A comprehensive guide for prospective MBA students in Canada (2024)

Pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) is a strategic first step for aspiring professionals in the business world. Investing in an MBA can significantly benefit your professional future, gaining access to experienced staff with valuable connections. Graduates can also anticipate a substantial salary increase upon graduation. An MBA gives you a competitive advantage, providing the necessary skills and knowledge to be a high performer and achiever.

If you’re considering pursuing an MBA in Canada, you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights and tips to help you make informed decisions and navigate the exciting journey of pursuing an MBA in Canada. We’ll also highlight international options that are recognized in Canada, opening up a world of possibilities for your MBA journey.

Choosing the Right Program 

Canada’s MBA landscape is rich with opportunities for future business leaders, just like you.  

A strong economy, a robust approach to innovation, and a welcoming, diverse crowd with a range of ambitious career prospects fuel Canada.  

While there are many highly regarded MBA programs scattered across the nation, you must pursue the program and school that best matches your requirements and needs.  

Here are some considerations when researching the best MBAs in Canada:  

• The Curriculum and Specializations: Determine if the curriculum and specializations align well with your career goals and interests, including the length of the program and if it’s full or part-time. MBA programs also offer different teaching methods, like offering the program in person, online, or a blend of both. 
• The Faculty and Resources: Learn about the faculty members, background, achievements, and their areas of expertise to learn what resources are readily available.  
• The Delivery Method: Consider the program’s location and how this aligns with your personal and professional goals. Online programs offer wonderful flexibility, allowing you to complete the course wherever you wish! Being online makes it more cost-effective too. Oppositely, in-person programs get points for networking opportunities but drop points for their more significant time and financial commitment. Consider your lifestyle, preferred learning style, and career objectives to make the best choice. 
• The Cost: MBA programs come with a price tag, so it’s important to seek one that meets your needs and you are happy to invest into them. Don’t forget to consider the strong return on investment that an MBA offers, such as increased earning potential, new career opportunities, a broader professional network, and enhanced skills that make you more competitive in the job market.  
• The Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can be the difference between landing a leading job or not! Be sure to research the alumni network for networking or mentorship opportunities.  
• The Program’s Reputation: Research the reputation of the MBA programs you are interested in. You can do this by reading the program’s website, reading feedback from alumni, and using third-party research. Focus on programs that are accredited and well-regarded in the business community. 

Pursuing an MBA is a big decision that should be backed up by significant research! All research should have a personalized angle, carefully considering your skills, academic background, and career aspirations.  

To do that, it can be helpful to ponder long-term questions: Where do you see yourself in five or ten years? What achievements have you made, and what are your future aspirations? How will an MBA program support you in your desired industry or sector?  

By ruminating these challenging yet thought-provoking questions, you can happily select a program that aligns with your long-term objectives and sets you on a path to success!  

What to Expect from an MBA in Canada 

Pursuing an MBA program in Canada is an enriching experience that goes beyond the classroom. When you opt to attend The Australian Institute of Business, you join a program that is accredited, internationally recognized, and has an extremely flexible learning schedule.  

Here are some key elements to look forward to for an MBA in Canada  

1. Global Recognition: Canadian MBA programs are highly respected internationally for their rigorous standards and quality of learning. Graduates are typically well-recognized globally, enhancing their appeal to worldwide employers. In Canada, AIB is listed in the CanLearn International Master List of Designated Educational Institutions and holds national accreditation from the National Centre for Management Accreditation (NCMA) of the Canadian Institute of Management. 

2. Networking Opportunities: Most Canadian MBA programs have sweeping networking possibilities with industry professionals, peers, and alumni, leading to valuable mentorships, partnerships, and referrals. In Canada alone, AIB’s network of students and alumni is over 2,000, all scattered around Canada, with the largest local communities in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. Not only will you have access to these folks, but with more than 20,000 students and graduates across 95 countries, your networking perspectives are endless!   

3. Multicultural Exposure: Canada’s multicultural environment and diverse student population create an enriching learning experience. Interacting with peers from varied backgrounds promotes cultural understanding, adaptability, and a global perspective, all of which are highly valued skills in today’s globalized business environment. 

4. Business Opportunities: Canadian business schools regularly offer students opportunities to participate in real-world projects, internships, or co-op placements, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop practical skills, and establish professional relationships that can be instrumental in their future careers. Similarly, the curriculum at AIB is designed with practical learning approaches to support your growth in current business education that can be immediately applied in the workplace. 

5. Enhanced Leadership Skills: Many MBA programs in Canada offer a combination of coursework, case studies, and experiential learning so students can learn essential skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, and effective communication, which are highly sought after in many roles. An MBA from AIB offers online delivery, a strong industry orientation, and the ability to specialize in one of five accredited specializations or select from a variety of electives to customize your learning to align with your career goals.  

6. Competitive Salaries: The advanced knowledge, skills, and leadership attributes gained during an MBA program contribute to a potential high earning potential in future jobs.  

Application Tips When Applying For A Canadian MBA  

Are you ready to take on the challenge of business school?  You must strive to stand out on the application!  

The first step is to ensure you qualify. The majority of MBA programs in Canada request that applicants hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for their final two years. 

