John Molson MBA – Concordia University
- MBA admission Experts
- Apr 5
- 15 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Choose the John Molson MBA? A practical, flexible, and globally recognized MBA rooted in real-world learning.
Program Overview: Understand the structure, duration, scheduling options, and student demographics.
Curriculum and Learning Model : Explore the 45-credit framework, core courses, electives, and experiential learning opportunities.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living: A breakdown of tuition by residency, scholarships, exemptions, and Montreal living expenses.
Application Deadlines and Intakes: Term-wise deadlines, rolling admissions, scholarship cut-offs, and when to apply.
Admission Requirements: Detailed guide on GPA, GMAT/GRE, work experience, language tests, SOP, and references.
Step-by-Step Application Process: Complete walk-through of the online application process, document checklist, and post-submission flow.
International Student Info: Visa requirements, health insurance, tuition exemptions, and support for global applicants.
Career Outcomes and ROI: Average salaries, job functions, top industries, alumni network, and post-MBA support.
Conclusion: A recap of why the John Molson MBA stands out among Canadian MBA programs.
Why Choose the John Molson MBA?
Choosing the right MBA program is more than a checklist of rankings and tuition fees—it's about finding the ecosystem where your ambitions take root and grow. At the heart of downtown Montreal, Concordia University’s John Molson School of Business (JMSB) offers a compelling option for candidates seeking a globally respected, affordable, and experientially rich MBA.
The John Molson MBA stands out with its tagline: Practical. Flexible. Experiential. It’s more than branding—it’s a promise. Designed for both full-time professionals and career pivoters, the program delivers a balanced mix of core business fundamentals, hands-on case learning, and customizable electives, all supported by an inclusive academic culture.
Ranked among Canada’s most cost-effective MBA programs, JMSB provides a strong return on investment with an average graduate salary of $87,000 CAD, while charging only a fraction of the tuition compared to major U.S. programs. International students are especially drawn to the affordability of both tuition and living costs in Montreal—a vibrant city that blends North American opportunity with European flair.
What truly sets this program apart is its accessibility without compromise. The GMAT waiver policy for Canadian-educated applicants, rolling admissions, and flexible course schedules (including evening classes) make it highly attractive for professionals balancing work, life, and ambition.
The program draws students from over 30 countries, with a 40% international cohort, creating a dynamic classroom where diverse industries and cultural perspectives intersect. Whether you’re an engineer shifting to product management, a marketer aiming for leadership, or a nonprofit professional exploring business innovation, the John Molson MBA provides a space where career stories evolve.
Additionally, Concordia’s commitment to experiential learning—through real-world consulting projects, global case competitions, and deep alumni connections—means you don’t just study business; you practice it.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from tuition and curriculum to career outcomes and application strategy. Whether you’re just exploring options or preparing to apply, this is your one-stop resource to understanding how the John Molson MBA can transform your career.
2. John Molson MBA Program Overview
The John Molson MBA at Concordia University offers a well-balanced structure designed to meet the needs of today’s diverse and ambitious professionals. Whether you are pursuing a full-time MBA to make a career shift or balancing part-time study with a demanding job, this program is built with flexibility and accessibility at its core.
The program comprises a total of 45 credits, which are delivered through 15 courses—10 core courses and 5 electives. Full-time students typically complete the program within 20 to 24 months, while part-time students can take between 28 and 48 months, depending on their pace. Importantly, both full-time and part-time students have equal access to morning, afternoon, and evening classes. This flexibility enables working professionals to manage their schedules without compromising on the academic experience.
One of the defining characteristics of the John Molson MBA is its commitment to small class sizes and close student-faculty
interaction. With a student-to-professor ratio of approximately 30:1, participants are able to engage meaningfully with peers and instructors. The program emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, where the diversity of thought and professional backgrounds enhances classroom discussion and peer learning.
