Admissions
Start your DeGroote journey
Whether you’re just starting your research or preparing to submit your application, our Admissions team is here to offer personalized guidance and answer your questions along the way.
Our admissions process takes a holistic and well-rounded view of every applicant. We look beyond transcripts and test scores—considering your academic achievements, career experience, references, and any supporting materials to form a complete picture. We understand that excellence can take many forms, and every application is carefully reviewed to recognize your unique strengths, leadership potential, and readiness to succeed in a data-driven business world.
The Master of Management in Applied AI and Data-Driven Decision-Making (MAIDM) is designed for experienced professionals who are ready to lead the integration of AI within their organizations. Launching in January 2026, this 20-month, part-time program is delivered over five academic terms in a hybrid format—with flexible online learning and in-person weekend residencies at our Ron Joyce Centre in Burlington. The program is open to all professional backgrounds, and no coding experience is required.
Application deadlines
Applications are now open.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with admission and scholarship decisions made throughout the recruitment cycle. You’re encouraged to apply as soon as you’re ready, as all submissions are evaluated equally and most decisions are made within 4 to 6 weeks.
November 28, 2025 is the application deadline for the January 2026 intake
To accommodate applicants finalizing their materials, we have extended the application deadline to November 28, 2025.
Admission requirements
Degree
Completion of an Honours Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Work Experience
Recommended minimum of 4 years post-graduate work experience.
GPA
Recommended B average (equivalent to a McMaster 8.0 GPA out of 12) or higher. GPA will be calculated using the two most recent years of undergraduate or graduate study, 20 courses, or the equivalent of 60 academic credits. A combination may be used and is determined on a case-by-case basis.
GMAT
Not Required. Applicants with a GPA below a B may be encouraged to provide supplemental academic materials (e.g., GMAT results with a minimum score of 555, or submit GRE results). GMAT is required for non-degree applicants.
English language proficiency
Required for applicants:
- Whose previous degree was not completed with the language of instruction being English.
- Who have been residents in an English-speaking country for less than four years.
- Who have completed less than three years of full-time post-secondary education with English as the primary language of instruction, excluding ESL courses.
Acceptable English Language Proficiency Tests:
- Academic IELTS (Overall score of 7)
- TOEFL (Overall score of 100)
References
Two (2) references are required. Applicants are encouraged to seek two professional (current or former direct supervisor or manager) reference. If this is not possible, two academic references are acceptable.
Kira online interview
Applicants are required to complete an online interview prior to the submission of their application. We also encourage you to carefully review the application instructions, deadlines, and required documents. Applicants will receive the Kira interview link one (1) business day after starting their application and completing the Select Program section. If you require any accommodation for the interview, please reach out to mbaadmissions@mcmaster.ca.
Professional resume
A professional resume is required for application. All applicants are encouraged to utilize DeGroote School of Business template. Please complete all sections of the template to the best of your ability.
Application fee
A $150.00 CAD application fee is required for application to each DeGroote Master’s program. Payment must be made at the time of application by credit card. Please note that applications will not be reviewed until all components are completed and received
Frequently asked questions
If you have questions or concerns about the admission process, curriculum or the program experience, we encourage you to read our frequently asked questions.
View our FAQs
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Have questions about your next step?
Connect with us—virtually or in person—and let’s find the path that fits you.