Canada is home to some of the top business schools in Canada, known globally for their excellence in business education. With a GDP of over $2 trillion, Canada’s economy is strong in sectors like finance, technology, and natural resources, offering unique advantages for business students. The best business schools in Canada, including Rotman School of Management and McGill University’s Desautels Faculty of Management, offer a variety of programs, including undergraduate business degrees, MBA, EMBA, and specialised master’s programs. This article provides a comprehensive guide to these institutions, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their business education in Canada.
This Blog Includes:
- Methodology and Ranking Criteria for Best Business Schools in Canada
- Top Undergraduate Business Schools in Canada for International Students
- Best Business Schools in Canada For Post Graduate
- Job Opportunities and Average Salaries in Canada for International Students with Undergraduate and MBA Degrees
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Methodology and Ranking Criteria for Best Business Schools in Canada
When evaluating the Top Business Schools in Canada for 2025-26, various ranking methodologies are used by prestigious platforms such as QS, Financial Times (FT), The Economist, and Corporate Knights. Each ranking focuses on different factors that contribute to the overall performance of the school.
QS World University Rankings emphasises academic reputation (40%), employer reputation (30%), and research output (20%), along with international diversity (5%) and faculty-student ratio (5%). FT places a strong emphasis on career outcomes, such as salary increases and employment rates, along with alumni success and research output. The Economist focuses on student satisfaction, career progression, and value for money, considering employment rates and salary post-graduation.
Corporate Knights highlight sustainability, ranking schools based on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. While rankings offer valuable insights, they have limitations as they may not fully reflect individual needs or preferences. Factors like program flexibility, campus culture, and networks are crucial but not always captured in rankings.
In addition, Top Business Schools in Canada often hold accreditations from bodies like AACSB and EQUIS, ensuring high educational standards and global recognition. These rankings and accreditations guide students in choosing the best business schools in Canada for their educational and career aspirations.
Top Undergraduate Business Schools in Canada for International Students
Here is a list which highlights the top 10 undergraduate business schools in Canada, each offering unique programs and opportunities for students pursuing business education.
1. Ivey Business School – Western University (London, Ontario)
Ivey is renowned for its Case-Study Method, where students learn by analyzing real-world business scenarios. The school offers a robust undergraduate program that focuses on developing leadership and strategic thinking. The program prepares students for leadership roles by emphasizing management, strategy, and decision-making skills. Students have the opportunity to intern and participate in international exchanges, giving them valuable hands-on business experience and the chance to build a strong professional network.
Program: Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (HBA)
Focus: Ivey’s Case-Study Method equips students with practical knowledge through real-world business scenarios. The program emphasizes management, strategy, and leadership, with opportunities for internships and international exchanges to enhance students’ global perspectives and career prospects.
2. Rotman Commerce – University of Toronto (Toronto, Ontario)
Located in Canada’s business capital, Toronto, Rotman Commerce provides an innovative education in business. The program offers a solid foundation in key areas such as finance, economics, and management, preparing students for leadership roles in the business world. With its strong connections to Toronto’s dynamic business community, Rotman Commerce provides students with excellent career prospects and networking opportunities.
Program: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Focus: Rotman Commerce offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on finance, economics, and management. Being situated in Toronto, the heart of Canada’s business scene, students benefit from strong industry ties and access to various career opportunities, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
3. Desautels Faculty of Management – McGill University (Montreal, Quebec)
McGill University is one of Canada’s top institutions, and its Desautels Faculty of Management offers an outstanding undergraduate business program. The BCom program at McGill is known for its strong focus on international business and entrepreneurship, providing students with a well-rounded education that is globally recognized. McGill’s diverse student body and expansive alumni network offer students a unique international perspective.
Program: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Focus: McGill’s BCom program is internationally recognized, offering a solid curriculum in international business and entrepreneurship. Students are encouraged to gain global experience through internships and exchange programs worldwide, broadening their horizons and preparing them for a globalized business environment.
4. Sauder School of Business – University of British Columbia (UBC) (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Sauder School of Business offers a great undergraduate business program for students who want to work in marketing, finance, or supply chain management. Located in Vancouver, a major business centre in Canada, the school has strong connections with local companies, giving students many chances to network and find job opportunities. The program combines classroom learning with real-world experience, helping students gain the skills they need to become leaders in the business world.
Program: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Focus: The BCom program at Sauder prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, and supply chain management. Vancouver’s business scene offers many chances for internships and job placements. The program blends strong academic knowledge with practical experience to ensure students are ready to succeed in today’s fast-paced business environment.
5. Smith School of Business – Queen’s University (Kingston, Ontario)
Smith School of Business is known for its friendly and collaborative environment. The undergraduate program offers specializations in finance, marketing, and strategic management, allowing students to focus on their career interests. The strong alumni network provides great mentorship and job placement opportunities, making it an excellent choice for students aiming to build a successful business career.
