IIMA vs ISB
- Goalisb
- Oct 14
- 13 min read
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) and Indian School of Business (ISB) are two of the most prestigious business schools in India. In this blog, we will analyze and compare the data provided by Financial Times (FT) Ranking 2025 to determine which school is better.
India’s two most prestigious business schools, IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) and ISB (Indian School of Business), offer globally recognized MBA programs that attract top-tier applicants. However, their curriculum structure, rankings, and career outcomes differ significantly.
IIM Ahmedabad vs. ISB: Which MBA Program is the Best for You in 2025?
For professionals trying to decide between a one-year MBA vs. a two-year MBA in India, this analysis compares IIM Ahmedabad vs. ISB MBA based on the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025 and Financial Times (FT) MBA Rankings 2025 across employability, ROI, salary growth, diversity, and career impact.
1. Global MBA Rankings 2025: QS vs. FT
The global rankings of an MBA program determine its international reputation and recruiter perception.
QS Global MBA Rankings 2025
Institution | QS Global Rank 2025 | QS Asia Rank 2025 |
ISB MBA | 27 | 4 |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 31 | 5 |
IIMA vs ISB in FT Global MBA Rankings 2025
Institution | FT Global Rank 2025 | FT Asia Rank 2025 |
ISB MBA | 27 | 2 |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 31 | 3 |
Key Takeaways:
ISB ranks higher globally in both QS and FT rankings.
ISB is also ahead of IIM Ahmedabad in Asia-focused rankings.
IIM Ahmedabad maintains strong competitiveness as India's top IIM MBA program.
Verdict: If global reputation matters for your MBA, ISB has a slight advantage.
2. MBA Employability & Alumni Network in India and Beyond
A strong MBA in India should provide high employment rates, strong alumni networks, and premium job opportunities.
QS MBA Employability Rankings 2025
Institution | Employability Score (40%) | Employability Rank (QS) |
ISB MBA | 83.5 | 6 |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 80.2 | 8 |
FT MBA Career Progress Rankings 2025
Institution | Career Progress Rank (FT) | Employed at 3 Months (%) |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 1 | 85% |
ISB MBA | 33 | 85% |
Why ISB MBA Scores Higher in QS Employability?
More international recruiters (McKinsey, BCG, Google, Amazon).
The one-year MBA format at ISB attracts job-ready professionals.
Broader industry mix in consulting, tech, and e-commerce.
For immediate employability, ISB MBA has an edge.
For long-term career acceleration, IIM Ahmedabad MBA ranks number 1 in FT Career Progress.
3. ROI of MBA in India: Salary vs. Investment
The ROI of an MBA in India depends on fees, opportunity cost, and salary post-MBA.
FT MBA Salary & ROI Rankings 2025
Institution | ROI Score (FT, 20%) | ROI Rank | Average Salary (USD) |
ISB MBA | 82.1 | 5 | $186,238 |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 79.8 | 7 | $219,901 |
Key Insights on Salary & ROI
IIM Ahmedabad MBA graduates earn a higher average salary of $219,901.
ISB MBA has a better ROI score (82.1) and shorter time to recoup costs.
ISB’s one-year format reduces opportunity cost.
Choose IIMA MBA for a higher post-MBA salary.
Choose ISB MBA for a faster ROI with lower opportunity cost.
4. Thought Leadership & Research Impact: IIM Ahmedabad vs. ISB MBA
For those interested in academia, research, or policy roles, faculty reputation matters.
QS Thought Leadership Score 2025
Institution | Thought Leadership Score (QS, 15%) | Thought Leadership Rank |
ISB MBA | 80.5 | 8 |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 76.4 | 10 |
Why ISB MBA Leads in Thought Leadership?
Global faculty partnerships (Wharton, Kellogg, MIT Sloan).
Stronger international faculty hiring.
Higher academic citations and research output.
For a research-driven global faculty, ISB MBA is the better choice.
5. Diversity & Global Exposure in MBA Programs
A diverse MBA class prepares students for global business leadership.
