International Students
International students have two options to participate in the program.
In person
If you prefer an in-person classroom learning experience, you can attend the program at our facility in downtown Ottawa. As an international student, you will require a study permit in Canada to study in-person.
Hybrid or online
If you prefer an online learning experience or require flexibility in your schedule, you can attend classes in real-time using our virtual platform. You are expected to log in from wherever you are in the world and actively join your peers and professor in Ottawa. All hybrid classes are held between 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time according to a pre-set weekly schedule. Many choose a combination of both in-person and online to balance their schedule and maximize their learning experience.
Your full cohort meets in person during your two mandatory international trips, and participates in these immersive program components.
Language Requirements
The Executive MBA is offered in English. You must fluently speak and understand English. On request, you must submit ONE of the following University of Ottawa approved-language proficiency tests to confirm your English proficiency. Test scores cannot be more than two years old as of the date of your application:
- Proof of completion within the last five years of a previous degree program in an English language university
- Proof of a recent prolonged residence and exercise of a profession in an English-speaking country (normally at least four of the last six years)
- A score of 100 (internet-based) or 250 (computer-based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
- A score of 7 in at least three of the four Academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS) tests (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking) and at least 6 in the fourth test. The General Training IELTS test is not accepted.
- A score of at least 68 on the Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE Academic).
Living in Ottawa
The Centre for Executive Leadership is located in the heart of Canada’s capital, just blocks from Parliament Hill. Our facility is in the business section of downtown, with the following within walking distance:
- University of Ottawa campus
- Byward Market (the city’s premiere shopping, cultural and entertainment district)
- Rideau Canal
- Canadian Museum of History and Canadian Museum of Nature
- National Arts Centre
Working in Canada
You may be considering options to kick-start your career in Canada or find work to pay your tuition fees. Our program’s alumni network exposes you to exceptional opportunities to work while you study.
Requirements to work in Canada
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) outlines the requirements you need to meet to work in Canada while you study as an international student:
- Learn about working off campus
- Learn about working at the Telfer School or University of Ottawa
- Learn how you can find work after you graduate through our program or stay in Canada as a permanent resident
- Learn how your spouse or common-law partner can apply to work while you study in Canada
Resources for International Students
See our resources for international students, including information to help you plan your trip to Ottawa. Learn how to navigate your journey to our city and the first few weeks following your arrival, including what you should bring, what to wear in Ottawa, where you can stay and how you can get around town.