Program: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Focus: Smith’s program emphasises teamwork and collaboration. It offers specializations in finance, marketing, and management to help students focus on their professional goals. The school’s active alumni network plays a key role in supporting students through mentorship and career opportunities.
6. HEC Montreal (Montreal, Quebec)
HEC Montreal offers a bilingual education, allowing students to study in both French and English. The program focuses on international business, marketing, and finance, preparing students to work globally. Located in Montreal, the school is at the heart of a lively business community, providing great career opportunities.
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Focus: HEC Montreal provides a bilingual education, offering courses in both French and English. The program specializes in international business, marketing, and finance, making it perfect for students who want a global business education with a bilingual advantage.
7. Schulich School of Business – York University (Toronto, Ontario)
Schulich is known for its international focus, offering specializations in finance, entrepreneurship, and international business. The school’s global exchange programs and strong industry links make it ideal for students who want to work around the world.
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and International BBA (iBBA)
Focus: Schulich offers specialised streams like international business, finance, and entrepreneurship. With global exchange programs and strong industry ties, it’s perfect for students looking for international career opportunities.
8. Ted Rogers School of Management – Ryerson University (Toronto, Ontario)
Ted Rogers School is all about practical, hands-on learning. The program offers specializations in business technology management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Located in Toronto, students benefit from great internships and career opportunities in the business world.
Program: Undergraduate Business Administration
Focus: Known for its hands-on approach, Ted Rogers offers specializations in business technology management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. The program focuses on real-world skills, helping students succeed in the business world.
9. Beedie School of Business – Simon Fraser University (Burnaby, British Columbia)
Beedie’s business program focuses on entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing, with opportunities for co-op work experiences. The school encourages innovation and leadership, preparing students for success in a variety of business fields.
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Focus: Beedie offers concentrations in entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing, with opportunities for co-op work experiences. The program focuses on leadership and innovation, preparing students for a wide range of business careers.
10. School of Business – University of Alberta (Edmonton, Alberta)
The University of Alberta’s business program provides a strong foundation in management, accounting, and economics, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. It’s a great choice for students who want to approach business with an ethical mindset and make a positive impact.
Program: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Focus: The University of Alberta’s BCom program emphasizes management, economics, and accounting, with a special focus on sustainability and innovation. It prepares students to face modern business challenges and become ethical leaders.
Top Undergraduate Business Schools | Location | Average Tuition Fees (CAD) | Notable Courses / Focus Areas | Program Offered |
Ivey Business School | Western University, London, Ontario | ~$25,000 – $35,000/year | Leadership, Strategy, Case Study Method, Management, Entrepreneurship, International Business, Marketing, Organizational Behavior | Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (HBA) |
Rotman Commerce | University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario | ~$20,000 – $25,000/yea | Finance, Economics, Management, Accounting, Business Analytics, Marketing, International Business, Strategy | Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) |
Desautels Faculty of Management | McGill University, Montreal, Quebec | ~$18,000 – $25,000/year | International Business, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Finance, Management, Strategic Management, Organizational Behavior, Supply Chain | Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) |
Sauder School of Business | University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia | ~$15,000 – $20,000/year | Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain Management, International Business, Management, Organizational Behavior, Accounting | Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) |
Smith School of Business | Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario | ~$25,000 – $30,000/year | Finance, Marketing, Strategic Management, Leadership, Organizational Behavior, Accounting, Economics, International Business | Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) |
HEC Montreal | Montreal, Quebec | ~$12,000 – $20,000/year | International Business, Marketing, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Business Analytics, Economics, Supply Chain, Management (bilingual French and English courses) | Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) |
Schulich School of Business | York University, Toronto, Ontario | ~$20,000 – $30,000/year | International Business, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Business Analytics, Management, Marketing, Global Business, Leadership, Organizational Behavior | Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), International BBA (iBBA) |
Ted Rogers School of Management | Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario | ~$18,000 – $25,000/year | Business Technology Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Management, Digital Transformation, Innovation, Analytics | Undergraduate Business Administration |
Beedie School of Business | Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia | ~$15,000 – $18,000/year | Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, Leadership, Innovation, Organizational Behavior, Business Analytics | Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) |
School of Business | University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta | ~$14,000 – $18,000/year | Management, Accounting, Economics, Sustainability, Business Ethics, Innovation, Organizational Behavior, Strategic Management | Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) |
Also Read: Canada Transportation Guide for International Students
Best Business Schools in Canada For Post Graduate
Canada is known for its world-class business schools, offering internationally recognized post-graduate programs that attract students globally. With universities like Rotman, Ivey, and Sauder, Canadian business schools consistently rank among the top worldwide. Many offer specialized MBA programs in areas like finance, entrepreneurship, and leadership. International students benefit from Canada’s high standard of education, diverse student population, and strong connections to the global business community. With a range of tuition fees averaging from CAD 25,000 to CAD 70,000 per year, Canada also offers opportunities for post-graduate work visas and career prospects in various industries.