QS Diversity Score 2025
Institution | Diversity Score (QS, 10%) | Diversity Rank |
ISB MBA | 74.2 | 12 |
IIM Ahmedabad MBA | 68.5 | 15 |
What This Means
ISB MBA has a higher percentage of international students and professionals.
IIM Ahmedabad MBA attracts more engineers and consultants from India.
For global networking and diverse peer learning, ISB MBA is the better choice.
Final Verdict: IIM Ahmedabad vs. ISB MBA – Which One Should You Choose?
Criteria | Winner | Why? |
Global MBA Ranking | ISB MBA | Higher in QS & FT Global MBA Rankings 2025 |
Employability | ISB MBA | Stronger international recruiter network |
ROI & Salary | IIMA MBA | Higher average salary post-MBA |
Thought Leadership | ISB MBA | More international faculty and research partnerships |
Diversity & Global Exposure | ISB MBA | More diverse class with better global networking |
Career Progression | IIMA MBA | Faster career mobility within India |
Conclusion: Should You Choose IIM Ahmedabad MBA or ISB MBA?
🎯 Choose IIM Ahmedabad MBA if:
✔ You want a two-year MBA with a traditional academic focus.
✔ You aim for a high-paying finance or consulting career.
✔ You prefer structured learning and campus immersion.
🎯 Choose ISB MBA if:
✔ You need a one-year MBA for experienced professionals.
✔ You aim for global exposure and faster career shifts.
✔ You prioritize higher salary growth and ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary of IIM vs ISB?
IIM Ahmedabad (PGP) – Official, Latest Placement Data
Average Package: ₹34.45 LPA for the Class of 2023 (two-year PGP)
Median Package: ₹31.58 LPA
Highest Domestic Package: ₹1.46 crore per annum
Placement Rate: 100% placement for the PGP batch of 2023
These figures are drawn from audited and publicly released placement data for IIM Ahmedabad’s flagship PGP program.
ISB (PGP) – Official Placement Highlights
Average Package (Class of 2024): ₹34.21 LPA
Batch Size & Placement Reach: Class of 2024 had 870 students, with 1,208 job offers from 405 companies
2025 Placement Season (Class of 2025): 364 companies participated, generating 1,164 job offers (average package not yet released)
Side-by-Side Comparison
Institute | Average Package | Median Package | Highest Package (Domestic) | Placement Rate / Offers |
IIM Ahmedabad (PGP) | ₹34.45 LPA | ₹31.58 LPA | ₹1.46 crore | 100% placement (Class of 2023) |
ISB (PGP, Class of 2024) | ₹34.21 LPA | — | — | 1,208 offers from 405 companies |
ISB (PGP, Class of 2025) | Average not yet released | — | — | 1,164 offers from 364 companies |
Key Insights
Average compensation is nearly identical between the two: IIM Ahmedabad at ₹34.45 LPA vs. ISB at ₹34.21 LPA (Class of 2024).
IIM Ahmedabad has exceptionally high top-end domestic offers reaching up to ₹1.46 crore, significantly outperforming average levels.
ISB, while not reporting highest domestic offers, achieved a high volume of offers and maintained strong placement momentum. The 2025 average salary data is yet to be published.
Both institutes showcase robust placement outcomes, but with distinct strengths: IIM A for extraordinary top-tier compensation, and ISB for breadth of offers and recruiter engagement.
Is ISB better than IIM?
ISB is better for mid-career professionals seeking a 1-year global MBA, while IIMs are better for fresh graduates or early-career professionals through their 2-year PGP programs.
The question of whether ISB (Indian School of Business) is better than IIM (Indian Institutes of Management) depends on career stage, goals, and learning format.
Program Duration & Audience:
ISB offers a 1-year PGP (MBA equivalent) designed for candidates with 4–8 years of work experience.
IIMs offer a 2-year PGP (MBA equivalent), typically admitting candidates with 0–3 years of experience.
Global Recognition:
ISB is often ranked higher in Financial Times Global MBA rankings, appealing to candidates seeking international exposure.
