ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Choosing between ISB (Indian School of Business) and IIM Ahmedabad is one of the toughest decisions for MBA aspirants in India. Both institutions are globally respected, consistently ranked among the best, and known for producing influential business leaders. However, they differ significantly in program structure, admissions criteria, classroom experience, and career outcomes.
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: MBA Fees
One of the major deciding factors for many aspirants while comparing ISB and IIM Ahmedabad is the MBA fees. It is a well-known fact that both institutions provide top-notch academic value along with equally impressive career outcomes. However, fee structures in each of the institutions have been impacted by program duration and mode of learning. A transparent comparison aids the applicants in managing their finances properly, even before the application gets submitted.
Institute | MBA Program | Program Duration | Total Fees (Approx.) |
ISB (Indian School of Business) | PGP | 1 Year | ₹41-42 lakh |
IIM Ahmedabad | PGP | 2 Years | ₹26.5 lakh |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad MBA Fees 2025, Program-wise Fee Structure
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Rankings
Rankings are a key factor in indirectly comparing ISB Hyderabad and IIM Ahmedabad because they represent global reputation, academic strength, and employer perception. Both schools always make it to the best national and international rankings; however, their rankings fluctuate depending on the criteria used to rank them. When seen in parallel, one can get an idea of the ranking of each school on the most popular ranking platforms.
Ranking Body | ISB | IIM Ahmedabad |
FT Global MBA Ranking | 27th | 31st |
QS Global MBA Rankings | 86th | 58th |
NIRF (India) | Not ranked | Rank 1 (India) |
India Today / Outlook (India) | 5th rank | Rank 1 (India) |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad Ranking 2026, Check World & National Rankings
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Admission Process
The admission processes at ISB and IIM Ahmedabad are structured differently to suit their distinct MBA programs. ISB’s one-year PGP focuses on experienced professionals with a holistic profile, while IIM Ahmedabad’s traditional two-year PGP selects candidates primarily through CAT performance followed by assessment rounds.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Ahmedabad |
Entrance Exam | GMAT or GRE | CAT |
Work Experience | Minimum 2 years recommended | No minimum requirement |
Application Rounds | Multiple rounds (Round 1, 2, 3) | Single CAT-based cycle |
Shortlisting | Profile-based evaluation | CAT score, academics, diversity |
Selection Process | Application + Essay + Interview | CAT + AWT + Personal Interview |
Program Intake | Mid-career professionals | Freshers and experienced candidates |
Read More: IIM Ahmedabad vs ISB Hyderabad, Selection Criteria, MBA Fees
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Programs
ISB and IIM Ahmedabad have designed their MBA programs to cater to different career stages and learning preferences. ISB educates the experienced professionals through a rigorous one-year MBA program, whereas IIM Ahmedabad adheres to a conventional two-year MBA format with a solid academic base. In terms of admissions, both schools maintain an extremely selective process and offer excellent career results.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Ahmedabad |
MBA Program Name | PGP (Post Graduate Programme in Management) | PGP (MBA) |
Program Duration | 1 Year | 2 Years |
Program Format | Full-time, residential | Full-time, residential |
Target Profile | Professionals with work experience | Freshers and experienced candidates |
Focus | Accelerated, industry-oriented learning | In-depth academic and managerial training |
Campuses | Hyderabad, Mohali | Ahmedabad |
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Placements
Placements play a key role in the comparison between ISB and IIM Ahmedabad, as both the institutes are popular among recruiters and facilitate well-paying job roles. ISB enjoys the advantage of a highly experienced cohort along with a one-year fast-track MBA, whereas IIM Ahmedabad leads in consistent placements, which are the result of its heritage and a large and varied talent pool. A head-to-head comparison clarifies the differences in the results of these two institutions in the respective contexts.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Ahmedabad |
MBA Program | PGP (1 Year) | PGP (2 Years) |
Placement Year (Latest) | Class of 2024 / 2025 | Class of 2025 |
Average Salary (CTC) | ₹34-35 LPA | ₹35 LPA |
Median Salary (CTC) | ₹33 LPA* | ₹34.5 LPA |
Highest Salary (CTC) | ₹60+ LPA (reported) | ₹1 Cr+ (reported) |
International Offers | Yes | Limited |
Placement Structure | Unified placement process | Cluster-based placement process |
Top Recruiting Sectors | Consulting, Tech, Finance, FMCG | Consulting, Finance, General Management |
Prominent Recruiters | McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs | McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Goldman Sachs, Tata Group |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad Executive MBA 2025, Admission Process, Fees
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Batch Size
When comparing ISB and IIM Ahmedabad, batch size is an important factor that influences class diversity, peer learning, and networking opportunities. ISB typically admits a large cohort in its one-year MBA program, fostering a broad professional network, while IIM Ahmedabad’s two-year MBA has a relatively smaller but academically diverse batch. Here’s a clear comparison of their latest batch sizes.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Ahmedabad |
MBA Program | PGP (1 Year) | PGP (2 Years) |
Approx. Batch Size | 900 students | 400 students |
Class Diversity | High (varied industries & functions) | High (strong academic mix) |
Work Experience Range | 2-10+ years | 0-5+ years |
Which is Better, ISB or IIM Ahmedabad?
Choosing between ISB and IIM Ahmedabad is not so much about deciding which is better, but more about finding out what each institution has to offer. Both are two of India's top B-schools, recognized for the quality of their education, strong industry linkages, and excellent placement records. However, their MBA courses vary in terms of length, onsite experience, and student group. The right choice for a candidate basically depends on his/her professional experience, learning style, and career aspirations.
Read More: ISB Hyderabad Admission Process 2025, Cut off, Courses, Fees
ISB vs IIM Ahmedabad: Conclusion
When comparing ISB and IIM Ahmedabad, both offer excellent MBA programs, but are designed for different types of students. ISB’s one-year MBA is ideal for professionals with work experience who want to improve their careers quickly. On the other hand, IIM Ahmedabad’s two-year program is a better fit for those looking for a more traditional MBA with a strong academic focus.
The choice between the two depends on your work experience, career goals, and what kind of learning environment you prefer. ISB’s fast-paced, industry-focused program is great for experienced professionals, while IIM Ahmedabad’s longer program offers more in-depth academic learning, which could be better for those starting out in their management journey.
