MMA Frequently Asked Questions

1.1: What is the length of the MMA Program?

In person delivery: 12 or 16 months- The MMA is a full-time 45-credit program that is completed over the course of one year. The 16 month program allows students to follow the internship option, which will have them return for a 5th term to complete their required credits.

Online delivery: 24 months – The MMA Online delivery format follows the same structure as the MMA in-person delivery format except the length of the program in online delivery format takes 24 months.

1.2: Does the MMA program include an internship?

In person delivery: All MMA students enter the program following the 12 month  (no internship) option. Students may choose to do an internship in their second summer term, which will allow them to return for a 5th term to complete their required credits (16 months). Students who wish to participate in the internship option have until the end of the Winter term (third term of the program) to secure an internship and receive approval by the MMA program. Please note that the program does not find internships on behalf of students. If a student chooses the internship option, they are responsible for searching for roles and securing their own internship position.

Online delivery: There is no internship option for the MMA online delivery format.

1.3: Does the Program find internships for students?

In person & Online delivery: The program does not find internships on behalf of students. If a student chooses the internship option, they are responsible for searching for roles and securing their own internship position.

1.4: When do I have to decide if I want to complete the internship option (16 month program length)?

In person delivery: Students who wish to participate in the internship option have until the end of the Winter term (third term of the program) to secure an internship and receive approval by the MMA program.

Online delivery: As mentioned above, there is no internship option for the online delivery format.

1.5: Is there a possibility of doing the program part time?

In person delivery: The In-person MMA program is only offered as a full-time study program.

Online delivery: The MMA online program is offered part-time (online sessions, evenings/ weekends, synchronous/ asynchronous)

1.6: Can I work while completing the MMA Program?

In person delivery: The program is rigorous and intensive; therefore, we do not recommend students work while completing it.

Online delivery: The program is flexible and is offered part time, so students can choose to work while completing the MMA online.

1.7: What is unique about the MMA Program? (Same for both delivery modes)

In person & Online delivery: The MMA aims to bridge the ever-consuming gap between business leaders and technical leaders. We have designed this program to pull the best features from pure strategy programs like an MBA, and a pure development program like the MSc in Data Science. Technically strong students get to learn the true business acumen required to succeed in the market, and strategically strong students get to learn the 'Need-to-know' technologies and skills to gain the respect and expertise required to be extremely valuable to organizations around the globe.

1.8: What are the program start and end dates?

In person delivery: The program starts once a year (Summer term). This year, the program began on July 11, 2024, and is planned to end on August 31, 2025. Summer 2025 start dates will be posted in the winter 2025.

Online delivery: The MMA online program starts every year in Winter term and ends the second year in the summer.

1.9: I am attempting to apply to the MMA for the Fall intake; however, the application dates are not displayed on the website

In person & Online delivery: The MMA program does not have a Fall intake. The MMA has both winter and summer admissions, with the MMA Online program beginning in the winter and the MMA In-Person in the summer.

2.1: What is the profile of an MMA student?

In person & Online delivery: Our student body is very diverse. The MMA is designed for recent graduates with a Bachelor of Commerce, Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Arts or Science degree and with proven quantitative skills. The program is best suited to students who have graduated in a related discipline, who have technical skills, and who are interested in studying analytics from a business or management perspective. The program also caters to individuals with an undergraduate degree in any discipline, who want to be part of the digital and technological wave, and who have a strong interest in the emerging field of Big Data, Analytics and AI from a strategic perspective. You can view our current class profile here.

2.2: Can you look at my degree/credentials and tell me if I’m eligible for the program?

In person & Online delivery: Please review the McGill educational credentials and grade equivalencies webpage to determine the eligibility of your degree. It is only after we receive your full application could we make any concrete assessment about your candidacy to the MMA Program. You may also find it helpful to review our admission requirements and credentials and grading equivalencies for international applicants. You may also find it helpful to view our current class profile.

2.3: I have completed a 3 year bachelor's degree, am I eligible for the MMA at McGill?

In person & Online delivery: Please note that it is only after we receive your full application could we make any concrete assessment about your candidacy to the MMA cohort. Therefore, please review our admission requirements and credentials and grading equivalencies for international degrees. It may also be helpful to view our current class profile.

For details on McGill minimum English requirements and to determine if you may be exempt from taking a proficiency test, please refer to the English language proficiency page.

2.4: If I have work experience, am I still eligible to apply for admission to the program?

In person & Online delivery: Yes, you are still eligible to apply for admission even though prior work experience is not a requirement for the MMA program.

2.5: Can I get an application fee waiver?

