As per information shared by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh in Rajya Sabha, over 13 Lakh Indian students are pursuing higher education abroad; Canada is the top choice, with an impressive enrollment of 4.27 lakh students (source).
This flow in popularity aligns with the rise of Canadian MBAs, solidifying the nation’s position as a global leader in management education. To assist you in making an informed decision, this article covers the 10 Best MBA Colleges in Canada (& Universities) for the 2024 intake.
Why Study for an MBA in Canada?
There are plenty of reasons to study MBA in Canada, and some of the top ones include:
- Great place to live: Canada ranks third globally for the best quality of life (source). You get the same rights as Canadians.
- Lower costs: Tuition fees in Canada are generally lower than in Australia, the U.K. and the U.S. (source).
- Good job prospects: Many international students who study in Canada get jobs and even permanent residency.
- Work while studying: You can often work part-time while studying and full-time after graduating.
- Strong alumni network: Canadian business schools maintain active alumni networks that provide mentorship, job referrals, and networking opportunities.
- Global recognition: An MBA from Canada is respected worldwide, leading to good job opportunities.
- Practical learning: Many Canadian MBA programs offer hands-on experience through internships and projects.
10 Best MBA Colleges in Canada (& Universities) for 2025 Intake
College/ University | QS Global MBA Rankings 2024: Canada | Average Tution Fees |
---|---|---|
Rotman School of Management | 1 | 80 Lakhs |
Desautels Faculty of Management | 2 | 61 Lakhs |
Ivey Business School | 3 | 73 Lakhs |
Smith School of Business | 4 | 62 Lakhs |
UBC Sauder School of Business | 5 | 55 Lakhs |
Schulich School of Business | 6 | 65 Lakhs |
Alberta School of Business | 7 | 37 Lakhs |
John Molson School of Business | 8 | 25 Lakhs |
HEC Montréal | 9 | 33 Lakhs |
DeGroote School of Business | 10 | 52 Lakhs |
Rotman School of Management
The University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management is known for academic excellence in the field of business education. Renowned for its innovative curriculum and cutting-edge research initiatives, Rotman offers a dynamic learning environment that fosters collaboration and critical thinking.
With a diverse student body and world-class faculty, the school provides several opportunities for networking and personal growth. As a top-ranked institution, Rotman equips its graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s competitive business world.
Category Information
QS Global MBA Rankings 2024: Canada 1
Program Options Full-time MBA, Executive MBA, Master of Management Analytics (MMA), Master of Finance (MFin), Specialized Master’s, PhD
Course Duration Full-Time MBA: 20 months
Tuition Fees (Full-Time MBA) CAD $122,000
Requirements (Full-Time MBA) Bachelor's degree, GMAT/GRE score, work experience (average 5 years), TOEFL/IELTS score (if applicable), application essays, interview
Location Downtown Toronto, Canada
Acceptance Rate (Full-Time MBA) 58%
Website https://www.rotman.utoronto.ca/
Desautels Faculty of Management
The Desautels Faculty of Management, located at McGill University in Montreal, is renowned for its innovative approach to business education. With a history dating back over a century, Desautels combines tradition with cutting-edge research and teaching methods. The faculty prides itself on fostering a collaborative learning environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to exchange ideas and explore new horizons in business.
Desautels covers a wide range of subjects like Managerial Economics, Operations Management, Organizational Strategy, Information Systems, and Marketing Management.
Category Information
Program Master of Business Administration (MBA)
QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 2
Course Duration 12 months (full-time), 18-24 months (part-time)
Tuition Fees (2023-2024) Domestic: $48,000 CAD, International: $72,000 CAD
Requirements Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
GMAT/GRE score (optional for some applicants)
Work experience (recommended, minimum varies)
English language proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Application essay, letters of recommendation, interview (optional)
Location Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Acceptance Rate 30–35%
Website https://www.mcgill.ca/desautels/
Ivey Business School
Ivey Business School develops leaders and follows case-study teaching methods. For students, it is the Top 2 college in Canada. The full-time MBA Program in London, Ontario is ranked No. 1 in Canada by Bloomberg Businessweek.
