Degroote School of Business MBA - Eligibility, Admissions 2025
- Goalisb
- Oct 16
- 12 min read
The DeGroote MBA program brings a diverse and dynamic group of individuals come together to shape the future of business and leadership. The latest class embodies a wide range of academic backgrounds, representing a melting pot of talents and expertise.
McMaster MBA ranks 10th on the QS Global MBA Rankings 2024: Canada.
Table of Contents
DeGroote MBA Deadlines Fall 2025 Intake:
Particulars | Date |
Early Bird: Deadline for Early Bird Entrance Scholarship, International Applicants Only | September 17, 2025 |
Round 1 | October 15, 2025 |
Round 2: DeGroote Scholarship Competition Awards Deadline | November 26, 2025 |
Round 3:Ontario Graduate Scholarship Deadline (available for Domestic Students) Final Deadline for International Students | February 28, 2026 |
Round 4: Final Domestic Application Deadline | May 31, 2026 |
Among the students in the MBA program, 32% come from a business background, bringing a strong foundation in the world of commerce and entrepreneurship. Another 23% hail from the scientific disciplines, infusing the program with analytical and innovative perspectives. Engineering and social sciences each contribute 16% of the class, enriching the cohort with problem-solving skills and insights into human behavior. Moreover, 7% come from various other fields, while 4% and 2% bring expertise in health/kinesiology and humanities, respectively, adding unique dimensions to the program's diversity.
The McMaster MBA students don't just bring diverse academic backgrounds; they also boast impressive work experience. On average, the McMaster MBA participants have accumulated 5 years of valuable experience in the professional world. For those pursuing the Co-op option, the average stands at 2 years, while the Accelerated program participants boast an average of 3 years of work experience. This wealth of experience ensures that the classrooms are enriched with real-world knowledge and practical insights.
DeGroote MBA has a significant representation of women. The Accelerated program leads the way with 54% female participants, while the DeGroote MBA (Co-op) follows closely with 49%.
With an average age of 27 for the DeGroote MBA, 24 for DeGroote MBA (Co-op), and 26 for the Accelerated program, the McMaster MBA classes consist of dynamic individuals at different stages of their careers, contributing to a vibrant learning community.
Planning to apply for the DeGroote MBA or other top Canadian programs? Connect with GOALisB for tailored application support — from shortlisting and essays to interviews and scholarships.
Programs for MBA in Canada ranked in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2024 for Canada are:
Rotman MBA - Ranks 1st in Canada
McGill MBA - Ranks 2nd in Canada
Schulich MBA - Ranks 6th for MBA in Canada
IVEY MBA - Ranks 3rd for MBA in Canada
UBC Sauder MBA - Ranks 4th for MBA in Canada
Queen's Smith MBA - Ranks 5th for MBA in Canada
Alberta Business School MBA - Ranks 7th for MBA in Canada
Concordia MBA - Ranks 8th for MBA in Canada
HEC Montreal MBA - Ranks 9th for MBA in Canada
McMaster MBA - Ranks 10th for MBA in Canada
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Degroote School of Business MBA Program Overview
Duration: 20 Months
Time in Class: 16 Months
Next Intake: September 2023
Work Experience Required: 1-7 Years
Format: Full-time
Paid summer internship
International Exchange
Top 3 Two Year MBA, According to Times Higher Education and Wall Street Journal Business School Report
Want to know if your profile fits the DeGroote MBA class profile? Book a free consultation and get a personalized eligibility check and application strategy with GOALisB.
Degroote School of Business MBA Admission Requirements
Bachelors Degree
Minimum 1 year of post graduate work experience
GMAT/GRE Test Scores
English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) - Overall score of 7 in IELTS or Overall score of 100 in TOEFL
Two References
Updated Professional Resume
KIRA Online Interview
Struggling to craft strong MBA essays or prepare for KIRA interviews? Reach out to GOALisB for expert mentorship for every stage of your DeGroote MBA application.
