Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad
- Goalisb
- Apr 7
- 14 min read
Executive MBA programs are designed to provide working professionals with the knowledge, skills, and networks they need to take on leadership roles and advance their careers. Among the top business schools offering Executive MBA programs, the Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad stands out for its innovative curriculum, world-class faculty, and diverse student body.
Table of Contents
Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad Comparison:
ISB Executive MBA vs Global Executive MBA
ISB Executive MBA vs Traditional Part-Time MBA in India
ISB PGPpro vs IIM Bangalore EPGP
ISB PGPpro vs ISB PGPMAX
Other ISB MBA Options

Upcoming Deadlines for Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad for 2025-26 Intake
ISB PGPpro - 5 May 2025 - Delhi and Hyderabad (R1)
ISB PGPMAX - 30 March 2025
ISB offers different MBA programs for professionals at different levels of their career.
ISB MBA entry option for graduates with less than 2 years experience: ISB PGP YL
ISB MBA for graduates with 24 months experience in the full time mode: ISB PGP
ISB MBA for working professionals without the GMAT: ISB PGPpro
ISB MBA for senior working professionals without the GMAT: ISB PGPMAX
ISB MBA for professionals working in Family Business: ISB MFAB
For a profile evaluation or assistance with the ISB Essays and ISB interview get in touch with our experts at GOALisB. You can also whatsapp at +91 7719497187.
With a focus on experiential learning and practical skills, ISB's Executive MBA program has earned a reputation for producing graduates who are prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive growth in their organizations. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the Executive MBA program at ISB Hyderabad, exploring its structure, curriculum, admissions process, and outcomes.
Whether you're a mid-career professional looking to take your career to the next level or an employer seeking to invest in your team's development, this guide will provide valuable insights into what makes ISB Executive MBA program unique and worthwhile.
What are ISB Hyderabad Executive MBA Programs?
ISB Hyderabad offers two Executive MBA programs for working professionals: the ISB PGPMAX and the ISB PGPpro.
The ISB PGPMAX is a Global Executive MBA equivalent program that focuses on leadership development, strategic thinking, and global business issues. The program is offered at both ISB Hyderabad and ISB Mohali.
On the other hand, the PGPpro is an 18-month program that caters to future leaders with 5+ years of work experience. The program is offered at multiple locations, including Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Both programs provide a challenging and rigorous curriculum, with a focus on experiential learning and practical skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
What is the eligibility for Executive MBA from ISB?
The admissions requirements and process for the Executive MBA programs at ISB Hyderabad vary depending on the specific program. The ISB PGPpro applicants should have a bachelor's degree or equivalent atleast 5 years of full-time work experience. The application fee is Rs. 5,000, and applicants are required to submit professional evaluations from current and previous managers.
The ISB PGPMAX applicants should have a bachelor's degree or equivalent and atleast 10 years work experience. The application checklist includes a resume, passport photocopy, bachelor's degree mark-sheets/transcripts, proof of income, company support letter, and professional references. The admissions process for both programs is highly competitive, and candidates are evaluated on a range of factors, including academic and professional achievements, leadership potential, and interpersonal skills.
Upcoming ISB PGPpro Application Deadline 2025: 4 May 2025
For those comparing program durations, Is ISB MBA 1 year or 2 years breaks down the program’s timeline and curriculum to help applicants plan accordingly.
Executive MBA from ISB Program Structure and Curriculum:
ISB Hyderabad's Executive MBA program is led by an esteemed faculty of distinguished scholars, researchers, and practitioners from around the world. The program offers two international immersions, one in the USA and the other in Asia, providing participants with a global perspective and exposure to different business practices. The classroom-based learning format minimizes disruptions to the participants' work schedules, allowing them to earn a master's equivalent degree in business administration while still pursuing their careers. Additionally, ISB (PGPMAX) is a member of the Executive MBA Council (EMBAC), which is the academic association that represents the Executive MBA industry worldwide, providing further recognition and networking opportunities for the program's participants.
Other ISB MBA Programs
ISB MBA options differ for applicants at different entry points on their career graph. Applicants from final and pre final year students till 10 plus years of work experience can apply to a tailor made ISB MBA.
The different options for pursuing the ISB MBA entry are as follows:
1. ISB PGP YL:
ISB PGP YL is a 20 months MBA program offered by ISB for professionals with less than 24 months of work experience. ISB has discontinued ISB YLP and ISB EEO from 2025 intake onwards.
2. ISB PGP:
The flagship one year full time MBA equivalent program by ISB. The ISB PGP application process is conducted across three rounds every year. Applicants with a minimum 24 months of work experience can apply.
3. ISB MBA for Family Business - ISB MFAB:
The ISB MBA for Family Business applicants. ISB MFAB is a tailor made program which caters to the need of growing Family Businesses.
4. Executive MBA at ISB for working professionals - ISB Executive MBA:
The Executive MBA at ISB is delivered in two programs - ISB PGP pro for working professionals with a minimum 5 years of experience and the ISB PGPMAX which is ideal for senior professionals with a minimum of 10 years of work experience. The ISB Executive MBA is an option where the students can pursue an MBA in a modular format, while continuing with their work involvements.
Comparing Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad and Other Executive MBAs:
Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad vs Global Executive MBA
Feature | ISB Executive MBA (PGPpro / PGPMAX) | Global Executive MBA (INSEAD / Kellogg / Wharton / HEC, etc.) |
Program Format | Modular or Weekend (without leaving job) | Modular, Weekend, or Blocked (intensive modules) |
Duration | PGPpro: 18 months PGPMAX: 15 months | 12–24 months depending on school |
Eligibility | PGPpro: 5+ yrs exp PGPMAX: 10+ yrs exp | 6–10+ years of experience, often with managerial roles |
Class Profile (Avg. Exp) | PGPpro: 8–10 yrs PGPMAX: 15–20 yrs | Usually 10–14 years |
Format Flexibility | Designed for Indian professionals with work commitments | Designed for international executives; may involve extensive travel |
Accreditation | AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB (Triple Crown) | Most are Triple Crown Accredited |
Degree Awarded | Post Graduate Certificate (not a formal MBA due to Indian law) | Executive MBA (EMBA) Degree |
Global Exposure | 1 (PGPpro) or 2 (PGPMAX) international modules | Multiple campuses or global modules (e.g., Wharton EMBA: US + Europe) |
Faculty | ISB + Visiting faculty from Wharton, Kellogg, LBS | Top-ranked global faculty, international professors |
Alumni Network | ISB global alumni (~16,000+) | Larger global alumni base (e.g., Wharton 100K+, INSEAD 60K+) |
Recognition & ROI | High ROI in India and Asia | Global mobility and strong brand worldwide |
Language & Culture | Taught in English, India-centric case studies | Taught in English, global/multicultural classroom |
Fee Range | ₹30–45 lakhs (PGPpro/PGPMAX) | ₹90 lakh–₹1.25 crore (INR equivalent: $120K–$150K) |
Placement Support | No formal placement; strong coaching + alumni network | Similar – networking-focused; no formal campus placements |
Visa & Travel Needs | Domestic base, limited travel for global modules | International travel essential; visa/documentation needed |
Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad vs Traditional Part-Time MBA in India
Feature | Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad (PGPpro / PGPMAX) | Traditional Part-Time MBA in India |
Institution Type | Premier private B-school (ISB) with global partnerships | Mostly university-affiliated institutes or Tier-2/3 colleges |
Program Format | PGPpro: Weekend (alternate weekends) PGPMAX: Modular (1 week every 5 weeks) | Evening/Weekend classes (usually 2–3 days/week) |
Duration | PGPpro: 18 months PGPMAX: 15 months | Typically 2–3 years |
Eligibility | PGPpro: 5+ years of experience PGPMAX: 10+ years of experience | 2–5 years (varies by college) |
Target Audience | Mid-to-senior professionals, CXOs, entrepreneurs | Early-to-mid career professionals |
Global Exposure | Yes – 1 (PGPpro) or 2 (PGPMAX) international immersions at top B-schools | Rare or none |
Specializations Offered | Strategy, Leadership, Finance, Marketing (PGPpro) | Finance, HR, Marketing, Ops, IT (varies by institute) |
Degree Awarded | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (MBA-equivalent) | PG Diploma / MBA (depending on institution) |
Accreditation | Triple Crown: AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB | Often AICTE/UGC-approved; rarely internationally accredited |
Faculty | ISB core faculty + global visiting faculty (Wharton, Kellogg, etc.) | Indian faculty, often full-time professors from the university |
Peer Group | Experienced professionals from top firms (avg. 8–20 yrs exp) | Mixed cohort, younger average age |
Networking Opportunities | Strong ISB alumni network (~16,000+ globally) | Limited, localized alumni network |
Flexibility | Built for working professionals with travel or job demands | Requires consistent weekly attendance |
Fees | ₹30–35L (PGPpro) ₹43.9L+ (PGPMAX) | ₹2–10L (depending on the college and city) |
Return on Investment (ROI) | Strong ROI via career advancement, lateral transitions, and business growth | Modest ROI, mostly incremental career shifts |
Placement Support | No formal placement; career support, coaching, alumni referrals | Limited or no placement support |
ISB Hyderabad Executive MBA (PGPpro) vs IIM Bangalore EPGP
Feature | ISB PGPpro (Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad) | IIM Bangalore EPGP (Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management) |
Program Type | Weekend Executive MBA (Part-time) | Full-time, 1-year Residential MBA |
Location | Delhi (NCR), Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad | IIM Bangalore Campus |
Duration | 18 months (Weekend + 3 Residencies) | 12 months full-time |
Eligibility | Min. 5 years of full-time work experience | Min. 5 years post-qualification work experience |
Degree Awarded | Post Graduate Certificate from ISB | MBA degree from IIM Bangalore |
Program Format | Alternate weekends + 3 week-long modules (2 domestic + 1 international) | Full-time residential, includes international immersion |
Specialisations | Marketing or Finance | Electives offered across programs |
International Immersion | 1 week in Asia | Yes, visit to global B-school (part of GNAM) |
Class Profile (Typical) | Avg. 8–10 years of work experience | Avg. 5–13 years of experience, GMAT range: 630–780 |
Faculty | ISB core + visiting international faculty | IIMB faculty + international immersion |
Peer Group | Senior professionals from multiple industries | Diverse mid-career professionals, 26% women, 15% with international experience |
Admission Process | Essays + Recommendations + Interview (No GMAT required) | GMAT/GRE required + Interview |
Fees | Approx. ₹30–35 lakhs + GST (city-dependent) | ₹31.05–₹33.96 lakhs (based on accommodation choice) |
Placement Support | No formal placement; networking, branding, alumni portal | Full placement support + career services + top recruiters |
Alumni Status | Full ISB alumni status with lifelong access | Full IIMB alumni privileges |
ISB PGPpro vs ISB PGPMAX: Which ISB Executive MBA is Right for You?
Choosing between ISB PGPpro and ISB PGPMAX can be one of the most critical decisions for a mid- or senior-career professional aiming to level up. Both programs are prestigious executive MBAs offered by the Indian School of Business (ISB) — but each caters to different career stages and leadership goals.
ISB PGPpro vs PGPMAX: At a Glance
Feature | ISB PGPpro | ISB PGPMAX |
Format | Weekend Executive MBA | Modular, Week-long Executive MBA |
Duration | 18 months | 15 months |
Target Audience | Mid-career professionals (5–10 years exp.) | Senior executives, entrepreneurs (10–25 years exp.) |
Delivery Mode | Alternate weekends + online + 3 campus residencies | One week every 5–6 weeks (fully residential modules) |
Global Immersion | 1 week (Asia-focused) | 2 weeks at top international B-schools (e.g., Wharton, Kellogg) |
Degree Type | Post Graduate Certificate (EMBA equivalent) | Post Graduate Certificate (EMBA equivalent) |
Location | Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru | ISB Hyderabad + Mohali + International locations |
Fees | ₹30–35 lakhs + GST | ₹43.9 lakhs + GST |
Placement Support | No formal placements; career coaching & alumni portal | Same, with focus on CXO/board roles |
Average Work Experience | 8–10 years | ~16 years |
Peer Group | Functional/Team Leads, Product Managers, Domain Experts | CXOs, Founders, VPs, Directors, Doctors, Army Officers |
Who Should Choose ISB PGPpro?
The ISB PGPpro is designed for professionals looking to accelerate their careers without leaving their job. If you’re a product manager, team lead, functional head, or consultant ready to step into general management or strategy roles, PGPpro is a perfect fit.
Key Highlights:
Delivered on alternate weekends with flexibility for working professionals
Available across 4 cities with synchronized modules
Includes 1 international immersion (e.g., NUS Singapore)
Elective specializations in Marketing and Finance
Full ISB alumni status with lifelong network access
Ideal for: Professionals with 5–10 years of experience who want to grow into senior roles in the next 2–3 years.
Who Should Choose ISB PGPMAX?
If you're already a senior executive, business owner, or director, ISB PGPMAX is crafted to help you scale your leadership across functions or transition into CXO or board-level roles.
Key Highlights:
Two global immersions at top international schools (Wharton, Kellogg, LBS)
Modules focus on strategy, digital disruption, governance, negotiation, and global markets
12 week-long modules over 15 months; no need to quit your job
Deep peer learning from a highly experienced cohort (avg. age: 40+)
Ideal for: Leaders with 10+ years of experience seeking boardroom readiness or business transformation.
FAQs for Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad:
1. How can you decide which ISB MBA is the best for you?
The best way to decide which ISB MBA is the best for you is to first analyse your career path and then evaluate your career goals. The decision can be made depending on the factors like:
Readiness for MBA
Years of experience
Preparedness for the GMAT or the GRE test
Eligibility for the ISB MBA
Career goals synchronisation
Beyond this it is suggested that you avail a free profile evaluation with an experienced ISB Admission Consultant at GOALisB who can guide you as to a good strategy to choose the ISB MBA suitable for you.
2. What is the ISB PGPMAX Executive MBA at ISB Hyderabad?
This Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad is suitable for higher-ranking professionals who wish to enhance their business knowledge and gain a holistic approach towards dealing with complex business situations.
Duration of ISB PGP MAX Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad:
The ISB PGP MAX Executive MBA is delivered over a 15-month period through week-long classroom-based sessions, regularly held at an interval of six weeks (ISB Mohali/Hyderabad).
Professionals enrolled in this Executive MBA at ISB may have to dedicate nearly ten hours every week to finish your assignments, in addition to the course pre-read.
3. What is the PGPMAX Executive MBA at ISB Eligibility?
The minimum work experience necessary to be considered for this curriculum is 10 years.
Asking, Is ISB worth the high fees? This guide outlines the value of ISB’s network, career placements, and post-MBA earnings, helping you evaluate the return on investment.
4. Does the admission process to the PGPMAX Executive MBA at ISB need a GMAT score?
The GMAT score is not compulsory for admissions to PGPMAX admissions. The admission process stresses more on getting to know what you’ve done at work in the business world. In case you have a GMAT score, you may put forward the same and this would be considered.
5. What are the Executive MBA ISB fees?
Executive MBA from ISB fees for the year 2021-22 is INR 39,63,000 plus taxes for the ISB PGPMAX program.
6. What is the ISB PGPpro Executive MBA at ISB Hyderabad?
The ISB PGPPro is an exclusive Weekend Executive MBA program for working professionals with a range of work experience above 5 years. Expert ISB admission consultants share insights on ISB PGPpro reviews and ISB PGPpro placements here.
The ISB PGPpro Executive MBA combines methodical learning with the right format of alternating weekend classes. Intended for mid-career professionals, the program makes available the most important fundamentals in Strategy and Leadership with a choice to specialise either Finance or Marketing.
Some facts about the PGPpro Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad:
Duration : 18 months (Combination of Classroom & Online Classes)
Courses Offered in Delhi (NCR)/ Bengaluru/Hyderabad/Mumbai
Campus visits at Mohali and Hyderabad separately (1-week classes), as a part of the program.
International visit for 1 Week in an Asian country
7. Which is better - Full time vs. Executive MBA?
The main difference between a full time MBA and an Executive MBA is the level of engagement in the graduate school. In the full year program, the students get a chance to participate in various on campus activities. In the Executive (Part time) MBA the there is a customisation of classes towards a more experienced group of individuals.
Full-time MBA students have rigorous schedules (full-day), making it hard (almost Impossible) to keep up a job outside the program. On the other hand, Executive MBA students maintain their permanent jobs and by and large attend classes on Fridays and the weekends; nevertheless, this can lead to less interaction on school grounds with your classmates.
8. What are the ISB PGPpro Executive MBA from ISB Fees?
The program fee for ISB PGPpro 2023 is INR 3,046,000 (plus taxes). Financing options for ISB PGPpro admits are available from:
Indian Bank
Union Bank
Axis Bank
ICICI Bank
SBI
HDFC Credila
Avanse Financial Services
9. Does Executive MBA help in India?
There are lots of courses and educational disciplines which allow individuals to search out good jobs and salaries subsequently. Besides getting good jobs, the working professionals want regular upgradation as regards innovative management principles.
10. What is the ISB PGPpro Program Structure?
The Executive MBA from ISB program is spread over a period of 18 months, with 24 courses which are covered in 4 categories of foundation courses, advanced courses, electives, and specialisation courses. The 4 important elements incorporated are:
Strategy and Leadership skills
Decisive Thinking
Specialization – Finance/ Marketing
Business ethics and best practices
Apart from the typical program, participants will also have access to employment services and this will help them in their future career growth. The one-week international immersion involves country experience, classroom teaching, cultural and industry visits, along with management interaction. The ISB PGPpro program is taught by the top faculty and a lot of famous professors from the best schools around the world; as a result, this experience itself is inspiring.
11. What are the benefits of the Executive MBA at ISB?
Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad provides the following benefits to the working professionals:
1. FACULTY - Learn from esteemed faculty from across the world.
2. PEER CONNECT - Connect to peer network from different industries
3. STRUCTURE - The program is structured to groom top leadership
4. CAREER SUPPORT - Access to and updates on opportunities
5. PROGRAM FORMAT - Hybrid format - online and classroom
6. NO WORK DISRUPTION - Continue with your job while you pursue an MBA
11. Is there a PhD program at ISB ?
Yes. ISB offers fellowship program in management (PhD Equivalent). It is a 4 year program. During the program the institute offers a stipend of INR 65,000/- to cover the living expenses.
For a detailed discussion on your profile and application assistance connect with an ISB admission consultant at GOALisB. You can also reach out to us at contact@goalisb.com or whatsapp at +91 7719497187.
Is an Executive MBA from ISB worth it?
Yes, ISB’s Executive MBA programs such as PGPpro and PGPMAX are highly valuable for experienced professionals seeking career acceleration without leaving their job. With global faculty, industry-focused curriculum, and powerful alumni networks, ISB provides strong ROI in leadership growth and strategic roles.
13. What is the GMAT score required for ISB Executive MBA?
ISB does not require GMAT or GRE scores for its Executive MBA formats like PGPpro and PGPMAX. Admissions are based on professional experience, essays, interviews, and recommendations — making it more holistic and accessible for working professionals.
14. How much does an Executive MBA at ISB Hyderabad cost?
The total fee for ISB’s Executive MBA (PGPpro) is approximately ₹30–35 lakhs depending on the city. The PGPMAX, designed for senior executives, is priced around ₹43.9 lakhs plus GST and includes two international immersions.
15. Who is eligible for ISB Executive MBA?
For PGPpro: A minimum of 5 years of full-time work experience by program start is required.For PGPMAX: Applicants need at least 10 years of work experience. A bachelor's degree in any discipline is mandatory for both programs.
16. Does ISB Executive MBA offer placements?
No, ISB’s Executive MBA programs do not offer traditional campus placements. Instead, they provide executive career coaching, peer networking, personal branding sessions, and access to the exclusive ISB alumni job portal.
17. Is the Executive MBA from ISB equal to a regular MBA?
Yes, in terms of learning outcomes and executive career advancement, ISB’s Executive MBA formats (PGPpro/PGPMAX) are equivalent to a traditional MBA. However, they are awarded as postgraduate certificates, not degrees, in line with Indian regulations.
18. Which is better — ISB Executive MBA or IIM Executive MBA?
ISB Executive MBAs are modular or weekend-based and designed for professionals who wish to study without quitting their job. IIM Executive MBAs like PGPX or EPGP are usually full-time, residential programs. The best choice depends on your career stage and flexibility.
19. What are the drawbacks of doing an Executive MBA?
The biggest challenge is balancing work, study, and personal commitments. There are no formal placements, and the high fees may be a barrier. However, for motivated professionals, the leadership ROI and peer learning outweigh the trade-offs.
20. Do you need GMAT for Executive MBA in India?
Not always. ISB, and many global EMBA programs (including Kellogg and Wharton) do not GMAT for experienced candidates. Some IIMs may still require GMAT, GRE, or their own test.
21. Can I apply to ISB Executive MBA without quitting my job?
Absolutely. Both ISB PGPpro and PGPMAX are designed for full-time working professionals. Classes are held on weekends or in one-week modules every few weeks, allowing career continuity.
22. What is the average salary hike after ISB Executive MBA?
While there is no placement data, many ISB Executive MBA graduates report 50–100% salary hikes over 2–3 years, often transitioning into CXO roles or new domains through peer referrals and leadership visibility.
ISB Admissions & MBA Programs - Complete Resource Guide
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