The diversity in the cohort is notable. Students come from over 30 countries, and approximately 40 percent of the class is international. The average age is 28, and most students enter with an average of six years of full-time, post-graduation work experience. This blend of youth and experience allows for dynamic exchanges in the classroom, where students learn not only from the curriculum but also from each other’s professional journeys.
The John Molson MBA is also designed for accessibility without diluting its academic rigour. While the admissions committee evaluates applicants holistically, the school offers a GMAT waiver for eligible students who have completed prior academic degrees in Canada. This policy supports a broader range of qualified applicants and reflects the program’s practical orientation.
Moreover, the program's structure supports students who want to tailor their education to specific career goals. With electives across key business disciplines and experiential learning integrated into the curriculum, the John Molson MBA serves as a platform for both specialization and exploration.
In short, this program is ideal for driven professionals who are looking for a personalized, flexible MBA experience with a strong academic foundation and practical orientation.
John Molson MBA Curriculum and Learning Model
The John Molson MBA at Concordia University is a 45-credit course-based program that balances rigorous academic foundations with real-world application. Designed with flexibility and relevance in mind, the curriculum equips students with the tools to lead in dynamic, global business environments.
Program Structure at a Glance
Component | Details |
Total Credits | 45 credits |
Courses | 15 courses (10 core + 5 electives) |
Program Length | 20–24 months (full-time) 28–48 months (part-time) |
Pre-Program Prep | MBA 640 “On-Ramp” – a virtual quantitative skills refresher (non-credit) |
Core Curriculum (30 Credits)
The ten core courses focus on building essential managerial capabilities and business acumen. Emphasizing the case method and data-driven decision making, these foundational courses span disciplines such as accounting, marketing, analytics, leadership, and strategy.
Course Code | Title | Credits |
MBA 641 | Responsible Manager | 3 |
MBA 642 | Financial Reporting for Responsible Decision Making | 3 |
MBA 643 | Managerial Analytics | 3 |
MBA 644 | Marketing Management | 3 |
MBA 645 | Economics for Organizational Decision Making | 3 |
MBA 646 | Financial Management | 3 |
MBA 647 | Managing People in Organizations | 3 |
MBA 648 | Business Process Management | 3 |
MBA 649 | Strategic Managerial Accounting and Control | 3 |
MBA 650 | Crafting and Implementing Successful Strategies | 3 |
Electives and Specializations (15 Credits)
Students choose five electives to tailor the program to their interests. These can be taken from one stream or across multiple areas.
Elective Areas | Notable Options / Features |
Finance | Risk management, investment analysis |
Marketing | Consumer behavior, brand management |
Management | Change leadership, business ethics |
Data Analytics (SAS Certified) | Predictive modeling, business intelligence |
Supply Chain & BTM | Logistics, digital transformation |
Experiential Learning | Case competitions, small business consulting |
Interdisciplinary (Across Faculties) | Access electives from outside the business school |
Students can also earn SAS certification in Data Analytics through select elective combinations.
Learning Approach
The program follows a hands-on pedagogy:
Case-based learning: Real business problems, real-time solutions.
Experiential projects: Consulting assignments with local businesses and startups.
Leadership development: Through group work, simulations, and presentations.
Global readiness: Exposure to international case competitions and culturally diverse classrooms.
The structure encourages both breadth and depth—students gain a holistic view of business while diving deep into areas aligned with their career goals.
This curriculum ensures that students graduate not just with academic knowledge but with practical decision-making capabilities honed through immersive learning.
4. John Molson MBA Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
One of the strongest advantages of the John Molson MBA at Concordia University is its affordability without compromising on quality. For both domestic and international students, the program delivers a compelling return on investment—especially when compared to MBA programs in the U.S. and other major Canadian cities.
MBA Tuition Fees by Residency Status
The total tuition is calculated based on the number of credits and the student's residency. Most MBA courses are 3 credits each.
