McGill MBA: Complete Guide to the leading MBA in Canada
- MBA admission Experts
- 12 minutes ago
- 20 min read
In a world where the boundaries of business are constantly being redefined, the McGill Desautels Faculty of Management offers an MBA experience that is globally recognized, rigorously academic, and personally transformative. Located in Montreal, Canada, one of North America’s most vibrant, multicultural, and innovation-driven cities, McGill’s MBA program is designed for ambitious professionals seeking to accelerate their careers on a global stage.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Choose McGill Desautels MBA?
The McGill MBA is consistently ranked among the top programs in the world for its academic quality, international diversity, and value. With a flexible 12- or 20-month format, students can customize their MBA journey according to their professional timelines and learning needs—whether that means accelerating into the workforce quickly or taking time for internships, international exchanges, or deeper specialization.
What truly sets McGill apart, however, is its fusion of analytical rigor and real-world relevance. The program is structured to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly evolving global marketplace, blending foundational business knowledge with exposure to digital innovation, social impact, and cross-cultural fluency. With small class sizes, hands-on consulting projects, and access to a global alumni network spanning more than 180 countries, McGill offers a high-touch, high-impact MBA experience.
Moreover, McGill’s location in Montreal—Canada’s top student city and a growing hub for AI, aerospace, finance, and gaming—provides a rich backdrop for professional growth, networking, and lifestyle. The city’s affordability, cultural diversity, and entrepreneurial energy make it an ideal base for MBA students looking to launch or relaunch their careers.
In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the full McGill MBA offering—from curriculum and global immersion to career support and student life—so you can decide whether this top-tier Canadian MBA aligns with your personal and professional aspirations.
Overview of the McGill MBA Program
The McGill Desautels Faculty of Management offers a full-time MBA that is globally recognized for its academic excellence, leadership focus, and customizable structure. Designed for professionals seeking to broaden their global perspective and sharpen their management skills, the McGill MBA provides a transformative, flexible, and career-oriented experience rooted in one of Canada’s most prestigious universities.
Program Highlights
Duration: 12 or 20 months (student choice)
Start Date: August (Fall intake only)
Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Class Size: Approximately 65–85 students
Accreditation: AACSB and EQUIS accredited
Ranking: Ranked among top global MBAs by QS, Bloomberg Businessweek, and The Economist
The program is ideal for professionals with at least two years of full-time work experience who want a globally relevant education delivered in an intimate, collaborative classroom environment.
Flexible Format: 12 or 20 Months
One of the most distinctive features of the McGill MBA is its dual-format option:
12-Month Track: Ideal for professionals seeking an accelerated return to the workforce.
20-Month Track: Allows for summer internships, international exchange opportunities, and additional elective coursework or specialization.
This flexibility enables students to tailor the pace and depth of their MBA journey to their career goals and personal circumstances.
Core Themes and Learning Pillars
The McGill MBA is built on three key academic pillars:
Analytical Rigor – Courses in finance, economics, and operations management develop strong quantitative and decision-making skills.
Leadership Development – Emphasis on ethical leadership, strategic thinking, and personal growth through experiential learning.
Global Perspective – International exposure through diverse cohorts, global faculty, and exchange partnerships with top business schools.
Students learn to navigate complexity, think critically, and lead in ambiguous, fast-changing environments—traits that are essential for global business leadership.
Diversity and Global Reach
With over 60% of students coming from outside Canada, the McGill MBA offers a truly international classroom experience. Students represent industries as diverse as technology, consulting, health care, finance, media, and engineering, creating a rich learning environment where global perspectives and interdisciplinary ideas flourish.
Graduates join a powerful alumni network of 300,000+ McGill alumni, with more than 12,000 Desautels-specific business alumni across 180 countries, providing both mentorship and global career connectivity.
McGill's Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1821, McGill University is one of the most respected academic institutions in the world. With a strong reputation for research, innovation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, McGill consistently ranks among the top universities globally and attracts faculty and students of the highest calibre.
