GENERAL

Masters in Accounting in Canada: Top Universities, Course Fees, Eligibility, Placement and Career Scope

RD
Rajat Diwakar • 11 Mins read • 23 Jul 25
Masters in Accounting in CanadaMasters in Accounting in Canada

Planning to pursue a Masters in Accounting in Canada, then you are at the right place. Canada is home to the world’s best universities for accounting students. Whether you want to build a career in finance, auditing, or corporate accounting, a Master’s degree in accounting from Canada can open many doors for you.

Canada has top universities like the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia (UBC), McGill University, and York University (Schulich School of Business) that offer the best accounting programs. These courses are designed to meet global industry standards and help students gain both practical and theoretical skills.

The average tuition fee for a Master’s in Accounting in Canada can range between $ 20,000 - $ 45,000 per year, depending on the university, and the fresher graduates earn an average salary of around $ 50,000 to $ 80,000 yearly, with top recruiters like Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, and RBC.

Canada offers top-class faculty and a strong job placement rate. This blog will help you explore everything you need to know. 


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Quick Highlights

The table below represents the key highlights about the Master in Accounting in Canada, which includes top universities in Canada, course duration, intake seasons, and average fees.

Feature

Details

Program Name

Master in Accounting

Program Duration

1 - 2 years

Top Universities

University of Toronto, UBC, McGill University, York (Schulich)

Average Tuition Fees

$ 20,000 – $ 45,000 annually

Intake Seasons

September (Fall intake) and January (Winter intake)

Eligibility

A Bachelor in a related field and an IELTS/TOEFL valid score.

Work Permit after Study

Up to 3 years 

Average Salary after Graduation

$ 50,000 – $ 80,000 yearly (Fresher)

Top Recruiters

Deloitte, EY, KPMG, RBC, and many more. 


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Important Dates and Events

The table below shows the upcoming important dates for the 2025-2026 intake of Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Event

Winter 2026 Intake

Fall 2026 Intake

Application Opens

Already Open (from May 2025)

Expected from October – December 2025

Application Deadline

August – September 2025

January – March 2026

Offer Letters Released

September – October 2025

February – April 2026

Tuition Fee Payment Deadline

November 2025

June – July 2026

Visa Application Deadline

October – November 2025

May – June 2026

Orientation & Registration

Early January 2026

Late August 2026

Program Start Date

January 2026

September 2026


Application Start & End Dates for Top Universities

The table below shows important application start and end dates for top universities offering Masters in Accounting in Canada.

University

Application Opens

Application Deadline (International)

University of Toronto (Accounting & Finance MSc)

NA

March 31, 2026

University of Toronto (Rotman MMPA)

Estimated October 2025

Early round October 31, 2025; Regular early 2026

University of British Columbia (UBC)

NA

December 31, 2025

York University (Schulich)

June 18, 2025

March 4, 2026

University of Waterloo

Expected late 2025

January – March 2026 (estimated)


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Visa Application Timeline

The table below shows key visa steps and dates for international students applying to Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Step

For September 2025 Intake

For January 2026 Intake

Receive the Offer Letter

February – June 2025

August – October 2025

Pay Tuition Deposit

Within 2–4 weeks of the offer

Within 2–4 weeks of the offer

Start Visa Application

May – July 2025

September – November 2025

Book Biometric Appointment

Within 2 weeks of application

Within 2 weeks of application

Submit Biometric Data

May – August 2025

September – December 2025

Wait for Visa Processing

May – August 2025

September – December 2025

Receive Visa Approval

By late August 2025

By late December 2025

Travel to Canada

Late August 2025

Late December 2025

Classes Begin

September 2025

January 2026


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Fees

The table below highlights the overall cost of studying Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Expense Type

Estimated Cost (in $)

Tuition Fees

$15,000 – $45,000 per year

Living Expenses

$10,000 – $15,000 per year

Books & Study Materials

$500 – $1,000 per year

Health Insurance

$600 – $1,000 per year

Visa & Miscellaneous Fees

$150 – $300

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Varies


Why Choose a Masters in Accounting in Canada?

