Canadian MBAs have surged to prominence, solidifying Canada’s position as one of the top three destinations globally for pursuing an MBA. Renowned institutions such as Rotman School of Management, Smith School of Business, Schulich School of Business, and Desautels Faculty of Management offer academic excellence in the country. Thus, it’s important to consider several factors to find out the 9 Best MBA Colleges in Canada (& Universities) for 2024 intake to help you choose the right one and make the right decision for higher studies.
Why Study for an MBA in Canada?
There are plenty of reasons to study MBA in Canada, and some of the top ones include:
- Global Recognition: Canadian MBAs are highly respected worldwide, opening doors to lucrative career opportunities across the globe.
- Diverse Learning Environment: Canada’s multicultural society fosters a rich learning environment where you can collaborate with peers from various backgrounds, gaining valuable insights and perspectives.
- High-Quality Education: Canadian universities are known for their rigorous academic standards and innovative teaching methods, ensuring you receive a top-notch education.
- Practical Experience: Many Canadian MBA programs offer hands-on learning experiences, such as internships, co-op placements, and real-world projects, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
- Networking Opportunities: Canada’s vibrant business community provides ample networking opportunities with industry professionals, alumni, and fellow students, paving the way for valuable connections and career advancement.
- Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: With favourable immigration policies, international students graduating from Canadian MBA programs can access post-graduation work permits, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in Canada.
- Quality of Life: Canada is renowned for its high quality of life, safety, and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for international students seeking a fulfilling MBA experience.
9 Best MBA Colleges in Canada (& Universities) for 2024 Intake
- Rotman School of Management
- Smith School of Business
- Ivey Business School
- Desautels Faculty of Management
- Schulich School of Business
- Concordia University
- Brock University
- Simon Fraser University
- The University of Calgary
University of Toronto – 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/ |
Smith School of Business – Queen’s University
Queen’s Smith School of Business is known for its excellence in business education. It offers a comprehensive MBA program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the business market. With a focus on experiential learning, Smith provides hands-on opportunities for students to apply classroom concepts to real-world scenarios, preparing them for success in their careers. The school’s strong network of alumni and industry connections further enhances the MBA experience, providing valuable networking opportunities and access to job placements. If you’re looking for a top-tier MBA program that combines academic rigour with practical relevance, Queen’s Smith School of Business is an excellent choice.
| 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/ |
Ivey Business School
Renowned as a leading business school globally, Ivey is known for fostering leaders with a practical, hands-on approach to learning. Known for its case study method, Ivey immerses you in real-world business scenarios, preparing you for the dynamic challenges of the corporate realm. With a commitment to developing well-rounded professionals, Ivey’s MBA program emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and leadership skills. This is why it is among the best MBA colleges in Canada for Indian students.
| 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/ |
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 offers a range of MBA programs designed to meet the needs of both expert professionals and recent graduates looking to accelerate their careers. With its strong emphasis on experiential learning and global perspective, Desautels equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving industry.
| 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/ |
Schulich School of Business
Located in Toronto, this esteemed institution is renowned for its innovative programs and strong industry connections. The school places a significant emphasis on experiential learning, providing you with practical skills that extend beyond the classroom. With a diverse student body and a global network of alumni, Schulich offers a dynamic environment for your MBA journey. Their commitment to shaping business leaders and fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere makes this university one of the best MBA colleges in Canada for Indian students.
| 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/ |
University of Calgary
Situated in the vibrant city of Calgary, Alberta, this institution stands out for its innovative approach to business education. With a strong focus on experiential learning and industry connections, the University of Calgary offers MBA programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s competitive business environment. Known for its collaborative atmosphere and supportive faculty, the university provides a conducive environment for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re interested in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship, the University of Calgary offers diverse specializations to cater to your interests and career goals.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 | Not ranked for MBA specifically, but the University of Calgary is ranked #182. |
| Course Duration | 12 months (Full-time), 24 months (Part-time) |
| Tuition Fees (2023-2024) | Full-time: CAD $84,600 |
| Requirements | Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. GMAT or GRE score. Work experience (recommended). English language proficiency test score. Application essay, interview. |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta, Canada |
| Acceptance Rate | 63% |
| Website | www.haskayne.ucalgary.ca |
Concordia University
Concordia University is one of the top MBA colleges in Canada for Indian students. 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.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Course Duration | Varies depending on the program (typically 12-24 months) |
| Tuition Fees | 42,320 CAD per year (subject to change) |
| Requirements | Bachelor's degree, GMAT/GRE score, work experience, English language proficiency test score, essays, letters of recommendation, interview |
| Location | Montreal, Canada (two campuses: Sir George Williams & Loyola) |
| Acceptance Rate | 38% |
| Website | https://www.concordia.ca/ |
