Admissions

Apply to the Haskayne DBA today. This program represents a unique opportunity to deepen your knowledge and skills and expand your career choices. 

Recognizing the value of a diverse, experienced cohort, we carefully evaluate each candidate holistically, weighing all aspects of an applicant's qualifications for the program.

Our assessment takes into account both how the individual themselves will benefit from the program and how they will contribute to the overall cohort experience.

If you have any questions or concerns around how your candidacy will be evaluated, please contact us.

To be considered for admission to the Haskayne DBA, an applicant should fulfill the following criteria:

• At least 10 years of management experience, including seven years at the senior management or executive level; or 

         At least five years’ experience as lecturer/instructor in a relevant field in a college or university program. 

        * In exceptional circumstances, Individuals with less than 10 years of managerial experience may be considered.

• A Master's degree, such as an MBA or a relevant business-focused Master's degree (with a prior four-year baccalaureate degree) from a recognized institution with a minimum grade point average of 3.50 on a four-point scale. Students presenting credentials in an area other than business may be required to complete a qualifying period to gain a general business background before beginning the regular doctoral course requirements.
   
• Students who do not present an MBA or other master’s degree from a recognized postsecondary institution may be considered for admission. Exceptional candidates with a four-year bachelor’s degree (i.e., a GPA of 3.50 or higher) who have substantial managerial experience will also be considered. Consult the DBA Program Director for further information.
   
• If you are an international student, please contact the University of Calgary’s International Student Services office prior to applying for the program to discuss your study options.
   
• Applicants for whom English is not a first language must also achieve either:
  • A score of 105 (online test) or 600 (paper-based test) on the TOEFL; or
  • A score of 7.5 or higher on the academic version of the IELTS; or
  • A score of 86 or higher on the MELAB; or
  • A score of 75 or higher on the PTE.

The DBA program has one in-take per year, with classes beginning in January. The application portal will open in mid-January for the in-take of the following year.  

Applications for the DBA are considered on a rolling basis, you do not need to wait until the deadline to submit your application.

Admissions decisions are made by the decision date published for the round during which you submit your application. 

Apply as early as possible to ensure your best chance for acceptance.

January 2026 Entry  

Round 1: Deadline for completed applications, including all documentation (references, transcripts, etc.), is April 1, 2025 (decision by May 30, 2025).

Round 2: Deadline for completed applications, including all documentation (references, transcripts, etc.), is May 1, 2025 (decision by June 30, 2025).

International Application Deadline: Completed applications, including all documentation (references, transcripts, etc.) must be submitted no later than April 1, 2025 (decision by May 30, 2025). 

If you have successfully completed the self-assessment, you are invited to submit your application. The application does not need to be completed in one session. You may save your work and access the application at a later time. In general, a full application will take between 3 - 4 hours to complete.

The University of Calgary uses an online application system to process applications.