In sum, the McGill MBA offers an elite, globally relevant education in a compact, customizable format—designed to propel professionals into leadership roles with purpose and perspective.
Curriculum Structure and Learning Experience
The McGill MBA curriculum is built to balance foundational business knowledge with real-world application and leadership development. Whether students choose the 12-month accelerated track or the 20-month extended format, the program provides a structured yet flexible learning journey designed to produce responsible, agile, and globally competent business leaders.
The curriculum is anchored in three guiding principles:
Rigorous academic foundations
Experiential learning and applied problem solving
Global and interdisciplinary perspective
Core Curriculum: Building the Fundamentals
During the first phase of the program, all students complete a core curriculum that spans key business disciplines. These foundational courses build critical thinking, analytical decision-making, and strategic communication capabilities.
Core Courses Include:
Financial Accounting
Managerial Economics
Strategy and Organization
Corporate Finance
Operations Management
Marketing Management
Business Analytics
Organizational Behaviour
Responsible Leadership
Global Business Environment
The core phase is designed to provide a strong conceptual foundation while fostering cross-functional thinking.
Specializations and Electives
Following the core phase, students select from a wide range of electives and have the option to pursue one or more concentrations, such as:
Finance
Marketing
Global Strategy & Leadership
Business Analytics
Entrepreneurship
Elective courses reflect emerging industry needs and trends, covering areas such as:
AI & Machine Learning for Business
ESG Investing and Sustainability
Digital Strategy
Negotiation and Influence
Innovation & Product Development
Students may also choose to customize their MBA experience by combining electives across multiple domains or opting for an interdisciplinary focus.
Experiential Components
Learning at McGill is deeply experiential, with numerous opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts:
Integrated Management Simulation (IMS): A capstone course where students run a virtual company across market scenarios
Case Competitions: Local and international challenges including the prestigious John Molson MBA International Case Competition
Applied Consulting Projects: Hands-on work with corporate partners, startups, and NGOs
Internships (20-month track): Available in summer term; highly encouraged for those making a career switch
Learning Approach and Faculty
The McGill MBA is known for its small class sizes and personalized learning. With classroom discussions, group projects, and applied assignments, students learn in an interactive and supportive environment.
Courses are taught by internationally recognized faculty with deep academic and industry expertise. Many are involved in cutting-edge research and consulting for major firms, ensuring that what’s taught in the classroom reflects today’s business realities.
Global Learning Opportunities
Students opting for the 20-month track can participate in:
International Exchange Programs at partner schools across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America
Global Business Study Trips and immersive cross-cultural business experiences (subject to availability)
Overall, McGill’s MBA curriculum delivers a comprehensive and flexible learning journey that combines academic excellence with real-world relevance—preparing graduates to lead across industries, functions, and geographies.
Specializations and Elective Options
One of the most powerful aspects of the McGill MBA is its flexible and modular structure, which allows students to tailor their academic experience to align with their career goals. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise in a functional area, pivot into a new industry, or prepare for international leadership, McGill offers a rich variety of specializations and elective pathways.
Concentrations: Depth in Key Business Areas
Students can choose to pursue a formal concentration or build a personalized focus area through electives. Concentrations are not mandatory, but they provide a clear academic and career signal to employers.
Popular MBA Concentrations at McGill:
Finance: Advanced corporate finance, valuation, investment banking, asset management
Marketing: Brand management, consumer behavior, digital strategy, integrated marketing communications
Business Analytics: Data modeling, machine learning, business intelligence tools
Global Strategy & Leadership: Strategic frameworks, innovation management, transformation leadership
Entrepreneurship: New venture creation, startup finance, innovation strategy
Each concentration typically involves taking 4–6 electives in the chosen area.
