Canada is home to some of the top business schools in the world, attracting students from across the globe with its high-quality education, diverse culture, and post-graduation opportunities. In this guide, we’ll explore the top business schools in Canada—Ivey Business School, Rotman School of Management, Sauder School of Business, Smith School of Business, DeGroote School of Business, and Desautels Faculty of Management—and provide a step-by-step guide on how to get admitted.
1. Ivey Business School
Overview
Located at Western University in London, Ontario, Ivey Business School is renowned for its case-based learning method and strong alumni network.
Business Programs
⦁ MBA (Full-Time, Accelerated)
⦁ Executive MBA
⦁ Master of Management in Analytics (MMA)
⦁ MSc in Management (Business Analytics, International Business, Digital Management)
⦁ HBA (Honors Business Administration)
⦁ PhD in Business Administration
Admissions Requirements
⦁ Undergraduate Degree: Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
⦁ GMAT/GRE: Competitive score required (Might get a waiver).
⦁ Work Experience: At least two years of professional experience.
⦁ English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers.
⦁ Essays: Personal statement and essays specific to Ivey’s program.
⦁ Interview: By invitation only.
Program Highlights
⦁ Case Method Learning
⦁ International Exchange Opportunities
⦁ Strong Alumni Network
2. Rotman School of Management
Overview
Part of the University of Toronto, Rotman is known for its innovative curriculum and emphasis on integrative thinking.
Business Programs
⦁ MBA (Full-Time, Part-Time, Morning/Evening MBA)
⦁ Executive MBA
⦁ Global Executive MBA
⦁ Master of Finance
⦁ Master of Financial Risk Management
⦁ Master of Management Analytics
⦁ PhD in Management
⦁ Undergraduate Commerce Program
Admissions Requirements
⦁ Undergraduate Degree: Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
⦁ GMAT/GRE: Minimum GMAT score of 550 or equivalent GRE.
⦁ Work Experience: Average of 4 years.
⦁ English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers.
⦁ Essays: Several essays on career goals and personal experiences.
⦁ Interview: Required for all applicants.
Program Highlights
⦁ Integrative Thinking Approach
⦁ Strong focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship
⦁ Location in the heart of Toronto
3. Sauder School of Business
Overview
Located at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Sauder offers a global business perspective and a strong emphasis on sustainability.
Business Programs
⦁ MBA (Full-Time, Part-Time, International)
⦁ Master of Management
⦁ Master of Business Analytics
⦁ Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
⦁ PhD in Business Administration
⦁ Diploma in Accounting
Admissions Requirements
⦁ Undergraduate Degree: Minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0.
⦁ GMAT/GRE: Competitive score required.
⦁ Work Experience: Minimum 2 years of work experience.
⦁ English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers.
⦁ Essays: Personal statement and specific program essays.
⦁ Interview: By invitation only.
Program Highlights
⦁ Emphasis on Global Business
⦁ Sustainability and Social Impact Focus
⦁ Diverse Student Body
4. Smith School of Business
Overview
At Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, Smith is known for its team-based learning environment and vital leadership development programs.
Business Programs
⦁ MBA (Full-Time, Executive, Accelerated)
⦁ Master of Management Analytics
⦁ Master of Finance
⦁ Master of International Business
⦁ Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
⦁ PhD in Management
⦁ Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Admissions Requirements
⦁ Undergraduate Degree: Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
⦁ GMAT/GRE: Minimum GMAT score of 600 or equivalent GRE.
⦁ Work Experience: Minimum 2 years of professional experience.
⦁ English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers.
⦁ Essays: Several essays on leadership and career aspirations.
⦁ Interview: Required for all applicants.
Program Highlights
⦁ Team-Based Learning
⦁ Leadership Development
⦁ Strong Alumni Network
5. DeGroote School of Business
Overview
Located at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, DeGroote offers a balanced approach to business education with solid industry connections.
Business Programs
⦁ MBA (Full-Time, Co-op, Accelerated, Blended Learning)
⦁ Executive MBA
⦁ Master of Finance
⦁ PhD in Business Administration
⦁ Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Admissions Requirements
⦁ Undergraduate Degree: Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
⦁ GMAT/GRE: Competitive score required.
⦁ Work Experience: Minimum 1 year of work experience.
⦁ English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers.
⦁ Essays: Personal statement and career goals.
⦁ Interview: By invitation only.
Program Highlights
⦁ Industry Connections
⦁ Balanced Curriculum
⦁ Experiential Learning Opportunities
6. Desautels Faculty of Management
Overview
At McGill University in Montreal, Desautels is known for its international outlook and diverse student body.
Business Programs
⦁ MBA (Full-Time, Part-Time)
⦁ Executive MBA
⦁ Master of Management in Finance
⦁ Master of Management in Analytics
⦁ Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
⦁ PhD in Management
Admissions Requirements
⦁ Undergraduate Degree: Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
⦁ GMAT/GRE: Minimum GMAT score of 550 or equivalent GRE.
⦁ Work Experience: Average of 2 years.
⦁ English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers.
⦁ Essays: Personal statement and program-specific essays.
⦁ Interview: By invitation only.
Program Highlights
⦁ International Perspective
⦁ Diverse Student Body
⦁ Strong Research Focus
How to Get In: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Research Programs
Identify which program aligns best with your career goals. Consider program highlights, culture, location, and alumni network.
2. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Take the GMAT or GRE well in advance. Aim for a score that is competitive for your target schools.
3. Gather Application Materials
⦁ Transcripts: Ensure all academic transcripts are collected.
⦁ Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong references from professional or academic contacts.
⦁ Essays: Write compelling personal statements and essays tailored to each program.
⦁ Resume/CV: Highlight relevant work experience, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.
⦁ English Proficiency: If required, take the TOEFL or IELTS.
4. Submit Applications
Complete and submit online applications for each program. Pay attention to deadlines and ensure all sections are accurately filled out.
5. Prepare for Interviews
If invited, prepare thoroughly for interviews. Practice common questions and research the school extensively.
6. Apply for Financial Aid
Explore scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options available for international students.
Wrapping Up!
Getting into a top business school in Canada requires thorough preparation, a robust application, and clear goals. By following these steps and leveraging resources like The Acadway, you can enhance your chances of success. We offer personalized guidance from alumni of top business schools to help you craft standout applications. Start building your academic pathway today with The Acadway.