
Shreyashi Pathak Study Abroad Content Specialist
Study Abroad Content Specialist
Pursuing an MBA in Canada without GMAT has become an attractive option for international students looking for quality education, global career opportunities, and a hassle-free admission process. With 23 MBA colleges ranked among the top 300 in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, including 10 in the top 200, Canada offers world-class business programs. Many top universities, like Queen's University, York University, and Lakehead University, now waive the GMAT requirement, focusing instead on academic performance, professional experience, and leadership potential—making admissions more accessible for international applicants.
Explore: Best MBA Colleges in Canada 2025
Top Universities in Canada for MBA without GMAT
Here’s a list of top universities in Canada where international students can pursue an MBA without the hassle of taking the GMAT.
| University Name | Programs | Conditions for Waiving GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Smith School of Business, Queen's University | Accelerated MBA for Business Graduates | Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in business or a related field and at least two years of relevant work experience. |
| Schulich School of Business, York University | Full-Time MBA | GMAT requirement can be waived for applicants who graduated from Schulich's BBA or iBBA programs within the last five years with a minimum B+ average. |
| Lakehead University | MBA | Completion of the Business Skills Development Program with a minimum average grade of 70% can replace the GMAT requirement. |
| Thompson Rivers University | MBA | GMAT is optional; applicants should demonstrate quantitative and computing skills through education or work experience. |
| New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver | MBA in Management and MBA in Finance | GMAT scores are not required; admissions are based on academic performance and professional experience. |
| Ivey Business School, Western University | Accelerated MBA Program | GMAT is not required for HBA graduates with a 78% or higher average over HBA 1 and HBA 2 combined. |
| Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto | Full-Time MBA | GMAT requirement is waived for applicants who have passed all three levels of the CFA designation. |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | Part-Time Alternate Weekend MBA | GMAT scores are only mandatory for applicants who completed their undergraduate degree outside of Canada. |
| Vancouver Island University | MBA | No GMAT required; admissions are based on academic qualifications and work experience. |
| University Canada West | MBA | GMAT is not required; applicants are assessed based on academic credentials and professional experience. |
Admission to MBA in Canada without GMAT
Detailed admission requirements for MBA in Canada without GMAT is given in the table below.
| Parameter | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
| Academic Requirements | 3.0 GPA (85%) in a relevant Bachelor’s degree |
| Work Experience | 1-5 years |
| English Language Proficiency | IELTS: 6.5-7.0 | TOEFL: 90-100 |
| Documents Required | SOP (500 words) | 2-3 LORs | CV | Academic Transcripts | Cover Letter |
Cost of MBA in Canada without GMAT
Here’s a breakdown of the MBA tuition costs in Canada for international students at universities that waive the GMAT requirement.
| University Name | Tuition Fees (CAD) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Smith School of Business, Queen's University | $102,100 | ₹6,125,979 |
| Schulich School of Business, York University | $103,800 | ₹6,227,622 |
| Lakehead University | $30,000 | ₹1,799,700 |
| Thompson Rivers University | $36,000 | ₹2,159,640 |
| New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver | $30,000 | ₹1,799,700 |
| Ivey Business School, Western University | $123,500 | ₹7,409,265 |
| Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto | $133,740 | ₹8,023,726 |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | $49,738 | ₹2,984,105 |
| Vancouver Island University | $36,000 | ₹2,159,640 |
| University Canada West | $35,100 | ₹2,100,849 |
Also Read:
Types of MBA in Canada without GMAT
International students can pursue a variety of MBA programs in Canada without GMAT, based on their experience and career goals. Here’s a table outlining the different types of MBA programs available.
| MBA Program Type | Duration | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time MBA | 2 years | Includes core modules such as Marketing Management, Economics, Financial Accounting, and Operations Management. Suitable for students who can commit full-time. |
| Executive MBA (EMBA) | 1-2 years | Designed for professionals with prior work experience. Focuses on leadership and strategic decision-making. Often allows students to continue working while studying. |
| Accelerated MBA | 1 year | Intensive program for individuals who want to complete the MBA in a shorter time. Covers the same core topics at a faster pace. |
| Part-time MBA | Varies (Longer than full-time) | Covers the same modules as a traditional MBA. Ideal for professionals who want to continue working while pursuing their degree. Offers flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes. |
Reasons to go for MBA without GMAT
A traditional MBA has its own advantages, from giving your application an edge (if you have a good GMAT score) to allowing you a greater choice of universities, but an MBA in Canada without GMAT can be considered for these reasons:
- Time-Saving: With GMAT waived off, you do not have to need to spend months to prepare for the test, saving you a significant amount of time.
- Cost Effective: Apart from the affordable universities for MBA in Canada mentioned above that you can apply to, not having to take the test saves you money by removing the need for the test fee ($ 275) and prep materials.
- Highlights Professional Achievements: MBA in Canada without GMAT leaves room for focusing on other important aspects of the application like work experience and professional achievements, which can be a great help for some of us who are more job-oriented than studious.
- Reduced Stress: Not taking the GMAT means you are freed of exam anxiety and can focus better on your essays and resume.
- Simplified Admission Process for International Students: Many Canadian universities waive the GMAT to make admissions easier and more accessible for international students.Instead of test scores, they focus on work experience, academics, and personal achievements.
Tips for Admission to MBA without GMAT
When applying for an MBA without GMAT, your application should highlight your prior work experience, achievements and potential through essays and recommendations. Here are some tips to help you get things right:
- Focus on highlighting your professional and academic achievements, creating a strong application.
- Do your research on MBA programs and their selection criteria thoroughly to find one that aligns with your career goals.
- In the absence of a GMAT score, all other aspects of your application carry more weight, including the interview. Prepare well for the interview process beforehand.
- Be clear on your reason for skipping GMAT, and try to show it in a good light.
- If you’re taking alternative exams like the GRE, make sure your scores stand out.
- Pay attention to the admission criteria, and make sure you fulfill all other requirements.
Also Check: Affordable MBA Colleges in Canada
Once graduated, students in Canada reportedly secure employment across top companies like Deloitte, EY, PwC, Accenture, Amazon, Capital One, and Scotiabank, among others. After pursuing MBA in Canada without GMAT, individuals can make a professional career with an average annual salary range of CAD 80,000 - 100,000 in the fields like Advertising Director, Brand Manager, Data Analyst and Public Relations Strategist etc.
FAQs
Ques: Are GMAT-free MBA programs in Canada as valuable as GMAT-required ones?
Ans: Absolutely! The value of an MBA depends on the university’s reputation, accreditation, faculty, and industry connections rather than just the GMAT requirement. Many top-ranked Canadian business schools offer MBA programs without GMAT and have excellent employment outcomes.
Ques: Will skipping GMAT affect my job prospects after MBA in Canada?
Ans: Ans: No, employers prioritize skills, experience, and business knowledge over standardized test scores. A strong academic record, networking, and industry exposure matter more for job placements in Canada.
Ques: Can I pursue an online MBA in Canada without GMAT?
Ans: Yes, Several universities like University Canada West, Thompson Rivers University, and Athabasca University offer online or hybrid MBA programs without GMAT, allowing students to study flexibly while continuing their jobs or managing other commitments.
Ques: Which industries hire MBA graduates from GMAT-free programs in Canada?
Ans: Graduates from GMAT-free MBA programs in Canada are hired across various industries, including finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, and supply chain management, with strong placement records in top companies like Deloitte, Amazon, and RBC.




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