Canada is one of the top study destinations for Indian students looking to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA). The country is well-known for its strong economy and reputed business schools and universities that provide quality education and globally recognised degrees.
Many Canadian universities offer MBA programmes without requiring the otherwise often-mandatory Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), which is a standard test for graduate business programmes that assesses your skills in analytical thinking and verbal, quantitative, and integrated reasoning.
If you are planning to pursue an MBA in Canada without GMAT, let’s look at the top universities offering such programmes, alternative requirements, benefits and challenges of taking this route, and more.
Key highlights:
- Top Universities in Canada for an MBA Without GMAT
- Types of MBA Degrees Offered in Canada Without GMAT
- MBA in Canada Without GMAT - Eligibility Criteria
- Application Process for an MBA in Canada Without GMAT
- Benefits of Pursuing an MBA Without GMAT
- Challenges and Considerations of GMAT-Exempt MBA
- Career Prospects After an MBA in Canada Without GMAT
Top Universities in Canada for an MBA Without GMAT
Here are the top colleges in Canada that offer an MBA programme without GMAT:
- Rotman School of Management - University of Toronto
- Thompson Rivers University (TRU)
- Vancouver Island University (VIU)
- University of Northern British Columbia
- New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
- University of Canada West (UCW)
- Smith School of Business - Queen’s University
- DeGroote Business School - McMaster University
- Schulich School of Business - York University
- Lakehead University
- Ivey Business School - Western University
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- Haskayne School of Business - University of Calgary
- HEC Montréal
- John Molson School of Business - Concordia University
- Desautels Faculty of Management - McGill University
- Alberta School of Business - University of Alberta
- Sauder School of Business - University of British Columbia
Note: While many reputable MBA colleges in Canada offer GMAT-free MBA programmes or waive their GMAT requirements, applicants can choose a programme that aligns best with their goals and academics. However, it is always advisable to check the type of GMAT exemption with the university.
Understanding GMAT Waiver vs GMAT-Free
A GMAT-free MBA programme means the university doesn’t require a GMAT score at all, whereas a GMAT waiver indicates the test is generally required, but the university lets you skip it if you have a strong application.
Alternative Admission Criteria
Many Canadian universities also accept these alternatives to GMAT that display your capabilities and make for a strong application:
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): An alternative standardised test accepted by many institutions.
- High GPA (3.0 or above): A strong academic record showcasing your potential for rigorous MBA coursework.
- Professional Experience: Substantial work experience (at least 5 years), with recommendations highlighting leadership skills.
Types of MBA Degrees Offered in Canada Without GMAT
You can pursue a variety of MBA programmes without GMAT, as per your work experience and career goals. Here are the available MBA programmes in Canada without GMAT:
| Type | Duration | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time MBA | Years |
|
| Executive MBA | 1-2 Years |
|
| Accelerated MBA | 1 Year |
|
| Part-Time MBA | Often longer than full-time |
|
| MBA with Co-op | 2.4 years |
|
Here are some of the top fields in which students planning a GMAT-exempt MBA programme in Canada can specialise:
- Financial Management
- Marketing
- International Business
- Supply Chain Management
- Human Resource Management
- International Relationships
- Strategic Management
- Accountancy
- Operational Management
MBA in Canada Without GMAT – Eligibility Criteria
Here are the common eligibility requirements for pursuing an MBA in Canada without GMAT:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | An undergraduate degree from a recognised university, with a minimum 3.0 GPA (around 70% or higher in India) |
| Work Experience | Professional work experience (typically 1-5 years) |
| English Proficiency | Tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) |
| Standardised Tests | Some universities accept the GRE as an alternative to the GMAT |
| Additional Documents |
|
Application Process for an MBA in Canada Without GMAT
- Research and shortlist Canadian universities that offer MBA programmes with GMAT waivers or don’t require the GMAT.
- Check eligibility criteria and prepare the required application documents.
- Prepare a resume, detailing work experience and achievements.
- Gather SOP and LORs.
- Submit the application on the university’s website with the required documents.
- Prepare for interviews, if required.
- Wait for the acceptance before proceeding with the student visa formalities.
Benefits of Pursuing an MBA Without GMAT
- Time and Cost Saving: You can save time on GMAT preparation, which can be better spent building a stronger application.
- Reduced Stress: You can focus on strengthening your profile and building other skills without the pressure of achieving high GMAT scores.
- Simplified Application Process: You receive a more streamlined admission process, where institutions evaluate candidates based on professional skills, academic achievements, and personal accomplishments.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: You can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada after completing your MBA from PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to gain valuable Canadian work experience for up to 3 years.
Challenges and Considerations of GMAT-Exempt MBA
Before applying to an MBA programme without the GMAT, students should consider increased competition and focus on the rest of their profile, particularly professional experience, essays, and recommendations. Also, since GMAT-free options are not easily available, thorough research is essential to find the right business schools that align with their career goals and qualifications.
Career Prospects After an MBA in Canada Without GMAT
Here are the popular job roles after completing an MBA in Canada without GMAT:
- Business Strategist
- Business Development Manager
- Market Research Analyst
- Investment Banker
- Financial Analyst
- Financial Manager
- Portfolio Manager
- Management Consultant
- Marketing Associate
- Project Manager
So, can you pursue an MBA without GMAT? Yes, if you possess good academic scores, want to save time and fulfil all the requirements for your shortlisted university.
However, pursuing an MBA abroad can be expensive. We at Avanse Financial Services believe that financial constraints should not limit you from realising your academic goals. That’s why we offer student loans for studying abroad. Our hyper-personalised education loan without collateral are designed to support students in their academic journey abroad.
Our education loans offer 100% financing, quick sanctions and flexible repayment options. If you have any questions regarding our education loans interest rates, the loan process, collateral or anything else, we are just a call away. Connect with us to plan your MBA abroad.
Also Read: MBA in Canada: Benefits, Types, Top Universities, Eligibility Criteria, and Cost of Education