IIMs (especially Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta) are more prestigious in India’s domestic job market.
Recruitment & Career Outcomes:
ISB grads often move into consulting, leadership, and international roles.
IIM grads have strong pipelines into finance, marketing, and domestic corporate roles.
Cost:
ISB fee is around ₹43–45 lakhs for the 1-year program.
IIM 2-year PGP fees range from ₹25–30 lakhs, but the opportunity cost is higher due to the extra year.
Bottom Line:
Choose ISB if you are a mid-career professional looking for a fast-track MBA with global exposure.
Choose IIM if you are early in your career and want strong domestic brand equity with a 2-year immersive experience.
Why is ISB ranked higher than IIM?
ISB is often ranked higher than IIMs in global MBA rankings because its 1-year PGP is internationally recognized as a full-time MBA, with strong research output, global faculty, higher average GMAT scores, and international student mix compared to IIMs’ 2-year PGDM programs.
When comparing rankings of ISB vs IIMs, it’s important to note that:
1. Type of Program
ISB PGP (1 year) is classified globally as an MBA equivalent.
Most IIM flagship programs are PGDM (2 years), not always considered MBAs abroad.
Only IIMs with EQUIS/AMBA/AACSB accreditations and 1-year executive MBAs (like IIM Ahmedabad PGPX, IIM Bangalore EPGP, IIM Calcutta MBAEx) are ranked alongside ISB internationally.
2. Global Rankings (FT 2024 MBA Rankings)
ISB PGP: Ranked 31st worldwide.
IIM Ahmedabad PGPX: Ranked 41st worldwide.
IIM Bangalore EPGP: Ranked 47th worldwide.
IIM Calcutta MBAEx: Ranked 67th worldwide.
3. Why ISB Scores Higher
GMAT Scores: ISB average GMAT ≈ 710–730, among the highest in Asia.
Faculty & Research: ISB emphasizes global research publications and attracts international visiting faculty.
Alumni Outcomes: ISB graduates see faster career acceleration and stronger salary growth metrics, which heavily influence FT rankings.
Global Appeal: ISB has a more diverse, international applicant pool compared to IIMs.
4. India Rankings
In NIRF India Rankings, IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta) usually rank above ISB because NIRF emphasizes public institution legacy, government recognition, and long-term academic reputation.
Bottom Line:
ISB ranks higher than IIMs in global MBA rankings due to its 1-year MBA-equivalent program, international recognition, high GMAT averages, and stronger research/alumni outcomes, while IIMs dominate Indian rankings due to their legacy and government recognition.
What are top 5 IIMs?
The top 5 IIMs in India (NIRF 2024 rankings) are IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Calcutta, and IIM Lucknow.
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are ranked annually by NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework) and global bodies like Financial Times. Based on NIRF 2024 (the most authoritative Indian ranking system), the top five are:
Top 5 IIMs – NIRF India Ranking 2024 (Management Category)
IIM Ahmedabad – Consistently no.1, known for academic rigor, consulting & finance placements.
IIM Bangalore – Strong in strategy, tech, and entrepreneurship, with global FT rankings.
IIM Kozhikode – Rising rapidly, known for diverse batch profiles and strong corporate connections.
IIM Calcutta – Finance powerhouse, top global alumni network, and strong international ties.
IIM Lucknow – Excellent placements, leadership pipeline, and parent institute for IIM Jammu & Kashipur.
(Source: NIRF India Rankings 2024 – Management category)
Global FT MBA/EMBA Rankings Context
IIM Ahmedabad (PGPX), IIM Bangalore (EPGP), IIM Calcutta (MBAEx) feature in FT Global MBA rankings.
ISB (non-IIM) also competes in the same list and often ranks higher globally than IIMs.
Bottom Line:
The top 5 IIMs in 2024 are Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kozhikode, Calcutta, and Lucknow, based on NIRF, with A, B, and C still considered the "holy trinity" of IIMs for brand value.