Residency Status | Program Type | Estimated Total Tuition (CAD) |
Quebec Residents | Full-Time | $7,679 |
Non-Quebec Canadians | Full-Time | $21,768 |
International Students | Full-Time | $53,511 |
Quebec Residents | Part-Time | $9,679 |
Non-Quebec Canadians | Part-Time | $23,768 |
International Students | Part-Time | Not available (must be full-time) |
Scholarships and Financial Aid
All applicants are automatically considered for entrance scholarships—no separate application is required. Aid is awarded based on academic excellence and application strength.
Scholarship / Award | Eligibility |
Out-of-Province Award | $3,000 for non-Quebec Canadian students |
Hardeep Grewal MBA Scholarship Endowment | TBA |
Richard Joly MBA Scholarship for Indigenous Students | Indigenous applicants |
Scotiabank MBA In-Course Fellowship | Based on academic performance |
Hydro-Québec Graduate Award | Merit-based |
EduCanada Scholarships for Non-Canadians | International students |
In addition to university-funded scholarships, students can apply for Quebec government loans and bursaries, international fellowships, and country-specific funding schemes.
Payment Structure
Tuition is paid in installments at the start of each term. International students may be required to pay for the first year upfront for visa processing. Once fees are received, the International Students Office provides the necessary confirmation documents.
Tuition Exemptions for International Students
Some international students qualify to pay Quebec rates under special agreements or conditions:
Exemption Category | Eligibility |
French or Belgian Francophone citizens | Under Quebec government agreements |
Diplomats and their families | Based on status in Canada |
Convention Refugees in Canada | With approved documentation |
Cost of Living in Montreal
Montreal offers one of the most affordable student lifestyles in North America, especially for a city with a strong startup and tech ecosystem.
Estimated Monthly Expenses | Amount (CAD) |
Housing (shared apartment) | $500 – $900 |
Food and groceries | $300 – $500 |
Public transport (student fare) | $57 |
Miscellaneous/personal | $200 – $300 |
Total (monthly) | $1,100 – $1,700 |
Annual Living Costs typically range from $13,000 to $18,000 CAD, depending on lifestyle, housing preferences, and part-time work (if applicable).
Key Takeaway
For international students especially, the John Molson MBA is among the most cost-effective AACSB-accredited MBA programs in North America. Combined with automatic scholarship consideration and low living costs, the program offers strong value in a globally connected city.
5. John Molson MBA Application Deadlines and Intakes
The John Molson MBA at Concordia University offers two intakes each year—Fall (September) and Winter (January)—giving applicants the flexibility to align their academic journey with their professional and personal timelines. The program follows a rolling admissions process, which means that applications are evaluated as they are received, up until the deadline.
John Molson MBA Application Timeline Overview
Intake Term | Application Opens | Deadline (International) | Deadline (Domestic) |
Fall (September) | September (previous year) | March 1 | June 1 |
Winter (January) | January (previous year) | June 1 | October 1 |
Note: "Domestic applicants" include Canadian citizens and permanent residents. "International applicants" are those without Canadian PR or citizenship.
Key Features of the Admissions Process
Feature | Details |
Rolling Admissions | Files reviewed as they are completed—early application is strongly advised. |
Application Fee | $100 CAD (non-refundable) |
Deposit on Acceptance | $250 CAD (credited toward first tuition installment) |
Video Interview | Required after document submission; conducted via Kira Talent platform |
Intake Capacity | Limited seats per intake; Fall has more seats than Winter |
Admission Decisions | Within 6 weeks after file completion |
Scholarship Consideration Deadline
To be considered for entrance scholarships, students applying for the Fall intake must submit a complete application (with all documents) by:
| Scholarship Deadline | March 1 (Fall intake only) |
This includes transcripts, resume, GMAT (or waiver), statement of purpose, references, and any language test scores (if required).
Application Tips
Apply Early: While the deadlines extend into summer and fall, early applicants benefit from faster decisions, higher chances of scholarship funding, and ample time for visa processing.
Document Upload: Ensure that all components are submitted in the online portal before the deadline. Incomplete applications are not reviewed.
