International Student Information
Considerations & Requirements
Do I need a study permit?
A study permit is required for anyone that wants to study in Canada for six months or more. Study permits will only be issued for study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).
Queen’s University is a Designated Learning Institution and its DLI number is: O19376023352. Study permit applications require a valid DLI number.
For details on acquiring a Study Permit and the requirements, please visit the Study Permits, Visas, and Residency page on the Queen's University International Centre (QUIC) website.
What are the Immigration Requirements?
All international students must satisfy certain immigration requirements before entering Canada. Once you receive an offer of admission from Smith, we recommend contacting your nearest Canadian embassy, high commission, or consulate. These applications can take many months to be processed. It is a good idea to apply as soon as you have your proof of admission to Queen’s.
There are also several requirements you will need to meet before earning an entry visa. These include proof of medical clearance and proof of requisite funds, as well as a separate study permit to attend a Canadian school.
Find the Canadian office in your home country.
You can find information on where and how to apply through Immigration and Citizenship Canada.
You can also find information on finding work for a spouse or common-law partner.
Please check the Queen’s University International Centre (QUIC) for more information and assistance.
Do I Need to Take an English Proficiency Test?
All students who have graduated from an English-language university, or have studied in English, do not require further proof of English proficiency. Students who do not meet these prerequisites, however, can take any of the following proficiency tests:
TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score of 100 overall, with a minimum of 24 on speaking and writing. The MBA TOEFL test code is 5779.
IELTS score of 7.0 (Academic). The IELTS test is available in two test formats: Academic or General Training. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking modules. It is the Reading and Writing components that differ. The Academic version of IELTS measures English language proficiency needed for an academic, higher learning environment. This is the format that is required for an application to Smith School of Business. After you have taken the test, please arrange with the testing agency to send your score electronically to the program at Smith School of Business. There is no need to send a paper score sheet.
Is the GMAT or GRE a requirement?
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) are standardized tests designed to assess writing, verbal, reading, analytical, and qualitative skills in written English. Though the GMAT and GRE are typically used for admission into graduate programs, its necessity varies from program to program at Smith School of Business.
We do not require a GMAT or GRE for all programs. With that said, you can certainly begin your application without a GMAT score. The GMAT may be required depending on your undergraduate academic performance and career progress. Your application advisor will conduct a preliminary assessment and determine if a GMAT is required.
A GMAT or GRE is mandatory for Full-time MBA, Master of International Business, and Master of Finance, though a GMAT is recommended for applicants who wish to pursue a career in the Finance or Consulting industries. Therefore, we highly recommend that you thoroughly prepare for and write the GMAT. In some cases, a GMAT may be recommended to strengthen your application file.
Do I need to be CFA certified?
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 1 certificate is required for admission to our Master of Finance - Toronto and Master of Finance - Beijing programs. The majority of our students have completed CFA Level 1 or 2 and some are full Charter members. In some cases, we may consider an exemption from this requirement, however those exceptions are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
The Master of Finance programs at Smith are Program Partners with the CFA Institute, and we maintain a close relationship with the Toronto chapter of the CFA Society.
This relationship provides numerous benefits for our students, including opportunities to attend CFA events, high profile guest speakers, and CFA scholarships.
Does this program require GMAT, GRE, or CFA Level 1?
| Program | GMAT/GRE | CFA Level 1 | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time MBA | YES | NO | |
| EMBA National | NO | NO | |
| EMBA Americas | NO | NO | |
| Master of Management Analytics | NO | NO | |
| Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence | NO | NO | |
| Master of Management Innovation & Entrepreneurship | NO | NO | |
| Master of Digital Product Management | NO | NO | |
| Master of Fincancial Innovation & Technology | NO | NO | |
| Master of Finance | YES | YES | Though a CFA Level 1 certificate is recommended, a GMAT, GMAT Focus, or a GRE that meets a minimum grade threshold can be accepted in lieu of a CFA Level 1. |
| Master of Finance Beijing | YES | YES |
This requirement may be waived if the candidate has a bachelor’s degree in business or economics from an accredited university with an average of A or better, and/or robust work experience in finance. Upon preliminary assessment some candidates may be required to submit both GMAT/GRE and CFA Level 1. |
| Master of International Business | YES | NO | Except for candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree in business from an accredited University and who have achieved a result of B+ (approximately equivalent to 75% or a GPA of 3.3) or better in the final two years of their degree |
| Graduate Diploma in Accounting | NO | NO |
When is the Application Deadline?
Smith's postgraduate programs conduct a rolling admission whereby, as soon as your application file is complete, it is reviewed, and an admission decision is made. As these are highly competitive programs, we encourage you to apply early. Please note there is no application fee.
International applicants must submit their applications with sufficient time for study visa processing. We strongly encourage all international students to apply as early as possible.
Do I Need a WES (World Education Services) Assessment for My Undergraduate Degree?
A WES Assessment is an evaluation of international credentials for candidates interested in studying in Canada.
