Pursuing an MBA in the US and Canada is generally similar in terms of the academic content and structure of the program. Both countries offer an MBA abroad that typically last for two years and include coursework in business-related subjects such as finance, marketing, and operations management.
MBA in the USA vs. MBA in Canada — FT MBA 2025 Rankings Deep Dive
The Financial Times Global MBA Rankings 2025 offer a wealth of data to compare the performance, value, and global impact of MBA programs worldwide. This article dissects the differences between US and Canadian MBA programs across 12 key metrics drawn from the FT report.
1. Overall Representation in Top 100
Metric | USA | Canada |
Number of Schools in Top 100 | 42 | 4 |
Highest Ranked School | Wharton (Rank 1) | Rotman (Rank 76) |
Average Rank (Top 3) | 3.33 | 80 |
Insight: The U.S. dominates the rankings, with 42% of the Top 100. Canada lags significantly in both count and rank. U.S. MBAs set the benchmark for global prestige.
2. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Weighted Salary (USD)
School | Country | Weighted Salary |
USA | $241,522 | |
USA | $242,747 | |
USA | $232,565 | |
Canada | $129,690 | |
Queen’s MBA | Canada | $122,154 |
Canada | $114,305 |
Average (Top 3)
USA: $238,278
Canada: $122,050
Insight: US graduates earn nearly 2x more than their Canadian peers. The ROI in terms of salary is dramatically higher in top US programs.
3. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Salary Increase (%)
Metric | USA Top 5 | Canada Top 3 |
Range | 113% – 132% | 77% – 96% |
Insight: U.S. schools deliver a salary boost exceeding 100%, while Canadian programs fall below that threshold, signaling lower post-MBA leverage.
4. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Aims Achieved (%)
Program | Aims Achieved |
Wharton | 88% |
Columbia | 89% |
Rotman (Canada) | 91% |
McGill (Canada) | 81% |
Insight: Canadian programs do well in “student expectations met”, showing high alignment with post-MBA goals. However, those goals may differ in scale and scope from US peers.
MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Employment at Three Months (%)
School | Country | Employment Rate |
MIT Sloan | USA | 100% |
Kellogg | USA | 99% |
Rotman | Canada | 83% |
McGill | Canada | 61% |
Insight: There’s a clear employment gap post-MBA — with U.S. grads seeing near-total placement. Canadian schools show respectable but lower rates, hinting at market saturation or limited domestic corporate absorption.
6. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: International Mobility Rank
Metric | USA Avg (Top 5) | Canada Avg |
FT International Mobility Rank | ~39 | 32–56 |
Insight: Canadian MBAs edge ahead in international mobility, partly due to immigration-friendly policies and globally mobile cohorts.
MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: International Students (%)
Program | % International Students |
Columbia | 59% |
MIT Sloan | 46% |
Rotman (Canada) | 73% |
McGill (Canada) | 61% |
Insight: Canada leads in attracting international students, which is a huge plus for candidates seeking global exposure, diverse peer learning, and easier post-study work options.
8. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Faculty with Doctorates (%)
Metric | USA Top 5 Avg | Canada Top 3 Avg |
Faculty Doctorates % | 88–100% | 44–78% |
Insight: U.S. schools have a more research-oriented academic base, supporting strong thought leadership and innovation culture — a big plus if you're into consulting, strategy, or academia.
9. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: FT Research Rank
School | Country | FT Research Rank |
Wharton | USA | 1 |
MIT Sloan | USA | 14 |
Rotman | Canada | 32 |
Insight: Research output is heavily U.S.-dominated, making American MBAs stronger choices for those seeking data-driven learning, case studies, and intellectual capital.
10. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Value for Money Rank
School | Country | VFM Rank |
BYU Marriott (USA) | 11 | |
Rice University (USA) | 45 | |
Rotman (Canada) | 99 | |
Queen’s Smith (Canada) | 28 |
Insight: Only Queen’s MBA in Canada offers a strong ROI. Most Canadian MBAs are less competitive when balancing cost vs outcome, despite lower tuition.
11. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Overall Satisfaction
School | Country | Satisfaction (out of 10) |
Wharton | USA | 8.647 |
Rotman | Canada | 7.551 |
McGill | Canada | 7.533 |
Insight: There's a satisfaction gap — US students report better overall MBA experiences, possibly due to stronger support services, networks, and career outcomes.
12. MBA in USA vs MBA in Canada: Diversity Metrics
Metric | Canada | USA |
Female Students % | 35–44% | 25–40% |
International Board % | 31–56% | 20–59% |
Women on Board % | 31–72% | 0–47% |
Insight: Canadian MBAs demonstrate higher gender and board diversity, aligning well with candidates focused on inclusive leadership and social impact.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose MBA in USA or MBA in Canada?
Choose USA MBA if:
You're targeting elite consulting, finance, PE/VC, or global C-suite roles
You're driven by maximum ROI and salary jump
You want a powerful alumni network and institutional prestige
Choose Canada MBA if:
You want a less expensive, immigration-friendly route to North America
You're looking for diversity, international exposure, and post-MBA work rights
Your goals are more entrepreneurial, general management, or regional
However, there are some differences to consider when deciding between pursuing an MBA in the US or Canada:
Cost: MBA programs in the US tend to be more expensive than those in Canada. Tuition fees for MBA programs in the US can range from $40,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on the school and location. In Canada, tuition fees for MBA programs tend to be lower, with an average cost of around $30,000 per year.
Location: The US has a larger and more diverse range of MBA programs than Canada, with many top-ranked business schools located in cities such as New York, Boston, and Chicago. Canada has a smaller number of business schools, but they are located in cities such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, which are known for their diverse and vibrant cultures.
Visa requirements: If you are not a citizen of the US or Canada, you will need to apply for a student visa in order to study in either country. The process for obtaining a student visa in the US can be more complex and time-consuming than in Canada.
Overall, the decision of whether to pursue an MBA in the US or Canada will depend on your personal and professional goals, as well as your financial resources and location preferences. It is important to research and compare the different MBA programs available in both countries before making a decision.
How are the career prospects different for an MBA in US and MBA in Canada?
Both an MBA from the US and an MBA from Canada can open up a wide range of career opportunities and can be beneficial for career advancement. However, there may be some differences in terms of the specific industries and job opportunities available to graduates of MBA programs in the US and Canada.
In the US, MBA graduates often go on to work in a variety of industries, including consulting, finance, and technology. Many top business schools in the US have strong connections to major companies and industries, which can help MBA graduates secure internships and job opportunities after graduation.
In Canada, MBA graduates may also work in a variety of industries, including consulting, finance, and technology. However, the job market in Canada may be slightly smaller and more focused on certain industries compared to the US. For example, the healthcare, energy, and natural resources sectors are important industries in Canada, and MBA graduates may find more job opportunities in these areas.
It is worth noting that MBA graduates from both the US and Canada may have the opportunity to work internationally, as both countries have strong business ties around the world. However, the specific job opportunities available to MBA graduates may depend on the individual's skill set, experience, and network, as well as the job market in the location where they are seeking employment.
What are the differences in the economy in the US vs Canada?
The United States and Canada have similar mixed market economies, but there are some differences between the two countries.
Size: The US has the largest economy in the world, with a gross domestic product (GDP) of over $22 trillion. Canada has a smaller economy, with a GDP of around $1.8 trillion.
Structure: The US economy is diverse and includes a mix of industries, including manufacturing, finance, and technology. The Canadian economy is also diverse, but it has a stronger focus on natural resources, such as oil, timber, and minerals.
Trade: Both the US and Canada have significant international trade, but the US has a larger share of global trade. The US is a major trading partner for many countries, and its economy is closely linked to the global economy. Canada also has a significant level of international trade, but its economy is more closely tied to the US, as it is the country's largest trading partner.
Regulation: The regulatory environment in the US and Canada may differ in some areas. For example, the US has a more deregulated financial sector compared to Canada, which has a more regulated banking system.