In person & Online delivery: The non-refundable Graduate Studies application fee of CAD $136.89 must accompany each application. Applications cannot be submitted without this fee. This sum must be paid by credit card.

3.1: Which quantitative skills are necessary for the MMA program?

In person & Online delivery:
1. As a baseline, students will require strong general mathematical aptitude to handle the quantitative rigor of the program.
2. On the technical side, students are expected to have some knowledge/familiarity in problem solving tools/technology. For example, an entry level understanding in Python or R is becoming the standard, and having exposure to tools like Databricks or Cloud applications (ie Microsoft/AWS/Google) would be an additional asset.

3.2: What is the minimum CGPA required?

In person & Online delivery: For admission to graduate programs at McGill, the minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) is 3.0 out of a possible 4.0, or a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 out of 4.0 in the last two years of full-time studies.

3.3: Do you require GMAT or GRE scores?

GMAT/GRE Requirement Removed: While the GMAT/GRE is no longer required for an MMA student application, submitting a GMAT/GRE score is optional and may enhance your profile. We accept both scores. When registering for a test, request the results be sent directly to McGill University: GMAT Institution Code: 58H-MN-80, GRE Institution Code: 0935.

3.6: Is the TOEFL or IELTS required?

In person & Online delivery: For applicants whose mother tongue is not English and who have not completed their degree in an English speaking country, the TOEFL or IELTS is required. For the TOEFL the McGill Institution code 0935. For IELTS, please request that the scores are submitted electronically to McGill University via the IELTS Results Service. Please refer to the English language proficiency page for details on McGill minimum English requirements and to determine if you may be exempt from taking a proficiency test.

Please note: Only tests taken at Test Centers are accepted for admission, at-home tests are not accepted.

3.7: Who should I ask for references?

In person & Online delivery: We recommend you obtain references from individuals who know your strengths and competencies. These references may be academic or professional ones, but you should include at least one academic reference letter. Upon providing the names and institutional email addresses of your references, McGill will automatically contact them and invite them to upload references via the Graduate Admissions System.

4.1: What is the admission process?

In person & Online delivery: Read the application requirements and admission process for details. The Admissions Committee will review completed applications after each deadline. Selected applicants will be invited for an interview and will be notified via the Graduate Admissions System and by email as to the time and date. Applicants who are offered acceptance will have two weeks from the time of offer to accept and secure a place in the MMA program.

4.2: I am attempting to apply to the MMA for the Fall intake; however, the application dates are not displayed on the website

In person & Online delivery: The MMA program does not have a Fall intake. The MMA has both winter and summer admissions, with the MMA Online program beginning in the winter and the MMA In-Person in the summer.

4.3: I have started my application, but I can’t upload my documents.

In person & Online delivery: Once you pay the application fee, you will be able to upload your documents.

4.4: Can I get an application fee waiver?

In person & Online delivery: The non-refundable Graduate Studies application fee of CAD $136.89 must accompany each application. Applications cannot be submitted without this fee. This sum must be paid by credit card.

4.5: When selecting MMA as the Program of study, which term should I select on my application?

In person delivery: When completing your application, please ensure you are selecting 2024-2025 Application cycle and not 2025-2026 Application cycle. The MMA program offers admissions in the summer semester only, and the Summer 2025 term is part of the 2024/25 academic year.

Online delivery: Similarly, when completing your application for the online delivery format, please ensure you are selecting 2024-2025 Application cycle and not 2025-2026 Application cycle. The MMA online program offers admissions in the winter semester only, and the Winter 2025 term is part of the 2024/25 academic year.

4.6: Will my application be reviewed by a deadline if it is missing only my test scores?

In person & Online delivery: In order to have your application reviewed by a particular deadline, it must be complete and include all documents, test scores, and references.

4.7: Is there an interview as part of the application process?

In person & Online delivery: After a preliminary review of completed applications, only selected candidates will be invited for an interview. Our office will notify them via the Graduate Admissions System and by e-mail as to a time and date. Interviews are conducted via Zoom.

4.8: When is a student notified of the admission decision?

In person & Online delivery: Once an application is complete, applicants can expect to receive a response within 6-8 weeks of the application deadlines. Note that this timeline may vary.

4.9: If I receive an offer of admission, when do I have to accept?

In person & Online delivery: Accepted applicants will generally have 2 weeks to accept the offer and pay the non-refundable deposit of C$5,000 via credit card. Please refer to your offer letter for the specific deadline.

4.10: If I receive an offer of admission, can I defer my admission?