Brock University
At Brock University, your journey to MBA will be fueled by a commitment to excellence. Located in the heart of Ontario, this institution stands out for its practical approach to business education. With a focus on real-world applications, Brock equips you with skills that transcend the classroom. The tuition at Brock University aligns with Canada’s competitive standards, and with various scholarships available, your pursuit of an MBA becomes not just a goal but an accessible reality.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 | 201 |
| Course Duration | 12 months (Full-time), 24 months (Part-time) |
| Tuition Fees (2024-2025) | CAD $35,884 per year |
| Requirements | Bachelor's degree from a recognized institution. Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale - GMAT/GRE score (optional). English language proficiency test (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.). Work experience (recommended) |
| Location | St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada |
| Acceptance Rate | Over 70% |
| Website | www.brocku.ca/goodman |
Simon Fraser University
Located in beautiful British Columbia, SFU has a vibrant and innovative learning environment. Renowned for its commitment to research and community engagement, SFU provides a unique setting to sharpen your business skills. With a faculty dedicated to academic excellence and a campus surrounded by stunning landscapes, SFU offers an enriching experience for MBA students. It also offers a world-class education that combines practical skills with a global perspective.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| QS World University MBA Ranking 2024 | 151+ |
| Course Duration | 12-24 months (full-time, part-time, and blended options available) |
| Tuition Fees | Domestic: $43,000 CAD; International: $63,000 CAD (as of 2023-2024) |
| Requirements | Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). GMAT or GRE score (optional, but recommended). Work experience (minimum requirements vary depending on the program). English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS). Application essay, resume, and letters of recommendation. |
| Location | Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada (main campus) |
| Acceptance Rate | 59% |
| Website | https://www.sfu.ca/ |
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.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) for Canada
- Work Experience: Especially important for full-time programs, having 2+ years of work experience is preferred.
- Application Essays: Craft essays that showcase your goals, motivations, and how well you fit into the program.
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR): Strengthen your application with insights from professors or employers who know your capabilities.
- Interview: Impress and clarify why you’re an ideal candidate for the program.
- Minimum bank balance for Canada student visa: CAD 10,000
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 Name | Tuition Fees (CAD) |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland (2 years) | 36,947.54 |
| University of New Brunswick | 26,696 |
| Thompson River University | 51,381 |
| University of Northern British Columbia | 44,705.31 |
| Laval University | 35,107 |
| Cape Breton University | 46,140 |
| University of Prince Edward Island | 21,868 |
| University of Calgary | 41,850 |
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:
| University | Program |
| York University | 2-year MBA |
| Queen’s University | 1-Year MBA |
| Western University | Executive MBA |
| McMaster University | MBA with Co-op, MBA, Executive MBA, Blended Learning Part-time MBA |
| HEC Montreal | Executive MBA |
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FAQs:
MBA in Canada fees for Indian students
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 5.97 Lakhs annually.
Explore more: How Much Money Is Required to Study in Canada?
MBA graduate salary in Canada
MBA graduate salaries in Canada vary widely, with an average ranging from INR 43 Lakhs to INR 93 Lakhs or more in mid-career. Actual earnings depend on factors such as industry, specialization, and work experience.
MBA courses in Canada
In Canada, MBA courses typically offer full-time programs spanning 2 years, which is ideal for a comprehensive learning experience. Part-time options with flexible schedules cater to working professionals, while Executive MBA programs, lasting a year, target seasoned managers seeking intensive learning.
1-year MBA in Canada
A 1-year MBA in Canada is an intensive program designed for professionals with some work experience who want to advance their careers quickly. These programs are typically more expensive than traditional two-year MBAs, but they can save you time and money in the long run.
Executive MBA in Canada
Designed for experienced professionals with 5-10+ years of work history, an Executive MBA in Canada focuses on leadership, strategy, and practical application. Typically, GMAT/GRE is not required for admission.
MBA in Canada without work experience
Some of the top MBA colleges in Canada offer programs designed for recent graduates or those with minimal work experience. Some well-known institutions include:
- Queen’s University
- University of Western Ontario
- McGill University (Rotman School of Management)
- York University (Schulich School of Business)
- Smith School of Business (Queen’s University)
MBA in finance in Canada
Finance is a popular MBA specialization in Canada, and it is in high demand in the job market. Renowned universities such as Rotman, Schulich, and Ivey offer top-notch finance programs.
Which MBA is the best in Canada?
Determining the best universities in Canada for MBAs depends on individual needs and goals. Consider factors such as ranking, specializations, program format, and career placement. Top-ranked programs include Rotman, Schulich, Ivey, Queen’s, and McGill.
Is an MBA in Canada worth it?
An MBA in Canada can lead to significant career advancement and salary increases. The strong job market and potential for permanent residency make it a compelling choice. However, it’s essential to carefully weigh costs against the potential return on investment.
Is an MBA costly in Canada?
While more affordable than the US or UK, an MBA in Canada remains a significant investment. However, various scholarships and financial aid options are available to help offset costs.
Ontario’s best universities for MBA
In Ontario, the top MBA colleges in Canada include Rotman School of Management (Toronto), Schulich School of Business (Toronto), Queen’s School of Business (Kingston), Ivey Business School (London), and McMaster University DeGroote School of Business (Hamilton). Each offers a unique academic experience and opportunities for career growth.
