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ISB Admissions 2025: Key Dates and Deadlines You Need to Know

Updated: Jul 21

If you are planning to apply to the Indian School of Business (ISB) for the academic year 2025-26, you need to be aware of the application timeline and deadlines. The admissions process at ISB is highly competitive, and missing any important dates can significantly affect your chances of getting admitted. In this article, we will walk you through the ISB admissions timeline for 2025 intake, including the application deadline, interview dates, and notification of results.


Important Update for ISB 2025 intake:


ISB PGP, ISB EEO & ISB YLP Admissions Process Will No Longer Accept the Online GMAT or Online GRE Test Scores. This is also applicable to ISB YLP stage 2 applications for 31st August 2024 deadline.


ISB Application Deadline 2025 intake:


The ISB application for the class of 2025-26 is 15 September 2024 for round 1, November 2024 for round 2 application and January 2025 for the Round 1 application.


ISB Admissions Timeline :


The application will be submitted online and must include your academic transcripts, GMAT/GRE score, essays, and recommendation letters. The application deadline for the first round is 15 September 2023, the second round is 3 December 2023, and the third round is 21 January 2024. This is how usually the lineup for the deadlines are for ISB admissions every year. The ISB PGP 2024 is scheduled to tentatively start on 13 April 2024.






ISB MBA Eligibility 2025 Intake:


This year ISB MBA eligibility with respect to the way you calculate your work experience has changed slightly. The applicants must have a minimum 24 months of full-time post-qualification work experience by 31 March, 2025.


ISB Admissions Timeline : Interview Dates for the 2024 cycle


If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview at one of the ISB campuses in Hyderabad or Mohali. The ISB interview for the first round was conducted in October and November 2023, the second round in January and February 2024, and the third round in February and March 2024.


More Updates for the ISB 2025 Intake:

Evaluation:

  • ISB employs a holistic admissions policy, evaluating candidates based on education, work experience, awards and achievements, essays, recommendations, test scores, and interviews for those shortlisted.

  • Resume: Submission of a resume in the specified format is mandatory.


Detailed ISB Application Requirements:

Education:

  • Provide details of all qualifications, listing at least one bachelor's, integrated, or professional degree.

  • If your institution is not listed in the dropdown menu, contact ISB.


Professional Experience:

  • Include all full-time and part-time professional experiences, such as full-time jobs, internships, on-campus jobs, and any traineeships required for obtaining a degree.

  • Only full-time experience is considered for eligibility, but part-time work also helps the admissions committee understand your background better.

  • List your most recent professional experience first. If you have multiple current roles, list your primary role first.


ISB Round 1 Interview Schedule for 2024 intake:


New Delhi Interviews: 30 September, 1 October, 28 October, 29 October 2023

Hyderabad Interviews: 30 September, 1 October, 15 October, 16 October 2023

Chennai Interviews: 7 October 2023, 8 October 2023

Mumbai Interviews: 7 October 2023, 8 October 2023

Kolkata Interviews: 7 October 2023, 8 October 2023

Online Interviews: 14 October 2023, 15 October 2023, 21 October, 22 October 2023

Bangalore Interviews: 21 October 2023, 22 October 2023



ISB Admissions Timeline : Notification of Results:


The final admission decisions for the first round will be communicated towards mid November 2023, for the second round in third week of February 2024, and the third round in end of March 2024 (tentatively). If you are offered admission, you will have a few weeks to confirm your acceptance and pay the acceptance fee.


ISB Essays 2025 intake:


  • Essay 1: Contemplate situations that have shaped your personal journey. Present what these situations have taught you about your strengths and weaknesses, and how they have shaped your personal and professional journey. 400 words.

  • Essay 2: What intellectual experiences have influenced your approach to learning and have led you to pursue an MBA? Please describe using anecdotes from your own experiences. 400 words

  • Essay 3: Given your experience and aspirations, how do you plan to use the PGP at ISB to fulfill your professional goals? (250 words)


ISB Essays 2024 Intake:


  1. Provide an honest portrayal of yourself, emphasizing your strengths and weaknesses. Highlight the key elements that have shaped your personal journey. Give relevant illustrations as needed. (400 words)

  2. Contemplate two distinct situations—one where you experienced success and another where you faced failure. Delve into the personal and interpersonal lessons you learned from these instances. (400 words)

  3. Given your previous experience and future aspirations, how do you plan to use the PGP at ISB to fulfil your professional goals? Optional (250 words max)


ISB is one of the most sought-after business schools in India, and the admissions process is highly competitive. It is essential to be aware of the key dates and deadlines for the ISB admissions 2024 process to give yourself the best chance of success. Make sure you start your application well in advance, and give yourself enough time to prepare for the GMAT/GRE, essays, and interviews.