The following points represents  why many students choose a Masters in Accounting in Canada. 

  • Globally recognised degree: Canadian universities follow international standards like IFRS, making your degree valuable worldwide.
  • Strong career outcomes: Graduates often land jobs with top companies like Deloitte, EY, PwC, and KPMG. Salaries usually range between $50,000 -$85,000 $ per year.
  • Pathway to permanent residency (PR): After graduation, students are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which supports PR options.
  • Work while you study: Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks.
  • Affordable and high return on investment: Lower tuition fees compared to other top countries, and a strong chance of getting placed quickly.


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Qualification

To apply for a Masters in Accounting in Canada, candidates must meet the basic criteria. 

Requirement

Details

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, commerce, or related field.

English Proficiency

  • IELTS: 6.5–7.0 overall
  • TOEFL iBT: 86–100

GMAT/GRE

May be required by some universities

Work Experience

Not always required, but 1–2 years is helpful.

Transcripts & References

Academic transcripts and 1–2 letters of recommendation.

Statement of Purpose

Brief essay on goals and reasons for choosing accounting.



Masters in Accounting in Canada:  Eligibility Criteria – Category-wise

The table below shows the key eligibility criteria for both freshers and experienced applicants applying for a Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Applicant Type

Key Criteria

Fresh Graduates

  • Bachelor’s in accounting or related field, 
  • 70–75% marks, IELTS 6.5+
  • No work experience needed.

Experienced Applicants

  • Same academic and English test scores. 
  • 1–3 years of relevant work preferred. 
  • GMAT/GRE may be waived.

English Proficiency

  • IELTS: 6.5–7.0 overall
  • TOEFL iBT: 86–100


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Application Process

The steps below represent the application process for a Masters in Accounting in Canada for Indian students. 

Step

Details

1. Research & Shortlist

Explore universities, check course details, deadlines, and eligibility.

2. Take Required Tests

Attempt IELTS/TOEFL. A GMAT may be needed for some universities.

3. Prepare Documents

Collect transcripts, SOP, LORs, resume, and test scores.

4. Apply Online

Submit applications via official university portals 

5. Pay Application Fee

Usually between CAD 100–150 (varies by university).

6. Wait for the Offer Letter

If shortlisted, receive an admission offer.

7. Accept Offer & Pay Deposit

Confirm your seat by paying the initial deposit (if required).

8. Apply for a Visa

Start your Canada student visa process (apply at least 3–4 months in advance).


Masters in Accounting in Canada: SOP, LOR, and Resume

The table below shows key documents needed for Masters in Accounting in Canada, along with simple tips.

Document

Quick Tips

SOP

Write a clear 1000–1500-word essay about your background, goals, and why you want to study in Canada.

LOR

1–2 letters from professors or employers highlighting your skills and potential.

Resume

A short, updated resume with education, experience, and relevant skills. 


Top Course Masters in Accounting in Canada

The table below lists some of the top courses offered under Master's in Accounting in Canada across leading universities.

University

Course Name

Duration

University of Toronto 

Master of Accounting and Finance (MAccFin)

16 months

University of British Columbia

Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc)

24 months

York University 

Master of Accounting (MAcc)

12 months

University of Waterloo

Master of Accounting (MAcc)

8–12 months

McGill University

Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting

12–18 months


Masters in Accounting in Canada: IELTS/TOEFL Tips

The table below highlights simple tips to help you score well in English tests for Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Test Section

Tips to Improve

Reading

Read newspapers and business articles daily. Focus on understanding tone and structure.

Listening

Watch lectures, podcasts, or TED Talks in English

Writing

Practice writing short essays

Speaking

Speak English with friends or record yourself. Focus on fluency, not accent.


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Cutoff

The table below shows the IELTS and TOEFL score requirements for a Master's in Accounting in Canada at top universities.

