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Am I eligible for masters in Canada with my 56% bachelor's percentage?

25 Aug 2026 · Answered by Prakhar Pragy Dixit · 2 min read
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No, you are generally not eligible for a traditional masters in Canada with 56 percent, since most universities require 60 to 70 percent. However, public college postgraduate diplomas accept a minimum of 55 percent and remain fully eligible for Canada's Post Graduation Work Permit.

Prakhar Pragy Dixit
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No, a straight 56% bachelor's score will not get you into most traditional Canadian master's programs, since tier one and tier two universities generally set their bar at 60% to 70%, roughly a B average or 3.0 GPA. That does not close the door on Canada for you though, since strong alternative routes still lead to a legitimate Post Graduation Work Permit and eventual permanent residency.

Your Realistic Pathway Options

PathwayMinimum Score NeededLeads To
Traditional Master's60% to 70%Standard university degree, PGWP eligible
PG Diploma at a public college55%1 to 2 year practical program, fully PGWP eligible
Pre Master's or bridging programVaries, generally more flexibleTransition into a full master's after completion

How to Strengthen Your Application Anyway

  • Push your IELTS to 7.0 overall with no band below 6.5 to show strong academic capability.
  • Score well on the GMAT or GRE, since 650+ on the GMAT can offset a lower undergraduate percentage for business or STEM programs.
  • Highlight 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience, since some flexible admission universities weigh this heavily against your GPA.
  • Get a WES evaluation, since your 56% from a rigorous home university can sometimes convert to a stronger Canadian equivalent.

My Advice

Apply to a public college PG diploma as your primary plan rather than chasing university admission with a 56%, since it is faster, cheaper and gets you working toward a PGWP sooner. If you still want a master's later, use your diploma and work experience to strengthen a future application.

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