Aspiring to pursue an MBA at the Indian School of Business (ISB)?

What all do you need to have ready before the ISB Admission Deadline 2024?


The ISB application process involves filling out several important sections in addition to personal details and a statement of integrity.


Let's take a closer look at the vital sections of the application form:


1. Academics: This section requires mentioning academic details such as X, XII, graduation, post-graduation (if any), and additional certifications.


2. In the Work Experience section, outline your primary job responsibilities, initiatives, and accomplishments.


3. In the Awards & Activities section, prioritize your achievements, awards, and hobbies, and record them accordingly.


4. ISB necessitates a valid GMAT or GRE score for admission, so make sure to include it. Check the GMAT score for ISB.


5. Essay: The essay section requires you to reflect on your experiences and thoughts, focusing on uniqueness and leadership within the given word limit.


6. Reference Letters: One reference letter is required for ISB admission process.


Keep in mind that the quality of the evaluation matters more than the seniority of the recommender's designation. Remember to fill out all sections completely before submitting the form, and adhere to the ISB admissions timeline to avoid missing out on the opportunity to pursue an MBA at ISB.


The application process for ISB PGP comprises several sections that must be completed, which is a time-consuming but straightforward process.


How to fill the ISB Application 2024


For anyone harboring dreams of scaling the prestigious heights of the Indian School of Business (ISB) MBA program, this YouTube video - How to Fill Out ISB MBA Application with GMATCLUB becomes an invaluable Sherpa guide. Packed with practical tips and candid insights from an experienced admissions consultant, the video demystifies the application process, offering a roadmap to navigate the journey from dream to acceptance letter.


Cracking the GMAT score for ISB: 


While your GMAT score remains a crucial foundation, we emphasize the holistic nature of ISB's evaluation. Instead of obsessing over the perfect score, focus on showcasing your strengths and mitigating weaknesses. Shruti P at GOALisB recommends setting realistic goals, utilizing efficient study resources, and seeking professional guidance if needed. Remember, a strategic approach can trump raw numbers.


Beyond the Scoresheet: The application essays become your canvas to paint a compelling picture of who you are. Dive deep into introspection, and unearth authentic narratives that weave together your experiences, motivations, and future aspirations. Authenticity and a clear sense of purpose will resonate with the admissions committee far more than generic platitudes.


Taming the Transcript: Don't be discouraged by past academic inconsistencies. The video suggests strategically highlighting your academic growth and focusing on achievements beyond mere grades. Showcase extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and projects that demonstrate your dedication and potential. Remember, your story of overcoming challenges can be just as impressive as a string of top marks.


Conquering the Interview: The nerves may flutter, but the ISB interview, as the video reveals, is more of a conversation than an interrogation. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their essays in depth, answer questions about your goals, and demonstrate your fit with the ISB culture.


Beyond the Tips: The discussion delves deeper, offering insights into overcoming challenges like having a non-prestigious undergraduate institution or low work experience. It underscores the importance of research, seeking guidance from alumni, and showcasing your unique value proposition. Every applicant brings their own story, and the key is to tell it with conviction and clarity.


This discussion is more than just a collection of application tips; it's a pep talk for aspiring ISB students. The journey to the ISB MBA is not just about numbers and scores, but about crafting a compelling narrative. By being authentic, showcasing your strengths, you can turn your ISB dream into a reality.


Starting the application process early and creating a timeline for each section is advised as it offers a chance to demonstrate your personal and professional attributes, career goals, and suitability for the program. A well-crafted narrative that presents your case compellingly increases your chances of being shortlisted for an interview.


1. To begin the application process, register on the ISB portal and provide accurate information.

2. The application includes sections for personal information, GRE/GMAT scores, education details, employment details, full-time vs. part-time work experience, awards and activities, and essays.

3. Submitting a valid GMAT/GRE score is mandatory. The score is valid for five years from the date of the exam and can be either online or test center scores. Reapplicants do not need to send their scores again unless they retake the exam.

4. The employment section evaluates your leadership abilities based on your work impact and should be filled out in reverse chronological order. Use this section to project your roles, responsibilities, and achievements. Full-time employment is work undertaken only after graduation, and there cannot be an overlap between two full-time stints.

5. The awards and activities section showcases your well-rounded personality and your investment in self-development.

6. The essay section is essential for admission into ISB, and you should use this opportunity to present your personal and professional qualities, capabilities, and initiatives that you would like to showcase. Stick to the essay word limit, and re-applicants can use this to explain changes in their profile. Lastly, only those who submitted a complete application in previous years are considered as re-applicants, and they must indicate changes in their profile since their last application.


