How I Cracked ISB and IIMA PGPX?
- Goalisb
- May 10
- 4 min read
Updated: May 11
Breaking into India’s most competitive one-year MBA programs— ISB PGP and IIMA PGPX —requires more than a high test score. It calls for clarity, planning, and focused storytelling. Ajinkya, an IIT Delhi graduate working in R&D at Hero Motorcycles, successfully converted both ISB and IIMA PGPX, and in this blog, we’ll walk through the key lessons from his journey—spanning GMAT preparation, ISB admission process, IIM interviews, and working with ISB admission consultants.
If you're preparing for the ISB interview or planning to apply to IIM Ahmedabad, this story offers both strategic and practical insights.
Ajinkya’s Profile: A Strong Technical Base with Leadership Exposure
Ajinkya completed his M.Tech. from IIT Delhi and worked for five years in new product development, leading a team of 20 at Hero Motorcycles. With a clear desire to shift industries and functions, he identified that a one-year MBA would give him the accelerated exposure and peer network to make that leap.
“Given my work experience and time invested in higher education already, one-year MBA programs in India were the right fit. I wanted to stay in India, so ISB and IIMA PGPX were my top choices.”
Selecting the One Year MBA in India Pathway
One-Year MBA Preference: Considering his extensive work experience and academic history, Ajinkya favored the one-year MBA format for its efficiency and alignment with seasoned professionals.
Geographical Loyalty: With a strong inclination to contribute to India's growth, Ajinkya's MBA search was geographically confined to Indian business schools offering one-year programs.
The GMAT Odyssey
Initial Hurdles: Ajinkya's first GMAT attempt scored a 670, prompting a strategic pivot in his preparation approach. He still wanted to work towards a strong GMAT score for ISB .
A Journey of Improvement: Through dedicated study, focusing on enhancing his verbal abilities and reinforcing quant skills, Ajinkya triumphed with a 750 score, a testament to his perseverance and strategic study planning.
The GMAT Strategy: From 670 to 750
Ajinkya’s GMAT story reflects the importance of resilience and structure. His first attempt yielded a 670, which he felt was below his potential. Instead of rushing, he paused, improved, and re-strategized.
He focused on Quant first, leveraging his engineering background.
Then, he spent nearly two months exclusively on Sentence Correction, a section many Indian applicants find difficult.
With the help of e-GMAT, and a focused 3-month plan, he finally achieved a 750 GMAT score.
“It’s a process. Each section needs dedicated focus. Sentence Correction alone took me two months.”
Application Strategy: Aligning Goals with Schools
For Ajinkya, a strong application began with clarity of goals and deep research.
“You need to understand what you want post-MBA, see who has achieved it, and link that to the school you’re applying to.”
Ajinkya customized his applications by:
Demonstrating alignment with each school’s curriculum and culture
Backing up goals with data and real-world transitions
Working with ISB admission consultants at GOALisB to refine essays, CVs, and overall positioning
Sculpting a Persuasive ISB Application
Goal Articulation: A cornerstone of Ajinkya's application strategy was the lucid articulation of his goals, aligning them with the specific offerings and ethos of each target school.
Narrative Mastery: Recognizing the potency of storytelling, Ajinkya adeptly wove his experiences and aspirations into compelling narratives, showcasing his potential and fit for the MBA programs.
The ISB Interview and IIMA PGPX Interview Experience
Ajinkya candidly admits that interviews were not his strongest area—especially after facing rejection the year before. This time, he focused on mirror practice, structuring answers, and preparing with a coach.
He shares key differences:
ISB interview: Behavioral questions focusing on fit, values, and cultural contribution
IIMA PGPX interview: Heavy emphasis on business awareness, clarity of goals, and critical thinking
“With Shruti’s help, I focused on behavioral questions—my weak area. Mock interviews really helped boost my confidence.”
Navigating the ISB Interview and IIM Interview Landscape
Overcoming Apprehensions: Acknowledging interviews as a challenge, Ajinkya embarked on rigorous preparation, from mirror practice to engaging in mock sessions, to refine his delivery and content.
Strategic Preparation: Focused on behavioral questions and goal-oriented discussions, Ajinkya's interview prep was tailored to exhibit his alignment with the programs' cultures and his potential contribution to the MBA community.
Ajinkya’s Advice for MBA Aspirants
Finish GMAT by June if applying for ISB or IIM in Round 1
Focus on goal clarity—not just test scores
Use mock interviews and mirror practice to prepare confidently
Work with someone who will give you honest feedback on your profile and essays
Avoid generic content—tailor every piece of your application
Ajinkya's successful admission into ISB PGP and IIMA PGPX is not merely a personal achievement but a beacon for prospective MBA applicants. His journey illustrates the essence of strategic preparation, clarity of purpose, and the art of storytelling, serving as a guiding framework for those embarking on their own MBA adventures.
The journey to secure an admission into the prestigious Indian School of Business (ISB) is a dream harbored by many aspiring MBAs. It's a path that demands not only academic excellence but also a compelling narrative that showcases your unique story, professional achievements, and future aspirations. This is where GOALisB steps in as your trusted ally, guiding you through the intricate ISB admission process with expertise, personalized strategies, and unwavering support.
Read More Stories from ISB and IIM Admits
If you found Ajinkya’s journey valuable, explore how others broke into ISB and IIMs through persistence, clarity, and guidance:
Ready to Craft Your Own Admit Story?
At GOALisB, we specialize in helping applicants like Ajinkya find their voice and chart their MBA path. Whether you're applying to ISB, IIM Ahmedabad (PGPX), or other top programs, our ISB admission consultants provide expert guidance tailored to your story.
