List of IIMs Accepting GMAT for MBA? Fees, Average Salary

by Naseeb Aug. 28, 2024 970
List_of_IIMs_accepting_GMAT

The Indian Institutes of Management are known as the most prestigious business schools and are a frontier of management education in India. Traditionally, IIMs would primarily consider a test called CAT exam which opened doors for admissions to these institutes.

Off late, though, some of the IIMs have started accepting Graduate Management Admission Test(GMAT) scores for admission to most management programs. This blog explains in detail which IIMs accept a GMAT score for an MBA, what programs use GMAT scores for admission, the requirement for a GMAT score to get admission to IIM, and the nuances of the GMAT cutoff for the IIM executive MBA program.

IIMs Accepting GMAT for MBA - Overview

CollegeProgramFeesAverage CTCCutoff
IIM APGPX33L - 35L32.5 LPA

700-740

IIM BEPGP31.05 L34.33 LPA710-750
IIM CPGPEX31 L26.98 LPA700-740
IIM LIMPX26 L26.47 LPA680-720
IIM IEPGP22.11 L700-730
IIM K

PGP - Finance

PGP - Business Leadership

20.50 L

22.50 L

29.23 LPA(BL)690-720
IIM SPGP Ex22.76 L640+
IIM U

One-year MBA in Digital Enterprise Management

One-year MBA in Global Supply Chain Management

22.75 L20.09 LPA670+

IIMs increased the admission eligibility criterion by introducing a GMAT score for all its flagship PGP in Management and Executive MBA. It is a step that can bring in more diversity in terms of applicants, including international students and professionals with considerable work experience.

List of IIMs Accepting GMAT for PGP

  • IIM Ahmedabad
  • IIM Bangalore
  • IIM Calcutta
  • IIM Lucknow
  • IIM Indore
  • IIM Kozhikode
  • IIM Shillong
  • IIM Udaipur
  • IIM Rohtak

GMAT Score for IIM Admission

One of the elements in applying for admission to IIM is the GMAT score. This is conducted so that there is uniformity in evaluating the applicant's quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills.

Typical GMAT Scores for IIM Admission

Although the exact GMAT scores that are required run from IIM to IIM and from one program to another, the competitive score would be anything between 680 and 750. However, a high GMAT score does not guarantee admission. IIMs have adopted a holistic approach to considering other factors, such as the following:

  • Academic Performance: The academic record is consistent from high school through undergraduate studies.
  • Work Experience: Work experience of good quality, duration, demonstration of leadership roles, and an indicated career progression.
  • Personal Interview: Performance in personal interview and group discussions.
    Letter of Recommendations:
    Work and college recommendations.

Program-Specific GMAT Score Requirements

The usual GMAT score requirements for flagship PGP programs are as follows:

IIM Ahmedabad: 700-740
IIM Bangalore: 710-750
IIM Calcutta: 700-740
IIM Lucknow: 680-720
IIM Indore: 700-730
IIM Kozhikode: 690-720


These scores are indicative and can vary based on the applicant pool and other selection criteria.

IIM GMAT Cutoff

IIMs' GMAT cutoff varies from year to year and from one program to another. The cutoff is the minimum GMAT score required to be considered for including in the next stage of selection.

Factors Influencing GMAT Cutoff

There are various factors that influence the GMAT cutoff for IIMs. These are as follows:

  • Number of Applicants: Higher competition can raise the cutoff.
  • Profile of Applicants: The academic and professional profiles of applicants impact the cutoff.
  • Program Requirements: These emphases on GMAT scores may vary from one program to another.

Typical GMAT Cutoffs for IIMs

The minimum cut-off GMAT score is typically within the range of 680 to 720 for all PGP programs. However, in the case of an Executive MBA, the GMAT cut-off may be slightly lower because it gives greater emphasis to work experience and managerial designation.

IIM Executive MBA GMAT Requirements

The IIM Executive MBA programs are designed for mid-career professionals looking to enrich their managerial skills and career growth. Also, the test requires specific GMAT scores in these programs and other selection criteria.

GMAT Scores for Executive MBA Programs

The typical GMAT score range for an IIM executive MBA program is usually from 650-710. However, the IIMs not only rely upon:

  • Work Experience: This should be at least 4-10 years of professional experience. Managerial work experience is desirable.
  • Professional Achievements: Demonstrated leadership, professional growth, and high professional achievement.
  • Personal Interview: Evaluates leadership potential, ability to communicate, and career objectives.

List of IIMs Offering Executive MBA Programs

Several IIMs offer Executive MBA programs which accept GMAT scores, including the following:

IIM Bangalore
EPGP
IIM Ahmedabad
PGPX
IIM Calcutta
PGPEX
IIM Lucknow
IPMX
IIM IndoreEPGP
IIM Kozhikode
EPGP

These all have a different focus and design for meeting experienced professional needs.

IIMs' admission with GMAT scores to their MBA and Executive MBA Programs opens up vast opportunities for prospective business leaders across the globe. Henceforth, competitive GMAT scores, high academic backgrounds, and rich working experience will allow candidates to enter some of India's most elite management programs. Now, knowing exactly what requirements to meet, an applicant can efficiently prepare to bring about high chances of admission into these esteemed institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GMAT accepted by IIMs?

Yes, IIMs accept the GMAT score for their programs. These programs are mainly for individuals who have work experience and wish to grow fast but cannot spend 2 years for a full-time program.

IIM Ahemdabad offers its PGPX, IIM Bangalore offers EPGP and other programs that one can see for career advancement.

What is the GMAT score for IIM admission?

We must remember that IIMs are world-class institutions and India is a very populated country. Because of the intense competitions and high selection criteria, a very high GMAT score is needed.

What is the lowest GMAT score for IIM Ahmedabad?

For entry into the most prestigious management college in the country, you would need a minimum score of 710.

Is GMAT easier than CAT?

GMAT is significantly easier than CAT, in fact, we have said earlier that on any day, on average - the toughest question on the GMAT is easier than a medium level question in the CAT.

What is the GMAT score for IIM Bangalore?

IIM Bangalore offers the EPGP program and for the same, it accepts GMAT scores. The cutoff is typically around the 720 mark.