Known for its case study method, Ivey immerses you in real-world business scenarios, preparing you for the dynamic challenges of the corporate realm. It is the best program for networking in Canada.
Category Information
Program Name(s) Full-Time MBA, Executive MBA, Master of International Business (MSc)
QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 3
Course Duration Full-Time MBA: 12 months, Executive MBA: 20 months, MSc: 12 months
Tuition Fees (CAD) Full-Time MBA: $107,400, Executive MBA: $114,900, MSc: $87,000
Requirements Bachelor's degree, GMAT/GRE, work experience (varies by program), English language proficiency test
Locations London (Ontario), Toronto, Hong Kong
Acceptance Rate 8%
Website https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/
Smith School of Business – Queen’s University
Queen’s Smith School of Business is known for its excellence in business education, practical teaching methods and business skills.
The school’s strong network of alumni and industry connections further enhances the MBA experience, providing valuable networking opportunities and access to job placements.
Category Information
QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 5
Course Duration 12-24 months (full-time, part-time, accelerated options)
Tuition Fees (2023-2024) Domestic: $62,588 CAD (full-time)
International: $80,088 CAD (full-time)
Requirements Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
GMAT/GRE score (optional)
Work experience (minimum varies depending on program)
English language proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Location Primary: Goodes Hall, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Additional locations: Toronto, Ontario, Canada; various international partnerships
Acceptance Rate 15%
Website https://smith.queensu.ca/
UBC Sauder School of Business
At this school, MBA students learn practically. They learn from case studies and internships. Advance your future and career with expert career guidance and much more
UBC Sauder is ranked 16 for business research excellence in North America. Sauder’s faculties have world-class experience and teach the latest theoretical and applied knowledge.
Address 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, Canada
Year Founded 1956
Duration of MBA course 16 months
Programs offered International MBA, Management
Phone number and Email +1 6048228500
Official Site https://www.sauder.ubc.ca/
Exams required GMAT/GRE, IELTS, PTE
Schulich School of Business
Students get a real-world practical learning experience. The MBA courses are flexible with full-time and accelerated MBA. Located in Toronto, this esteemed institution is renowned for its innovative programs, practical skills and strong industry connections.
With a diverse student body and a global network of alumni, Schulich offers a dynamic environment for your MBA journey.
Category Information
QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 6
Course Duration Full-Time MBA: 20 months.
Executive MBA: 20 months (Part-Time).
Specialized Masters: 12-18 months
Tuition Fees Full-Time MBA: CDN$81,974.
Executive MBA: CDN$115,500.
Specialized Masters (Vary by program)
Requirements Full-Time MBA: Bachelor's degree, GMAT/GRE score, work experience, essays, recommendations, interview.
Executive MBA: Minimum 10 years of professional experience, strong leadership record, GMAT/GRE score (optional), essays, recommendations, and interviews.
Specialized Masters: Varies by program.
Location Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Acceptance Rate 20-30%
Website https://schulich.yorku.ca/
Alberta School of Business
The Alberta School of Business is ranked among the top 10 universities for research (Financial Times of London 2013). Students get exposure to career management skills in a corporate or entrepreneurial environment.
The wide range of curriculum includes financial management, Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility, Accounting Information and Internal Decision Making, Data Analysis and Decision Making, International Business, and Operations Management.
Address Saskatchewan Drive, Edmonton, Alberta Canada
Year Founded 1916
Duration of MBA course 20 months
Programs offered Full-time MBA, Part-time MBA
Phone number +1 780-492-5773
Official Site https://www.ualberta.ca/en/business/index.html
Exams required GMAT, GRE, IELTS
John Molson School of Business
With a focus on preparing students for real-world challenges, Concordia offers a range of MBA programs that cater to diverse career goals. The university’s prime location in Montreal adds an extra layer of cultural richness to the academic experience. When considering Concordia for your MBA, take note of its strong emphasis on experiential learning, providing you with the skills needed in the competitive world. It is among Canada’s Top 5 MBA programs (The Economist & Bloomberg Businessweek rankings).
