Executive MBA Showdown: ISB PGPpro vs IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA
- Goalisb
- Oct 15
- 10 min read
Let's dive into a detailed comparison between ISB PGPpro (Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Professionals) and IIM Bangalore PGPEM (Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management). Both programs are designed for working professionals aiming to advance their careers, but they have distinct features that may suit different needs and preferences. Here’s an in-depth analysis from our MBA admission consultants at GOALisB.
ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA
1. Program Overview ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
Institution: Indian School of Business (ISB)
Duration: 18 months
Mode: Weekend classes
Locations: Delhi (NCR), Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru
IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
Institution: Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB)
Duration: 22 months
Mode: Weekend classes
Location: Bangalore
2. Fees ISB PGPpro vs IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
ISB PGPpro:
Approximately INR 30-35 lakhs (varies by location and year)
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Approximately INR 20-23 lakhs
3. Eligibility ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
Eligibility for ISB PGPpro:
Work Experience: Minimum of 8 years upto 15 years
Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Additional: GMAT/GRE scores are not required
Eligibility for IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Work Experience: Minimum of 4 years
Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Additional: GMAT/GRE scores or IIMB test scores may be required
4. Comparing the Course Structure ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
ISB PGPpro:
Focus on general management with electives in strategy, finance, marketing, operations, and more.
Combines classroom learning with projects, case studies, and simulations.
Offers international immersion and access to global faculty.
24 courses including core and advanced modules.
Alternating weekends with a mix of online and in-person sessions.
Two in-campus residencies and one international immersion.
Focuses on experiential learning and leadership.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Focus on enterprise management with electives in technology, business analytics, finance, marketing, and more.
Emphasizes hands-on learning through projects, case studies, and industry interactions.
Offers international immersion and access to leading faculty in management research.
Core courses in the first year, elective courses in the second year.
Classes on Friday afternoons and Saturdays.
Opportunities for independent projects and international student exchanges.
Focus on leadership, innovation, and global business practices.
5. Duration and Flexibility ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
ISB PGPpro:
Duration: 18 months
Flexibility: Designed for working professionals with weekend classes, allowing for minimal disruption to work.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Duration: 22 months
Flexibility: Also designed for working professionals with weekend classes, providing balance between work and study.
6. International Exposure ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
ISB PGPpro:
Includes international immersion programs at leading global business schools.
Focus on global business trends and practices.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Offers international immersion with partner institutions.
Emphasis on global business strategies and practices.
7. Cohort Composition ISB PGPpro vs. IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA:
ISB PGPpro:
Diverse cohort with professionals from various industries such as IT, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and more.
Average work experience of participants is around 10 years.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Diverse cohort with professionals from sectors like IT, consulting, manufacturing, and services.
Participants typically have significant managerial experience.
8. Leadership Experience and Career Growth:
ISB PGPpro:
Focus on leadership development through workshops, executive coaching, and peer learning.
Alumni have seen significant career advancements and transitions into senior leadership roles.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Emphasis on leadership skills through coursework, experiential learning, and interactions with industry leaders.
Graduates often move into higher management positions and take on strategic roles.
9. Alumni Stories:
ISB PGPpro:
Alumni have transitioned into C-suite roles, started their own ventures, and taken on global leadership positions.
Strong network with access to ISB’s alumni community.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Alumni have advanced to senior roles in leading organizations, become entrepreneurs, and taken up key strategic positions.
Robust alumni network with lifelong learning and networking opportunities.
10. Program Highlights
ISB PGPpro:
Triple Crown accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB).
Strong alumni network with 15,000+ members.
Flexibility to attend sessions in other cities if missed.
Emphasis on global exposure with international immersion.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
Ranked 1st in India by QS EMBA World University Rankings 2023.
Strong focus on practical application through projects and experiential learning.
Membership in the Global Network for Advanced Management (GNAM).
Scholarships available for deserving candidates.
11. Career Support ISB PGPpro va IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
ISB PGPpro:
No formal placement assistance.
Focus on career progression through skill enhancement and leadership training.
Networking opportunities to aid career transitions.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM:
No formal placement assistance.
Designed to enhance career growth and leadership abilities.
Support through alumni network and global connections.
Which Program to Choose from ISB PGPpro vs IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA?
Choose ISB PGPpro if:
You prefer a shorter duration (18 months) for faster career advancement.
You want the flexibility of attending classes in multiple locations (Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru).
You seek extensive international exposure and a globally recognized faculty.
Choose IIM Bangalore PGPEM if:
You are looking for a slightly longer and more comprehensive program (22 months).
You prefer the prestige and rigorous academic environment of IIM Bangalore.
You are based in or near Bangalore and prefer to attend classes on the IIMB campus.