University

IELTS Cutoff

TOEFL iBT Cutoff

University of British Columbia (UBC Sauder)

6.5–7.0 overall

90–100

University of Toronto (Rotman Commerce/MMPA)

7.0 overall

93–100

McGill University (Desautels)

6.5–7.0 overall

86–100

University of Waterloo (School of Accounting and Finance)

7.0 overall

90+


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Syllabus

A Masters in Accounting program in Canada covers a range of core accounting disciplines and advanced topics, including strategic performance management, taxation, corporate finance, financial statement analysis, corporate governance, accounting for non-profit organizations, and information technology & systems.


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Core Courses

The table below highlights the key core courses that are commonly part of the Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Course Name

Description

Financial Accounting

Focuses on preparing and analyzing financial statements.

Managerial Accounting

Helps in internal decision-making and budgeting.

Corporate Finance

Covers capital structure, valuation, and financial strategy.

Auditing and Assurance

Deals with audit processes and standards.

Financial Reporting Standards

Covers IFRS and other key reporting principles.

Accounting Information Systems

Introduces systems used to collect and manage financial data.


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Electives & Specializations

The table below lists common elective courses and specializations offered under the Masters in Accounting in Canada.

Elective/Specialization

Description

Taxation

Covers personal and corporate tax systems and regulations.

Forensic Accounting

Focuses on fraud detection, investigation, and prevention.

Business Analytics

Teaches data-driven decision-making in financial contexts.

International Accounting

Explores global accounting standards and practices.

Ethics in Accounting

Studies ethical issues and responsibilities in the profession.

Risk Management

Analyzes financial and operational risk in organizations.

Strategic Performance Management

Focuses on evaluating and improving organizational performance.


Best Universities/Colleges in Canada for Masters in Accounting

The table below top 5 universities that offer the best Master's in Accounting in Canada with the latest estimated yearly fees in USD. 

University

Location

Estimated Annual Tuition (USD)

York University (Schulich MAcc)

Toronto, Ontario

$55,000–60,000 

University of Toronto (MMPA/MSc)

Toronto, Ontario

$45,000–50,000 

UBC Sauder (Accounting‑related)

Vancouver, British Columbia

$50,000–55,000 

McGill University (Desautels)

Montreal, Quebec

$30,000–35,000 

University of Waterloo (MAcc)

Waterloo, Ontario

$25,000–30,000 


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Public Universities 

The table below highlights the top public universities in Canada offering a Master’s in Accounting, along with their QS World Rankings for 2025.

University

QS Ranking (Accounting & Finance)

Seats for Int’l Students

University of Toronto (Rotman – MMAcc/MAcc)

Top 10 globally 🇨🇦 (subject) 

Approx. ≥70 seats per intake (e.g., Rotman’s One-Year MBA admits ~70 students)

University of British Columbia (UBC Sauder – MAcc equivalent)

11–20 globally 

Est. 40–80 seats including global track

University of Alberta (MAcc)

100–150 globally 

Current intake: ~50–60 seats; int’l ~40%

University of Waterloo (MAcc)

101–150 globally (School of Accounting & Finance) 

60 seats; co-op placements critical for internationals

University of Saskatchewan (MPAcc)

Not in top 100; strong national presence 

30–40 seats; open to internationals 

Carleton University (Sprott MAcc)

150–200 globally (inferred) 

40 seats; trains for CPA exemption 

McGill University (Diploma / Master in Accounting stream)

26–50 globally (related programs) 

Diploma track ~30 seats; master streams vary

McMaster University (Master streams)

150–200 globally 

25–35 seats; mix of int’l and domestic

Queen’s University (Master of Management – Accounting)

101–150 globally 

40 seats; strong domestic/international mix


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Private Universities 

The table below shows some of the top private universities in Canada offering a Master's in Accounting, along with their QS rankings and estimated seat intake.