Check Status: Use Concordia’s Student Centre to monitor the receipt of documents, reference letters, and admission status.
Intake Planning Strategy
You should target... | If you... |
Fall Intake (Sept) | Want access to more scholarships, career fairs, and full course offerings |
Winter Intake (Jan) | Missed the Fall deadline or need more time to prepare application materials |
The Fall intake remains the more competitive option in terms of cohort size and recruitment opportunities. However, both intakes offer the full MBA experience and access to the same electives, experiential programs, and career support.
6. John Molson MBA Admission Requirements
The John Molson MBA program at Concordia University takes a holistic approach to evaluating applicants. Beyond academic credentials and test scores, the admissions committee looks for leadership potential, clarity of career goals, communication skills, and a readiness to contribute to a diverse learning environment.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission—but exceeding them certainly improves your chances.
Academic Requirements
Requirement | Details |
Bachelor's Degree | From a recognized/accredited institution |
Minimum GPA | 3.0 on a 4.3 scale |
Acceptable Fields of Study | Any (commerce, engineering, arts, sciences, etc.) |
Transcripts | Required for all post-secondary education; unofficial accepted at application stage |
Note: If transcripts are not in English or French, an official translation must be submitted along with the original.
Work Experience
Requirement | Details |
Minimum Experience | 2 years of full-time, post-graduation work experience |
Average of Admitted Students | 6 years |
Internships, co-ops, part-time work | Not counted toward the minimum |
CV/Resume | Must include education, employment history, achievements, and dates |
The admissions committee calculates work experience from the date of graduation to one month before the program start.
GMAT or GRE
Requirement | Details |
GMAT/GRE Score | Required unless eligible for waiver |
Competitive Score Range | Above 49th percentile (no official minimum cutoff stated) |
Test Validity | Score must be from the last 5 years |
Online GMAT Accepted | Yes, including screenshots at application stage |
GMAT Waiver | Available for applicants with Canadian degrees (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) |
English Language Proficiency
Test | Minimum Score Required |
TOEFL iBT | 95 overall, no band below 20 |
IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 overall, no band below 6.5 |
Duolingo English Test | 120+ (no section below 120) |
Exemptions: Applicants are exempt if they have completed at least 3 years of full-time study in English or French in approved countries, including Canada.
Additional Requirements
Document | Details |
Statement of Purpose | 500 words outlining your goals, motivation, and fit with the program |
Letters of Reference | 3 required (academic or professional, not subordinates or relatives) |
Passport/Residency Proof | Required for all applicants (passport, PR card, refugee status, etc.) |
Application Fee | $100 CAD (non-refundable, paid online) |
Video Interview | Kira Talent platform; invite sent post-application |
Tip for applicants: A compelling Statement of Purpose is your chance to tell your story. Highlight what drives you, how the John Molson MBA aligns with your goals, and what value you bring to the classroom.
7. Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying to the John Molson MBA at Concordia University is a straightforward process, designed to be accessible for both domestic and international candidates. While the program is competitive, the admissions team has outlined a clear and supportive path for applicants—from starting the online form to uploading final documents and completing the interview.
Below is a breakdown of the key steps involved in submitting a complete and competitive MBA application.
John Molson MBA Application Checklist
Document | Required? | Details |
Online Application Form | Yes | Available 12 months before the intake term |
Application Fee | Yes | $100 CAD (non-refundable) via credit card |
Transcripts | Yes | Unofficial copies accepted initially; official copies required if admitted |
GMAT/GRE Score | Yes* | Required unless eligible for waiver; online GMAT accepted |
Statement of Purpose | Yes | 500 words outlining goals, fit with the program, and background |
CV/Resume | Yes | Include full-time professional experience post-graduation |
English Proficiency Test Score | Yes* | TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo; exemptions apply |
Letters of Reference | Yes (3) | Academic or professional; no relatives or subordinates |
Copy of Passport or PR Document | Yes | For determining residency and fee category |
Video Interview | Yes | Conducted after file review; Kira Talent platform |
*Conditionally required based on academic background and country of origin.