Both programs are excellent choices for mid-career professionals aiming to accelerate their career growth, develop leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of management principles. Your decision should align with your professional goals, location preference, and desired learning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the duration of the programs?
ISB PGPpro: 18 months.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: 2 years.
2. What are the eligibility criteria?
ISB PGPpro: Bachelor’s degree, minimum 8 years of work experience upto 15 years. No test scores required.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: Graduate with at least 50% marks, minimum 4 years of work experience, valid CAT/GMAT/GRE scores or IIMB’s entrance test.
3. How much do the programs cost?
ISB PGPpro: INR 31,96,000 + 18% GST.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: INR 20,11,000.
4. Is there an international immersion component?
ISB PGPpro: Yes, one-week international immersion included (additional cost for travel).
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: Yes, through student exchange programs and GNAM membership.
5. What is the format of the classes?
ISB PGPpro: Alternating weekends with a mix of online and in-person sessions.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: On-campus classes on Friday afternoons and Saturdays.
6. Are there scholarships available?
ISB PGPpro: Partial scholarships based on financial need and merit.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: Scholarships available for deserving candidates.
7. What kind of support is available for career growth?
ISB PGPpro: Focus on skill enhancement, leadership training, and networking opportunities.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: Support through alumni network and global connections.
8. Do the programs provide formal placement assistance?
No, both programs do not offer formal placement assistance but provide various support mechanisms for career progression.
9. What kind of accreditation do the programs have?
ISB PGPpro: Triple Crown accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB).
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: Ranked 1st in India by QS EMBA World University Rankings 2023.
10. What are the unique features of each program?
ISB PGPpro: Flexibility to attend sessions in different cities, strong global focus, extensive alumni network.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: Practical application focus, GNAM membership, strong emphasis on leadership and innovation.
Which is better, IIM Bangalore or ISB Hyderabad?
IIM Bangalore is better for a 2-year MBA with CAT entry and long-term academic prestige, while ISB Hyderabad is better for a 1-year MBA with GMAT/GRE entry and global peer exposure; the choice depends on work experience and career goals.
Both IIM Bangalore (IIMB) and ISB Hyderabad are among India’s top B-schools, but they differ in structure, admissions, and career outcomes.
1. Program Structure
IIM Bangalore (PGP – 2 years):
Best suited for early-career candidates (0–3 years of experience).
Offers summer internships, campus immersion, and a broader student life.
ISB Hyderabad (PGP – 1 year):
Designed for mid-career professionals (average 4–6 years’ experience).
No internships; fast-track curriculum focused on leadership roles.
2. Admission Criteria
IIMB: CAT (primarily), with extremely high cut-offs (99+ percentile for general category).
ISB: GMAT/GRE/CAT scores, essays, recommendations, and interviews.
3. Rankings & Global Standing
IIM Bangalore: 2 in NIRF 2025 (India), Top 50 in QS Global MBA Rankings.
ISB Hyderabad: Consistently in Financial Times Global MBA Top 30, making it more visible internationally.
4. Placements & Salaries
IIM Bangalore (2025 PGP):
Average CTC: ~₹35 LPA.
Top sectors: Consulting, finance, tech.
ISB Hyderabad (2025 PGP):
Average CTC: ~₹34 LPA.
Top sectors: Consulting, product management, leadership roles.
5. Alumni & Global Network
IIMB: Strong in India, especially in consulting, government, and corporate leadership.
ISB: Strong international alumni network, with more global recruiters (McKinsey, Amazon, Google, Microsoft).
Quick Comparison
Factor | IIM Bangalore (PGP) | ISB Hyderabad (PGP) |
Duration | 2 years | 1 year |
Target Group | Freshers & early-career | Mid-career (4–6 years exp.) |
Entrance Exam | CAT | GMAT/GRE/CAT |
Avg. Salary 2025 | ~₹35 LPA | ~₹34 LPA |
Global Ranking | Strong India/Asia presence | Higher in global MBA lists |
Alumni Network | Deep domestic influence | Broad international reach |
Final Takeaway
Choose IIM Bangalore if you are a fresher/early professional, want a 2-year immersive MBA, and value long-term academic prestige in India.
Choose ISB Hyderabad if you are an experienced professional, want a 1-year accelerated MBA, and aim for global exposure and quick career shifts.
Is CAT accepted for executive MBA?
No, CAT is generally not accepted for Executive MBA programs; most require GMAT, GRE, or institute-specific tests, though a few IIMs may accept CAT scores for their 1-year PGPX/EPGP programs.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the primary exam for 2-year MBA/PGP programs in India (for fresh graduates or early professionals). However, Executive MBA (EMBA) programs have different admission routes:
ISB Executive MBA (PGPpro, PGP MAX)
Does not accept CAT.
Admission is based on work experience, essays, interviews, etc.
IIM Executive MBAs (PGPX, EPGP, MBAEx, IPMX, etc.)