Unemployment: The unemployment rate in the US and Canada tends to fluctuate over time, but it has generally been lower in Canada compared to the US. However, the unemployment rate in both countries has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and may not accurately reflect the long-term trend.
Overall, the US and Canada have similar mixed market economies, but there are some differences in terms of the size, structure, and regulation of their economies.
Which are the top business schools in US vs Canada?
The top business schools in the US and Canada are highly regarded and offer a range of MBA programs. Here are some examples of top business schools in the US and Canada:
Top business schools in the US:
Harvard Business School
Stanford Graduate School of Business
Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania
Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University
MIT Sloan School of Management
Top business schools in Canada:
Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto
Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University
Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia
Ivey Business School at the University of Western Ontario
Schulich School of Business at York University
It is worth noting that this is just a selection of top business schools in the US and Canada, and there are many other high-quality MBA programs available in both countries. It is important to research and compare the different programs to find the one that best fits your personal and professional goals.
FAQ Answers for MBA in USA vs Canada"
Q1: Is MBA better in the USA or Canada?
An MBA in the USA is better in some aspects as it generally offers higher post-MBA salaries, stronger global brand recognition, and deeper alumni networks. However, Canada offers affordability, diverse classrooms, and easier post-study immigration options. The better choice depends on your career goals — high ROI vs. long-term migration.
Q2: Which country is best for MBA?
The USA is widely considered the best country for MBA, with top-ranked schools like Wharton, Harvard, and MIT Sloan. It offers unmatched career opportunities, especially in consulting, tech, and finance. However, countries like Canada, the UK, and Singapore offer great alternatives based on ROI, work permits, and lifestyle.
Q3: Is Canadian MBA valid in the USA?
Yes, Canadian MBAs are recognized in the USA, especially those from top schools like Rotman, Ivey, and McGill. While they may not carry the same weight as Ivy League MBAs, they are respected for regional roles and cross-border careers.
Q4: Is it better to do Masters in the USA or Canada?
The USA offers a wider range of Master’s programs, stronger research infrastructure, and higher-ranked universities. Canada offers affordability, safety, and favorable immigration pathways. Choose the USA for career acceleration, and Canada for stability and settlement.
Q5: Does MBA have value in USA?
Yes, an MBA from a top U.S. business school carries significant value. It can lead to leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies, consulting firms, tech giants, and startups. U.S. MBAs consistently offer some of the highest salaries and career mobility globally.
Q6: Which is better Canada or the US?
For MBA and Master’s education, the U.S. is better for salary potential, job access, and school reputation, while Canada is better for affordability, visa access, and long-term settlement. Choose based on whether you prioritize career growth or immigration stability.
Q7: Which country MBA is highest paid?
The United States has the highest post-MBA salaries, with average salaries from top schools like Wharton and Stanford exceeding $230,000 USD. Other high-paying countries include Switzerland, Australia, and the UK — but the U.S. leads globally.
Q8: Which country is best for living and earning money?
The USA offers high earning potential, especially in business and tech. Canada offers a better quality of life, healthcare, and long-term residency options. For earning aggressively, the USA is best. For balanced living, Canada ranks higher.
Q9: Which MBA is best globally?
According to FT MBA Rankings 2025, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is ranked 1st globally. Other top MBA programs include INSEAD (France/Singapore), London Business School (UK), and Stanford GSB (USA).
About the author:
Shruti P is a leading MBA admissions consultant at GOALisB, a top-tier consulting firm specializing in MBA and Executive MBA applications. With over a decade of experience, she has successfully guided MBA applicants to admissions at Oxford, INSEAD, Cambridge, Wharton, ISB, IIMs, and other top business schools.
Her insights on business education, MBA admissions, and career transitions have been featured in Forbes, Poets & Quants, Hindustan Times, and The Week, solidifying her expertise in the field:
Poets & Quants: How to Use an MBA for a Career Switch
Poets & Quants Consultant Profile: Shruti Parashar on Poets & Quants
Hindustan Times: ISB and Beyond - GOALisB's Personalized Guidance
As a mentor at ISB and XLRI, Shruti has helped MBA admits navigate post MBA careers.
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