Degroote School of Business MBA Fees
Approximate Tuition Fee for International Students: $96,000
Degroote School of Business MBA Scholarships and Awards
MBA Admission Awards
DeGroote MBA Admission Scholarship Competition
MBA In-course and Entrance Scholarships
University-wide Scholarships and Bursaries
DeGroote Full-time MBA Curriculum
Term 1:
Managing Financial Resources
Economics and Business Statistics
Creating Customer Value
Competing through Digital Transformation and Analytics
Managing Organizations
Term 2:
Managing Financial Resources
Economics and Business Statistics
Creating Customer Value
Competing through Digital Transformation and Analytics
Managing Organizations
Term 3 & 4: Specializations
General MBA
Accounting and Financial Management Services
Business Analytics
Marketing
Strategic Business Valuation
Looking for scholarship or funding opportunities in Canadian MBA programs? Connect with GOALisB to help you identify and apply for merit-based and university-specific scholarships.
Degroote School of Business MBA Class Profile
Average Years of Work Experience- 4
Countries Represented- 9
Class Size- 67
Male- 52%
Female- 48%
Undergraduate Degree Breakdown-
Engineering- 21%
Science- 21%
Business- 40%
Other- 10%
Humanities- 8%
Summer Internship Secure Rate of those seeking: 91%
DeGroote MBA Employment Outcomes
Class of 2021
Total Students-191
Women: 40%
Men: 60%
Full-Time MBA students seeking employment were employed within three months of graduation: 94%
Employment by Industry
Financial Services: 28%
Technology: 15%
Healthcare: 14%
Professional Services – Consulting: 13%
Other: 11%
Manufacturing: 5%
Consumer Packaged Goods: 4%
Retail: 4%
Media/Entertainment: 3%
Energy & Natural Resources: 3%
Other includes Education, Entrepreneurship, Government, Law, Non-Profit, Accounting, Real Estate, Transportation and Logistics Services
Salaries & Signing Bonuses- 3 Months Post-Graduation
Highest Salary: $130,000
Lowest Salary: $50,000
Mean Salary: $77,080
Median Salary: $76,100
Highest bonus: $25,000
Lowest bonus: $5,000
Mean Bonus: $12,887
Median Bonus: $10,000
20% of those reporting salaries reported receiving a signing bonus.
Top Employers by Number of Hires
Amazon
BMO
CIBC
Deloitte
EY
Microsoft
RBC
Scotiabank
TD
TELUS
TELUS Health
Whirlpool
Impressed by DeGroote’s placement record? Schedule a free consultation with GOALisB to help you build a competitive application for high-employability programs like McMaster, Ivey, or Rotman.
DeGroote Executive MBA in Digital Transformation
Program Overview
Duration: 14 Months
Next Intake: July 2023
Work Experience Required: 10+ Years
Location: Burlington, Ontario, Burlington, Ontario
Capstone Project
Exploring Executive MBAs in Canada? Schedule a call with GOALisB consultants for EMBA application strategies for professionals with 10+ years of experience.
DeGroote EMBA Admission Requirements
4-year bachelor’s degree in any discipline
B average (73-77%) in the two most recent years of university study
Considerable work experience, including managerial experience (7+ years)
English proficiency (written and oral) – IELTS/TOEFL
Exceptions: School will consider non-degree applicants if they have a minimum of 12-years managerial experience. If candidates fall short on work experience or degree requirements, they will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be required to write a GMAT.
DeGroote EMBA Fee
Tuition Fee for Executive MBA Program is $95,335 (CAD) Which Includes:
Accommodations and most meals during in-person residency
Course materials and technology licenses
On-site parking during residency
Travel during residency
For MBA Essay help, MBA interview preparation and application assistance connect with an MBA admissions consultant at GOALisB or write to us at contact@goalisb.com or whatsapp at +91 7719497187.
FAQs
Is McMaster University a good choice for MBA?
Undeniably, McMaster University and its DeGroote MBA program are highly recognized worldwide. They have all the factors like strong faculty, student resources and many more to deliver a high-quality MBA course. Conducting research and talking to current or former DeGroote MBA students can provide more insight into whether it suits your needs and goals."
Also read which MBA is best in Canada for making an informed decision.
Is DeGroote a Good MBA?
DeGroote School of business ranked 141 in 150 in the Executive MBA rankings 2023. This business school has prestigious accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The DeGroote MBA program aims to create leadership skills and a solid knowledge background in business and management. The MBA program includes marketing, finance, operations, and strategy as part of the study.
What GMAT Score is Needed for DeGroote?
The average GMAT score is 600, but meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. You have a better chance if you can secure a higher than average score. However, the GMAT score is needed for those who do not meet the B average.
