it Cost to study MBA in Canada?

The cost of studying MBA in Canada can range between $30,000 – $40,000. However, some of the factors that decide the cost of your MBA program are the University or the business school you choose, the location of your university, the program chosen, and the cost of living, which includes accommodation, food, travel, and extracurricular activities. Some leading universities may have higher tuition fees. While finalizing a city or a University for your MBA program, it is crucial to research and compare the prices of the shortlisted universities. Moreover, proper budget planning and scholarship options can help you manage your expenses in Canada.

Which Universities are the best for an MBA in Canada?

Canada hosts a large number of international students from around the world. The Canadian Universities are best known for their top-notch education system, practical learning opportunities, and a multicultural campus environment..The best Universities for MBA in Canada are listed below:

University of Toronto
Queen’s University
University of Columbia
McGill University
University of Western Ontario
University of Pennsylvania
York University
University of British Columbia
Western University
University of Calgary

How long can I stay in Canada after MBA?

An international student graduating with a management degree in Canada can avail of a post-study work permit, popularly known as a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The PGWP is valid to or equivalent to the duration of your MBA program. If a student has enrolled in a program for over two years, they might receive a stay option for at least three years. The stay-back option for international students in Canada is beneficial to them as it helps them to work and grow in their related career fields. However, one should note that it is essential to apply for PGWP within 180 days of completion of your MBA.

Which MBA is in demand in Canada?

Studying for an MBA in Canada is gaining immense popularity due to its education system and convenient application process structuring the future leaders of the business. Several MBA specialization that offers excellent learning and working opportunities are:

General Management in Finance
Entrepreneurship and Business Analytics
Technology Management
Supply Chain management
International Business
Sustainability and Environmental Management
Marketing and Communication
Operations Management

While these MBA specializations are impressive, it is essential to research the best courses and job trends that align with your career goals and preferences.

Is work experience required to study for an MBA in Canada?

The requirement for work experience varies depending on the needs of the universities and the courses you are opting for. Several business schools in Canada allow students to enroll for MBA in Canada without work experience. Some reputable universities enroll students with at least 2 to 5 years of work experience. It is mandatory to check the eligibility criteria of the institution for the MBA program you are interested in.

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