Admissions and Applications
If I fulfil the minimum criteria for admission, what are my chances of entry?
Fulfilling the minimum criteria only guarantees consideration for admission to the MBA program. Admission into the MBA program often depends upon both your application and the applications of the other candidates who are applying for the same program. Successful applicants tend to significantly exceed the admissions criteria both quantitatively and qualitatively.
What are the most heavily weighted factors?
All aspects of your application are important. The admissions committee does not weigh one factor more than another and considers the whole picture. The committee looks at the GPA, GMAT, and years of work experience and also the quality of the statement of intent, references, academic background, work and extra-curricular experiences. Your references support your application by providing us with independent assessments of your academic or work experience, while your statement of intent provides you with the opportunity to highlight your strengths and suitability to the Alberta MBA program.
Do the references have to be prior instructors?
No, the references may be prior or current instructors, supervisors or employers. In most cases, at least one reference will be professional. The others can be academic or professional, depending on what is most appropriate to your situation. Your references should give the admissions committee a picture of your managerial experience and potential as well as your ability to handle the demands of the program.
What is a competitive GMAT score?
Our minimum required score is 550. Assessing how competitive your GMAT score is depends on the overall quality of your application and the quality of applications of other candidates. The GMAT is just one factor that we consider when making our decision. With our most recent class, the average GMAT score was 630.
How many applications are submitted each year?
On average, we receive approximately 400 applications to the full-time program each year. In addition, we receive approximately 100 applications to the part-time program each year.
How many spaces are available each year?
Admission decisions are based on the overall quality of each applicant. We typically look for a class of 60 students each for our full-time and part-time programs. The class size will vary each year depending on the applicant pool.
Does my undergraduate degree have to be in business or commerce to apply to the MBA program?
No, it does not. We admit applicants who have a variety of academic backgrounds. Candidates hold degrees from a wide range of areas including arts, business, engineering, sciences, music, nursing, education, and fine arts.
Does my applied undergraduate degree meet admission requirements?
We look for applicants to hold a traditional three or four-year undergraduate degree. We can consider applicants holding an applied undergraduate degree, but we would look for these candidates to have professional experience and test scores above our minimum requirements.
When should I apply?
Apply early. It is to your advantage to submit your complete application as early as possible before the deadline, as competition is strong and enrolment is limited. Completed applications are evaluated on a rolling basis. This means once an application is complete, we would make a decision within a few weeks rather than waiting until our application deadline. The admission process is competitive and late applications will be at a disadvantage.
When is the application deadline?
Our application deadline is typically June 1st for Fall admission. Exact deadlines are listed in the online application system. Due to the length of time required to make arrangements to enter Canada, we recommend international applicants to apply as early as possible.
When are the entry points into the program?
The end of August/beginning of September is the one and only entry point for both the full-and part-time MBA programs. Our FastTrack MBA begins with a one-week long intensive session in mid-August each year. As well, all full-time MBA students are required to take part in our comprehensive orientation program in mid-August.
If my file is missing just a few materials, will it still be assessed?
Since the admissions committee has a "whole package" approach, we do not assess a file until it is complete. For this reason, we encourage you to ensure that all documentation is forwarded to us in a timely manner.
Will my application be reviewed if it is received or completed after the deadline?
Applications received or completed after the deadline will be given consideration only if positions remain available. It should be noted that late applicants are at a definite disadvantage because of the rolling admissions process.
Can I transfer to the Alberta MBA Program from another MBA school?
Requests for transfers from another MBA school is considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact our office to discuss the specifics of your situation.
Can I enter directly into the second year of the program if I have an undergraduate business degree?
No, we require at least two years of post-graduate work experience for entry into the Alberta MBA program. However, our FastTrack MBA would require students to complete 12 courses as opposed to 19.
Is it possible to get admitted without post-graduate work experience?
In general, a minimum of two years of post-graduate work experience is strongly preferred. In exceptional cases, less work experience may be considered.
Is it possible to get admitted without writing the GMAT?
We require a GMAT or GRE score for all applicants, with the following exceptions: (1) Individuals holding a PhD from a North American university, and (2) University of Alberta Bachelor of Commerce graduates who meet our GPA requirements.
Should I study for the GMAT?
We recommend that you do some revision prior to writing the exam. Practice tests and study guides can give you a good idea of how well you will be able to perform on the GMAT. The Faculty of Extension at the University of Alberta currently offers a GMAT Test Preparation Course. More information and scheduled dates are available on the Faculty of Extension Website.
Where can I write the GMAT?
The GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council. For more information about the test itself, refer to the GMAT website.
How long is my GMAT score valid?
Your GMAT score is valid for five years from the date of writing.
Can my GRE score replace the GMAT requirement?
We consider both GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) and GMAT scores. The minimum score we would look for is an overall score at the 50th percentile. Our GRE institution code is 0758.
What is the minimum acceptable GPA?
An applicant should hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized institution with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 out of 4.0, or a B standing, based on courses taken during the last 60 credits or two years of full-time study (see international equivalents). The average GPA for a typical entering class is 3.3/4.0.
How long does the full-time program take?
The full-time program can be completed in 16 months, although most students will complete the degree in 20 months. The full-time FastTrack program for business graduates can be completed in 10 months.
How long does the part-time program take?
The average part-time student takes 3.5 to 4 years to complete the degree. The program is flexible and part-time students can speed up the process if desired. All MBA students must complete the degree within 6 years. The part-time FastTrack program for business graduates can be completed in 22 months.