Read more about essential GMAT resources for understanding the exam structure and requirements:
Is DeGroote Hard to Get Into?
The admission process is highly selective, yet the acceptance rate is 65%. If you can complete your admission process successfully with more than average marks, you can easily get into DeGroote MBA.
Explore MBA Admission 2025 for MBA application guidance and strategy.
What is DeGroote MBA?
DeGroote School of Business is the business school at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program, which is a two-year program that provides students with a broad foundation in business and management. The DeGroote MBA program is designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for leadership roles in a variety of industries and sectors. It includes coursework in areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategy, as well as opportunities for experiential learning through case studies, simulations, and internships.
Is DeGroote a good MBA?
It is difficult to make a definitive statement about the quality of the DeGroote MBA program as the perception of what constitutes a "good" MBA program can vary widely depending on an individual's priorities and career goals. However, the DeGroote School of Business is generally well-regarded and has received a number of accolades. The school has received accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a highly respected accrediting body for business schools.
It is worth noting that the quality of an MBA program can also depend on factors such as the quality of the faculty, the resources available to students, the support provided by the school, and the overall learning experience. It may be helpful for you to research these factors and speak with current or former students of the DeGroote MBA program to get a better sense of whether the program is a good fit for your needs and goals.
If you’re exploring study options abroad, you might also be interested in US MBA programs:
Is McMaster University good for MBA?
McMaster University is a highly respected institution that is known for its strong academic programs, including its MBA program at the DeGroote School of Business. The quality of an MBA program can depend on a variety of factors, including the quality of the faculty, the resources available to students, the support provided by the school, and the overall learning experience. It may be helpful for you to research these factors and speak with current or former students of the DeGroote MBA program to get a better sense of whether it is a good fit for your needs and goals.
Is the DeGroote MBA worth it?
Yes, the DeGroote MBA is worth it for students targeting careers in Canada, offering strong ROI, co-op experience, and good employment outcomes, though it lacks the global prestige of top-tier schools.
The DeGroote MBA (McMaster University, Canada) is known for:
High ROI: Ranked top in Canada for payback; grads see 100%+ salary growth.
Co-op Option: Three 4-month work terms give real-world exposure and employer access.
Employment Outcomes- 94% of full-time MBA students seeking employment were employed within six months of graduation, avg salary- $85,969.
Specializations: Finance, strategy, health management, digital innovation.
Best for: Students wanting careers in Canada, hands-on experience, and a faster payback period.
Less ideal for: Those seeking global prestige or top-tier consulting/IB roles where school brand matters more.
What is DeGroote MBA ranked in the world?
DeGroote MBA Global Rankings
Ranking Body | Position / Band | Notes |
QS Global MBA (Full-Time, 2025) | ||
QS Global MBA (Canada2025) | ||
QS Global Executive MBA (EMBA) |
What do you need for the DeGroote MBA?
To apply for the DeGroote MBA, you need a 4-year bachelor’s degree, minimum 2 years of work experience, GMAT/GRE (waivers possible), minimum B average (73–76%), English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for internationals), a resume, essays, references, and online interview.
The DeGroote MBA (McMaster University, Canada) has clear eligibility and application requirements for both domestic and international students.
1. Academic Requirements:
A 4-year undergraduate degree (or equivalent).
Minimum B average (73–76%) in last two years of study.
2. Test Scores:
GMAT or GRE or MCAT or CFA level 2 passed or Canadian CPA or PEng.
International students must show English proficiency:
IELTS: Overall 7.0 (no band below 6.5)
TOEFL: 100
3. Professional Documents:
Resume (CV): Highlighting academic, work, and extracurricular achievements.
Essays / Statement of Purpose: Explaining goals, fit with DeGroote, and career plans.
Two references: Academic or professional.
4. Work Experience (Recommended):
The program welcomes both early-career applicants and experienced professionals.
For the Co-op MBA, no postgraduate experience is required.
For the Full-Time MBA, minimum 2 years of work experience.
5. Financial Documents (International Students):
Proof of funds for tuition + living expenses to support Canadian study permit application.
How much is a DeGroote MBA?
DeGroote MBA Tuition Fees
Is a part-time MBA worth it?
Yes, a part-time MBA is worth it for working professionals who want to advance their careers while earning, though the ROI depends on school reputation, networking opportunities, and career goals.
