Do We Need a GMAT Score for an MBA in Canada?
CourseCompare's Learning Advisors and its editorial team have compiled a comprehensive list of MBA programs that either do not require a GMAT or will waive the requirement under certain circumstances. This article will explore which Canadian business schools follow these relaxed policies and what other factors play a significant role in MBA admissions.
No GMAT Required
Several popular MBA programs in Canada do not require a GMAT score or make it optional, especially if candidates can demonstrate sufficient work experience or professional achievement. Here are some notable programs:
Fredericton University MBA
Fredericton University's MBA program explicitly states it does not require a GMAT score.
Athabasca University Online MBA
Athabasca University's Online MBA program does not require a GMAT score. However, a 600 GMAT score is recommended if the GPA is lower than B.
Degroote School of Business, McMaster University
The Degroote School of Business MBAMBA program waives the GMAT requirement for applicants who have a GPA above B. For lower GPAs, a GMAT score of 600 is recommended.
Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics, University of Guelph MBA
This program is only mandatory for applicants from an honours program who do not have the required work experience.
Laurentian University MBA
Laurentian University’s MBA program does not require GMAT scores in 2022-2023 due to the impact of the pandemic. GMAT scores were previously required but have been waived in the current year.
University Canada West (UCW) MBA
UCW considers either a GMAT score, Bachelor's of Commerce, GRE, CPA/CA certification, or 3 years of professional experience with evidence of career progression and/or training as acceptance criteria.
How GMATs are Weighted
While GMAT scores are important for admission to many MBA programs, the quality of your resume and your work experience are just as crucial. Darren Dahl, Senior Associate Dean of Faculty and Research at the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Business, emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive self-presentation:
A lot of what we're looking at is how you present yourself. Do we see you fitting the values and the goals of this program specifically? Sometimes students are exceptional in some areas but don’t fit with the type of cohort that we are trying to build.
The experience and achievements listed on your resume are critical. Admissions teams want to see what you have done in the past that makes you stand out from other applicants. Students who can prove they made a significant impact at their workplaces are often top candidates, even without a GMAT score, especially if they have a score in the high range above 700.
Why Some Schools Have Dropped the GMAT
Dr. Sheri McKillop, Vice President of Academics at the University of Fredericton, believes that a single test should not determine one's academic future. She explains:
We rigorously screen our applications. Through the application process, we find out if a person is or is not suited for the program, and we have a very low dropout rate as a result. Some people may have test anxiety or learning disabilities that may affect their performance, but this does not mean they cannot excel in an MBA program.
McKillop also emphasizes the importance of obtaining independent recommendations from former bosses or managers who can attest to the candidate's strengths and qualifications.
We look for students who have experience in 10 course areas, including economics, finance, global business, accounting, and HR. We consider these to be general business areas.
Choosing the Right Program
If you still have questions about which MBA program to choose, you can visit CourseCompare’s comprehensive ranking of online MBA programs. Alternatively, you can speak with a Learning Advisor from CourseCompare to develop a personalized learning plan.
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Keyword: GMAT, MBA in Canada, Canadian MBA programs