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MBA in Canada Without GMAT in 2024: Top Universities, Fees, Admission Requirements

Updated on 05 February, 2024

Mrinal Mandal

Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert

We are all aware of the fact that the GRE or GMAT scores are required in almost every university of Canada. But do you know that there are some universities in Canada where MBA without GMAT is also possible? Yes, you heard it right. These colleges may require work experience, if not the GMAT. Let’s get into further details about pursuing an MBA degree with a GMAT score.

MBA without GMAT in Canada- Details:

 An MBA in Canada without GMAT for international students is possible at the following institutions in 2024: 

MBA in Canada Without GMAT in 2024: Top Universities, Fees, Admission Requirements
UniversityLocationProgram NameTuition Fees (CAD per year)GMAT Waiver Conditions
Schulich School of Business, York UniversityToronto, ONSchulich MBA112,140Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), significant work experience (5+ years), compelling essays, strong interview performance
DeGroote School of Business, McMaster UniversityHamilton, ONMcMaster MBA95,000Strong academic record (GPA 3.2 or higher), significant work experience (4+ years), GRE score considered as alternative
Queen's School of Business, Queen's UniversityKingston, ONQueen's MBA66,500Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), significant work experience (3+ years), strong leadership potential
Ivey Business School, Western UniversityLondon, ONIvey MBA104,000Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), significant work experience (3+ years), exceptional leadership qualities
Sauder School of Business, University of British ColumbiaVancouver, BCUBC MBA83,150Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), significant work experience (3+ years), demonstrated impact and potential
John Molson School of Business, Concordia UniversityMontreal, QCConcordia MBA54,220Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), work experience (minimum not specified), GMAT considered as alternative
Rotman School of Management, University of TorontoToronto, ONRotman MBA103,500Strong academic record (GPA 3.5 or higher), significant work experience (5+ years), exceptional leadership potential
Edwards School of Business, University of SaskatchewanSaskatoon, SKEdwards MBA41,000Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), work experience (minimum not specified), strong interview performance
Lazaridis School of Business & Economics, Wilfrid Laurier UniversityWaterloo, ONLaurier MBA49,738Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), work experience (minimum not specified), GMAT considered as alternative
Lakehead UniversityOrillia, ONLakehead MBA32,358Strong academic record (GPA 3.0 or higher), work experience (minimum not specified), GMAT considered as alternative

Please note:

  • This table is not exhaustive and there are many other universities in Canada offering MBA programs without GMAT requirements.
  • Tuition fees are approximate and may vary depending on program options and exchange rates.
    GMAT waiver conditions can vary between universities and programs. Always check the university website for the latest information.
  • Additional requirements, such as letters of recommendation and English language proficiency tests, may also apply.

How to get into MBA in Canada without GMAT: 

To get into MBA in Canada without GMAT needs a thorough understanding of all admission requirements. Though GMAT Exam is waived in these courses, other requirements are mandatory for international students to get into MBA colleges in Canada. Here are some of the requirements: 

  • Higher GPA score in your bachelor’s course is a mandate. It has to be higher than the minimum requirements at your preferred university. 
  • Work experience of 2-3 years will aid you in getting admission without the GMAT.
  • Showcasing your undergraduate degree, internships, and skills in your resume or CV may help. 
  • Strong letters of recommendation (LORs) are also vital to get admission into an MBA course without the GMAT. 

Other MBA Courses in Canada without GMAT:

Several universities in Canada offer other MBA courses without the GMAT. They include the following: 

  • Accelerated MBA at Queen’s University (Smith School of Business) for Business Graduates. The course requires work experience of 2 years and an undergraduate degree in accounting, business, or marketing. 
  • Executive MBA at York University. GPAs should be higher than or at least B+ to gain admission. Also, students graduating in the Schulich BBA course in the last five years need not provide GMAT scores. 
  • Part-Time & Accelerated MBA at Ivey Business School Toronto. 
  • Executive & Part-Time MBA at the University of Toronto. 
  • Executive MBA at McGill University. 
  • Executive MBA at HEC Montreal. 
  • Executive MBA at Concordia University. 
  • The Business Skills Development course at Lakehead University. It is a 1-year course with 3 terms in all. Students completing this course can join an MBA course without the GMAT score. 
  • A part-time MBA program of 5 years or 1-year accelerated MBA course at Thompson Rivers University. In this case, TOEFL scores are a must. 