Cross-Disciplinary Electives
Students are encouraged to explore electives across multiple domains to develop a well-rounded leadership toolkit. Elective options include:
Negotiations & Conflict Management
Strategic HR & Organizational Change
ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) Strategy
Sustainable Supply Chains
Technology & Innovation Management
Business Law & International Trade
Corporate Strategy in Emerging Markets
Innovative and Trending Topics
McGill regularly updates its elective offerings to reflect evolving industry needs and global trends. Recent additions include:
AI for Business Leaders
Blockchain in Financial Services
Social Entrepreneurship
Digital Transformation & Agile Organizations
Ethics, Inclusion, and Diversity in the Workplace
These courses are designed to help future leaders anticipate disruption and lead responsibly in an era of continuous innovation.
Global Study Opportunities
Students can further enrich their elective experience through:
International Exchange Programs: Study a term abroad at one of McGill’s 40+ global partner institutions.
Intensive Elective Weeks: Short-format, high-impact courses in areas such as sustainable finance, fintech, and luxury marketing.
Interdisciplinary Options: Select courses from other McGill faculties (Law, Engineering, Public Policy, etc.) to support dual interests or sector-specific focus.
Executive Guest Lectures & Capstone Integration
Elective modules often feature:
Guest speakers from global firms like BCG, Amazon, Air Canada, and RBC
Real-world case studies and live projects
Integration with McGill’s Integrated Management Simulation (IMS) or final consulting challenges
In summary, McGill’s electives and concentrations give students the freedom to customize their MBA experience, gain deep industry knowledge, and stay ahead of market demands—all while building skills that are both versatile and career-defining
Experiential Learning and Global Exposure
At the core of the McGill MBA is a philosophy that true leadership is learned through action, application, and international perspective. Through immersive, real-world learning experiences, McGill MBA students move beyond theory to develop the strategic, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills needed in global leadership roles.
Whether it's consulting for a local enterprise, competing in international case challenges, or studying abroad, the program offers multiple ways to turn classroom learning into career-impacting experiences.
Integrated Management Simulation (IMS)
A signature feature of the curriculum, the Integrated Management Simulation (IMS) is a capstone project that places students in the role of executive leaders managing a simulated global company. Teams must navigate:
Strategic planning
Financial decision-making
Operations and market expansion
Talent management
Ethical dilemmas
This simulation challenges students to synthesize knowledge across disciplines and make high-stakes decisions in a fast-paced, competitive environment.
Applied Business Projects
McGill MBA students gain real-world consulting experience through applied business projects, where they work in teams to tackle pressing challenges faced by organizations. Past projects have involved:
Market entry strategy for international startups
ESG strategy development for NGOs
Digital transformation plans for mid-size Canadian enterprises
Customer experience optimization for financial institutions
These engagements build not only hard business skills but also interpersonal and client-facing capabilities.
International Exchange Programs
Students in the 20-month format are eligible to participate in international exchanges with over 40 top business schools worldwide, including:
ESADE (Spain)
National University of Singapore (NUS)
Mannheim Business School (Germany)
Indian Institute of Management (IIM-A)
SDA Bocconi (Italy)
Exchanges typically take place during the winter or summer terms and are a prime opportunity to gain regional business insight and expand professional networks.
Case Competitions
McGill students have a strong track record of success at prestigious case competitions, both in Canada and globally. Participants enhance their strategic thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills while networking with industry leaders.
Competitions include:
John Molson MBA International Case Competition
HEC CSR Challenge
Rotman Net Impact Challenge
Schulich Strategy Cup
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
For students interested in launching ventures or exploring innovation, McGill offers access to:
Dobson Centre for Entrepreneurship
McGill Innovation Collective
Faculty cross-collaboration (Law, Engineering, Life Sciences)
Startup competitions and seed funding opportunities
Business Study Trips
Periodically, the Desautels MBA organizes global study trips that combine academic sessions with company visits and cultural immersion in global business hubs such as:
Shanghai
Tel Aviv
New York City
Santiago
These trips connect students to the real-world complexities of international business, policy, and innovation.