In person & Online delivery: Deferring admission for one year may be considered in exceptional cases upon evidence of extenuating circumstances. Only deferral requests from applicants who have accepted an offer of admission and have paid the non-refundable deposit ($5,000) are evaluated, with no guarantee that they will be approved. A written request should be submitted to the MMA office at mma.admission [at] mcgill.ca 

If a deferral of admission to the next academic year is granted, a second and non-refundable deposit of $5,000 will be required.

4.11: My scores have been sent but I cannot see them on my applicant portal

In person & Online delivery: Please note that it can take anywhere between 10-30 days for your scores to reflect in your applicant portal from the day they are submitted. The breakdown for each test type can be found below:

GMAT/GRE processing time = 10-20 business days
IELTS processing time = 14- 30 business days
TOEFL processing time = 10-20 business days

If you do not see the test scores by then, please use the inbox/chat function on your applicant portal.

4.12: Do referees only have 14 days to submit their letter from the receipt of the email?

In person & Online delivery: Applicants are given the choice of whether they send the referee request instantly or just prior to application submission. Either way, the letter is sent prior to the formal submission of the application. Referees have time to send the letter of recommendation beyond the 14 days indicated on the automated email. But note that in order to have your application reviewed by a particular deadline, it must be complete and include all documents, test scores, and references.

4.13: How can I update my own references (remove/exclude, add, change etc.)?

In person & Online delivery: From the applicant portal, you can update the referee's information / email. You may use the “exclude” the referee option and “add” a new referee with the updated information / the institutional email of your original referee. Please inform your referee. If you have any issues, kindly let us know us via mma.admission [at] mcgill.ca or the inbox located in your applicant portal.

4.14: I am not sure how to self-report my cGPA and I am unable to proceed with my application

In person & Online delivery: Please add the same cGPA as the one on your undergraduate transcript. When completing this section you will find a text box (for discrepancies or issues); please leave us a note there explaining your selection and let us know if you have any other concerns/ comments. Once we evaluate your transcripts, we will be able to validate your cGPA, and we would let you know if we have any additional questions.

4.15: Will I still be considered if my test scores are not received on time?

In person & Online delivery: In order for your application to be considered, all documents and test scores must be received to your applicant portal by the applicant deadline.

4.16: There is a typo in my personal information on my application portal, how do I fix this?

In person & Online delivery: Login to the application portal and navigate to the “my profile’ section on the top right hand of the page. Please complete the form on this page in order to request a change to your personal information, mailing/permanent address, etc. If you need to update your immigration status, please contact us through the inbox on your application portal or email us at mma.admissions [at] mcgill.ca

5.1: How much does the program cost?

In person delivery: The program’s expected tuition for Summer 2025 is C$72,600. Note that there is a tuition waiver of $26,070 for Canadians and Permanent Residents. To accept an offer of admission, applicants must pay the non-refundable deposit of C$5,000.

Online delivery: The program’s expected tuition for Winter 2025 is C$ 67,600. Note that there is a tuition waiver of $21,070 for Canadians and Permanent Residents. To accept an offer of admission, applicants must pay the non-refundable deposit of C$5,000. Some applicants may be eligible to up to $15,000 contribution through their employers with the McGill Corporate Education Match.

For further details and current fee information, please refer to the Graduate Tuition & Fees page.

5.2: When are the tuition fees due?

In person delivery: You must pay a deposit of C$5,000 when you accept your offer of admission. This deposit fee is non-refundable, and it will be applied towards your Summer tuition fees.

Online delivery: You must pay a deposit of C$5,000 when you accept your offer of admission. This deposit fee is non-refundable, and it will be applied towards your Winter tuition fees.

Please note that for both deliveries, only after you have registered for courses will you be billed for the rest of your tuition fees. Tuition fees are assessed on a per credit basis, per term and billed in the month before the start of the term.

5.3: Are scholarships or financial aid available?

All MMA students are considered for entrance scholarships upon acceptance. If you are one of our most outstanding applicants, you may be awarded one. No additional application is needed to be considered for these awards. Selected applicants will receive information on their entrance award with their offer of admission. Please note: The MMA program does not offer financial aid.

Online delivery: The McGill Corporate Education Match offer is designed exclusively for our McGill Master of Management in Analytics (Online) program starting in the winter term. The program provides a dollar-for-dollar match, with McGill University contributing an equal amount for every dollar invested by the employer, up to the maximum limit of $15,000 CAD.

