Indian Institutes of Management - Admission Process

Admission Process

Different programmes of IIMs follow different admission processes. Admission for residents of India to the flagship two year PGP programmes at all IIMs is based on the Common Admission Test (CAT). CAT scores are often used as the primary short-listing criteria for admissions. International/overseas applicants have the option to apply using GMAT scores in lieu of CAT scores. GMAT scores are a prerequisite short-listing criteria used for admission to the one year full-time programme for experienced executives. Test requirements for doctoral programmes vary, some IIMs require candidates to make a presentation of a broad research idea or take a Research Aptitude Test (RAT) followed by round(s) of interview while all compulsorily accept scores from standardized tests such as the CAT, GATE, GMAT and GRE. The overall profiles of candidates including past academic and professional accomplishments are considered for all programmes along with valid standard test scores. Some programmes require essays and academic and/or professional recommendations. The final round of admission evaluations involve an interview, before which some IIMs conduct other evaluation processes like written assessment tests and group discussions.