Which is the no. 2 IIM in India?
According to the NIRF 2025 management rankings, IIM Bangalore is ranked as the second top Indian Institute of Management, just after IIM Ahmedabad.
1. NIRF 2025 Rankings (Official Government Framework)
The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025—administered by India’s Ministry of Education—places IIM Ahmedabad in the 1st position and IIM Bangalore in the 2nd position under the Management category.
2. Other Ranking Perspectives (International & Media)
The QS Global MBA Rankings 2025 offer a differing hierarchy, positioning IIM Bangalore as the top Indian business school, followed by IIM Ahmedabad in 2nd place.
These rank shifts reflect different evaluation criteria—NIRF uses composite national metrics like teaching quality, graduation outcomes, and research, while QS emphasizes global reach, alumni outcomes, and employer reputation.
Comparison Table
Ranking Framework | Rank 1 | Rank 2 |
NIRF 2025 (Management) | IIM Ahmedabad | IIM Bangalore |
QS Global MBA India 2025 | IIM Bangalore | IIM Ahmedabad |
Why the Difference?
NIRF: Focuses on domestic metrics including infrastructure, faculty, research output, inclusivity, and placements.
QS: Emphasizes global reputation, alumni success, employer diagnostics, and international visibility.
Though both IIM Ahmedabad and Bangalore consistently rank at the top, the specific ordering can vary based on methodology and the weightage assigned to different performance indicators.
TL;DR
According to NIRF 2025, the No. 2 IIM in India is IIM Bangalore.
However, in QS rankings, Bangalore leads ahead of Ahmedabad.
Which IIM is better for MBA?
IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore are widely considered the top two IIMs, with Ahmedabad known for academic rigor and consulting placements, and Bangalore for technology, entrepreneurship, and global exposure; the choice depends on your career goals.
When asking which IIM is “better” for MBA, the answer depends on what you value: rankings, placements, culture, or specialization.
1. Top IIMs (Based on Rankings & Reputation)
IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA):
Ranked 1 in NIRF 2025 Management Rankings.
Famous for its case-method teaching, rigorous academics, and strong global brand.
Best known for consulting, finance, and strategy roles.
IIM Bangalore (IIMB):
Ranked 2 in NIRF 2025, but 1 in QS Global MBA India 2025 Rankings.
Known for entrepreneurship, tech, and leadership development.
Excellent industry connect with Bangalore’s startup and IT ecosystem.
IIM Calcutta (IIMC):
Often ranked 3 nationally.
Strong in finance, analytics, and quantitative disciplines, with one of the best alumni networks globally.
2. Specializations & Placement Strengths
Consulting & Strategy: IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore
Finance & Quant-heavy Roles: IIM Calcutta
Tech & Entrepreneurship: IIM Bangalore (due to startup hub ecosystem)
General Management & Leadership: IIM Ahmedabad
3. Culture & Learning Style
IIMA: Structured, academically intense, case-study heavy.
IIMB: Flexible electives, leadership focus, diverse peer network.
IIMC: Strong analytics culture, finance-driven placements.
4. Global Standing
All three (A, B, C) are in the Top 100 of QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, with IIMB often leading in global reputation.
Quick Takeaway
Choose IIM Ahmedabad if you want consulting, finance, or a brand with maximum domestic prestige.
Choose IIM Bangalore if you want technology, entrepreneurship, or global career visibility.
Choose IIM Calcutta if you are finance-focused or want strong international alumni reach.
Is 74 a good score in CAT?
A 74 percentile in CAT is considered low and is generally not sufficient for admission to top IIMs; it may only qualify for newer or Tier-3 MBA colleges.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is used primarily by the IIMs and other top B-schools in India, not ISB (which accepts GMAT/GRE only).
CAT 74 Percentile – What It Means
Top IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, etc.): Require 98–99 percentile for General category.
Mid-tier IIMs (Trichy, Ranchi, Udaipur, etc.): Typically need 90+ percentile.
Newer IIMs and Tier-2 institutes: May consider 80–85 percentile cutoffs.