John Molson MBA Application Portal Walkthrough
Step | What You Do |
1. Create Netname Account | Set up your login credentials for the Concordia Student Centre |
2. Select Program & Term | Choose “Graduate,” “MBA,” and the correct intake (Fall or Winter) |
3. Complete Application Sections | Fill in personal details, academic history, and referee information |
4. Upload Supporting Documents | PDF, DOCX, or image formats accepted; max file size: 5 MB per document |
5. Pay Application Fee | Secure payment via Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, or Discover |
6. Submit | Once submitted, a confirmation email with your student ID will be sent |
7. Video Interview | Expect an email from kiratalent with instructions |
Post-Submission Process
Application Confirmation: Within 24 hours of submission, you’ll receive an email with your student ID and a PDF copy of your application.
“To Do List” Update: Your Student Centre will reflect missing or pending documents.
Referee Follow-up: Referees will receive an auto-generated email to upload their letters within 14 days.
Kira Video Interview: Once documents are reviewed, you'll receive a link for the one-way recorded video interview.
Status Check: Track progress and document updates through your Student Centre dashboard.
Tips for a Strong John Molson MBA Application
Focus Area | Advice |
Timing | Apply early—especially if you want scholarship consideration |
Referees | Confirm their availability before listing them on the application |
SOP | Tailor it to John Molson MBA specifically; avoid generic MBA statements |
Resume | Clearly list roles, achievements, and career progression with dates |
Video Interview | Practice clear, confident, and concise responses under timed conditions |
8. International Student Info for John Molson MBA:
Concordia University’s John Molson MBA program attracts students from across the globe, with approximately 40 percent of each MBA cohort comprising international candidates. The university has built a strong ecosystem to support international students from the moment they apply to long after they graduate.
Whether you’re coming from India, France, Brazil, or Nigeria, here’s everything you need to know as an international applicant.
Visa and Study Permit Process
Once you are admitted, Concordia provides documentation to support your study permit and temporary resident visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on your country.
Step | Action |
Offer of Admission | Receive an official letter from Concordia |
Tuition Receipt | May need to pre-pay 1st year tuition to meet visa documentation requirements |
Apply for CAQ | Certificate of Acceptance of Quebec (CAQ) required before study permit |
Apply for Study Permit | Submit CAQ, admission letter, tuition receipt, and financial documents |
Processing Time | Varies by country (6–12 weeks on average) |
Tip: Begin your immigration process as soon as you receive your admission offer to avoid delays.
Tuition Exemptions for International Students at John Molson MBA:
Some international students may qualify for Quebec-resident tuition rates, significantly reducing their total costs.
Exemption Category | Eligibility Criteria |
French or Belgian Francophone Citizens | Must provide proof of citizenship and French language fluency |
Diplomats and Their Families | Accredited diplomatic status in Canada |
Convention Refugees | Recognized by Canadian authorities |
Health Insurance and Medical Coverage:
International students are automatically enrolled in Concordia’s mandatory health insurance plan unless covered by a government agreement.
Plan | Details |
Concordia Health Insurance | Covers doctor visits, hospitalization, diagnostics, prescriptions |
Cost (Annual Estimate) | Approximately $1,000 CAD |
Payment | Charged along with tuition |
Waiver Eligibility | Limited to certain bilateral agreements (e.g., France) |
Living in Montreal as an International Student:
Montreal is frequently ranked among the best student cities globally, known for its vibrant culture, low cost of living, and multilingual community. The city offers a balance of academic focus and lifestyle.
Estimated Monthly Expenses | CAD Amount |
Shared Housing | $500 – $900 |
Food & Groceries | $300 – $500 |
Public Transportation | $57 (reduced student fare) |
Personal Expenses | $200 – $300 |
Total | $1,100 – $1,700/month |
Concordia also offers orientation programs, career workshops, cultural events, and international student advisors to help ease the transition.
