IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27: Admissions, Deadlines, Eligibility, Fees & Class Profile
- Administrator
- Jun 16
- 12 min read
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx (Post Graduate Programme for Executives) is one of India’s most prestigious one-year MBA programs for experienced professionals. Designed for mid- to senior-level managers with a minimum of five years of work experience, the MBAEx program offers a rigorous, globally recognized management education that accelerates career growth across industries.
As the 2026–27 admissions cycle opens, this comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know — from application deadlines, eligibility, and GMAT score submission, to class profile, interview preparation, and placement outcomes. Whether you're aiming to switch industries, move into leadership, or build a global career path, the IIM Calcutta MBAEx is a high-impact choice with a proven track record.
Table of Contents
What is IIM Calcutta MBAEx?
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx (Master of Business Administration for Executives) is a one-year, full-time residential MBA program designed for mid- to senior-level professionals looking to pivot or accelerate their careers. Launched in 2006, the MBAEx is a flagship program of the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) — one of India’s top three IIMs and the first to receive triple-crown accreditation: AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS.
Positioned as a strategic leadership program, the MBAEx combines rigorous academic learning with real-world business exposure, global immersion, and leadership development modules. It is particularly suited for professionals with 5+ years of experience seeking career shifts into consulting, product management, strategy, or leadership roles in tech, BFSI, or entrepreneurship.
Unlike traditional two-year MBAs, the IIM Calcutta MBAEx is tailored for professionals who already bring substantial domain expertise and are now ready for a transformational leap in their career trajectory.
Key Highlights:
Duration: 1 year (full-time, residential)
Location: IIM Calcutta campus (Joka, Kolkata)
Format: International immersion, capstone project, leadership modules
Target Audience: Working professionals with minimum 5 years of experience
Accreditation: AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS — Global Triple Crown
Outcomes: Career switch, leadership roles, international placement opportunities
Whether you're eyeing a C-suite transition, moving into consulting or product leadership, or planning to accelerate within your industry, IIM Calcutta MBAEx offers the brand, network, and pedagogy to get you there.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27 Admission Deadlines
The admission process for the IIM Calcutta MBAEx Class of 2026–27 follows a structured three-round format. Candidates can choose to apply in any of the three rounds, with each round operating independently in terms of application review, interview scheduling, and offers.
Applying in an earlier round can be advantageous in terms of scholarship consideration, interview slot availability, and time for financial planning or relocation.
MBAEx 2026–27 Application Timeline
Round | Application Window | Final Submission Deadline | Interview Dates |
Round 1 | July 7, 2025 – August 20, 2025 | August 20, 2025 | September 13–14, 2025 |
Round 2 | August 21, 2025 – October 15, 2025 | October 15, 2025 | November 8–9, 2025 |
Round 3 | October 16, 2025 – November 26, 2025 | November 26, 2025 | December 13–14, 2025 |
Interview Locations
Shortlisted candidates may choose one of the following interview locations:
Bengaluru
Kolkata
Mumbai
New Delhi
Virtual (via Zoom)
Applicants should ensure all required documents, including GMAT scores and transcripts, are ready well before the submission deadline to avoid disqualification due to incomplete applications.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the IIM Calcutta MBAEx (Executive MBA) program for the 2026–27 intake, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that candidates bring significant professional maturity, leadership readiness, and academic preparedness to this one-year MBA for experienced professionals in India.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Requirement | Details |
Educational Qualification | A bachelor’s degree (minimum 10+2+3) or equivalent in any discipline |
Work Experience | Minimum 5 years of full-time post-qualification managerial/professional experience as of March 31, 2026 |
Test Score | Valid GMAT score taken within 36 months of the date of application. Test Score: Online GMAT scores alone will not be accepted. Applicants must ensure official score submission via Pearson VUE using the code 9CP‑HT‑99 |
Important Notes:
The bachelor’s degree must be from a recognized university or institution.
Only full-time, post-degree professional experience is considered. Internships, part-time roles, and pre-degree work are not counted.
There is no official GMAT cutoff, but competitive applicants typically score in the 650–730 range.
Candidates with international exposure, leadership roles, or cross-functional responsibilities are especially encouraged to apply.
Who should apply to IIM Calcutta MBAEx?
Mid-career professionals with at least five years of work experience, a valid GMAT score, and a strong academic record aiming to pursue a top one-year MBA in India for career acceleration, leadership transitions, or industry shifts.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27 Selection Process
The admissions process for the IIM Calcutta MBAEx is holistic, taking into account both quantitative and qualitative aspects of an applicant's profile. The selection committee evaluates not just academic scores but also career trajectory, leadership potential, and alignment with the objectives of this one-year MBA program for experienced professionals.
Evaluation Criteria
Component | Evaluation Focus |
Academic Background | Undergraduate performance, rigor of academic institutions, any postgraduate degrees |
Professional Experience | Duration, depth, diversity, leadership responsibilities, cross-functional exposure |
GMAT Score | No fixed cutoff, but competitive scores typically fall between 650–730 |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Clarity of goals, career vision, motivation for MBAEx, and alignment with IIM Calcutta |
Letters of Recommendation | External perspective on candidate’s abilities, potential, and achievements |
Personal Interview | Communication skills, leadership maturity, career goals, and program fit |
Selection Philosophy
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx admissions committee does not rely on any one factor such as GMAT score or job title. Instead, they follow a comprehensive profile-based evaluation. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate:
Clear career goals and rationale for pursuing the MBAEx
Professional impact and evidence of leadership
Willingness to contribute to peer learning
Preparedness for the academic rigor of IIMC
Tip:
Applicants should use their SOP and interview as platforms to go beyond their resume — articulating not just what they’ve done, but why they’ve done it and where they are headed. For the most up-to-date information on deadlines and interview dates, visit the official IIM Calcutta MBAEx admissions page.
How to Apply to IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27
The application process for the IIM Calcutta MBAEx is completely online and follows a multi-stage format. Applicants must prepare their materials in advance, especially those related to GMAT score submission, transcripts, and recommender details. Applying early in the cycle improves your chances for timely interviews and potential scholarships.
This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27 application process efficiently.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step | Action |
Step 1 | Visit the official IIM Calcutta MBAEx Admission Portal and create an applicant login |
Step 2 | Fill in personal, academic, and professional information as required in the online application |
Step 3 | Upload your GMAT score report (ensure GMAT ID and appointment ID are visible in the screenshot, if no PDF is available) |
Step 4 | Upload all academic transcripts — including all semesters of your undergraduate degree and any higher education credentials |
Step 5 | Upload your ISB-style resume highlighting leadership, achievements, and domain experience |
Step 6 | Submit your Statement of Purpose (SOP) clearly articulating your career goals and why IIM Calcutta MBAEx is the right fit |
Step 7 | Add your recommender’s details — the system will send them an automated recommendation form. Follow up to ensure timely submission |
Step 8 | Upload proof of identity (photo ID), proof of income (salary slips or IT return), and a passport-size photo |
Step 9 | Pay the non-refundable application fee online and submit the form before the deadline of your selected round |
Pro Tip:
Ensure all supporting documents are clear, legible, and consistent with the information provided in your application. Any discrepancy may lead to rejection or delays in processing.
You can apply in any of the three application rounds — Round 1 (July–Aug), Round 2 (Aug–Oct), or Round 3 (Oct–Nov) — but it's advisable to apply early if you are targeting scholarships or require visa timelines (for international applicants).
IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27 Fees and Financial Aid
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx program fees are competitive when compared to top global and Indian one-year MBA programs. The tuition includes academic instruction, access to campus facilities, and participation in various program-related activities.
For working professionals aiming to upskill into leadership roles or pivot careers, the return on investment (ROI) of this program continues to be a strong advantage.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx Fee Structure (2026–27)
Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
Application Fee | ₹2,000 (non-refundable) |
Program Fee (Tuition + Campus Services) | ₹31,00,000 (approximately) |
Additional Expenses (including International Immersion) | ₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 (estimated) |
Caution Deposit | ₹60,000 (refundable) |
Note: Fees are indicative and subject to revision by IIM Calcutta. Final fee details are communicated in the offer letter.
What’s Included:
Tuition for all academic modules
Course material and access to the Learning Management System (LMS)
Accommodation on campus (single-occupancy rooms)
Access to library, sports, and computing facilities
International immersion program (travel and visa costs may be additional)
Financial Aid and Loan Options
While IIM Calcutta does not offer direct scholarships, candidates can finance the MBAEx program through multiple options:
1. Bank Loans
IIM Calcutta has formal tie-ups with several public and private sector banks that offer education loans with competitive interest rates, flexible moratoriums, and quick processing for admitted students.
Popular banks include:
SBI Scholar Loan Scheme
HDFC Credila
Axis Bank
ICICI Bank
Bank of Baroda
2. Company Sponsorship
Some candidates receive partial or full sponsorship from their current employers. If you're applying through this route, make sure to communicate timelines and fee structure internally to secure documentation early.
3. Self-Financed
Self-funded candidates are encouraged to plan liquidity across tuition milestones. The fee is generally paid in 3–4 instalments over the course of the academic year.
Is IIM Calcutta MBAEx Worth It?
With an average CTC of ₹32.68 LPA (Class of 2024) and a one-year fee structure, the IIM Calcutta MBAEx offers one of the strongest ROIs among Indian and global MBA programs. Many candidates recover their investment within the first year of post-MBA employment.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx Class Profile – 2025
The MBAEx Class of 2025 at IIM Calcutta reflects the diversity, experience, and leadership readiness that the program is known for. With participants coming from a wide range of industries and professional backgrounds, the cohort offers a dynamic peer-learning environment—essential for a one-year, intensive MBA designed for working professionals.
Class Composition Overview
Metric | Details |
Class Size | 80 |
Average GMAT Score | 682 |
Average Work Experience | 8.5 years |
Women in the Class | 10 |
Students with International Work Experience | 10 |
Industries Represented | 24+ |
Work Experience Distribution
Experience Bracket | Percentage of Class |
5–7 Years | 45% |
7–10 Years | 35% |
10+ Years | 20% |
The work experience diversity in the MBAEx classroom facilitates rich dialogue and complex problem-solving, enabling participants to sharpen their leadership, strategy, and cross-functional thinking.
Industry Backgrounds Represented
Participants in the Class of 2025 bring experience from:
Information Technology and Services
Consulting
Energy and Infrastructure
Manufacturing
Financial Services
Startups and Entrepreneurship
Analytics and Product Management
Public Sector and Defence Services
This cross-industry representation enhances networking and opens up career switch opportunities, especially for candidates targeting roles in consulting, product leadership, and general management.
Who Should Join This Cohort?
If you are a mid-career professional with:
5+ years of experience
Aspirations to move into leadership roles
A GMAT score in a competitive range (650+)
International exposure or cross-functional responsibilities
Then the IIM Calcutta MBAEx Class of 2026–27 offers a community of peers and a platform for transformation.
Essay, SOP & Interview Tips for IIM Calcutta MBAEx
While the IIM Calcutta MBAEx does not require multiple essays, the Statement of Purpose (SOP) plays a central role in the selection process. This is your opportunity to bring your story to life — beyond numbers and job titles.
A strong SOP should demonstrate not just what you’ve done, but why those choices matter in the context of your future. It should link your career trajectory, learning goals, and post-MBA aspirations with what the IIM Calcutta MBAEx program offers.
What Makes a Good SOP for IIM Calcutta MBAEx?
Do | Don't |
Show clarity in your short- and long-term goals | Avoid vague career ambitions or jargon |
Highlight leadership, ownership, and impact | Don't simply list responsibilities or buzzwords |
Explain why MBAEx is the right fit | Don’t copy generic goals found online |
Stay authentic — your journey is unique | Don’t oversell or fabricate roles |
Your SOP should answer:
Why now?
Why MBAEx and why IIM Calcutta?
How will you contribute to the class?
Note: While merit is evaluated holistically, a clear and thoughtful SOP often distinguishes those who get interview calls from those who don’t.
Interview Process: What to Expect
Shortlisted candidates are invited for a personal interview, conducted either in-person or virtually. The interviews are application-based and conversational, with the panel often including a mix of faculty members and alumni.
Key Interview Themes:
Career transitions and clarity of post-MBA goals
Domain expertise and problem-solving approach
Leadership potential and team experiences
Knowledge of the MBAEx program and its fit with your objectives
Unlike panel-style grilling, MBAEx interviews are focused on evaluating maturity, motivation, and readiness for a high-paced executive MBA. Candidates are expected to speak with conviction about their journey and demonstrate alignment with the cohort’s leadership standard.
Tip: The SOP, resume, and interview must reflect a consistent story — authenticity and reflection go a long way.
Scholarship Information
As of 2026–27, the IIM Calcutta MBAEx does not offer direct scholarships. However, many students finance their education through education loans, employer sponsorship, or self-funding, supported by the strong ROI of the program.
Get Expert Help for Your Application
If you're applying to the IIM Calcutta MBAEx program, ensure your:
SOP reflects depth and clarity
Resume is positioned for leadership
Interview strategy highlights the right impact stories
Need help crafting your IIM Calcutta MBAEx application or preparing for the interview?
IIM Calcutta MBAEx 2026–27 Placements and ROI
The Career Development and Placement Office (CDPO) at IIM Calcutta plays a pivotal role in facilitating high-impact leadership transitions for MBAEx students. Graduates from this one-year MBA for experienced professionals in India secure placements across consulting, technology, energy, finance, and other strategic sectors — often in roles that accelerate them into mid-senior leadership.
MBAEx 2024 Placement Highlights
Placement Metric | Value |
Total Students Placed | 67 |
Average CTC (Mean) | ₹32.68 LPA |
Median CTC | ₹32.27 LPA |
Highest CTC | ₹52.00 LPA |
Total Number of Offers | 68 |
Average Work Experience (Class of '24) | ~8.5 years |
Key Recruiters:
Some of the companies that hired IIM Calcutta MBAEx students in 2024 include:Accenture, Genpact, Infosys, Persistent Systems, RPG Group, among others. These organizations offered strategic leadership roles across multiple business functions.
Industry-wise Placement Breakdown
Industry | No. of Students Placed | Percentage |
Information Technology (IT) | 30 | 46% |
Consulting | 14 | 22% |
Energy | 8 | 12% |
Others | 7 | 11% |
Analytics | 2 | 3% |
Finance | 2 | 3% |
Manufacturing | 2 | 3% |
Year-on-Year Compensation Comparison
Year | Highest CTC (₹ LPA) | Average CTC (₹ LPA) | Median CTC (₹ LPA) | Students Placed | Total Offers |
2022 | 137.38 | 36.79 | 30.41 | 73 | 87 |
2023 | 78.17 | 30.99 | 30.12 | 71 | 79 |
2024 | 52.00 | 32.68 | 32.27 | 67 | 68 |
ROI Considerations
With an average CTC of over ₹32 LPA and a one-year fee structure that is competitive with global MBAs, the ROI of IIM Calcutta MBAEx remains one of the strongest in the Indian MBA landscape. Students typically recoup their investment within 12–18 months of graduation, depending on the role and industry.
Candidates transitioning from mid-level roles into leadership or switching domains (e.g., from engineering to consulting) particularly benefit from the brand, network, and placement support provided by IIM Calcutta.
Why Choose IIM Calcutta MBAEx?
The MBAEx program at IIM Calcutta is one of India’s most respected one-year MBA options for experienced professionals seeking rapid leadership transitions. Here’s why it stands out in the Indian and global executive MBA landscape.
1. Strong Academic Legacy
As one of the original IIMs, IIM Calcutta has over six decades of legacy in management education and is the first Indian B-school to achieve Triple Crown Accreditation: AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. This global recognition boosts your international employability and academic credibility.
2. Peer Group with Leadership Maturity
With an average of 8.5 years of work experience, the MBAEx class comprises professionals from 20+ industries, many with international exposure. Peer learning from this cohort adds significant depth to classroom discussions.
3. Global Exposure
The program includes an international immersion module, allowing students to explore cross-border business practices, innovation ecosystems, and leadership frameworks in global contexts.
4. Career Acceleration in One Year
The MBAEx is structured for mid-career professionals aiming for significant upward or lateral transitions in consulting, product, strategy, operations, or entrepreneurship. With a median CTC of ₹32.27 LPA (Class of 2024), the program offers strong ROI within 12–18 months.
5. Campus Advantage
Located in Joka, Kolkata, the IIMC campus provides a full-time immersive residential experience, offering access to a strong alumni base, world-class faculty, and a robust leadership curriculum.
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx is ideal for professionals who want to fast-track their career without a two-year break, but with access to a full-time MBA experience and outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the minimum GMAT score required for IIM Calcutta MBAEx?
There is no official cutoff. However, successful applicants typically have scores in the 650–730 range. Applications are evaluated holistically.
Q2: Can I apply to IIM Calcutta MBAEx with 5 years of work experience?
Yes. As long as you have 5 years of full-time, post-qualification work experience by March 31, 2026, you are eligible to apply.
Q3: Does IIM Calcutta MBAEx accept the GRE?
Currently, only GMAT scores are accepted. GRE scores are not considered for MBAEx admissions.
Q4: Does IIM Calcutta offer scholarships for MBAEx?
No. The MBAEx program does not offer direct scholarships. Candidates typically use education loans or employer sponsorship to fund the program.
Q5: Is international work experience mandatory for admission?
Not mandatory, but preferred. Candidates with global exposure or cross-functional leadership often stand out in the admissions process.
Q6: How competitive is the interview process?
The personal interview is a key part of the selection process. It is conversational and evaluates career clarity, leadership potential, and program fit.
Q7: Can I switch industries after completing the MBAEx program?
Yes. Many participants make successful career shifts into consulting, product management, general management, and entrepreneurship post-MBAEx.
