Top 20 Canadian Universities Offering MBA Without GMAT in 2024

Are you planning to pursue an MBA in Canada, but do you still need to take the GMAT? The good news is that several top Canadian universities offer MBA programs that do not mandate the GMAT.

While a GMAT or GRE score is mandatory for admission to MBA programs abroad, some universities offer exemptions to these requirements under certain conditions.

For instance, some institutions consider work experience, professional achievements, or high undergraduate GPAs as sufficient instead of GMAT and GRE. Additionally, specific programs may offer their entrance exams or allow conditional admissions. Research on particular universities and their unique admission criteria that help you match your qualifications and goals.

Canada has exceptional MBA colleges, several of which rank in the top 50 of the QS World Rankings for MBA programs. Whether you are looking for specialization in Supply Chain Management, Finance, Marketing, or Business Analytics, Canada has some of the best MBA colleges in the world.

Many international students opt to pursue MBA programs in Canada due to the country's top-ranked universities, diverse specializations like Supply Chain Management, Finance, Marketing, and Business Analytics, and the availability of programs that do not require the GMAT.

This article explores the top ten universities in Canada that do not require the GMAT, eligibility requirements, different types of MBA programs and the cheapest university to study MBA in detail.

Popular MBA Specializations in Canadian Colleges/Universities

Canadian colleges and universities offer various MBA specializations that are popular among international students to meet the current industry trends. These programs enable the students to develop the essential skills and knowledge required for the job market:

1. Finance
2. Business Analytics
3. Human Resources (HR)
4. Marketing
5. International Business
6. HealthCare Management
7. Operations/Supply Chain Management

MBA Universities Without GMAT and Work Experience Requirements

Many Canadian universities offering MBA programs require students to have one or two years of work experience. However, some colleges and universities admit students without any work experience.

Here is the list of such universities that offer excellent opportunities for international students:

• Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto)
• McGill University
• Smith School of Business (Queen's University)
• University of Alberta
• Western University
• Schulich School of Business (York University)
• Dalhousie University
• HEC Montreal
• DeGroote Business School (McMaster University)
• Concordia University
• Ivey Business School (Lakehead University)
• Wilfrid Laurier University
• Saint Mary's University
• Brock University
• University of Northern British Columbia
• Thompson Rivers University (TRU)
• Vancouver Island University (VIU)
• New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), Vancouver
• Cape Breton University
• University Canada West (UCW)

Key Admission Criteria for GMAT-Exempt MBA Programs in Canada

International students who wish to pursue an MBA in a Canadian institution without a GMAT must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Submission of Academic Credentials

Applicants must submit all their undergraduate certificates, including mark lists, provisional certificates and other relevant certificates. However, A GPA of 3 or above is mandatory for most graduate programs.

2. Work Experience Certificate

You must include at least two years of work experience, either full-time /part-time. Experience certificate must be submitted along with four years of undergraduate courses.

3. English Language Proficiency

Include the Test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, etc., to prove your language proficiency. For different institutions, the required scores may vary.

4. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

The SOP is a mandatory requirement for all MBA programs in Canada. It outlines your study motif, reasons for selecting the particular program, and post-study plans. It should also contain details about your academic performance, work experience, internship, and future plans.

5. GRE scores

For some specialized MBA programs, such as Finance and Business Analytics, GRE scores may be mandatory. You may check the websites of various universities for more information.

6. Letter Of Recommendation

For some B-schools, a Letter of Recommendation from teachers, professors, or managers at work is required. Depending on the B-school, two to three letters may be needed.

7. A valid passport and Student visa

International students must have a valid passport; a student visa is mandatory for studying anywhere in Canada.

8. Resume/CV

An updated resume/CV may be required for some MBA programs. Keep yourself ready with a recent resume and necessary documents.

Some universities, like the University of Toronto, may accept students who have passed the CFA examination to study MBA. Different institutions require differing criteria. As an applicant, you must have a detailed understanding of the MBA program and the institution you chose to study. You may consult us for more details regarding the program, university selection, or application details.

What are the expenses of studying for an MBA in Canada?

Studying an MBA at any Canadian institution requires a considerable financial commitment; yet, it will be a valuable investment for the future, for sure.
On average, tuition fees are around CAD 45,000 annually, equivalent to approximately INR 27 lakh. You can expect living expenses at around CAD 8,650 per term, or about INR 5.18 lakh. International students can apply for scholarships or do part-time jobs to cover these expenses in Canada.

Affordable Universities for MBA Programs in Canada

Let us explore some universities that offer an MBA without GMAT with the cheapest tuition fees:

1. Thompson Rivers University
Tuition Fees (Total): CAD 48,064 or INR 29,47,705

2. New York Institute of Technology
Tuition Fees (For 45 Credits): USD 53,700 or INR 44,20,229

3. Lakehead University
Tuition Fees (annual cost): CAD 32,358 or INR 19,84,852

4. Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU)
Tuition Fees (Total): CAD 49,738 or INR 30,50,949

Things to Remember

Once you have mentally prepared to pursue an MBA without a GMAT in Canada, you must take care of the following requirements to become eligible:

1. Achieve a bachelor's degree with a higher GPA ( 3 or more).
2. Gain 2-3 years of work experience.
3. Highlight relevant qualifications and skills in your resume/CV
4. Obtain a strong letter of recommendation from your workplace/ institution.

Career opportunities for MBA graduates in Canada

International students who complete an MBA in any Canadian institution have lucrative career opportunities to explore. From Data Manager to CEO roles, potential candidates can earn between CAD 75,450 and CAD 150,348, which is equivalent to INR 45.5 lakhs to 92 lakhs annually.

The other best career options available for individuals after completing an MBA in Canada without GMAT include Managing Director, Management Consultant, Brand Manager, Data Analyst, Business Analyst, Advertising Director, Public Relations Strategist, and Chief Financial Officer. These roles offer competitive salaries and ample opportunities for career growth and advancement across various industries in Canada.

In Canada, most MBA programs mandate GMAT scores, but some top universities don't require it. Without GMAT, you can apply with other qualifications like your academic record, research experience, and recommendation letters. If you have an excellent academic track record, you can get into top Canadian universities, such as Thompson Rivers University, McMaster University, Dalhousie University, Cape Breton University, etc., for an MBA without taking the GMAT or having work experience.

For any inquiries regarding university selection, program specialization, or any other study-related concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us.

At ImmiLaw Global, we have proficient immigration lawyers and a team of overseas study experts ready to support tailored to your specific needs.

Contact us today for personalized assistance on your educational journey.

Read to Know: A Guide to Obtain a Letter of Acceptance to Study in Canada