All applicants whose undergraduate education was taken outside of North America will be asked to submit a WES comprehensive course-by-course evaluation to ensure that their credentials are equivalent to a four-year bachelor’s degree in Canada.
In some cases, this evaluation will assist the admissions team in accurately assessing performance in specific subjects to ensure that the applicant has the quantitative ability necessary to be successful in the program. This evaluation will also be used to assess your candidacy for scholarship consideration. Please note that we will accept copies of the assessment; however, we also require original degree documentation sent directly from the university that the degree was conferred.
How Do I Send My Official Transcript to You?
An official transcript sent from each post-secondary institution you have attended must be issued and sealed by the respective institution. Please have the official transcript sent directly from the university to our office:
The Stephen J.R. Smith School of Business
Goodes Hall, Queen's University, room 338
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
K7L 3N6
If the university will not send transcripts directly, the applicant can send the transcript to us. The original envelope must remain unopened with its seals signed and stamped by the university.
If the transcripts are not in English, you will be required to complete one of the two steps below:
- Provide WES assessment for each transcript you are submitting.
- Official transcript can be translated into English by an official translator, and then sent to us with the English translation. The translation must be notarized by a notary public, a lawyer, or your university.
Please note: In some cases, international applicants may be required to provide a WES transcript evaluation regardless of the language they are submitted in.
Fees & Financing
What is the Application Fee?
There are no application fees for any of the post-graduate programs offered at Smith School of Business. Admission to the programs is competitive. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited. Applications are reviewed immediately upon receipt of completed files and admission decisions are rendered as soon as reference checks are completed.
Are There Scholarships Available?
| Program | Scholarships |
|---|---|
| Full-time MBA |
General Entrance Scholarships – General entrance scholarships are awarded to applicants who the MBA Scholarship Committee deem to have the strongest overall profiles. Each year Smith awards over 50% of students with merit-based scholarships ranging from $10,000 to $70,000. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Women in Leadership
Location
Fellowships
Academic Excellence
External Scholarships |
| Executive MBA National |
Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Forté Foundation – Advancing Women & Business. These are applied for during your MBA in January and awarded in February. 30% Club Scholarship – each year Smith School of Business is pleased to offer the 30% Club Scholarship to a highly qualified woman entering the EMBA program. This scholarship – which covers 50% of the program tuition – is offered in partnership with the 30% Club, a global organization dedicated to accelerating the representation of women at senior levels in business. Its name is derived from its overarching goal, which is to see 30% of S&P/TSX 60 company board seats occupied by women. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Executive MBA Americas |
Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Forté Foundation – Advancing Women & Business. These are applied for during your MBA in January and awarded in February. 30% Club Scholarship – each year Smith School of Business is pleased to offer the 30% Club Scholarship to a highly qualified woman entering the EMBA program. This scholarship – which covers 50% of the program tuition – is offered in partnership with the 30% Club, a global organization dedicated to accelerating the representation of women at senior levels in business. Its name is derived from its overarching goal, which is to see 30% of S&P/TSX 60 company board seats occupied by women. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Master of Management Analytics |
Vector Institute Scholarships – valued at $17,500. Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence |
Vector Institute Scholarships – valued at $17,500. Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Master of Management Innovation & Entrepreneurship |
Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Master of Digital Product Management |
Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Master of Financial Innovation & Technology |
Vector Institute Scholarships – valued at $17,500. Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student |
| Master of Finance |
Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student External Scholarships |
| Master of Finance Beijing |
Renmin/Queen’s scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), references, exceptional GMAT and English-proficiency test results, and excellent performance during the admissions interview. Canada Learning Initiative in China – The Canada Learning Initiative in China (CLIC) is a Canada-wide study abroad program that connects Canadian students with Chinese universities. CLIC creates innovative and meaningful ways for students with Canadian citizenship to continue their education in China. This includes a 3000 yuan (roughly $600) per month stipend, subsidized accommodation, and free medical insurance. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student External Scholarships |
| Master of International Business |
Dean's Entrance Scholarships – a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year based on the overall grade point average (GPA), the GPA on the prerequisite courses, career progress. Scholarships for Black Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Scholarships for Indigenous Students – $10,000 scholarship awarded annually to 1 student Government Scholarships
|
Financing
Note: Financing options for MDPM and MFin Beijing are only available to domestic students.
| Program | Financing Options |
|---|---|
| Full-time MBA |
|
| Executive MBA National |
|
| Executive MBA Americas |
|
| Master of Management Analytics |
|
| Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence |
|
| Master of Management Innovation & Entrepreneurship |
|
| Master of Financial Innovation & Technology |
|
| Master of Finance |
|
| Master of International Business |
|
MPOWER Financing offers loans to international students. To learn more or to start an application go to the MPOWER Financing website. If you have any questions please email mpower.me@mpowerfinancing.com
For Students from India Studying in Canada
HDFC Credila offers a completely customized product for borrowers who opt to pursue their university/college education in Canada.