A part-time MBA allows students to balance work and study, making it a popular choice for mid-career professionals who don’t want to leave their jobs. Its value depends on individual circumstances.
Benefits of a part-time MBA:
Work + Study Balance: You can continue working and applying classroom learning to real projects.
Lower Opportunity Cost: No loss of full-time salary compared to full-time MBA.
Employer Sponsorship: Many companies partially or fully fund part-time MBAs.
Flexibility: Evening/weekend classes or online hybrid formats accommodate professionals.
Limitations:
Longer Duration: Typically 2.5–4 years vs 1–2 years full-time.
Networking Gap: Smaller peer interaction compared to immersive full-time MBA.
Recruitment Access: On-campus recruitment is often limited compared to full-time MBAs.
ROI Variation: Works best if you plan to advance within your current company/industry, less so for career switchers.
Key Insight: A part-time MBA is most worth it if:
You want to advance in your current career path.
You have employer support (funding or promotion opportunities).
You value flexibility and lower financial risk.
It may be less ideal if you want a major career change, international exposure, or elite consulting/IB roles, where a full-time MBA or EMBA carries more weight.
What is the dress code for DeGroote MBA?
DeGroote MBA Dress Code
Day-to-day (classes etc.): Business Casual
Presentations, networking, interviews, formal events: Business Formal / Traditional
For onboarding / welcome events: business casual is encouraged
What is Kira Talent?
Kira Talent is an online video-based admissions platform where MBA applicants complete timed video and written responses to assess communication, critical thinking, and personality beyond test scores and essays.
Kira Talent is widely used by MBA and graduate schools worldwide, including Canadian programs like Rotman, Schulich, and DeGroote. It supplements the traditional application process.
How Kira Talent Works:
Invitation: Applicants receive a Kira Talent link after submitting their application.
Practice Questions: A few warm-up questions help applicants test audio/video setup.
Recorded Video Questions: Applicants respond to pre-recorded questions within a set time (usually 30–60 seconds prep, 1–2 minutes to respond).
Written Questions: Some schools also include short timed essay responses.
Evaluation: Admissions committees review the responses to evaluate soft skills, presence, clarity, and fit with the program.
Why Schools Use Kira Talent:
Ensures fairness with standardized questions.
Helps assess communication, confidence, and problem-solving.
Adds personality insights beyond GMAT, GPA, and essays.
Tips for MBA Applicants:
Practice with mock interview questions.
Dress in business casual or business formal as if for a real interview.
Ensure good lighting, quiet background, and clear audio.
Structure responses (e.g., STAR method – Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Key Insight: Kira Talent is not about having a “perfect” answer—it’s about showing authenticity, clarity, and fit with the MBA program.
What is DeGroote known for?
DeGroote School of Business (McMaster University) is known for its Co-op MBA program, high ROI, healthcare management focus, and strong connections to Canadian industries.
The DeGroote School of Business in Canada has built its reputation on experiential learning and career-focused outcomes.
Key strengths DeGroote is known for:
Co-op MBA Program:
One of the only Canadian MBAs with a paid co-op option (up to 12 months).
Provides hands-on experience and early access to employers.
High ROI & Affordability:
Ranked among Canada’s best MBAs for return on investment.
Lower tuition than Rotman/Ivey while still offering strong salary growth.
Healthcare Management Leadership:
Recognized for expertise in health services management and digital health innovation.
Works closely with hospitals, healthcare startups, and government.
Strong Employment Outcomes:
94% job placement within 6 months of graduation.
Popular with Canadian banks, consulting firms, and healthcare organizations.
Location Advantage:
Based in Hamilton (close to Toronto), giving students access to Canada’s largest business hub.
Research & Innovation:
Known for applied research in digital transformation, leadership, and health management.
Key Insight: DeGroote is best known for its career-oriented MBA with co-op, affordability, and healthcare/digital strengths, making it especially attractive for students targeting Canadian industries.
If you are seeking assistance with MBA essay writing, MBA interview preparation, or MBA application guidance, you can connect with an MBA admissions consultant at GOALisB. Feel free to reach out to us through email at contact@goalisb.com or via WhatsApp at +91 7719497187. We are here to support you in your MBA journey!
Also Read: Which MBA is good in 2024?