Address | 1450 Guy St, Montreal, Quebec H3H 0A1, Canada |
Year Founded | 1916 |
Duration of MBA course | 12-24 months |
Programs offered | Supply Chain Management, Investment Management |
Phone number | +1 5148482424 |
Official Site | https://www.concordia.ca/jmsb.html |
Exams required | GMAT, GRE, IELTS |
HEC Montreal (Universite de Montreal)
HEC Montreal has a quality hands-on experience with a rich HEC Montréal environment, business networking, knowledge sharing, and job-search assistance. It has a truly innovative learning environment and cutting-edge Classroom technology. The innovative program features a case method workshop, diversity, equity, leadership, and Strategy & Sustainable Development.
Address 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 CANADA
Year Founded 1916
Duration of MBA course 12-24 months
Programs offered Supply Chain Management, Investment Management
Phone number +1 5148482424
Official Site https://hec.ca/en/
Exams required GMAT, GRE, IELTS
DeGroote School of Business (McMaster University)
The business school has an engaging hands-on experience that shapes students’ current industry demands, prepares them for future opportunities, and builds professional skills. Practical case studies and group projects with real organizations give students the right path to success.
Address Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario
Year Founded 1887
Duration of MBA course 20 months
Programs offered MBA
Phone number +1 (905) 525-9140
Official Site https://degroote.mcmaster.ca/
Exams required GMAT, GRE, IELTS, PTE
MBA in Canada requirements
For MBA in Canada, you need to meet some straightforward yet essential requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: You must have a degree from a recognized institution.
- Academic Excellence: Aim for a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, showcasing your commitment to academic success.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate your English skills through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or similar assessments.
- GMAT/GRE Scores: While not mandatory for all programs, having solid scores is often recommended.
- Work Experience: Especially important for full-time programs, having 2+ years of work experience is preferred.
- Documents: Statement of Purpose (SOP), LOR, resume, portfolio, etc.
Explore more: Canada Student Visa Requirements from India
Cheapest MBA Colleges in Canada for International Students
Here’s a breakdown of some of the cheapest universities in Canada for MBAs:
University | Tuition Fees (CAD) |
Memorial University of Newfoundland | $9,600 |
University of Quebec | $4,748-$10,283 |
The University of Regina | $9,386 |
Simon Fraser University | $55,600 |
University of Calgary | $13,330 |
University of Northern British Columbia | $ 24,320 |
University of Victoria | $12,390 – 19,666 |
Laval University | $15,225 |
Saint Mary’s University | $22,800 |
Best MBA Colleges in Canada without GMAT
Several esteemed institutions understand that standardized tests aren’t the only measure of your potential. Here are some top MBA colleges in canada for Indian students offering GMAT-free MBA programs, allowing you to pursue an MBA in Canada without GMAT:
University | Programs | Fees (CAD) |
York University | 2-year MBA | 117,850 |
Vancouver Island University | MBA, Business, and Management | 51,408 |
New York Institute of Technology | Business Analytics, Finance | 46,200 |
Wilfrid Laurier University | MBA | 49,738 |
HEC Montreal | Executive MBA | 59,100 |
Queen’s University | 1-Year MBA | 105,100 |
Best MBA Colleges in Canada without Work Experience
Some MBA programs in Canada that offer MBA without work experience are as follows:
University | Programs |
Thompson Rivers University | MBA |
New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver | Management, Finance |
The Sprott School of Business | MBA |
University of Windsor | Professional Accounting, MBA for managers |
Brock University | Accounting, business analytics, finance |
Rowe School of Business | MBA |
Popular MBA Jobs and Salary in Canada
The world-renowned programs in Canada bring the best opportunities and recruiters.