- Funding for: Tuition Fee + cost of living + any other education-related expenses
- Flexible repayment options with up to 180 months (15 years) loan tenure 1
- Competitive interest rates – starting from 10.75% p.a. 2
- Attractive Tax benefits
- Dedicated Relationship Managers with door step service
To apply online, please visit the HDFC Credila website
For more information, please contact Mr. Tushar Adole: tushara@hdfccredila.com
- Terms and conditions apply
- Interest rate offered will vary on a case to case basis and on individual merits
Other Options
There are a variety of resources available to help you find scholarships and funding, such as the Government of Canada scholarships search and the International Education and Financial Aid (IEFA), which offers comprehensive listings of scholarships for international students.
You may also choose to obtain student loans that have been secured through your home country. We recommend contacting the appropriate student loan processing agency in your country for further information.
You may investigate third-party options as well, such as Sallie Mae (also known as SLM Corporation) for private student loans, or U.S. Federal Direct Student Loans made by the United States Department of Education for applicants in the United States. You may also be eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans and PLUS Loans (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students).
Note: Acceptance to a program does not guarantee or imply qualification for financing.
Before You Arrive
How Long Will My Application Take?
A study permit application can take many months to be processed. It is a good idea to apply as soon as you have your proof of admission to Smith.
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) publishes regularly updated expected processing times.
Citizens and permanent residents of the United States have the option to apply when they enter Canada (processing is done immediately).
To check processing times, please visit the Government of Canada website.
How Do I Apply for a Visa?
You can apply through the Canadian visa office serving your country or region of residence. Make sure to follow instructions on the study permit application from that local office as requirements are very localized.
Take a look at this helpful guide from the Queen’s University International Centre for a step-by-step walkthrough of the Immigration Canada online application portal.
If your application is successful, the visa office will give you a Port of Entry Introduction Letter to confirm your study permit approval, together with a visa on your passport or eTA linked to your passport, depending on your citizenship.
You must present this letter to Canadian immigration officials when you enter Canada.
They will print your actual study permit paper (sample) at that time. See the arrival section on the Queen’s University International Centre website for more details.
You are not eligible to study based on the Port of Entry Introduction Letter alone (without the actual study permit paper).
You should not travel to Canada until you are issued the Port of Entry Introduction Letter and Temporary Resident Visa or eTA.
Student Resources
Is This Program Eligible for a Postgraduate Work Permit?
Several of our programs are eligible for Postgraduate Work Permits, which allow graduates to stay in Canada temporarily to work. For the latest information on these permits, we recommend checking the Government of Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit website.
| Program | Eligible for Permit |
|---|---|
| Full-time MBA | YES |
| Executive MBA National | NO |
| Executive MBA Americas | NO |
| Master of Management Analytics | YES |
| Master of Management Analytics – Blended | NO |
| Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence | YES |
| Master of Management Innovation & Entrepreneurship | YES |
| Master of Digital Product Management | NO |
| Master of Financial Innovation & Technology | YES |
| Master of Finance | YES |
| Master of International Business | YES |
| Graduate Diploma in Accounting | NO |
International Student Advisors
International Student Advisors (ISAs) provide immigration and cultural advice, guidance, and information to assist in your transition to studying in Canada. They specialize in supporting international students, new Canadians, permanent residents, and their families.
They can assist you with the following, and more:
- Learning to navigate the local and academic cultures of Toronto, Kingston, and Queen’s
- Feelings of homesickness, loneliness, and isolation
- Understanding and accessing health services
ISAs are Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIA) that can provide you with information on immigration regulations as they relate to your studies in Canada, including:
- Study permits
- Eligibility to work on or off campus
- Visitor visas
- Spousal work permits
- Pathways to permanent residency
The Queen’s University International Centre (QUIC)
QUIC offers a variety of services for international students, from connecting students and their families with the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP), offering information and guidance on work permits, and connecting students with broader university resources like Student Wellness Services and athletics.
Career Advancement Centre
The Career Advancement Centre is your best resource for support in jumpstarting your career of choice. Throughout your time at Smith, the Centre’s Career Coaches help you explore career options, define objectives, and shape a job-search strategy. The coaches can also help you with the full range of job search and professional development topics, from building a strong personal brand to interview skills and networking.
Learning Environment
Though Goodes Hall is the home of Smith School of Business at Queen’s University, our learning environment extends far beyond our campus in Kingston. With an off-campus conference centre in Kingston, a state-of-the art facility in downtown Toronto, and Boardroom Learning Centres across Canada, Smith School of Business is truly Canada’s business school.
For an inside look at our different facilities, check out at our Learning Environment page.
- A comfortable size (147,000 residents in the region, 123,363 in the city)
- Most walkable/cyclable city in Ontario
- Location on the shores of beautiful Lake Ontario, by the scenic Thousand Islands, the St. Lawrence River, Fort Henry and Rideau Canal Heritage Site
- A historic downtown with diverse and eclectic cultural offerings, entertainment and festivals year-round. Independent merchants offer interesting specialty and boutique shopping
- Lots of dining choices to explore and taste farm-to-table cooking
- Housing choices in safe, attractive neighbourhoods
- An excellent public school system with many options