Industry Immersion
Students benefit from proximity to Montreal’s thriving sectors including:
Artificial Intelligence
Aerospace
Gaming & Digital Media
Finance & Banking
Life Sciences & Healthcare
With regular corporate speaker events, site visits, and alumni networking, students get a front-row seat to business transformation in a dynamic economic ecosystem.
Through this wide-ranging experiential platform, the McGill MBA fosters global readiness, strategic maturity, and business fluency—ensuring students graduate with the confidence to lead across cultures, industries, and functions.
Admissions Process and Requirements
The McGill Desautels MBA seeks dynamic, globally minded professionals who are intellectually curious, ethically driven, and prepared to thrive in a rigorous academic setting. The admissions process is structured to identify candidates with strong academic foundations, professional maturity, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Here’s everything you need to know about applying to the McGill MBA program.
Who Should Apply for McGill MBA?
The McGill MBA is best suited for:
Professionals with at least two years of full-time work experience
Career switchers or accelerators seeking global opportunities
Individuals with demonstrated leadership, team collaboration, or entrepreneurial drive
International applicants looking for a top-tier Canadian MBA with optional 20-month flexibility for internships and exchanges
Basic Eligibility Requirements
Requirement | Details |
Bachelor’s Degree | From an accredited institution (minimum GPA 3.0 or equivalent) |
Work Experience | At least 2 years of full-time, post-graduate work experience |
GMAT or GRE | Required; average GMAT score ~670. Competitive scores strengthen applications |
English Proficiency | IELTS (7.0+), TOEFL iBT (100+), or equivalent required if English is not the native language |
Online Application | Includes personal statement, resume, transcripts, references, and test scores |
Interview | By invitation, conducted virtually or in person |
Application Components
Online Application Form
CV or Résumé
2 Essays (motivational and situational)
2 Letters of Reference
Official Transcripts
GMAT/GRE Score Report
Proof of English Proficiency
Application Fee – CAD $125
Application Deadlines (Fall 2025 Intake)
Round | Deadline |
Round 1 | November 15, 2024 |
Round 2 | January 15, 2025 |
Round 3 | March 15, 2025 |
Final | May 1, 2025 (for international applicants) |
Early application is highly recommended, especially for scholarship consideration.
Tips for a Competitive Application
Highlight leadership potential through professional achievements, extracurricular roles, or impact-driven work
Clearly explain your post-MBA goals and why McGill is a good fit
Use your essays to demonstrate self-awareness, resilience, and values
Submit a strong GMAT/GRE score if aiming for merit-based funding or to stand out academically
Tailor your resume to show career progression and transferable skills
Interview Process
Interviews are by invitation only and are conducted by an admissions officer or faculty member. The interview assesses:
Communication and interpersonal skills
Career clarity and motivation
Team collaboration experience
Alignment with McGill's mission and values
Support for International Applicants
McGill provides extensive support for international students, including:
Immigration advising and visa support
Pre-arrival webinars and checklists
Montreal housing guidance and relocation resources
Dedicated Desautels MBA admissions advisors
The McGill MBA admissions team evaluates each application holistically. Academic achievements, test scores, work experience, leadership capacity, and personal qualities are all considered to ensure a diverse and high-potential cohort.
Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Funding Options
An MBA from a top global institution like McGill is a transformative investment—and the Desautels Faculty of Management is committed to ensuring that qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds have access to financial support. With transparent tuition, generous scholarships, and customizable payment plans, McGill makes it feasible for students to fund a world-class education.
MBA Tuition Fees (2024–2025)
Student Category | Total Tuition (CAD) |
International Students | CAD $99,500 |
Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents | CAD $52,500 |
Quebec Residents | CAD $39,500 |
Tuition fees are for the entire program duration, whether completed in 12 or 20 months.
Note: These amounts do not include living expenses, materials, travel, or health insurance. Fees are subject to change annually.
Estimated Cost of Living in Montreal (Annual)
Estimated Cost (CAD) | |
Housing (shared) | $8,000–$12,000 |
Food & Transportation | $4,500–$6,000 |
Books & Materials | $1,000–$1,500 |
Health Insurance | $1,300–$1,800 |
Total | $15,000–$20,000 |
Montreal is considered one of the most affordable major cities in North America, making McGill an excellent value proposition compared to peer MBA programs globally.