5.4: I am interested in the MMA program at McGill University and would like to apply for the McCall McBain Scholarship

In person & Online delivery: Please note that admission to the MMA program and applying to the McCall MacBain Scholarship program consists of two different application processes. The MMA admissions team is not involved in the decisions for the McCall McBain scholarship and cannot offer any information about eligibility or application status. For more information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships, please visit their website.

5.5: I was awarded an entrance scholarship from the MMA Program, when will I receive the funds?

In person delivery: The award is deposited to your student fees account in two equal installments: the first at the beginning of September and the second at the beginning of January.

Online delivery: The award is deposited over the duration of study, spanning 5 semesters.

6.1: What are the job opportunities for MMA graduates?

In person & Online delivery: Data & Analytics is what is known as a 'Horizontal' industry/function. These can be performed in all sectors of the market including (but not limited to) Consulting, Health Care, Finance, Operations, Government, Science, Technology etc. As Data Driven Decisions have become more common practice for these and other industries, the market is demanding that workers have deeper data and analytics skills for a vast range of jobs from Financial Analyst to Marketing Manager, to Lab Technician to Chief Technology Officer. For more information, please refer to our employment statistics.
Throughout the program, we will work closely with you so that you can hone your skills and pursue the path that is the best fit for you and will grant you the best chance at success.

6.2: What career resources are available to the MMA students?

In person delivery: McGill Desautels Career Management will work with students from Day 1 to prepare them for the job market. They will provide workshops such as resume and cover letter writing, one-on-one mock interviews, and networking events among others.

International Student Services at McGill offers a host of services to international students. We strongly encourage students to explore their website for information on pre-arrival orientation webinars, immigration, health insurance, work & permits, and more.

7.1: I am an international student, am I eligible to apply for a work permit after completing the MMA program? How long does it last?

In person delivery: International students who have completed an MMA degree may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit if they meet the eligibility criteria. The official length of the MMA program is 12 months, and the PGWP may be valid for up to 3 years. Visit this International Student Services website for more details.

Online delivery: The MMA Online is offered remotely therefore, students completing the online program do not qualify for the Post-Graduate Work Permit.

7.2: What Immigration documents do I need?

In person delivery: All accepted international students are required to secure a CAQ, a study permit and a co-op work permit prior to starting the MMA program. The Co-op work permit is required for the Analytics and Solution Consulting Practicum (BUSA 693) and for the Community Analytics Project (BUSA 649) courses. A letter of support to request the Co-op Work Permit will be provided once you accept the offer of admission. For detailed immigration information, visit the International Student Services website.

Online delivery: The MMA Online is offered remotely therefore, international students are not required to submit their legal documents.

7.3: What are the new procedures in place for International students applying to McGill University?

In person delivery: In January 2024, the government (IRCC) issued immigration updates with new measures for incoming Masters and PhD students. Find more information on the International Student Services page.

Proof of financial capacity:

• Effective January 1, IRCC has increased the minimum amount of financial capacity students must demonstrate when applying for a study permit. This new minimum does not apply to Quebec. To study in Quebec, applicants must prove they meet the financial requirements outlined by the ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).
• As per MIFI, the minimum amount required for a student without dependents includes tuition, transportation (round trip from country of origin), settlement fees, health insurance and living expenses of $15,078 per year. This amount is normally adjusted every year.
• ISS has updated this information on their website (please see the yellow box on top of the page).

International student caps:

• On January 22, the federal government announced new caps to the number of study permits to be issued in 2024. These caps do not apply to master’s and PhD programs.

Post-Graduate Work Permit:

• The January 22 announcement also included the following:

• Graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible to apply for a 3-year work permit. Under current criteria, the length of a post­graduation work permit is based solely on the length of an individual’s study program, hindering master’s graduates by limiting the amount of time they have to gain work experience and potentially transition to permanent residence.

Letter of acceptance verification process:

• Since December 1, 2023, post-secondary designated learning institutions have been required to confirm every letter of acceptance submitted by an applicant outside Canada directly with IRCC. This enhanced verification process protects prospective students from fraud and ensures that study permits are issued based only on genuine letters of acceptance.
• Institutions have 10 calendar days to validate the letter of acceptance.
• At McGill, the verification process is coordinated through Enrolment Services.

Online delivery: The MMA Online is offered remotely therefore, international students are not required to submit their legal documents.

Have additional questions? Join us for an information session. 

Join us for a Master of Management in Analytics information sessions, where you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the MMA curriculum, faculty expertise, and unique program features. Following the presentation, there will be a live Q&A period with MMA program director, Shoeb Hosain and our admissions specialist. Whether you're interested in our online or in-person format, this interactive session allows you to get answers to any questions you may have along your journey into the MMA program.