The University of Alberta offers several MBA scholarships for 2025, including entrance awards and merit-based financial aid. It is one of the best scholarships for International students. The Alberta School of Business is one of the world’s leading institutions of business education and research. University of Alberta MBA Scholarships, known for their rigorous nature, demand a high level of academic aptitude, strong English communication skills, and effective time management abilities for success. The Alberta School of Business is one of Canada’s top business schools, consistently ranked among the top 5 Canadian universities and considered one of the Top 150 universities in the world for its MBA programs. The business school has extensive links with leading companies, offering internships and real-world consulting projects to students, giving them hands-on experience even before graduation.
In 1916, the Alberta School of Business started from humble beginnings, with a handful of students enrolled in the Department of Accountancy at the University of Alberta. The university boasts a 94% placement rate for MBA graduates within three months of graduation, with an average starting salary of approximately CAD 79,020 . There are currently over 400 MBA students at the University of Alberta with only a limited number of scholarships available. Recognized for its leadership in research, the quality of academic programming, graduate career success, and economic impact on Alberta and the world, the School fosters and supports an environment where innovation and entrepreneurial thinking are free to flourish. Applications for the Fall 2025 intake open on October 1, 2024, and close on March 1, 2025, for international students and May 1, 2025, for domestic applicants
University/Institution Details:
- Name: University of Alberta
- Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Ranking: Ranked #1 in Canada for business administration by the Shanghai Rankings and among the top 30 globally【10】.
- Programs: Full-time, Part-time, Executive MBA, FastTrack MBA, and specialized tracks like Business Analytics, Natural Resources, and Innovation.
- Duration: Full-time MBA programs typically take 20 months to 2 years to complete
Study Areas for MBA at the University of Alberta
The University of Alberta MBA offers various specialized streams tailored to meet industry demands and career goals. Below are the main study areas available:
- General Management MBA & Executive MBA (EMBA)
- Provides a broad understanding of business operations, including strategy, marketing, and leadership.
- Finance and Accounting
- Focuses on corporate finance, investment management, and financial analysis.
- Business Analytics
- Emphasizes data-driven decision-making and analytical tools relevant to industries like technology and consulting.
- Natural Resources, Energy, and Environment (NREE)
- Specializes in sustainable business practices and energy sector management, given Alberta’s strong presence in the oil and gas industry.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Prepares students to launch startups and innovate within organizations.
- International Business
- Focuses on global trade, cross-cultural management, and multinational business strategies.
- Public Policy and Management
- Ideal for students aiming for leadership roles in government, NGOs, or policy think tanks.
- Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Prepares students to manage logistics, procurement, and efficient operations across industries.
Scholarship Benefit:
- Tuition Coverage: Partial to full scholarships based on merit and financial need.
- Consists of entrance awards that offer up to $15,000. However, they may vary in value.
- Every student accepted into the Alberta MBA program is automatically evaluated for entrance awards
- Graduates from the Alberta MBA program have reported an average increase of 95% within three years post-graduation
- Alberta MBA stands out as the most cost-effective 2-year MBA program in Canada, offering exceptional value for money.
- Gain access to a high-quality MBA education at the University of Alberta.
- The University of Alberta recognizes and acknowledges the recipient’s academic achievements, leadership qualities, and potential for success in the field of business.
Benefits not included:
- Living expenses,
- Study permits, and
- Health insurance is not covered by the scholarship
Eligibility Criteria:
- Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.00(varies by program).
- GMAT/GRE score required for most MBA tracks (waivers may be available for exceptional cases).
- English Proficiency:
- English language proficiency such as through TOEFL or IELTS.
- IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall) or TOEFL (minimum 90) for non-native English speakers
- Other Criteria:
- Moreover, applicants need to have a minimum of two years of full-time work experience after their undergraduate degree. The average work experience among Alberta MBA students is approximately five years.
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- International and domestic students can apply, with certain scholarships reserved specifically for international students
- Students’ participation in admissions interviews as a component of the overall evaluation process is also an essential requirement
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form
- GMAT/GRE scores
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- English language test results (for non-native speakers)
Tips for Successful Application:
- Apply early to avoid delays with study permit processing.
- Focus on building a strong personal statement reflecting leadership experience.
- Secure quality recommendations from professionals familiar with your career and academic potential.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students:
The cost of living for students in Edmonton, Alberta, varies based on personal lifestyle, but key expenses include accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses for students at the University of Alberta:
- Accommodation:
- On-campus: ~CAD 1,309 per month
- Off-campus: ~CAD 706 per month
- Food: Around CAD 720 per month
- Transportation: Public transport costs around CAD 100 monthly
- Utilities: Approx. CAD 255 per month
- Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Markets, Clothing): Around CAD 250-300 Monthly
- Health Insurance: Around CAD 75 per month
- If you opt for off-campus housing, your monthly living cost can be about CAD 2,110, while it may rise to CAD 2,713 if you live on-campus. Annually, the living expenses can range between CAD 25,000 and CAD 33,000, depending on your choices. Scholarships and part-time jobs can help ease the financial burden for international students
Why Choose This Scholarship?
The University of Alberta offers top-ranked business programs with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and analytics. The scholarship support ensures reduced financial burden, making it ideal for students seeking quality education and international exposure in a competitive environment