The importance of taking the GMAT and GRE to study in Canada

When it comes to studying in Canada, it is important to know that many academic programs at the graduate level require the submission of standardized tests such as the GMAT ( Graduate Management Admission Test ) or the GRE ( Graduate Record Examination ). These exams are essential to measure the academic skills and preparation of applicants for competitive programs at universities and colleges . In addition, in some cases, they play an indirect role in immigration processes to Canada. 

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In this blog, I will tell you what these tests consist of, which institutions require them, and how they relate to Canadian immigration. Read with me until the end to assess whether you need to take these tests. Let's get started!

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What is the GMAT?

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The GMAT is a standardized test designed specifically for applicants to Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, Master of Business and Finance programs, and other business management-related programs.

The exam assesses four key areas of knowledge, these are:

1. Integrated reasoning : ability to analyze data and solve complex problems.
2. Quantitative reasoning : mathematical competencies and skills for solving numerical problems.
3. Verbal reasoning : reading comprehension, grammar and critical analysis skills.
4. Analytical writing assessment : evaluation of the ability to argue logically.

GMAT scores range from 200 to 800 points , and many reputable universities in Canada require a minimum score of 600 or above for MBA programs.

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GMAT Cost and Duration

• The cost of the exam at the time of publication of this article is approximately 275 USD and
• It lasts 3 hours and 7 minutes .

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What is the GRE?

The GRE is a broader exam that assesses general academic preparation for master's and doctoral programs in a variety of disciplines, from science to humanities.

The GRE assesses three main areas:

1. Verbal reasoning: ability to understand complex texts and analyze arguments.
2. Quantitative reasoning : basic mathematics knowledge and problem-solving skills.
3. Analytical writing : ability to argue clearly and persuasively.

The GRE score is divided into two main sections:

• Verbal and quantitative reasoning: each section has a score between 130 and 170 points .
• Analytical writing: graded between 0 and 6 points .

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Cost and duration

• The cost of the exam is approximately 220 USD and
• The total duration of the exam is 3 hours and 45 minutes .

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Universities and colleges in Canada that require the GMAT or GRE

Canada has a wide educational offering that includes globally recognized universities and colleges with quality programs.

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Programs that may require the GMAT

The GMAT is primarily required for programs related to business, finance, and management. Some institutions that require the GMAT are:

1. University of Toronto – Rotman School of Management:
   
   • Requires a minimum score of 670 for your MBA.
2. University of British Columbia (UBC) – Sauder School of Business:
   
   • Your MBA requires a score of at least 650.
3. York University – Schulich School of Business:
   
   • The minimum score is usually 600, although it is competitive.
4. McGill University – Desautels Faculty of Management:
   
   • Average accepted score: 660.
5. University of Alberta – Alberta School of Business:
   
   • Average accepted score: 620.

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Programs that may require the GRE

The GRE is most commonly required for master's programs in science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. Some universities that require it include:

1. University of Toronto:
   
   • The GRE is required for several master's and doctoral programs.
2. University of British Columbia (UBC):
   
   • The GRE is mandatory for disciplines such as psychology, engineering and economics.
3. McGill University:
   
   • Many of its graduate schools, such as science and arts, require the GRE as a requirement.
4. Simon Fraser University (SFU):
   
   • The GRE is required for master's degrees in applied sciences and doctorates.
5. Western University:
   
   • Their graduate programs in the sciences and humanities often require the GRE.

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What impact do these tests have on immigration processes to Canada?

Although the GMAT and GRE are not directly required for immigration processes such as Express Entry, they can play a key role in academic applications and their connection to permanent residency pathways.

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Benefits of the GMAT and GRE associated with the immigration process to Canada

1. Study Permit: International students who are admitted to a competitive academic program with an outstanding score on the GMAT or GRE may more easily obtain a study permit.

1. Post-Graduation Study Permit (PGWP): After completing an academic program in Canada, qualifying students can apply for a PGWP, which allows them to work in Canada and gain post-study work experience, an important requirement for permanent residency.
2. Permanent residency: Graduates of Canadian programs often get additional points in the Express Entry system. In addition, having an MBA or Master's degree in Canada can significantly improve job opportunities and, consequently, strengthen the application for permanent residency.

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Recommendations from Immiland Education Canada

At Immiland, we have a department dedicated to higher education counseling with vocational advisors regulated by the Canadian government and we are aware of the most timely information for those interested in continuing the logical thread of their studies in Canada. To do so, it is important to highlight some recommendations that will ensure the educational migration success of the student. Here I share four of them:

1. Research the program requirements: Before choosing a program, carefully review whether it requires the GMAT, GRE, or other tests. If you would like our education team to accompany you from the beginning to the end of your process to choose, apply, and obtain your acceptance, contact us or schedule an appointment .

1. Plan ahead: Preparing for these exams takes time, so I recommend that you set up a study schedule along with your academic plan and make sure you take the test well in advance of your admission date.
2. Look for exemptions: Some universities in Canada waive the GMAT or GRE if the student has relevant work experience or an outstanding academic record.
3. Connect your educational goals with the immigration process: If your desire is to settle in Canada, it is advisable to choose academic programs that give you additional points for permanent residence.

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Our team offers support to new immigrants with vocational advice so that they can choose the most suitable career for their immigration process. We only work with programs that lead to the PGWP and we manage an English pathway with Planeta Immiland Education for faster and more direct access, in case they do not have the required language level. 

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I hope you find this informative blog useful and you can choose GMAT or GRE accordingly. Thanks for reading. See you in the next blog!

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With love,

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Immiland Education