IIM Ahmedabad PGPX: Requires GMAT/GRE; does not accept CAT.
IIM Bangalore EPGP: Accepts GMAT/GRE, sometimes IIMB test; CAT not required.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx: Accepts GMAT only.
IIM Lucknow IPMX: Accepts GMAT/GRE, occasionally CAT for domestic applicants in some executive formats.
IIM Indore EPGP: Accepts GMAT/GRE/CAT.
Exception Cases
Some part-time, weekend, or blended Executive MBAs at IIMs (like IIM Kozhikode’s EMBA) or new online Executive MBAs (IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Udaipur) may allow CAT scores as an alternative to GMAT/GRE, but this is rare.
Bottom Line:
CAT is mainly for 2-year MBAs.
For Executive MBA (1-year full-time or part-time programs), GMAT/GRE or institute tests are standard.
Only a few IIM programs may consider CAT scores as an optional route.
What is the average package of ISB Executive MBA?
No Placement or Salary Figures for PGPpro / PGP MAX
A thorough review of ISB’s official pages—covering programme details, FAQs, admissions, financing, fee schedules, and global rankings—reveals no mention of average salaries, placement statistics, or CTC data for either PGPpro or PGP MAX.
Even the PGP MAX corporate sponsorship page outlines fees, scholarships, and instalment schedules in detail, but does not include any placement or salary-related information.
Summary Table
Programme | Official Average Package (CTC) |
Full-Time PGP | ~₹34.21 lakh (Class of 2023) |
PGPpro (Exec) | No official data published |
PGP MAX (Exec) | No official data published |
Is the ISB Executive MBA worth it?
Yes, the ISB Executive MBA–equivalent programs (PGPpro and PGPMAX) are considered worth it for mid- to senior-level professionals, offering strong brand value, leadership-focused curriculum, and global exposure, though they do not provide campus placements like the full-time PGP.
The value of ISB’s executive-format programs depends on career stage, goals, and expectations. Unlike the full-time PGP, these programs are designed for working professionals who continue their jobs while studying.
Key Advantages
Prestige and Brand Value: ISB is globally ranked and AACSB accredited, giving alumni international recognition.
Peer Learning & Networking: Cohorts are composed of mid- to senior-level professionals (average work experience 10–15 years), which enhances learning from peers.
Curriculum & Flexibility: Modular or weekend-based formats (PGPpro across metro cities, PGPMAX in block weeks) allow executives to balance study with work.
Global Exposure: Both programs include international immersion modules at partner universities.
Career Advancement: Alumni often use the program to transition to leadership roles, board positions, entrepreneurship, or global assignments.
Who Benefits the Most?
PGPpro: Mid-career professionals (5+ years’ experience) seeking to accelerate into leadership roles without leaving their job.
PGPMAX: Senior executives (10+ years’ experience) targeting CXO, global leadership, or board-level positions.
What are the placements for ISB Executive MBA?
ISB’s Executive MBA–equivalent programs (PGPpro and PGPMAX) do not offer campus placements. Participants remain employed during the program and rely on career advancement through networking, employer sponsorship, and alumni connections rather than formal placement services.
The Indian School of Business (ISB) clearly differentiates between its full-time PGP (MBA equivalent) and executive-format programs (PGPpro, PGPMAX):
1. No Formal Placement Process
ISB’s Career Advancement Services (CAS), which manage structured campus recruitment, are available only for full-time PGP students.
PGPpro and PGPMAX participants do not participate in this process.
2. How Careers Progress After Executive MBA
PGPpro (for professionals with 5–12 years’ experience): Graduates often achieve promotions, functional role shifts, or lateral moves within or outside their companies.
PGPMAX (for senior executives with 10–25 years’ experience): Alumni typically leverage the program for CXO-level positions, board memberships, or global assignments.
Both programs emphasize self-driven career progression using ISB’s brand, faculty, peer group, and alumni network.
3. Alumni Support
Executive MBA students gain lifelong membership to the ISB alumni network (~15,000+ professionals across industries).
Career growth is enabled through peer learning, industry connections, and networking opportunities, not structured recruitment.
4. ROI Perspective
With fees of ₹37.38 lakh (PGPpro) and ₹49.5 lakh (PGPMAX), the value lies in career acceleration, leadership credibility, and access to the ISB network, not in guaranteed salary packages.
Both programs are excellent choices for mid-career professionals aiming to accelerate their career growth, develop leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of management principles. Your decision should align with your professional goals, location preference, and desired learning experience.
Choosing the right Executive MBA program is a crucial step in your career advancement journey. If you need personalized guidance to decide which program fits your career goals best, schedule a call with an MBA admission consultant at GOALisB. Our experts can provide you with tailored advice and help you make an informed decision.