Scholarships and Awards at McGill MBA
McGill Desautels offers merit-based entrance scholarships to outstanding candidates upon admission. These awards are based on:
Academic performance
GMAT/GRE scores
Work experience and leadership potential
Community involvement and career trajectory
Scholarship Type | Amount (CAD) |
Merit Entrance Scholarships | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
Women in Leadership Awards | Varies |
Desautels Global Impact Awards | Varies |
Faculty Fellowships & Prizes | Post-admission |
There is no separate application for most awards—applicants are automatically considered.
External Funding and Loans
In addition to internal scholarships, students may explore:
Bank Loans (Canada): TD, BMO, and RBC offer student-friendly loans
International Loans: Options via Prodigy Finance or MPOWER (no co-signer required)
Government Funding: Canada Student Loans or provincial aid programs (for residents)
Employer Sponsorship: Many applicants negotiate partial or full funding through current employers
Tuition Payment Structure
Tuition can be paid:
In full before program start (with minor discount)
In three or four instalments across the academic year
Via McGill's payment portal, with online billing and receipts
ROI and Post-MBA Salary Growth
With average starting salaries in the CAD $90,000–$115,000 range and high employment rates post-MBA, McGill offers a compelling ROI—especially for international students seeking Canadian work experience and immigration pathways.
McGill's approach to tuition and funding ensures that financial investment never becomes a barrier to accessing excellence. With a competitive price point, access to top employers, and generous financial support, the McGill MBA stands out as one of the most value-driven options among global top-tier programs.
Class Profile and Student Diversity
One of the defining strengths of the McGill MBA is the rich diversity of its student body. With professionals from across the globe and a wide spectrum of industries, the classroom becomes a vibrant forum for cross-cultural exchange, collaborative learning, and international networking. Each cohort is carefully curated to ensure a balance of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that reflect the complex, interconnected world of business.
McGill MBA Class Profile (Most Recent Cohort)
Category | Data |
Class Size | 65–85 students |
Average Age | 29 years |
Average Work Experience | 5–6 years |
International Students | ~60% |
Countries Represented | 20+ |
Women in the Program | ~40–45% |
Average GMAT Score | ~670 |
Undergraduate Backgrounds | Business, Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, Law |
Students come from industries such as:
Consulting
Technology
Financial Services
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
Media & Entertainment
Public Sector & NGOs
Entrepreneurship
Global Representation
McGill attracts candidates from across the globe, including (but not limited to):
Canada
India
China
Nigeria
Brazil
France
United States
Mexico
Lebanon
Vietnam
The cultural and linguistic diversity of the class fosters a truly international learning environment, where students regularly collaborate with peers from different economic, political, and industry contexts.
Women in Leadership
McGill Desautels is actively committed to supporting gender diversity in leadership:
~45% of students in recent cohorts are women
Dedicated scholarships for Women in Business
Inclusive curriculum and leadership workshops
Strong representation of female faculty, mentors, and alumni speakers
This commitment has helped cultivate a supportive and empowering environment for female MBA candidates, many of whom go on to lead in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Academic and Professional Diversity
Students come with varied undergraduate degrees—ranging from Engineering and Political Science to Biology, Literature, and Architecture—enriching classroom conversations and encouraging cross-functional insights.
Professionally, the cohort includes:
Product managers from tech firms
Financial analysts and bankers
Engineers from Fortune 500s
Consultants and policy advisors
Start-up founders and social entrepreneurs
This multidisciplinary ecosystem equips students to approach problems from diverse angles and prepares them to lead across sectors.
Culture of Collaboration
Unlike some competitive MBA environments, McGill fosters a collegial, team-oriented culture:
Small class sizes create close-knit cohorts
Group projects and shared challenges build camaraderie
Alumni often describe the atmosphere as “supportive, not cutthroat”
The school’s size and culture ensure every student is known, heard, and mentored—while still enjoying access to world-class academic and career resources.