University

QS World Ranking (2025)

Estimated Annual Intake Size (Accounting program only)

University Canada West (UCW)

NA

100–150 seats approx

Yorkville University

NA

50–100 seats approx

Trinity Western University

NA

30–50 seats approx

Fairleigh Dickinson (Canada)

NA

30–50 seats approx

King’s University

NA

20–40 seats approx


Masters in Accounting in Canada vs Master's in Accounting in India

The table below compares key differences between pursuing a Master's in Accounting in Canada vs India.

Factor

Masters in Accounting in Canada

Masters in Accounting in India

Program Duration

1 to 2 years

2 years

Tuition Fees (Annual)

₹15–35 Lakhs

₹50,000–₹4 Lakhs

Living Costs (Annual)

₹8–12 Lakhs

₹1–2 Lakhs

Global Exposure

High

Limited 

Career Opportunities

Global job market, higher salary potential

Limited to domestic firms

Average Starting Salary

₹35–50 Lakhs per year (Canada-based roles)

₹4–10 Lakhs per year

Permanent Residency Option

Available

Not applicable

Language Requirement

IELTS/TOEFL required

Not required


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Scholarships

The table below highlights top scholarships in USD for Indian students pursuing a Master's in Accounting in Canada.

Scholarship Name

Amount (USD)

Offered By

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

$11,000 – 12,000

Government of Ontario

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

$36,000 – 38,000

Government of Canada

UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

Full tuition 

University of British Columbia

Schulich Leader Scholarships

$5,000 – 11,000

York University

Haskayne MBA Entrance Scholarships

$3,500 – 15,000

University of Calgary

Rotman Entrance Awards

NA

University of Toronto

Concordia Entrance Scholarships

Up to full tuition

Concordia University


Career Scope After Masters in Accounting in Canada

Explore some of the popular job roles and their average salaries in India after Masters in Accounting in Canada

Job Role

Average Salary (INR/year)

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)

₹36 – 60 lakhs

Financial Analyst

₹33 – 51 lakhs

Auditor

₹30 – 48 lakhs

Tax Consultant/Advisor

₹33 – 54 lakhs

Budget Analyst

₹33 – 51 lakhs

Management Accountant

₹36 – 57 lakhs


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Top Recruiters

Check out some of the top recruiters hiring accounting graduates in Canada in the table below.

Top Recruiters

Industry

Deloitte

Audit & Consulting

Ernst & Young (EY)

Audit, Tax & Advisory

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)

Audit, Risk & Tax

KPMG

Audit & Financial Services

RBC (Royal Bank of Canada)

Banking & Finance

TD Bank Group

Banking & Finance

Scotiabank

Financial Services

BDO Canada LLP

Accounting & Consulting

Shopify

E-commerce & Tech Finance


Masters in Accounting in Canada: Salary Package

The table below represents  the average annual salary packages offered to accounting graduates in Canada 

Job Role

Average Salary (INR/year)

Entry-Level Accountant

₹28 – 36 lakhs

CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant)

₹36 – 60 lakhs

Financial Analyst

₹33 – 51 lakhs

Internal Auditor

₹30 – 48 lakhs

Tax Associate

₹33 – 54 lakhs

Senior Accountant

₹42 – 66 lakhs


Frequently Asked Questions


Ques: What is the duration of a Master’s in Accounting in Canada?

Ans: The duration of the program is typically 1 to 2 years, depending on the university and course structure.


Ques: What is the average tuition fee for a Master’s in Accounting in Canada?

Ans: The average tuition fee ranges from $20,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on the university.


Ques: What are the job opportunities after completing a Master’s in Accounting in Canada?

Ans: Graduates can work as CPAs, financial analysts, auditors, tax consultants, and accounting managers with top recruiters like Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, and RBC.


Ques: Is work experience required to apply for a Master’s in Accounting in Canada?

Ans: Work experience is not mandatory but having 1–2 years of relevant experience can strengthen your application. Fresh graduates are also eligible to apply.


Ques: Can international students work during the course?

Ans: Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks.