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How to get into IIM Executive MBA?

The IIM Executive MBA is a rigorous one-year residential program designed specifically for experienced professionals with 5+ years of work experience in a variety of industries. This program leads to a full-time MBA degree and offers the same strong foundation in core management concepts as a traditional two-year MBA, with challenging coursework, a range of elective options, and similar grading standards. These are actually full time one year MBA programs for executives offered by the IIM and thus have gained the name IIM Executive MBA or the Executive MBA from IIM.


IIM Executive MBA


Which IIM offers executive MBA?

  1. IIM Ahmedabad was the first IIM to introduce the one-year Executive MBA program in 2006-07, while the Indian School of Business (ISB) has offered a one-year MBA program since its inception in 2000. In this post, we aim to compare several of these programs based on their number of seats, average work experience, average GMAT score, and FT rank. The IIMA PGPX is a one-year full-time residential program designed for mid-career professionals. In the class of 2024, there are 36% students with international experience out of 158 students.

  2. The Executive MBA from IIM Bangalore - EPGP is a one year full-time residential program designed for experienced professionals, which started in 2009. In the class of 2024, the number of students with international experience is 12 out of 83.

  3. The Executive MBA from IIM Calcutta - MBAEx is a one year full-time residential program that started in 2006, designed for executives. In the class of 2024, there are 8 female students out of 77 students, and 21% of the class has International experience.

  4. The Executive MBA from IIM Lucknow - IPMX is a one-year full-time residential program designed for experienced professionals that emphasizes leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

  5. The IIM Kozhikode PGP BL is a unique program that prepares experienced professionals for top leadership roles in the corporate world. The average age of the class of 2023 is 28 years, and it has around 30% female students in a class of 64 students. PGP BL is a relatively new program that started 4 years back.

  6. The Executive MBA from IIM Indore - EPGP is a one-year full-time residential program designed for experienced professionals. The class of 2023 has 16% female students in a class of 57 students, and around one fourth of the batch has international experience.

  7. The IIM Udaipur GSCM & DEM are two one-year full-time residential programs that focus on developing supply chain leaders and digital enterprise management.

  8. The Executive MBA from IIM Shillong - Post Graduate Program in Management is a one-year full-time residential program designed to develop leaders who can manage in a dynamic and changing business environment. The 10th batch passed out in March 2023, and the class of 43 students has about 15% female students.


This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the decision-making process and find the perfect fit for your career aspirations.


How you can get into the IIM Executive MBA?

5 Steps to get into IIM Executive MBA

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Priorities for Choosing an IIM Executive MBA

Before diving into the specifics of different programs, it's crucial to engage in self-reflection and clearly articulate your objectives for pursuing an EMBA.  This introspection will serve as your compass throughout the selection process.


Consider the following questions to decide which IIM Executive MBA is the best for you:


  1. Career Advancement: What are your long-term career aspirations? Do you envision yourself in a C-suite role, transitioning to a different industry, or becoming an entrepreneur? Understanding your career trajectory will help you identify programs that align with your ambitions. If you are keen on participating in the placement process then the full time one year MBA in India is most suitable and if you value sticking to your current job and placement is not a priority you can consider the Executive MBA for working professionals.

  2. Skill Development: What are your specific skill gaps or areas you want to strengthen? Are you seeking to enhance your financial acumen, marketing expertise, leadership abilities, or strategic thinking? Different programs offer varying degrees of focus on specific skill sets.

  3. Networking Opportunities: How much value do you place on building a robust network of experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds? Do you thrive in collaborative learning environments? If so, prioritize programs with strong alumni networks and opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction.

  4. Electives: Are you interested in a general management program that provides a broad overview of business functions, or do you have a specific area of focus such as finance, marketing, operations, entrepreneurship, or healthcare management?

  5. Program Format and Duration: Carefully assess your personal and professional commitments. Can you dedicate yourself to a full-time, immersive program, or do you require the flexibility of a part-time like the ISB PGPpro or ISB PGPMAX or online format to balance work and studies? Consider the program duration, as it can range from one to two years, and choose a timeline that aligns with your availability. Alternatively you can also check the IIMA Online MBA and the IIM Bangalore Weekend MBA.


Step 2: Research IIM Executive MBA Programs

Which is the best IIM Executive MBA?

Each IIM offers a unique EMBA program with distinct features, specializations, and strengths.  Conducting thorough research is essential to understanding the nuances of each program and determining which aligns best with your goals.


Here are some key aspects to research:

  1. Curriculum: Delve into the course structure, core subjects, and elective options. Look for programs that offer courses relevant to your career goals and interests. Investigate whether the curriculum emphasizes theoretical knowledge, practical application, or a combination of both.

  2. Faculty: Examine the faculty's academic credentials, industry experience, and research interests. Renowned professors and industry leaders can provide invaluable insights and mentorship. Check if the program has visiting faculty or guest lecturers from the corporate world.

  3. Class Profile: Research the average work experience, industry backgrounds, and diversity of the student cohort. A diverse class can expose you to a wide range of perspectives and create a richer learning environment.

    1. IIMA PGPX Class Profile: Average Work Experience is 7.7 years, with 158 students in class of 2025

    2. IIMB EPGP Class Profile: Average Work Experience is 7 years, with 83 students in class of 2025

    3. IIMC MBAEX Class Profile: Average Work Experience is 8.6 years, with 77 students in class of 2024

    4. IIM Kozhikode PGP BL: Average Work Experience is 5.4 years, with 61 students in class of 2024

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: Average Work Experience is 5.2 years, with 48 students in class of 2024

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: Average Work Experience is 5.2 years, with 48 students in class of 2024

    7. IIM Lucknow IPMX: Average Work Experience is 8 years, with 106 students in class of 2024

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: Average Work Experience is 8.5 years, with 38 students.

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX Class Profile: Average Work Experience is 7.5 years, with 43 students

  4. IIM Executive MBA Eligibility: Carefully consider the eligibility of each program.

    1. IIMA PGPX: 4 years min work experience

    2. IIMB EPGP: 5 years min work experience

    3. IIMC MBAEX: 5 years min work experience

    4. IIM Kozhikode PGP BL: 3 years min work experience

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: 3 years min work experience

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: 3 years min work experience

    7. IIML IPMX: 5 years min work experience

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: 5 years min work experience

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX: 5 years min work experience

  5. Location: IIMs are located in various cities across India. Factor in the location of the program and its proximity to your home or workplace. Some IIMs offer programs in multiple locations, providing flexibility.

  6. Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the program's tuition fees, including additional costs like books, materials, and travel (if applicable for in-person components). Research available scholarships, fellowships, or financial aid options that can help offset the cost.

    1. IIMA PGPX: Approx INR 30 - 34 Lakhs

    2. IIMB EPGP: Approx INR 30 - 34 Lakhs

    3. IIMC MBAEX: Approx INR 30 - 34 Lakhs

    4. IIMK PGP BL: Approx INR 20 - 25 Lakhs

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: Approx INR 20 - 25 Lakhs

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: Approx INR 20 - 25 Lakhs

    7. IIML IPMX: Approx INR 20 - 25 Lakhs

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: Approx INR 20 - 25 Lakhs

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX: Approx INR 20 - 25 Lakhs


Step 3: Shortlist and Compare IIM Executive MBA Programs

Based on your research and priorities, create a shortlist of potential programs that resonate with your goals. Now, delve deeper into a comprehensive comparison of your shortlisted programs:


  1. IIM Executive MBA Ranking: While rankings shouldn't be the sole deciding factor, they can provide insights into the program's overall quality and recognition. Research reputable publications and their EMBA rankings to get a sense of each program's standing.

    1. IIMA PGPX Ranking: Ranks 41 in FT MBA Ranking 2024, Ranks 1 in NIRF in India

    2. IIMB EPGP: Ranks 47 in FT MBA Ranking 2024, Ranks 2 in NIRF in India

    3. IIMC MBAEX: Ranks 67 in FT MBA Ranking 2024, Ranks 4 in NIRF in India

    4. IIMK PGP BL: Ranks 3 in NIRF in India

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: Ranks 16 in NIRF in India

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: Ranks 16 in NIRF in India

    7. IIML IPMX: Ranks 85 in FT MBA Ranking 2024, Ranks 6 in NIRF in India

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: Ranks 8 in NIRF in India

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX: Ranks 26 in NIRF in India

  2. Alumni Network: Assess the strength and reach of the program's alumni network. A robust network can open doors to new career opportunities, mentorship, and industry connections. Connect with alumni to gain firsthand insights into their experiences and the program's impact on their careers.

  3. Placement Statistics: If career advancement is a primary goal, examine the placement data for each program. Look at the average salary increase, industry placements, and the types of roles graduates secure.

    1. IIMA PGPX placements: Average Salary was INR 34 Lakhs in 2023

    2. IIMB EPGP: Average Salary was approx INR 33 Lakhs in 2023

    3. IIMC MBAEX: Average Salary was INR 31 Lakhs in 2023

    4. IIMK PGP BL: Average Salary was INR 29.2 Lakhs in 2023

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: Average Salary was approx INR 22 Lakhs in 2023

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: Average Salary was approx INR 21 Lakhs in 2023

    7. IIML IPMX: Average Salary was INR 27 Lakhs in 2023

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: Average Salary was approx INR 28 Lakhs in 2023

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX: Average Salary was INR 26 Lakhs in 2023

  4. Experiential Learning: Prioritize programs that offer experiential learning opportunities like internships, consulting projects, or real-world case studies. These experiences can bridge the gap between theory and practice, enhancing your skill set and making you a more desirable candidate for top positions. Thus comparing which IIM MBA is best can be tricky.

  5. Global Exposure: If you aspire to work in a global context, consider programs with international immersion components, exchange programs, or partnerships with foreign institutions. These experiences can broaden your perspective and equip you with the skills needed to succeed in a globalized business environment.

  6. Cultural Fit: Each IIM has a unique culture and learning environment. Explore the campus atmosphere, student life, clubs, and extracurricular activities to gauge whether the program aligns with your personality and values. Attend information sessions or webinars to get a feel for the program's culture and the type of students it attracts. If you check deeply there is a lot of difference between IIMA vs IIMB and also IIMA vs ISB not only IIM vs ISB.


Step 5: Submit Your IIM Executive MBA Applications Strategically


Once you've narrowed down your choices, it's time to meticulously prepare and submit your applications. Pay attention to the following:

  1. Meet the IIM Executive MBA Eligibility Requirements: Each program has specific eligibility criteria related to work experience, academic background, and standardized test scores (GMAT/GRE). IIM Ahmedabad accepts the GMAT score for the 2 year program also but under certain specific conditions. Ensure you meet all the requirements before applying. Following are the test scores accepted at different IIMs for the 1 year MBA in India they offer:

    1. IIMA PGPX: Accepts GMAT/ GRE In Centre Test Score

    2. IIMB EPGP: Accepts GMAT/ GRE In Centre Test Score

    3. IIMC MBAEX: Accepts GMAT In Centre Test Score

    4. IIMK PGP BL: Accepts GMAT/ GRE/ CAT Test Score

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: Accepts GMAT/ GRE/ CAT Test Score

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: Accepts GMAT/ GRE/ CAT Test Score

    7. IIML IPMX: Accepts GMAT/ GRE Test Score

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: Accepts GMAT/ GRE/ CAT Test Score

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX: Accepts GMAT/ CAT Test Score

  2. Apply by the IIM Executive MBA Deadlines which are usually as below:

    1. IIMA PGPX: 3 rounds - September 2024, October 2024, and December 2024

    2. IIMB EPGP: 3 rounds - August 2024, October 2024, and November 2024

    3. IIMC MBAEX: 3 rounds - August 2024, October 2024, and November 2024 

    4. IIMK PGP BL: 3 rounds - June 2024, August 2024, and November 2024

    5. IIM Udaipur DEM: 5 rounds - September, October, November, January 2025

    6. IIM Udaipur GSCM: 5 rounds - September, October, November, January 2025 

    7. IIML IPMX: 2 rounds - October 2024 and December 2024

    8. IIM Indore EPGP: 2 rounds - November 2024, and January 2025

    9. IIM Shillong PGPEX: 2 rounds - November 2024, and January 2025

  3. Craft Compelling Essays: Your essays are your opportunity to showcase your unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Highlight your leadership potential, career achievements, and why you're a good fit for the program. Be authentic and let your personality shine through.

  4. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Choose recommenders who can speak to your professional accomplishments, leadership qualities, and potential for success in an EMBA program. Provide them with ample time to write thoughtful and detailed recommendations.

  5. Prepare for Interviews: Practice answering common interview questions and research the program thoroughly. Be prepared to articulate your goals, motivations, and why you've chosen this specific program.


Expert Tip (Shruti P, GOALisB MBA Admission Consultant):

"The IIM Executive MBA application process is highly competitive. We have a 95% admit rate and work with admits to IIMA PGPX, ISB PGP, IIMB EPGP, IIMC MBAEX and other IIMs. Seek guidance from experienced admission consultants like GOALisB. We can help you craft a compelling application that differentiates you from other candidates and significantly increases your chances of acceptance."


Step 5: Make Your Final Decision


If you receive multiple offers, carefully weigh the pros and cons of each program based on your priorities and preferences. Consider visiting the campus if possible to get a feel for the environment and interact with faculty and students. Every year we have admits who secure multiple admits like IIMA PGPX admit and ISB PGP Admit. We have compiled there success stories and how they benefitted from GOALisB Admission consulting below:



Choosing the right IIM Executive MBA program is a crucial investment in your future. By following this step-by-step guide, conducting thorough research, and seeking expert guidance, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and sets you on a path to success.


Remember, the ideal program for you is the one that best aligns with your unique goals, values, and aspirations. By investing time and effort in the selection process, you can ensure that your EMBA experience is both rewarding and transformative.

Some profiles we worked with for the IIM Executive MBA Class of 2024

(* the names are not available for securing the applicant's privacy)

Profile 1 - IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 5-6 years of experience in Defence sector.

  • GMAT - 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades are 7+

  • Admitted to IIMA PGPX.

Profile 2 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, female, with 7-8 years of experience in IT Products.

  • Applied through GRE with a score of 323 - 325 and Undergraduate grades are 8+.

  • Admitted to IIMA PGPX.

Profile 3 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, 4-5 years of experience in Tech Consulting.

  • GMAT - 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades are 8+

  • Admitted to IIMC MBAEX, IIMA PGPX WL.

Profile 4 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 4-5 years of experience in Healthtech.

  • Applied through GRE with a score of 323 - 325 and Undergraduate grades at 6+.

  • Admitted to IIMA PGPX.

Profile 5 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 4-5 years of experience in IT sector.

  • Applied through GMAT with a score of 700 -720 and Undergraduate grades at 7+

  • IIMA PGPX WL.

Profile 6 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering with, male, 4-5 years of experience in manufacturing sector.

  • Applied through GRE with a score of 323 - 325 and Undergraduate grades are 8+

  • IIMA PGPX waitlist for Round 1.

Profile 7 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Commerce, female, with 6-7 years of experience in Banking sector.

  • GMAT - 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades are 8+.

  • IIMA PGPX Waitlist & IIMB EPGP Waitlist and IIMC MBAEX admit.

Profile 8 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 9-10 years of experience in Mining.

  • Applied through GMAT with a score of 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades at 7+

  • IIMC MBAEX admit, IIMA PGPX WL.

Profile 9 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 5-6 years of experience in Entrepreneurship.

  • Applied through GRE with a score of 323 - 325, GMAT 680 - 700.

  • Undergraduate grades at 8+.

  • Admitted to IIMA PGPX, IIMC MBAEX.

Profile 10 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, female, with 5 years of experience in Technology.

  • Applied through GMAT - 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades at 8+.

  • Admitted to IIMA PGPX.

Profile 11 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 5 years of experience in Tech industry.

  • Applied through GMAT with a score of 680 - 700 and Undergraduate grades at 9+.

  • Admitted to IIMA PGPX.

Profile 12 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 6 years of experience in Energy sector.

  • Applied through GMAT with a score of 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades at 7+.

  • Admitted to IIMB EPGP, IIMC MBAEX.

Profile 13 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, male, with 5 years of experience in IT sector.

  • Applied through GMAT with a score of 680 - 700 and Undergraduate grades at 8+.

  • Admitted to IIMB EPGP, IIMC MBAEX and IIMA PGPX WL.

Profile 14 IIM Executive MBA Applicant:

  • Graduated in Engineering, female, with 7-8 years of experience IT sector.

  • Applied through GMAT 700 - 720 and Undergraduate grades at 8+.

  • Admitted to IIMB EPGP, IIMC MBAEX, and IIMA PGPX.

Profile 15:

  • Graduated in Commerce, male, with 6 years of experience.

  • Applied through GMAT with a score of 700 - 720.

  • Admitted to IIMC MBAEX.

These profiles reflect the diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and application outcomes within the applicant pool.


Get in touch for a profile evaluation and application assistance for the Executive MBA from IIM.


FAQ about the IIM Executive MBA Programs:


Why Choose IIM Executive MBA?

Benefits of Pursuing IIM Executive MBA


In the dynamic and competitive business landscape of 2024, organizations seek adept middle and senior-level executives who can tackle multifaceted challenges and make impactful decisions. The IIM Executive MBA program equips professionals to meet these demands and ascend to top leadership positions.


  1. Diverse Cohort: The IIM Executive MBA program assembles professionals with a minimum of 5 years of work experience, fostering a rich learning environment.

  2. Selective Admissions: Due to limited batch sizes, IIM Executive MBA programs have highly competitive admission processes, allowing professionals to showcase their unique capabilities to future employers.

  3. International Recognition: Five out of six Indian MBA programs listed in the FT MBA Ranking 2024 are IIM Executive MBA programs, signaling their global prominence.

  4. Career Transitions: These programs facilitate career transitions, whether it involves changing functions or industries.



Your Path to Excellence with IIM Executive MBA


Securing admission to an IIM Executive MBA program opens doors to unparalleled career opportunities. Stay updated on eligibility criteria and application deadlines, and make informed choices when selecting the right IIM for your aspirations. With the right approach and determination, you can embark on an enriching educational journey that propels your career to new heights.


Reach out to one of our seasoned professionals who specialize in IIM Executive MBA admissions for guidance throughout the IIM Executive MBA application procedure.


The IIM Executive MBA program leverages the diverse and extensive work experience of its students, providing a unique advantage over traditional MBA programs.

Remember to mark these dates on your calendar to stay ahead in your pursuit of an IIM Executive MBA.


Reach out to us at +91 7719497187 for application assistance and interview preparation assistance for IIM Executive MBA.





How to prepare a strong application for IIM Executive MBA?

  1. The application process for IIM Executive MBA requires the submission of a GMAT or a GRE score.

  2. Applicants have to submit an SOP, essay or a video essay for the process.

  3. The IIM Executive MBA application form requires details of the work experience, academic scores, achievements, awards and activities.

  4. Most of the applications to IIM Executive MBA would require 1 or 2 recommendation letters.


How to prepare for the Executive MBA from IIM Interview?


The Executive MBA from IIM interview process requires the shortlisted applicants to present for an interview to a panel of faculty members and alumni. The IIM executive MBA interview is designed to assess the fit of the candidate with the program and their potential to contribute to and benefit from the program. The interview typically focuses on the candidate's past work experience, leadership potential, motivation for the MBA, and career goals. The interviewer may also ask questions about current business and economic trends, ethical dilemmas, and teamwork and communication skills. The interview may be conducted in person or online, and may last between 30-40 minutes. The goal of the interview is to gain a better understanding of the candidate's background, strengths, and weaknesses, and to see if they are a good fit for the program.


How difficult is it to get into IIM Executive MBA?

What makes the IIM Executive MBA difficult to get into are the following three reasons:

1. Limited number of seats

2. Detailed application process

3. Selective criteria


Get in touch with an expert in IIM Executive MBA admissions on our team for assistance on the IIM Executive MBA process.


Which IIM Executive MBA Offers Scholarships?

As of date, IIM Ahmedabad offers Scholarships to the One year MBA admits as below:

  1. Entry Scholarship for Differently Abled

  2. Entry Schol for Armed Forces Professionals

  3. Entry Scholarships for NGO & PSU admits

  4. Merit Based Scholarships

  5. Entry Scholarship for National Level Sports & Arts Achievers

  6. For Transgender Applicants

  7. Entry Scholarship for International Applicants

  8. Entry Scholarship for Female admits

Get application assistance from an experienced MBA admissions consultant at GOALisB.


What is executive MBA in IIM vs 2 year MBA in IIM?


IIMs offer two full time programs which are highly in demand. First is the flagship two year program for which individuals qualify through the submission of their CAT scores. Second is the one year executive MBA program offered by the IIMs which is also a full time residential program for working professionals. An Executive MBA gives a mid career boost to the professionals and helps them scale new heights. The graduates of Executive MBA from India are eligible for lateral rolling placements through the school. To get into IIM Executive MBA it is imperative to start early.


Three aspects make IIM Executive MBA selection process a highly competitive program:

1. Limited batch size,

2. Hand picked selection process,

3. Multiple cycles throughout the year.


Of course, there are many benefits of executive MBA from IIM for mid career professionals. They are able to reach out to a much better career trajectory and the network they gain is an enrichment for life. The credibility and the knowledge are definitely a plus.


Is it good to do an executive MBA from IIM?

  1. An Executive MBA from India gives you access to the extensive research based courses incorporated in the current industry context.

  2. Moreover it is a good chance to take a break and challenge yourself to upgrade for the next level.

  3. In fact an Executive MBA from India is the right opportunity for someone who wants to achieve his dreams of being a global business leader.

  4. Another advantage of an Executive MBA from India is the cost effectiveness as compared to pursuing an Executive MBA from an International school.

  5. One major advantage that just cannot be overlooked is that when one does and Executive MBA from India, the network that he gains access to is the emerging markets.

  6. It really doesn't make sense to build a network at one location and the target opportunities being elsewhere.

  7. After all we know that an Executive MBA from IIM or ISB gives you access to the brightest minds in India and the alumni network which can aid you to create an impact globally.


Get a profile evaluation for the IIM Executive MBA.


Author Bio:

Shruti P is an accomplished MBA admission consultant at GOALisB, specializing in helping candidates gain admission to top-tier Indian and Global business schools, including the prestigious ISB and Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), Wharton, Oxford, INSEAD to name a few. Shruti P has a deep understanding of the IIM admissions landscape, combined with her strategic approach, has resulted in numerous success stories for her clients.

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