With its international reach, inclusive values, and diverse cohort composition, the McGill MBA delivers not just a business education—but a transformative social and professional experience that continues long after graduation.
Career Services and Post-MBA Outcomes
A cornerstone of the McGill MBA experience is its focus on career transformation and employability. Whether students are switching industries, launching startups, or aiming for leadership within their current paths, McGill’s Career Services team provides high-touch, personalized support throughout the MBA journey and beyond.
Located in the heart of Montreal’s dynamic business ecosystem, and backed by McGill’s global alumni network, the Desautels MBA offers a powerful springboard to opportunities across Canada and the world.
Career Services: What You Get
McGill’s Career Management Team (CMT) works closely with students to build, refine, and execute individualized career strategies.
Key Services Include:
One-on-one coaching (resume, LinkedIn, interview prep, salary negotiation)
Sector-specific career advisors (finance, tech, consulting, etc.)
Networking and alumni events
Employer coffee chats, information sessions, and site visits
Mock interviews and behavioral coaching
Career workshops on branding, cold outreach, and job search tactics
The support begins as early as the first week of the program with career orientation sessions, and continues post-graduation via the McGill alumni platform.
Employment Outcomes
Metric | Value |
Employment Rate (3 months post-MBA) | ~90% |
Average Starting Salary | CAD $93,000 – $115,000+ |
Top Hiring Industries | Consulting, Finance, Technology |
Common Roles | Consultant, PM, Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager |
Many graduates take on roles in:
Strategy & Consulting (e.g., Deloitte, McKinsey, Roland Berger)
Technology (e.g., Amazon, SAP, Lightspeed, Google)
Financial Services (e.g., RBC, BMO, Manulife)
Healthcare & Pharma (e.g., Novartis, GSK)
Consumer Goods (e.g., L’Oréal, Nestlé)
Career in Canada & Beyond
Canada's supportive immigration policies and Montreal’s growing business sectors make McGill a launchpad for international careers.
Highlights:
International graduates are eligible for up to 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)
Montreal is a hub for AI, finance, and emerging tech
Many students secure roles in Toronto, Vancouver, New York, and Europe
CMT also provides insight on visa sponsorship pathways, networking strategies, and employer targeting for international job seekers.
Internships & Experiential Hiring
Students in the 20-month MBA format often leverage the summer break for:
Paid internships (in Canada or abroad)
Experiential projects with Montreal-based firms or startups
Industry research or entrepreneurship accelerators
These practical experiences often lead to full-time job offers and provide valuable Canadian work experience for international students.
Alumni Mentorship and Networking
The Desautels Connect platform and regular alumni panels give students access to senior executives, recruiters, and entrepreneurs.
McGill’s alumni are active across the globe in:
C-suite leadership roles
Venture capital and entrepreneurship
Social impact ventures
Government, policy, and international development
With a reputation for producing agile, ethical, and globally competent leaders, the McGill MBA sets students up for long-term career success. The program’s strong employer relationships, robust career coaching, and international reach make it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-impact, global career move.
Food, Arts, and Culture at McGill MBA
Montreal’s culinary scene is world-renowned, with influences from French, Lebanese, Indian, Vietnamese, and African cuisines. From smoked meat delis and poutine to vegan brunch and fine dining, students never run out of places to explore.
Cultural life includes:
Free museums on first Sundays
World-class symphony, opera, and indie music
Open-air art galleries and historic architecture
Festivals like Just for Laughs, Jazz Fest, Nuit Blanche
Seasons and Outdoor Living
Montrealers embrace all four seasons:
Fall: Foliage hikes, cozy cafés, start of MBA
Winter: Ice skating, ski weekends, festive markets
Spring: Tulips, terrace cafés, internship hunt
Summer: Music festivals, hiking in the Laurentians, rooftop patios
Despite its cold winters, Montreal’s warmth comes from its people, its community spirit, and its cultural vibrancy.