74 percentile: Usually too low for IIMs, but may still get calls from Tier-3 B-schools and private universities that accept CAT.
Does ISB accept CAT scores for admission?
It depends—for the flagship 1-year PGP, ISB accepts only GMAT or GRE; however, for the newer PGP-YL (Young Leaders) program and the Fellow Program in Management (FPM), ISB does accept CAT as well.
Official ISB Admissions Policy
For the 1‑Year Post Graduate Program in Management (PGP), which requires 24+ months of work experience, ISB mandates submission of a GMAT or GRE score and does not accept CAT scores.
For the PGP‑YL (Young Leaders) program, designed for candidates with 0–2 years of work experience, ISB does accept CAT scores, along with GMAT and GRE. ISB obtains CAT scores directly from the testing authority when provided.
For the Fellow Program in Management (FPM), ISB also accepts CAT, besides GMAT, GRE, or JRF.
Summary by Program
Program | Work Experience | Accepted Scores |
1-Year PGP (Flagship) | ≥ 2 years | GMAT or GRE only |
PGP-YL (Young Leaders) | 0–2 years | GMAT, GRE, or CAT |
FPM (Fellow Program) | — | GMAT, GRE, CAT, or JRF |
Why This Matters
Flagship PGP: ISB targets professionals seeking a one-year MBA equivalent; hence, it sticks to globally recognized standards like GMAT/GRE.
PGP-YL: Offers access to early-career candidates (including fresh grads), thus adding flexibility by accepting CAT.
FPM: As a research-oriented track, it aligns with other academic assessments like CAT or JRF.
Is ISB as good as IIM?
Yes, ISB is considered as good as the top IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta), with ISB ranked 27 globally (FT 2025), making it India’s highest-ranked MBA program internationally.
The comparison between ISB and IIMs depends on factors like program format, global exposure, and career outcomes. While both are Tier 1 business schools in India, they serve slightly different student segments.
1. Global Rankings
ISB: FT Global MBA Ranking 2025 – 27 worldwide, 1 in India.
IIM Ahmedabad: FT MBA Ranking 2025 – 42 worldwide.
IIM Bangalore: FT MBA Ranking 2025 – 47 worldwide.
IIM Calcutta: FT MBA Ranking 2025 – 67 worldwide.
On international rankings, ISB leads all IIMs.
2. Program Duration & Structure
ISB: 1-year PGP in Management (equivalent to MBA); ideal for professionals with 2–10 years’ work experience.
IIMs (A/B/C): 2-year MBA (PGP) program; admits students largely with 0–3 years’ experience.
3. Admissions
ISB: Requires GMAT/GRE, 2+ years of work experience, holistic profile review.
IIMs: Primarily CAT exam; admits younger students (many freshers).
4. Placements & Packages
ISB (Class of 2023): Average package ₹34.2 LPA.
IIM A/B/C (2023): Averages in the ₹30–34 LPA range, comparable to ISB.
5. Alumni Network
IIMs: Larger alumni base (older institutions).
ISB: Younger, but rapidly growing global alumni with strong leadership representation.
Verdict
ISB = IIM A/B/C in prestige and placements.
ISB is stronger in global rankings and international exposure.
IIMs hold an edge in domestic legacy and alumni size.
1. ISB Admission Guide
Comprehensive Resource Guide for IIM admissions, including IIMA PGPX, IIMB EPGP, and IIM Executive MBA programs across multiple campuses.
1. General IIM Admission Guidance
2. IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) PGPX Resources
General Overview:
Admissions & Course Structure:
Placements & Career Outcomes:
Success Stories:
Program Evaluation:
3. IIM Bangalore (IIMB) EPGP Resources
General Overview:
Placements & Career Outcomes:
Program Insights:
Alternative Programs:
4. IIM Calcutta (IIMC) MBAEX Resources
5. IIM Lucknow (IIML) IPMX Resources
6. IIM Kozhikode (IIMK) PGP-BL Resources
General Overview:
