How good is ISB PGPpro for Executive MBA in 2025 ?
- Shruti P, Lead Consultant at GOALisB
- May 19
- 16 min read
Updated: May 27
The ISB PGPpro is an 18-month weekend-based General Management program designed for mid-career working professionals. Offered across four major cities in India, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, it is tailored for those seeking leadership growth, domain shifts, or business transformation while continuing their full-time roles.
If you’re wondering, "Is ISB PGPpro worth it in 2025?" — the answer is yes, if your goals align with strategic leadership development, peer learning, and global exposure without taking a career break.
Table of Contents
ISB PGPpro 2025 Deadlines (2026 Intake)
ISB PGPpro Bangalore-Mumbai Cohort have not been announced for the 2026 intake
ISB PGPpro Delhi-Hyderabad Cohort:
Round 1:09 November, 2025
Round 2: February 6, 2026
Round 3: 19 April, 2026
In this blog post, we will discuss the different aspects of the ISB PGPpro program which will help you make a decision whether it aligns with your career goals. Our admission consultants have a 96% success rate with ISB PGPpro applications and have assisted professionals across domains with experience ranging from 5 years upwards with the ISB PGPpro applications. Get application assistance from an experienced ISB admissions consultant at GOALisB.
ISB PGPpro Eligibility & Application Process:
What is the ISB PGPpro eligibility?
To apply for the ISB PGPpro program:
Educational Background:
Bachelor's degree OR
CA/CS qualification OR equivalent certification
Work Experience:
Minimum 5 years of full-time experience (by June 30, 2025)
No GMAT or GRE required
Application Components:
Online application
Two main essays
Two professional recommendations
Shortlisted candidates undergo an interview
Tip: Apply early to maximize scholarship chances.
ISB PGPpro Class Profile:
Women students in the ISB PGPpro cohort - 24%
Average Age in the class of ISB PGPpro - 33 years
Average Work Experience in the ISB PGPpro - 10.1 Years
Some professionals who we have worked with to help them achieve success in the ISB PGPpro application process.
ISB PGPpro Program Structure & Format
Duration: 18 months
Locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru
Format: Alternate weekend classes (Saturday & Sunday)
Residencies: Three 1-week residencies (ISB Hyderabad, ISB Mohali, International Immersion)
The structure is optimized for working professionals, allowing continuity in career with structured academic progression.
ISB PGPpro Electives & Curriculum Highlights:
The curriculum is divided into 24 courses across four academic phases:
Preparatory Courses
Foundation Courses
Core Courses
Advanced Electives (Finance & Marketing)
Elective Highlights:
Finance:
Options & Futures
Capital Control, M&A
Portfolio Management
Capital Raising Strategies
Marketing:
Marketing Services
New Product Development
Business Model Innovation
Customer Behavior & Branding
Not sure if PGPpro is right for you? Talk to an expert who understands your goals.
How good is ISB PGPpro in 2025?
The year 2025 has been marked by dynamic changes that have compelled working professionals to reevaluate their career strategies. The first change is the ISB PGPpro eligibility has changed. Now, professionals with a work experience of a minimum work experience of 5 years plus of work experience can apply for the ISB PGPpro. This means that the cohort at ISB PGPpro is envisioned to be richer in experience, ensuring an enriched MBA experience to admits.
The ISB PGPpro login for the Delhi and Hyderabad cohort intake has changed recently.
Further let's explore what makes ISB PGPpro worth it?
From a recent admit to ISB PGPpro, Dr. Shaliga Bhatnagar, who we worked with recently and our ISB Admission consultant interviewed her about her review of the ISB PGPpro.
Inspired by Dr. Bhatnagar's success? Get in touch with an experienced ISB Admissions Consultant at GOALisB for the ideal package to ensure your successful application to ISB PGPpro.
Top ten reasons which make ISB PGPpro a good program for Executive MBA in India are:
1. ISB PGPpro is ideally suited for working professionals with at least 5 years of experience with in class sessions with ISB faculty and online modules during the intervening weekends.
2. A student of ISB PGPpro can opt for any of the four locations that are offered.
3. ISB Executive MBA offers students of the ISB PGPpro immense exposure through a plethora of activities and industry interactions. This contributes to the worth of ISB PGPpro as an executive MBA program.
4. ISB PGPpro is suitable for working professionals who wish to gain skills in Strategy and Leadership and the program offers two specialisations - Finance and Marketing.
5. The opportunity to engage with the upcoming industries at the ISB Executive MBA makes it a unique learning experience and definitely worthwhile.
6. The ISB PGP pro program is structured in phases to equip applicants with a structured progression on the business concepts. Therefore, from a long term and short term perspective it is definitely worth it.
7. A prime benefit of the ISB PGPpro program for professionals is that they are awarded the full alumni status by ISB and they are a part of a selective cohort at ISB.
8. Another key advantage that the ISB PGPpro offers is that working professionals can network with professionals without having to take a break from their career. In addition to the curriculum the students of the ISB PGP pro go through three campus residences which are one week long.
9. The work experience for applying to ISB PGPpro 5 years of experience giving a more enriched senior cohort to engage with.
10. ISB PGPpro offers its students an International immersion program which adds to their global exposure.
To sum it all, the ISB PGPpro program is specifically suitable for a mid level professional who cannot leave his current job to pursue a full-time MBA.
Share your profile with an experienced MBA admission consultant at GOALisB to discuss on a one on one call about your fit and the application process to ISB PGPpro.
ISB PGPpro vs Other Executive MBAs
ISB PGPpro vs ISB PGPMAX – Executive MBA Comparison
Feature | ISB PGPpro | ISB PGPMAX |
Target Audience | Mid-career professionals with 5–12 years of work experience | Senior professionals, CXOs, entrepreneurs with 10–25+ years of experience |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (Executive MBA equivalent) | Post Graduate Program in Management for Senior Executives (Executive MBA equivalent) |
Duration | 18 months | 15 months |
Format | Alternate weekend in-person classes (Saturday–Sunday) | Modular format: 12 week-long residencies (every 5–6 weeks) |
Delivery Locations | Four cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad | ISB campuses (Hyderabad & Mohali) and international residencies |
Global Immersion | One international immersion (e.g., NUS Singapore) | Two mandatory international residencies (Wharton, Kellogg, IESE, or LBS) |
Curriculum Highlights | Core + electives in Marketing or Finance; focus on leadership and general management | Advanced leadership, global strategy, innovation, governance, digital transformation |
Peer Group Profile | Functional heads, senior managers, rising consultants and entrepreneurs | CXOs, Managing Directors, founders, defense officers, surgeons, and senior government officials |
Average Work Experience | 8–10 years | 16+ years |
Fee | ₹30–35 lakhs (approx.) | ₹43.9 lakhs + GST (includes travel, accommodation for global immersions) |
Ideal For | Working professionals aiming to transition into leadership or pivot domains without a career break | Top-tier professionals seeking board-level preparation, transformation strategy, or business succession |
MBA admission consultant at GOALisB discusses the different Weekend Executive MBA programs in India.
ISB PGPpro vs IIMB PGPEM
ISB PGPpro | IIM Bangalore PGPEM |
Offered by Indian School of Business across 4 locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad. | Offered by IIM Bangalore at their main campus in Bengaluru. |
18-month weekend Executive MBA-equivalent program designed for mid-career professionals. | 22–24 month degree program awarding a Master of Management Studies (MBA equivalent). |
Classes held on alternate weekends (Saturday & Sunday), allowing flexibility for working professionals. | Classes held every weekend (full-day Saturday + half-day Sunday), requiring consistent commitment. |
Minimum 5 years of full-time work experience required. Admissions are profile-based — no entrance test. | Minimum 3 years of work experience required. Admission via CAT, GMAT, GRE, or IIMB Test + interviews. |
Optional global immersion available at extra cost (locations vary by cohort). | International exposure possible through global partner exchanges or optional modules. |
Average cohort has 8–10 years of work experience, spanning tech, BFSI, healthcare, and startups. | Cohort has 7–10 years of experience from IT, public sector, consulting, and manufacturing. |
Total program fee is approximately ₹30–35 lakhs depending on city. | Program fee is approximately ₹20 lakhs (more affordable, degree-granting). |
Ideal for professionals seeking fast-track career acceleration, without entrance exams, in top metros. | Ideal for professionals based in or near Bengaluru seeking a formal MBA from an IIM with structured academic rigor. |
ISB PGPpro vs IIMA BPGP – Executive MBA Comparison
ISB PGPpro | IIM Ahmedabad BPGP (BPGP) |
Offered by Indian School of Business at four locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. | Offered by IIM Ahmedabad as a blended learning program through satellite and campus immersion. |
18-month modular program designed for working professionals with 5–10 years of experience. | 2-year program with online interactive classes, plus 3 campus modules (each 1–2 weeks long). |
Classes held on alternate weekends (Saturday & Sunday) in-person. | Classes delivered via VC-based sessions on weekends; campus modules held every 6–7 months. |
Admission is profile-based. No entrance test required. Essays and interview determine selection. | Requires CAT/GMAT/GRE or IIMA Admission Test, followed by interview. |
Average class experience: 8–10 years. Participants include managers, tech leads, consultants. | Average experience: 7–12 years. Participants from public/private sector, entrepreneurs, senior managers. |
Approximate fee: ₹30–35 lakhs (location-dependent). | Approximate fee: ₹22–24 lakhs (depending on year and mode). |
Certificate from ISB (Executive MBA equivalent); not a degree. | MBA-equivalent degree awarded by IIM Ahmedabad (Post Graduate Program in Management for Executives). |
Ideal for metro-based professionals seeking flexible, high-touch learning without an entrance exam. | Ideal for professionals seeking a degree credential from IIMA, comfortable with online + campus format. |
ISB PGPpro vs IIM Kozhikode EPGP
Feature | ISB PGPpro | IIM Kozhikode EPGP |
Institution | Indian School of Business (ISB) | Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK) |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (equivalent to Executive MBA) | Master of Business Administration (MBA Degree) |
Program Duration | 18 months | 2 years |
Format | Alternate weekends (Saturday & Sunday), in-person at ISB learning hubs | Online interactive classes via TimesPro centers + 3 campus modules |
Class Locations | Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru | Pan-India classrooms via TimesPro + IIMK campus immersions |
Eligibility | Minimum 5 years of full-time work experience | Minimum 3 years of full-time post-graduation work experience |
Admissions Test | No test required; admission based on profile, essays, and interview | EMAT or GMAT/GRE/CAT (with cutoffs) + personal interview |
International Immersion | One international immersion at top global B-school (e.g., NUS Singapore) | No guaranteed global immersion; study tours may be available |
Average Work Experience | 8–10 years (mid-senior professionals) | 7–15 years (mixed cohort from mid-level to senior managers) |
Fee (approx.) | ₹30–35 lakhs (includes tuition, course materials, international module, and accommodation during residencies) | ₹15.5 lakhs (excluding travel and stay during in-campus modules) |
Career Services | Learning & Development support, networking events, alumni access | No formal placements; emphasis on self-driven career growth |
Program Differentiator | Designed for mid-career professionals aiming for leadership growth with immersive, face-to-face sessions | Flexible, hybrid delivery with a formal MBA credential from an IIM |
ISB PGPpro vs INSEAD ILPSE
Feature | ISB PGPpro | INSEAD ILPSE |
Institution | Indian School of Business (ISB) | INSEAD, in partnership with Emeritus for India |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (EMBA equivalent) | Certificate of Completion (Not an MBA Degree) |
Duration | 18 months | 1 year |
Format | Alternate weekend in-person classes (Sat–Sun) | Modular format – blended (on-campus India, Singapore, Fontainebleau + virtual sessions) |
Delivery Locations | Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru | India, Singapore, and France |
Eligibility | Minimum 5 years of full-time work experience | Minimum 10 years of experience (average ~16 years) |
Admissions Requirement | No GMAT/GRE; Profile + Essays + Interview | Profile-based admission + Interview |
Program Structure | 3 residencies (Hyderabad, Mohali, 1 Global Immersion) | 9 modules across 3 locations, including 2 international modules (Singapore & France) |
Networking Opportunities | Peer group of mid-career professionals; access to ISB alumni network | Global industry leaders, INSEAD alumni network, India Business Dialogue |
Average Experience | 8–10 years | 16 years |
Cohort Profile | Functional heads, managers, consultants, startup founders | CXOs, VPs, entrepreneurs, senior leadership from diverse industries |
Fee | ₹30–35 lakhs (includes domestic residencies and global immersion) | USD 50,000 (~₹42 lakhs) + travel expenses |
Ideal For | Mid-career professionals looking for leadership growth while staying in India | Senior professionals or CXO-track leaders seeking global immersion, introspection, and strategic transformation |
ISB PGPpro vs UCLA PGP PRO – Executive Management Programs
Feature | ISB PGPpro | UCLA PGP PRO |
Institution | Indian School of Business (ISB), India | UCLA Anderson School of Management, USA |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (EMBA equivalent) | Certificate from UCLA Anderson Executive Education |
Duration | 18 months | 12 months |
Delivery Format | In-person classes on alternate weekends (Saturday & Sunday) | Blended: Online modules + live webinars + in-person classroom sessions (~90+ hours in-person) |
Locations | Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad | New Delhi and Bangalore (in-person), with global online access |
Eligibility | Minimum 5 years of full-time work experience | Minimum 7 years of work experience, undergrad degree, and English proficiency |
Admission Process | Application + Essay + Recommendations + Interview (profile-based) | Online application + Essay + 2 references + Interview (if shortlisted) |
Global Exposure | One global immersion (e.g., NUS Singapore) included | Global business concepts taught by UCLA faculty; international networking through UCLA events |
Alumni Status | Full ISB alumni status with access to events and global network | Access to UCLA PGP PRO alumni network + Anderson Executive Education community |
Average Work Experience | 8–10 years | 10–20 years (range: 7 to 25+ years) |
Fee | ₹30–35 lakhs (inclusive of immersion and residencies) | USD 12,000 (~₹10–11 lakhs), excludes accommodation/travel |
Ideal For | Mid-career professionals targeting senior leadership roles without leaving their job | Senior professionals seeking career acceleration, brand exposure, and global leadership insight |
Career Services | Learning & Development sessions, branding support, alumni access | Career Services Plus via Northwest (resume, personal branding, career planning) |
ISB PGPpro vs IIM Lucknow PGPWE
Feature | ISB PGPpro | IIM Lucknow PGPWE |
Offered By | Indian School of Business (ISB) | Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (Noida Campus) |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (Executive MBA equivalent) | MBA Degree (Post Graduate Diploma in Management for Working Executives) |
Program Duration | 18 months | 2 years |
Format | In-person, alternate weekends (Sat–Sun) across four cities | In-person, alternate weekends (Sat–Sun) + 3 week-long on-campus modules |
Delivery Locations | Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad | Noida Campus |
Eligibility | Minimum 5 years full-time work experience | Minimum 3 years full-time work experience (as of June 30, 2025) |
Admission Test Requirement | No GMAT/GRE/CAT required – admission via essays, recos, and interview | GMAT/GRE/CAT/IIML-WET + Personal Interview |
Peer Group Experience | Average 8–10 years; mid-level to senior managers and entrepreneurs | Average 7.5 years; professionals from corporate, government, and public sectors |
Global Exposure | 1 international immersion (e.g., NUS Singapore) included | 1 optional international immersion of 5–7 days (additional cost) |
Faculty | ISB faculty + international B-school visiting professors | IIM Lucknow faculty + industry practitioners |
Fee | ₹30–35 lakhs (includes residencies and international immersion) | ₹11 lakhs + ₹10k caution + ₹5k alumni + taxes (total ~₹12.5–13L) |
Placement Support | No formal placements; strong peer/alumni network and career development workshops | No formal placements; access to corporate opportunities via IIML’s alumni and support |
Ideal For | Mid-level professionals seeking transition to leadership roles with immersive learning in metro cities | Working professionals wanting an IIM MBA degree without leaving their job |
FAQs on ISB PGPpro
What are the other comparable programs to ISB PGPpro for working professionals?
How do the Executive MBA from IIM and the EMBA program at ISB differ from each other?
The full-time MBA from IIM is ideal for career transitions and can open up new opportunities in a shorter amount of time. However, it requires taking a break from work to pursue the program, which can be a drawback for some. On the other hand, the EMBA from ISB is designed for working professionals and offers career advancement options without the need to leave your job.
This means that you can continue to earn while pursuing the program, avoiding any loss of income. In summary, both the MBA from IIM and the EMBA from ISB have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. It's important to carefully consider your goals, work experience, and financial situation before making a decision. There are more Executive MBA programs in India without the GMAT.
Alternatively in case you want to opt for the full time MBA programs for experienced professionals there are many options for the One Year EMBA in India.
Need help deciding between ISB PGPpro and other executive MBAs? Get personalized advice from GOALisB.
What are the differences in the faculty in Hyderabad or Mumbai cohort at ISB PGPpro?
The calendars of the program in Mumbai and Bangalore are synced. The faculty for the different cohorts are the same depending on the subjects offered during the period. The expertise of the faculty and their availability is synchronised for all the four cities offering the ISB PGPpro program.
What are the electives provided by ISB PGPpro?
When it comes to choosing electives for the ISB PGPpro program, students have the opportunity to specialize in different areas of business, such as marketing and finance.
How does one decide whether to apply for ISB PGPpro or ISB PGPMAX ?
This decision should be made on the quality of work experience the applicant has gained so far. ISB PGP Pro is suitable for professionals working at mid to senior level in their organizations.
ISB PGP Max on the other hand is structured for professionals who are already engaged in leadership roles or those who have had good experience in leadership positions in their organizations.
Still wondering about how good is ISB PGPpro program?
If you are wondering how good is ISB PGPpro you should check if your goals are in line with what the school and the ISB PGPpro program offers. Connect with an ISB admission consultant to discuss your goals and profile to evaluate the ISB PGPpro program fit with your profile. We asked a few graduates about how good is the ISB PGPpro, they have all valued it most for the long term value addition that it gives and at the same time they value the peer network they build at ISB PGPpro.
Some other FAQ about the ISB PGPpro:
What is the placement assistance post the ISB PGPpro?
The applicants to the ISB PGPpro program are already working so there is no provision for a scheduled placement process. The school provides learning and development activities on career profile building throughout the year and access to opportunities which the graduates can avail.
ISB PGPpro offers many tools you can utilise to move towards a career change. ISB PGPpro does not offer campus placements as the program is intended for working professionals.
Career support services is a series of personalised workshops done by the L&D team. These workshops are not a part of the curriculum but a part of the program. These include developing a job search action plan, build a stronger resume, mock interviews, building a personal brand, negotiating a job offer, work on your weaknesses etc.
Career transition services by the corporate relations team networking side profile book for the students are collated and circulated among the corporate relations which float the relevant lateral placement opportunities.
Leveraging the alumni network is a very important tool. ISB PGPpro offers a full alumni status for the students enabling them in outreach to alumni for connect.
The alumni job portal is an exclusive job networking site for ISB graduates available for the ISB PGPpro alumni.
Is there a benefit of applying early to ISB PGPpro application?
There is a maximum scope of qualifying for the scholarships when applying in the Round 1 of the application itself.
What are some ISB PGPpro reviews, application process?
We have compiled details on the ISB PGPpro application process and interviewed the applicants as below.
What is the test score required for ISB PGPpro application?
There is no specific test mandated by ISB for admission to the Executive MBA from ISB, the ISB PGPpro. The application to ISB PGPpro, Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad, requires the submission of a detailed work experience, recommendation letters and essays.
Is PGP Pro ISB worth it?
Yes, ISB PGP Pro is worth it for mid-career professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills and accelerate career growth. Designed for working professionals, it offers world-class faculty, a flexible weekend format, and a focus on real-world business challenges. Graduates often see significant career advancements and a robust alumni network.
Is ISB PGP Pro equivalent to MBA?
Yes, ISB PGP Pro is equivalent to an Executive MBA. While it is not a traditional two-year or one year MBA in India, it provides rigorous management education tailored for experienced professionals, equipping them with advanced business insights and leadership capabilities.
Which is better: ISB or IIM?
ISB and IIM cater to different needs. ISB is ideal for mid-career professionals seeking a one-year global MBA experience, while IIMs offer both one-year executive MBAs and traditional two-year MBAs. The choice depends on your career stage, work experience, and goals. Read more about ISB vs IIM.
Is ISB degree valid in India?
Yes, ISB degrees, such as the PGP and PGP Pro, are highly recognized and respected in India and globally. While they are not university-affiliated degrees, they are equivalent to international MBA programs and are widely valued by employers.
Is GMAT required for ISB PGP Pro?
No, GMAT is not required for applying to ISB PGPpro. For the ISB PGPpro application you need to submit an online application with test scores followed by an interview.
How important is the ISB PGPpro interview?
The last part is the ISB PGPpro interview. One should never underestimate the importance of the ISB PGPpro interview process. ISB does not give a lot many days for you to start your interview preparation. The time that you would usually get for an ISB PGPpro interview is around 2 - 7 days. The interview panel usually comprises alumni who try to ascertain the fit of the applicant with the program.
What are the ISB PGPpro interview questions?
The ISB PGPpro application process results in the selection of a very selective pool of applicants. The ISB PGPpro interview questions revolve around the different experiences that the applicant has asked The main theme of the ISB PGppro interview questions is to address the fit of the applicant to the school and the program. The ISB PGPpro interview questions definitely probe the motivations and experiences of the applicant to check if they fit into the ISB PGPpro program.
Which program is better suited for Indian professionals, the INSEAD ILPSE or ISB PGPpro?
The INSEAD Leadership program for senior executives is a one year program structured to groom the next generation senior executives in India. This program has a part time format with a part of the course held at International locations, i.e. France or Singapore. This program caters to the leadership skills, management concepts and advanced specialisation as does the ISB PGPpro program. However the suitability of either program depends on the individual professional, the costs involved and the goals you have.
There are 5 main differences in ISB PGPpro vs INSEAD ILPSE:
Minimum work experience required: ISB PGPpro is 8 years while INSEAD ILPSE is 10 years.
Fees: ISB PGPpro costs around INR 34 Lacs, while INSEAD ILPSE costs around SGD 66,000.
Duration of the program: ISB PGPpro is 18 months in duration while the INSEAD ILPSE is one year in duration.
Locations: ISB PGPpro has cohorts at 4 locations in India + One International while the INSEAD ILPSE is conducted conducted across 3 locations Internationally.
Program Inception: ISB PGPpro is present since 5+ years while INSEAD ILPSE is present since 12+ years.
Can an Executive MBA from ISB PGPpro help me transition towards a product management career?
Yes. A majority of our applicants seek a transition to the product management roles within or outside their organisations and they do achieve this goal successfully.
If you are entering the ISB PGPpro program with a background of technical aspects of product management, this education would surely help you transition to a product management role. However, if your background prior to the ISB PGPpro application is not related to the product management in any sector or domain, it can't be said for sure that you would be able to transition to product management career roles.
Author Bio:
Shruti P is the Lead Consultant at GOALisB, with 12+ years of experience and numerous successful MBA admissions. She is an ISB and Stanford alumnus and specializes in ISB, IIM, and top global MBA programs.
Don't miss the next deadline! Secure your future with ISB PGPpro. Schedule a consultation with GOALisB today.
Here is a comprehensive list of GOALisB resources related to the Indian School of Business (ISB):
ISB Application Process and Essays
ISB Programs and Specializations
ISB Interview and Profile Building
ISB Career Options and Comparisons