Job Position | Salary | Job Description |
Business Analyst | 43 lakhs INR | Business Analyst handles the data analysis, business strategy, and business principles. |
Financial Manager | 55 lakhs | The Financial Manager handles financial planning, accounts, profit, investment, and budgeting. |
Risk Analyst | 52 lakhs | It is associated with risk management for clients, investments, finances, etc. |
Marketing Manager | 49 lakhs | A marketing manager is in charge of the company’s marketing. He handles marketing strategies and market trends. |
Consultant | 61 lakhs | A consultant advises the company about its strategies, finances, and challenges. |
Factors to Consider while Choosing MBA College in Canada
Key factors when choosing an MBA college in Canada:
- Program alignment: Specialization, curriculum, coursework.
- Accreditation and rankings: Accreditation, rankings.
- Location and campus: City, campus environment.
- Faculty and alumni network: Faculty expertise, alumni network.
- Career services: Career support, alumni mentorship.
- Cost and financial aid: Tuition, financial aid.
- Student life and diversity: Student life, diversity.
- International students: Visa requirements, student support.
- Post-MBA goals: Career paths, networking.
Choose a college that best aligns with your academic and professional goals.
Conclusion
Canada has some of the best business programs in the world. Students must check through the wide variety of course content and learning methods to choose the right MBA college for their study abroad dream. Book your free consultation today to avail the free overseas education counseling with us!
FAQs:
What is the total cost for studying in Canada?
For Indian students pursuing an MBA in Canada, fees range from INR 10 Lakhs to INR 40 Lakhs for the first year. Top-tier universities may reach INR 50-70 Lakhs. It’s crucial to factor in living costs, averaging around INR 12 to 15 Lakhs annually.
Read more in detail: How Much Money Is Required to Study in Canada?
What are the top 5 MBA colleges in Canada?
The top 5 MBA colleges in Canada, according to various rankings, are:
- Rotman School of Management
- Desautels Faculty of Management
- Ivey Business School
- Smith School of Business
- UBC Sauder School of Business
All business programs in Canada have top program structures and the best one depends on your career goals, priorities, and profile. MBA best colleges in Canada are:
- Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University
- Ivey Business School, Western University
- Queen’s Smith School of Business
- Sauder School of Business
What is the average salary after MBA in Canada?
Average MBA salary in Canada is generally around CAD 80,000 to CAD 120,000 per year. However, some graduates may earn significantly more or less depending on the factors mentioned above
Is an MBA in Canada more affordable than in other countries?
Yes. It is more affordable than in the USA or UK, and an MBA in Canada has an impressive return on investment. The living costs are cheaper than in countries like Australia, the UK, or the USA.
What is the duration of an MBA in most top MBA colleges in Canada?
Mostly, the durations are around 12 to 24 months. Other programs are for 18 to 20 months. The types of programs are accelerated MBA, Full Time, Online, Part-time, and Executive MBA.
Can I do MBA part-time in Canada?
Yes, you can absolutely pursue a part-time MBA in Canada. Many reputable Canadian universities offer part-time MBA programs designed to accommodate working professionals. These programs often have flexible schedules and allow you to balance your studies with your career.
What are the career options after MBA in Canada?
Here are some popular career paths:
- Finance and Accounting: investment banking, corporate finance, financial analysis, accounting, etc.
- Consulting: management consulting, technology consulting, etc.
- Marketing and Sales: marketing management, sales management, brand management, etc.
- Human Resources: human resources management, talent acquisition, etc.
- Operations Management: operations management, supply chain management, etc.
How do I reduce the cost of pursuing an MBA in Canada?
To reduce the cost of an MBA in Canada:
- Choose affordable universities and explore scholarships.
- Work part-time or participate in co-op programs.
- Live frugally and negotiate tuition fees.
- Consider online or hybrid programs.