Admission

In order to be considered for admission into the Sobey MBA program, applicants must meet a number of requirements and complete a rigorous application process.

While each of the five criteria listed below is important, the applicant's entire profile will be evaluated and suitability for our program will be judged. Sometimes strengths in one area can compensate for weaknesses in other areas. We encourage applicants to provide detailed resumés, thoughtfully written essays and any additional information that may assist the admissions committee in making a decision.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the MBA program is competitive. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. The following are required for consideration for admission:

• Degree: An undergraduate degree in any discipline with at least a "B" average. Official transcripts must be sent from each post-secondary institution attended by the applicant.
• GMAT: A satisfactory GMAT score (average in the last two years has been 600, with 550 usually as the minimum). We use GMAT to evaluate both quantitative and verbal skills. A minimum competency in both areas is expected. GMAT essay scores should not be below 5.0. GMAT score must be less than five years old.
• English Language Proficiency: The MBA program is fast-paced with much reading, report writing and team work. Strong English language proficiency is important for success in the program. Students whose native language is not English must submit either a TOEFL score, a CanTest score or a IELTS score. A TOEFL score of at least 237 in the Computer-Based TOEFL (or 580 in the paper-based TOEFL) and a TWE score of at least 5.0 are required. Alternatively, applicants can submit CanTest scores of at least 4.5, with no individual component score (oral communication, listening, reading and writing) below 4.5. IELTS scores must be 6.5 with no band below 6.5. TOEFL, CanTest or IELTS scores must be less than two years old.
• Work Experience: Full-time students are preferred to have relevant post-degree experience. Co-op, internships and part-time experience will be given consideration. Part-time applicants are preferred to have at least four years of relevant post-degree experience. A resumé detailing work experience, duration in each position, nature of responsibilities and contribution made to the employer is required.
• Motivation and Leadership Potential: Through a combination of academic work, previous experience and extra-curricular activities, applicants must demonstrate a high level of motivation for success and leadership potential.

Test scores and undergraduate marks are evaluated for academic ability. The admissions committee will also look for leadership and managerial potential. In addition to evaluating the application, essays, test scores, reference letters and transcripts, the admissions committee may require a personal or telephone interview before a final decision is made.

If you are concerned with an area of your application we encourage you to contact us at 902-420-5002 or mba@smu.ca.