International Student Life
McGill offers robust support for international students:
Visa and immigration guidance
Healthcare and insurance onboarding
Pre-arrival webinars and welcome week
Language resources (French and English support)
Global Peer Network & mentorship programs
International students quickly find community, safety, and career opportunity in Montreal’s inclusive urban setting.
In essence, life at McGill and in Montreal is about more than just earning a degree. It’s about building lifelong friendships, discovering new perspectives, and enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the world’s most livable cities.
McGill–HEC Montréal Executive MBA (EMBA) Overview
For seasoned professionals seeking to elevate their leadership impact without pausing their careers, the McGill–HEC Montréal Executive MBA (EMBA) offers a world-class bilingual business education rooted in strategic thinking, innovation, and transformation. This 15-month, part-time joint program brings together two of Canada’s most respected institutions—McGill University and HEC Montréal—to deliver a deeply immersive and flexible leadership journey.
Designed for executives, entrepreneurs, and senior managers with at least 10 years of experience, the EMBA integrates global insights with local relevance and is structured to minimize disruption to your work life.
Program Philosophy
The EMBA is not just a traditional business program—it’s an applied learning laboratory where theory and practice converge.
Guided by the principle of the “Reflective Practitioner”, the program empowers leaders to:
Make better decisions under complexity
Leverage experience to drive innovation
Connect theory to real-time organizational challenges
Reframe personal leadership styles
It’s ideal for professionals looking to scale their leadership, transform organizations, or shift strategic direction in their careers.
Program Format & Duration
Feature | Details |
Duration | 15 months, part-time |
Modules | 9 residential modules (3–6 days each) |
Schedule | Monthly modules (Thursday–Sunday format) |
Locations | Primarily Montreal (McGill & HEC campuses) |
Language | Bilingual (English & French – flexible entry) |
Start Date | Annually in September |
No GMAT is required. The program is tailored for executive-level learners with an average of 17 years of experience.
Curriculum Highlights
Rather than siloed subjects, the EMBA uses integrated learning themes such as:
Strategic Foresight & Organizational Agility
Finance for Decision Makers
Leading in Complexity & Change
Business Innovation & Design Thinking
Global Leadership Mindset
Corporate Social Responsibility & Governance
Each module features:
Real case applications
Guest lectures from C-level executives
Peer-to-peer learning with experienced classmates
Individual and group coaching
Participants complete a “CEO Challenge” capstone project, applying EMBA insights to a significant strategic issue in their own organization.
Global Learning and Diversity
The McGill–HEC EMBA also includes an international module, which in recent years has involved immersion programs in:
Silicon Valley (technology and innovation)
Paris (luxury markets and branding)
Latin America (emerging markets strategy)
The cohort is professionally diverse, with representation from:
Corporate executives
Entrepreneurs and family businesses
Public sector leaders
Health care professionals
Engineers, scientists, and creatives
Admissions Criteria at McGill MBA
Requirement | Details |
Work Experience | Minimum 10 years (average 17+) |
Education | Undergraduate degree or equivalent |
Leadership Role | Significant managerial responsibility |
Language | Fluency in English or French (bilingualism not required) |
Interview | Required; holistic and experience-focused |
Tuition for the EMBA is approximately CAD $98,000, which includes all materials, meals during modules, and international travel for global modules.
Outcomes and ROI
EMBA graduates report:
Immediate application of learning to workplace strategy
Accelerated promotions and board-level opportunities
Renewed energy, vision, and executive presence
Deep, lifelong connections with peers across industries
Alumni gain access to the networks of both McGill and HEC, forming one of the most influential executive alumni groups in Canada.
For experienced professionals ready to lead at a higher level—without stepping out of their roles—the McGill–HEC Montréal EMBA delivers an immersive, world-class program that blends leadership development with organizational transformation.
Conclusion: Is the McGill MBA Right for You?