MBA Eligibility Criteria at AIB 

To apply, one must meet at least one of these requirements:  

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) and a minimum of two years of relevant work experience. 

2. An Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree (AQF Level 6), or equivalent, plus a minimum of three years relevant work experience. 

3. A minimum score of 550 on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), plus at least three years of relevant work experience.  

4. At least five years of relevant work experience, including at least three years of management experience or significant technical expertise. 

In addition, all applicants must meet English language requirements.  

We don’t stop there! Applicants may be able to obtain direct entry into the AIB MBA program if they meet one of the following requirements: 

• A bachelor’s honours degree, Graduate Certificate, or Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) or equivalent in any discipline, along with a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. 
• A bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent, along with a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. 

The Application  

Are you eligible? Great! Reserve your spot at AIB. 

The next step is to start the application process.  To stand out, loudly showcase your range of skills and potential! Enclosed in your application needs to be an updated and detailed  resume 

Be sure to carefully tailor your resume to highlight your readiness for the MBA program, emphasizing leadership, teamwork, entrepreneurial background, and community engagement. List all relevant work experience in reverse chronological order, beginning with your most recent professional job. When discussing each role, remember to include the company’s name, location, duration you worked there, and comprehensive bullet points discussing your relevant responsibilities and achievements.  

Depending on your entryway pathway to AIB, we may need to hear firsthand from professional and/or academic references. Collate strong references from a range of fields or experiences that meet all the eligibility requirements for references.  

Here are some additional suggestions to help you stand out: 

• Begin the application process early to give yourself sufficient time to gather all the necessary materials and adequately prepare your essays and recommendations. 
• Be loud and proud when showcasing your academic and professional achievements in your application. Highlight all your leadership experience, extracurricular activities, or community involvement. 
• Personalize your resume to demonstrate your interest and fit. Be authentic and showcase your unique perspective and aspirations. 

Staying true to yourself and proudly highlighting your accomplishments will get you very far in the application process!  

Pursuing An MBA With The Australian Institute of Business  

The Australian Institute of Business (AIB) is an MBA that strives to equip students with the tangible tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment. It is globally recognized and respected for the following reasons:  

1. Flexibility: AIB offers a flexible MBA program that can be studied anytime from anywhere, making it extremely accessible for working professionals or those with commitments. The program can be completed in as little as one year, or can be spread out over 3 years, and with more than 10 start dates throughout the year, you can fast-track your future whenever it suits you!  

2. Practicality:  The program focuses on arming students with practical and real-world applications, designed for long-term success in the business world. 

3. Accreditation: AIB’s MBA program is accredited by the National Centre for Management Accreditation (NCMA) of the Canadian Institute of Management, ensuring the program’s standards are high in quality and relevance. 

4. Experienced Faculty: Educators at AIB are experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and industry experience, providing valuable insights and guidance. 

5. Unique Networking Chances: AIB provides excellent opportunities to network with other professionals, alumni, and industry leaders, which is valuable for building connections and expanding your network. With AIB, you gain access to the coveted alumni community with more than 16,000 business school graduates spanning over 95 countries, collectively holding over 24,000 qualifications. 

6. Program Specializations: AIB offers a range of specializations within its MBA program, such as Human Resource Management, Entrepreneurial Management, Finance, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, And Marketing Management, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals. 

7. A Strong Reputation: AIB is on track to becoming a household name for MBA programs in Canada! AIB’s inclusion in the CanLearn International Master List of Designated Educational Institutions and national accreditation by the National Centre for Management Accreditation solidifies the stature of the program within higher education in Canada. With a history of excellent educational values spanning 40 years and an ever-growing network of over 20,000 students, AIB is respected for its innovative online delivery, industry-focused curriculum, and flexible study options, making it a strong choice for many aspiring – and current – business professionals in Canada. 

A degree from AIB equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a dynamic and competitive business career.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is the Fast-Track MBA with AIB equivalent to a Canadian Master’s Degree? 

It sure is! Students who wish to prove master equivalency have used organizations such as WES Canada (World Education Services) and IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service) to validate the equivalence of their AIB MBA to a Canadian Master’s degree.  

What is the duration of AIB’s MBA program in Canada? 

AIB’s MBA program is deliberately flexible and supportive, allowing students to complete the program at their own pace. The majority of students complete the program in as little as  12 months to 2 years or more, depending on their preferred study load, work, and how many breaks they take.  

Can I keep working at my job while studying in AIB’s MBA program in Canada? 

Students may work while studying, as the program is designed to be flexible and accessible for working professionals. However, one must ensure that work commitments will not interfere with their studies.  

Does AIB’s MBA program offer scholarships? 

At this time, AIB does not offer any fully funded scholarship programs. However, our program is an affordable option within Canada and is registered as an International Designated Educational Institution by CanLearn which means that eligible students can access financial assistance, including loans and grants, through provincial, territorial, and federal governments.  

What Does Your Future Hold? 

Pursuing an MBA in Canada is a rewarding and transformative experience that can fling open many doors to inspiring career opportunities! 

By carefully researching your options, preparing a strong application, and embracing the opportunities for growth and learning, you can make the most of your MBA journey in Canada.  

Are you ready to step into your future with an MBA from AIB? Learn more about our Master of Business Administration