MBA in Canada for Indian Students without GMAT- Eligibility:

  • Minimum of 3.0 GPA and more in an undergraduate course.
  • Work experience minimum 2 years for students graduating with 4 years of undergraduate courses.
  • Work experience minimum 3 years for students graduating with 3 years of undergraduate courses. 
  • At least 2 or 3 LORs from academic and professional supervisors. 
  • Latest Resume or CV showcasing the details of work experiences and internships.  

MBA in Canada without GMAT: Work Experience: 

Some institutions accept students without work experience for MBA programs. They include the following: 

  • Thompson Rivers University
  • New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver
  • Vancouver Island University
  • Dalhousie University 
  • Cape Breton University
  • Saint Mary’s University
  • University of Alberta
  • Queen’s University 
  • University of Windsor

Average Costs of MBA without GMAT in Canada: 

The average cost of an MBA in Canada without GMAT includes the following: 

  • Tuition Costs- Approximately CAD 45,000 or INR 27 lakhs. 
  • Living Costs- Approximately CAD 8,670 per term or INR 5.19 lakhs per term. 

Admissions Deadline for MBA without GMAT in Canada: 

The admission deadline for MBA without a GMAT in Canada varies in different colleges and universities. The deadline for January intakes lies between June to July for international students. The deadline for September intakes lies between October to January for international students. 

 

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Frequently Asked Questions:

Is GMAT Required for MBA in Canada?

Most Canadian and global universities need GMAT scores for testing the skills and knowledge of MBA applicants. Yet, there are some universities and business schools in Canada that accept aspirants without GMAT scores. However, many of them insist on other requirements like the professional experience of two-three years or even specific TOEFL scores. They may also require minimum GPA scores from candidates.

Which Exam is Required for MBA in Canada?

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is the main examination for pursuing an MBA in Canada. Most universities and colleges need GMAT scores for admitting aspirants to their MBA programs. However, some institutions accept candidates without GMAT scores as well. They follow other requirements like TOEFL or IELTS scores (proof of English language proficiency), work experience, SOPs, CVs or Resumes, and LORs. Hence, in an ideal scenario, both GMAT and IELTS or TOEFL help get admission into an MBA program in Canada.

 

Is GMAT Waived for 2024?

With the continued occurrence of coronavirus cases and fluctuations in travel and health and safety guidelines throughout the world, many international universities have already waived their GMAT and GRE admission requirements for the Fall 2024 and Spring 2024 sessions. It will be a relief to many international applicants who have been unable to sit for these examinations.

What GMAT Score Do You Need to Do an MBA in Canada?

Reports say that 550 is the minimum GMAT score needed for getting admission into an MBA college/university in Canada. The average score is usually between 500-600 as per the criteria at most institutions. It is, of course, possible to apply for an MBA without GMAT at several institutions. However, you should meet the other criteria like specific IELTS scores, submitting a good SOP, LORs, resume, and clearing the interview. Many institutions insist on a GPA of 3.0 or higher as the candidate’s score in their undergraduate course.

Can I get into a top MBA college without GMAT in Canada?

Yes, there are top colleges in Canada that offer MBA without GMAT. Here’s a list:

  • Schulich Business School
  • DeGroote Business School
  • Thompson Rivers University
  • New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
  • Lakehead University
  • Wilfrid Laurier University

Can a fresher do an MBA in Canada?

Yes, a fresher can do an MBA in Canada. Universities are there that offer MBA without any work experience. Here’s a list:

  • Thompson Rivers University
  • New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver
  • Vancouver Island University
  • Dalhousie University 
  • Cape Breton University
  • Saint Mary’s University
  • University of Alberta
  • Queen’s University 
  • University of Windsor

When should I start applying for fall 2024?

For Fall (September session) intakes, the deadlines will be between October to January. So, you can start applying in October.

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Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert

Mrinal Mandal is a study abroad expert with a passion for guiding students towards their international education goals. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering, earned in 2018. Since 2021, Mrinal has been working with upGrad Abroad, where he assists aspiring students in realizing their dreams of studying abroad. With his expertise and dedication, he empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of international education, making their aspirations a reality.

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