Support Services for International Students at Concordia University:
Service | Support Offered |
International Students Office (ISO) | Immigration, health insurance, arrival prep |
Graduate Student Support | Career coaching, mentorship, resume building |
ISO Letters & Receipts | Tuition receipts for visa application, estimation letters |
Student Hub | Portal for uploading documents and tracking application status |
International students not only thrive academically but also build strong networks within and beyond the Concordia community, setting themselves up for successful careers in Canada and globally.
9. Career Outcomes and ROI John Molson MBA
An MBA is one of the most strategic career investments you can make—and Concordia’s John Molson MBA delivers strong returns through a combination of affordable tuition, real-world experience, and competitive post-MBA salaries. With personalized career support and a growing global alumni network, students graduate with the skills, confidence, and connections to advance in today’s evolving job market.
Post-MBA Salary Snapshot
Metric | Value (CAD) |
Average Base Salary | $87,000 |
Bonus Potential | Variable (performance-based) |
3-Year ROI | Among best in Canada |
Tuition Cost (International) | $53,511 |
Estimated Break-even Period | Less than 2 years |
Compared to top U.S. MBAs costing $120,000+, John Molson offers a clear financial edge—especially for international students aiming to stay and work in Canada post-graduation.
Career Development Support
The Career Management Services (CMS) team at the John Molson School of Business works closely with students throughout their MBA journey, starting in the first semester.
Service | What It Includes |
1:1 Career Coaching | Resume reviews, interview prep, LinkedIn optimization |
Career Strategy Workshops | Personal branding, salary negotiation, Canadian workplace norms |
Employer Info Sessions | Industry insights, recruiter Q&As |
Job Portal Access | Internships and full-time job postings tailored to MBA profiles |
Alumni Mentorship | Connect with successful JMSB graduates for guidance and networking |
Students are also encouraged to participate in career treks, business case competitions, and consulting projects to build a Canadian professional network—a key advantage for international candidates seeking post-MBA employment in Canada.
Industries and Roles After Graduation
Graduates pursue roles across a wide range of sectors, often leveraging the MBA for vertical or lateral transitions.
Top Industries | Common Roles |
Finance & Banking | Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Risk Consultant |
Consulting | Strategy Consultant, Change Manager |
Technology & Startups | Product Manager, Business Analyst |
Supply Chain & Operations | Logistics Manager, Procurement Specialist |
Marketing & Brand Management | Brand Strategist, Growth Marketing Manager |
Healthcare, Aerospace, Non-Profit | Sector-specific leadership roles |
The flexibility of electives allows students to align their coursework with desired industry paths and skill sets.
Alumni Network and Lifelong Value
Concordia’s John Molson School of Business maintains an active alumni network spread across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Through the MBA Society, students engage with alumni via speaker events, networking mixers, and mentorship pairings.
Alumni Engagement Opportunities | Examples |
Career Panels & Guest Lectures | Featuring executives from Deloitte, BMO, Bombardier |
Mentorship Programs | Industry-specific pairing for advice and guidance |
LinkedIn Alumni Network | Thousands of active MBA alumni worldwide |
The result is more than a degree—it’s a professional transformation backed by a global community and a proven path to growth.
Conclusion
The John Molson MBA at Concordia University is more than just a degree—it's a launchpad for career reinvention, leadership growth, and global connection. With a curriculum grounded in practicality, a faculty that values innovation, and a student body that brings perspectives from across the world, this program balances academic rigor with real-world application.
What makes this MBA truly distinctive is its combination of affordability, flexibility, and post-MBA outcomes. Whether you're transitioning careers, accelerating your trajectory, or planning to build a future in Canada, the John Molson MBA offers a powerful return on your personal and financial investment.
If you’re searching for a program that will shape your future without reshaping your life, this may be the MBA you’ve been waiting for.
Ready to take the next step?Start your journey toward the John Molson MBA today with GOALisB’s expert application strategy.
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