ISB vs IIM Bangalore: For the MBA aspirants in India, who are contemplating their next move after the MBA entrance exams, the dilemma of choosing between the Indian School of Business (ISB) and the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM B) is pretty much like deciding on the big bang moment in their career. Both schools rank among the top in the world, have brilliant faculties, and have a track record of placing students in good companies. ISB Hyderabad has built its reputation on its one-year intensive MBA with a strong emphasis on international exposure, while IIM Bangalore offers a challenging 2-year program.
ISB vs IIM Bangalore: MBA Fees
When comparing ISB and IIM Bangalore, MBA fees play a major role in the decision-making process. Both institutes charge a premium for their programs, reflecting their academic quality and career outcomes. However, the fee structure differs significantly due to program duration, format, and overall cost of study.
Institute | MBA Program | Program Duration | Total Fees (Approx.) |
ISB (Indian School of Business) | PGP | 1 Year | ₹41- 42 lakh |
IIM Bangalore | PGP | 2 Years | ₹26 lakh (approx) |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad MBA Fees 2025, Program-wise Fee Structure
ISB vs IIM Bangalore: Rankings
Knowing college rankings helps understand where that institute stands, be it any IIM or ISB. This can be the benchmark to consider while deciding on an MBA college. Comparing the rankings of IIM Bangalore and ISB can help you have an idea if your chosen institute is worth it. Here are the rankings of both top institutes on different platforms:
Ranking Body | ISB | IIM Bangalore |
FT Global MBA Ranking | 27th | 57th |
QS Global MBA Rankings | 86th | 52nd |
NIRF (India) | Not ranked | 2nd |
India Today / Outlook (India) | 5th rank | 2nd |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad Ranking 2026, Check World & National Rankings
ISB vs IIM Bangalore: Admission Process
The admission process also differs when comparing ISB with IIM Bangalore. The processes a different from each other as per the MBA program, different entrance exams, and other details.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Ahmedabad |
Entrance Exam | GMAT, 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 Bangalore Executive MBA 2025, Admission Process, Fees
ISB vs IIM Bangalore: Programs
ISB and IIM Bangalore offer MBA programs designed for different career stages and learning preferences. ISB is known for its fast-paced, one-year program aimed at professionals with prior work experience. In contrast, IIM Bangalore follows a traditional two-year MBA structure that suits both fresh graduates and experienced candidates.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Bangalore |
Entrance Exam | PGP (Post Graduate Programme in Management) | PGP (MBA) |
Work Experience | 1 Year | 2 Years |
Application Rounds | Full-time, residential | Full-time and residential, both |
Shortlisting | Professionals with work experience | Both Freshers and experienced |
Selection Process | Accelerated, industry-oriented learning | Focused on in-depth academic and training at the managerial level |
Program Intake | Hyderabad, Mohali | Bangalore |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad Admission Process 2025, Cut off, Courses, Fees
ISB vs IIM Bangalore: Placements
Placements are a major deciding factor when comparing ISB and IIM Bangalore. Both institutes offer strong career outcomes with top recruiters across consulting, technology, finance, and general management. However, the nature of placements differs due to program duration, student profile, and industry focus.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Bangalore |
MBA Program | PGP (1 Year) | PGP (MBA - 2 Years) |
Placement Year (Latest) | Class of 2024 / 2025 | Class of 2024 / 2025 |
Average Salary (CTC) | ₹34-35 LPA | ₹33-35 LPA |
Median Salary (CTC) | ~₹33 LPA* | ~₹32-33 LPA |
Highest Salary (CTC) | ₹60+ LPA (reported) | ₹80+ LPA (international roles reported) |
International Offers | Yes | Yes |
Placement Structure | Unified placement process | Unified placement process |
Top Recruiting Sectors | Consulting, Tech, Finance, FMCG | Consulting, Tech, Finance, General Management |
Prominent Recruiters | McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs | Goldman Sachs, McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Accenture, and others |
Read More: ISB Hyderabad Executive MBA 2025, Admission Process, Fees
ISB vs Bangalore: Batch Size
Batch size is a significant element in the comparative study of ISB and IIM Bangalore since it influences student-teacher interaction, learning from peers, and networking. ISB accommodates one of the biggest batches for its MBA program in India, thus enabling students to learn from a variety of industries and backgrounds. IIM Bangalore, however, has fewer students in each batch, which means students get more attention from their professors and spend more time in academic engagement.
Criteria | ISB (Indian School of Business) | IIM Bangalore |
MBA Program | PGP (1 Year) | PGP (MBA - 2 Years) |
Approx. Batch Size | ~900 students | 622 |
Class Diversity | High (varied industries & functions) | Strong |
Work Experience Range | 2-10+ years | 1-3 years for the general PGP, and a minimum of 5 years with EPGP (Executive MBA) |
Which is Better, ISB vs IIM Bangalore?
There is no single “better” choice between ISB and IIM Bangalore, as both are top management institutes with different strengths. ISB suits professionals who want a fast, one-year MBA and have prior work experience. IIM Bangalore is ideal for those seeking a two-year program with strong academic depth. Career goals, experience level, and learning preference matter most. Both offer excellent faculty and placements. The right choice depends on what you want from your MBA journey.
Read More: ISB GMAT Cut Off 2025, Fee Structure, Admission Process
ISB vs IIM Bangalore: Conclusion
ISB and IIM Bangalore both offer excellent MBA programs, but they serve different needs. ISB is perfect for professionals with work experience who want a quick, one-year MBA. The shorter program allows students to get back to work faster, making it a good choice for those looking for a career boost in less time. On the other hand, IIM Bangalore offers a traditional two-year MBA program with more detailed academic learning. This program is suitable for both fresh graduates and those with work experience.