The McGill Desautels MBA stands out not only for its global reputation and academic excellence but for its ability to deliver a transformative experience rooted in flexibility, diversity, and career impact. Whether you’re an early-career professional seeking to fast-track your growth or an international candidate looking to pivot into the North American business landscape, McGill offers a learning environment tailored to today’s global realities.
With two format options (12 or 20 months), students can customize the pace of their MBA to match their goals—whether that means accelerating into the workforce or taking time to explore international exchanges and internships. The integrated curriculum, focused on real-world business challenges and leadership development, equips students to think strategically and lead effectively in complex environments.
Add to that McGill’s home base in Montreal, one of North America’s most livable, diverse, and affordable cities, and the experience becomes more than academic—it becomes cultural, social, and deeply personal. The school’s intimate cohort size ensures high-touch mentorship, lifelong friendships, and meaningful peer collaboration, all while being backed by a global alumni network in 180+ countries.
Moreover, with competitive tuition, generous scholarships, and access to Canada’s immigration and job market pathways, McGill delivers one of the best ROI propositions among top global MBA programs. The school’s alignment with high-growth sectors like AI, sustainability, and digital transformation ensures its graduates are not only employable but future-ready.
If you are looking for a program that blends academic depth, real-world relevance, international perspective, and personal attention, then the McGill MBA is more than worth considering—it may be exactly what your future needs.
FAQS
1. How long is the McGill MBA program?
Students can choose between a 12-month accelerated track or a 20-month format that allows for internships and international exchanges.
2. Is work experience required to apply?
Yes. Applicants must have a minimum of two years of full-time post-graduate work experience. The average is around 5–6 years.
3. What is the average GMAT score for admitted students?
The average GMAT score is approximately 670, though McGill uses a holistic admissions process.
4. Do I need to take the GMAT or GRE?
Yes. A valid GMAT or GRE score is required for admission unless otherwise specified. Strong scores enhance your chances for scholarships.
5. Can I apply without a business background?
Absolutely. McGill admits students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including engineering, humanities, science, and law.
6. Are international students eligible for work permits after graduation?
Yes. International graduates are eligible for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada.
7. What are the tuition fees for international students?
The total tuition fee for international students is CAD $99,500 for the full MBA program.
8. What is the cost of living in Montreal for MBA students?
Estimated living costs range from CAD $15,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and housing.
9. Are scholarships available for MBA applicants?
Yes. McGill offers merit-based entrance scholarships ranging from $10,000 to $30,000+, awarded automatically upon admission.
10. Can I complete an internship during the MBA?
Yes, students in the 20-month format are encouraged to complete internships during the summer term.
11. Does McGill offer student housing?
While most MBA students live off-campus, McGill provides housing resources and support to help students find accommodation nearby.
12. How diverse is the McGill MBA class?
Typically, over 60% of students are international, and 40–45% are women, with professionals from 20+ nationalities represented.
13. What industries do graduates enter post-MBA?
Graduates work in consulting, finance, tech, health care, and consumer goods. Employers include Deloitte, Amazon, McKinsey, RBC, and more.
14. What kind of support does McGill offer for job placement?
McGill’s Career Management Team offers personalized coaching, networking events, and employer engagement throughout the program.
15. Are there opportunities to study abroad?
Yes. Students in the extended format can join international exchanges with 40+ partner business schools worldwide.
16. What is the language of instruction?
The MBA is delivered entirely in English. Fluency in French is not required but is useful for living in Montreal.
17. When is the application deadline for the Fall 2025 intake?
Deadlines range from November 15, 2024 (Round 1) to May 1, 2025 (Final Round for international applicants).
18. How big is the typical class size?
Each MBA cohort consists of 65–85 students, creating an intimate and collaborative learning environment.
19. Does McGill offer dual degrees or joint programs?
Not within the full-time MBA, but McGill does offer executive programs in collaboration with HEC Montréal.
20. Is French required to live in Montreal?
No. Montreal is a bilingual city and McGill operates in English. However, knowing French can enhance your cultural and job experience.
Comments