University of Toronto MBA: Rotman One-Year vs Full-Time Two-Year MBA
University of Toronto MBA: Rotman One-Year vs Full-Time Two-Year MBA — Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right MBA format can redefine your career trajectory—and when it comes to pursuing an MBA in Canada, few names carry as much global weight as the University of Toronto. Its business school, the Rotman School of Management, offers two premier MBA options for 2026 aspirants: a One-Year MBA and a Full-Time Two-Year MBA.
While both programs carry the academic excellence and career outcomes Rotman is known for, they are built for very different candidate profiles. In this detailed guide, we compare the two formats across eligibility, curriculum, duration, ROI, and more—so you can choose the University of Toronto MBA that’s right for your goals.
🎓 Admissions & Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
Rotman One-Year MBA To qualify for this accelerated format, applicants must have a prior business education background—such as a Bachelor’s in Business, Commerce, Accounting, or Marketing—or a Master's in Management (like a MiM or MSc in Management).
✅ Required: 3–9 years of work experience
✅ Required: Minimum GPA of 3.0 in the final year
Rotman Full-Time MBA More inclusive, this program welcomes applicants from any academic background—be it engineering, liberal arts, or science.
✅ Work experience range: 2–9 years
✅ Ideal for those making a career switch
📌 Both programs require the GMAT Focus Edition or GRE, though waivers are available for select profiles. A 3-year undergraduate degree is accepted by the University of Toronto, making it ideal for Indian candidates.
🗓️ Program Duration & Timeline
One-Year MBA: Starts in May 2026 and runs for 12 months Full-Time MBA: Begins August 2026 and spans 20 months, including a 4-month internship
If minimizing time away from work is a priority, the University of Toronto’s One-Year MBA is the clear winner. However, if you value time for exploration, upskilling, and testing new roles via internships, the full-time format is designed for you.
🧠 Curriculum & Learning Experience
Rotman One-Year MBA
Rotman Full-Time MBA
🔍 Both formats emphasize integrative thinking, a hallmark of the Rotman approach, preparing graduates to navigate ambiguity and lead in complexity.
💼 Career Services & Job Opportunities
The University of Toronto’s Career Services division supports both MBA formats with dedicated coaching, resume reviews, interview prep, and employer networking.
One-Year MBA
Full-Time MBA
👉 Both formats are eligible for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada.
💰 Tuition, Scholarships & ROI
💡 The University of Toronto’s One-Year MBA offers a quicker return on investment, while the Full-Time MBA includes a paid internship and broader financial aid ecosystem.
👥 Class Profile & Diversity
Rotman attracts a global cohort in both formats, reinforcing the University of Toronto’s reputation as a hub for international talent and multicultural learning.
🧭 Which University of Toronto MBA Should You Choose?
You Should Choose...If You...
One-Year MBA- Hold a business/management degree - Have 3–9 years of work experience - Want to graduate faster - Prefer not to take an internship break
Full-Time MBA- Come from a non-business background - Want to explore new industries - Require an internship for Canadian experience - Need more time for transformation
✨ Final Take
Whether you choose the University of Toronto’s One-Year MBA for speed and focus, or the Full-Time MBA for breadth and flexibility, you're signing up for more than just a degree. You’re stepping into Canada’s top university, surrounded by industry, innovation, and global leadership.
Both Rotman programs share the same DNA—leadership development, global exposure, and a powerful alumni network. The difference lies in the path you take to get there.
Interested in applying to the University of Toronto MBA programs? Let us help you navigate essays, interviews, and scholarships with insider strategies from past admits.