Business School | Program | Key Focus Areas | Average Fees (CAD) | QS Ranking (Global) |
Rotman School of Management – University of Toronto | MBA | Leadership, Finance, Strategy | $115,000 (2-year) | #46 (2024) |
Ivey Business School – Western University | MBA (1-Year) | Case-Based Learning, Consulting, Finance | $99,000 (1-year) | #94 (2024) |
Desautels Faculty of Management – McGill University | MBA | Global Business, Entrepreneurship, Finance | $99,000 (2-year) | #91 (2024) |
Sauder School of Business – University of British Columbia | MBA | Sustainable Business, Technology, Entrepreneurship | $75,000 (16 months) | #138 (2024) |
Schulich School of Business – York University | MBA | Finance, Marketing, Strategy | $95,000 (2-year) | #93 (2024) |
HEC Montreal | MBA | Bilingualism, International Business, Entrepreneurship | $45,000 (2-year) | #151-200 (2024) |
Smith School of Business – Queen’s University | MBA | Leadership, Innovation, Global Exchange | $85,000 (1-year) | #101-110 (2024) |
Ted Rogers School of Management – Ryerson University | MMgt | Business Technology, Digital Transformation | $45,000 (1-year) | Not ranked in QS |
Beedie School of Business – Simon Fraser University | MBA | Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, Leadership | $40,000 (1-year) | Not ranked in QS |
Job Opportunities and Average Salaries in Canada for International Students with Undergraduate and MBA Degrees
When considering pursuing business education in Canada, international students can look forward to a wide range of career opportunities upon graduation. From entry-level positions to senior management roles, the job prospects for graduates of Top Business Schools in Canada are promising.
Undergraduate business programs from Top Undergraduate Business Schools in Canada for International Students often lead to foundational roles such as financial analysts and marketing assistants, with great potential for career advancement.
On the other hand, the Best Business Schools in Canada for Post Graduate programs, such as an MBA, equip students with the advanced skills needed for high-paying leadership roles in fields like finance, consulting, and operations management.
Title of Job | Level of Degree | Industry | Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
Financial Analyst | Undergraduate, MBA | Finance, Banking | $50,000 – $75,000 |
Business Consultant | MBA | Consulting, Management | $70,000 – $110,000 |
Marketing Manager | Undergraduate, MBA | Marketing, Advertising | $55,000 – $85,000 |
Project Manager | MBA | Construction, IT, Engineering | $75,000 – $100,000 |
Human Resources Manager | MBA | Human Resources | $70,000 – $95,000 |
Supply Chain Manager | MBA | Logistics, Retail, Manufacturing | $75,000 – $95,000 |
Data Analyst | Undergraduate | Technology, Finance | $50,000 – $70,000 |
Operations Manager | MBA | Manufacturing, Services | $70,000 – $100,000 |
Investment Banker | MBA | Finance, Banking | $80,000 – $150,000 |
Management Consultant | MBA | Consulting, Strategy | $90,000 – $130,000 |
IT Manager | MBA | Information Technology | $80,000 – $120,000 |
Financial Planner | Undergraduate, MBA | Finance, Banking | $60,000 – $90,000 |
Account Manager | Undergraduate | Sales, Retail | $50,000 – $75,000 |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | MBA | Finance | $120,000 – $200,000 |
Entrepreneur/Startup Founder | Undergraduate, MBA | Various, Startup | Varies (can be very high) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Top Business Schools in Canada for 2025-26 offer excellent opportunities for international students to pursue undergraduate and MBA programs. When choosing the right school, it’s essential to consider your career goals, financial situation, and the specific requirements of each program. We recommend thoroughly researching schools, visiting their websites, attending virtual events, and exploring rankings and financial aid resources to make an informed decision. Understanding the eligibility criteria, such as work experience for MBA programs or high school graduation for undergraduate programs, will help you prepare effectively for your application.
FAQs
Ans. Most business schools require a strong academic background, standardized test scores (like GMAT or GRE), recommendation letters, and work experience, especially for MBA programs. Specific requirements vary by school, so check each program’s website for details.
Ans. Many Canadian business schools offer scholarships, fellowships, and loans for international students. Be sure to explore opportunities on the school’s website, and apply early for financial aid and scholarships.
Ans. Yes, many top business schools in Canada have strong ties to industry leaders and offer internships, co-op programs, and networking events to help students gain real-world experience.
Ans. International graduates of Canadian business schools can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for up to 3 years after completing their program.
Ans. MBA graduates from top business schools in Canada can expect to earn an average salary ranging from CAD 80,000 to CAD 120,000 annually, depending on the industry and role.
We hope this blog gives you a complete overview of Top Business Schools in Canada for 2025-26. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more such content on student life abroad. Thank you for reading!
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