The list of documents required by the ISB Application Deadline 2024:

  1. Latest colour photograph in PDF format ( mandatory)

  2. Copy of passport ( mandatory)

  3. Proof of income for self ( mandatory)

  4. Proof of income for spouse

  5. Proof of income for father

  6. Proof of income for mother

  7. Evaluation Form ( mandatory)

  8. Official GMAT score

  9. Official TOEFL/IELTS score (if applicable)

  10. GMAT score report (unofficial score also can be submitted) ( mandatory)

  11. Year 10 marks sheet ( mandatory)

  12. Year 12/Diploma marks sheet ( mandatory)

  13. UG mark sheet ( mandatory)

  14. UG certificate ( mandatory)

  15. Integrated degree marks sheet

  16. Integrated degree certificate

  17. Graduation mark sheet

  18. Graduation certificate

  19. Professional degree marks sheet

  20. Professional degree certificate

  21. Additional degree marks sheet (upto 3 can be submitted)

  22. Additional degree certificate (upto 3 can be submitted)

  23. Awards certificate (upto 3 can be submitted)

  24. Statement of integrity with signature in PDF format

  25. GRE score report (if applicable)

You can get help with your ISB applications by contacting an ISB admission consultant at GOALisB. To discuss your profile and receive application assistance for MBA programs, you can email us at contact@goalisb.com or call us at +91 7719497187.




As an MBA aspirant, researching and shortlisting business schools can be an overwhelming task. With so many options available, it's natural to get confused about which school to choose. While conducting your research, it's hard to avoid the Indian School of Business (ISB) as a target school. With its reputation for academic excellence, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and global recognition, ISB has become a go-to choice for MBA aspirants.


To help you in your research process, we've compiled a list of key updates and information about ISB that will aid you in making an informed decision.

  1. ISB MBA Programs: Know about the range of programs ISB offers - Post Graduate Program (PGP) in Management, Deferred entry options like YLP and EEO and Executive MBA options like ISB PGPMAX and ISB PGPpro and the ISB MFAB.

  2. ISB Application & FAQs: The PGP application process at ISB is straightforward, and applicants are required to submit an online application form along with supporting documents. The ISB website has an FAQ section that provides detailed information about the application process.

  3. ISB MBA Fees: The fee for the PGP program at ISB is INR 39 lakhs for the class of 2023. The fee covers tuition, course materials, and accommodation on campus.

  4. ISB Scholarship: ISB offers a range of scholarships to deserving candidates based on merit, need, and diversity.

  5. ISB Ranking Trends Analysis: ISB has consistently been ranked among the top B-schools in India and the world. A trends analysis of the rankings can provide insight into the performance and reputation of the school.

  6. ISB vs IIM: Comparing ISB with the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) can help in understanding the similarities and differences between the two.

  7. GMAT score for ISB: A good GMAT score is a crucial requirement for admission to ISB. Understanding the average GMAT scores of the previous batches can help in setting a target score.

  8. ISB YLP: The Young Leaders Program (YLP) is a deferred admission program at ISB that targets pre-final and final-year undergraduate students.

  9. ISB Early Entry Option: The Early Entry Option (EEO) is a deferred admission program that targets working professionals with less than two years of work experience.

  10. ISB MBA Eligibility: There are so many situations where applicants are not clear about their eligibility. This is a good place to check some common questions about ISB MBA eligibility.

  11. ISB Essay Writing: The essay writing component of the application process is an opportunity for applicants to showcase their personality, goals, and aspirations.

  12. ISB Placement Trends: Analyzing the placement trends of the previous batches can provide insight into the types of roles, companies, and compensation packages offered to graduates. Further more about ISB placements.

  13. ISB vs NUS: Comparing ISB with the National University of Singapore (NUS) can help in understanding the similarities and differences between the two.

  14. ISB vs INSEAD: Comparing ISB with the Institut Européen d'Administration des Affaires (INSEAD) can help in understanding the similarities and differences between the two.

  15. ISB vs Wharton: Compare ISB vs Wharton MBA programs.

  16. ISB vs IIMA: Comparing ISB with the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) can help in understanding the similarities and differences between the two.

  17. Life at ISB: Understanding the campus culture, student life, and extracurricular activities at ISB can help in envisioning the experience of studying at the school.

  18. Life after ISB: Understanding the career prospects, alumni network, and professional growth opportunities after completing an MBA at ISB can help in setting realistic expectations.

  19. Who gets selected to ISB: Understanding the selection criteria, eligibility requirements, and demographics of the previous batches can help in assessing one's own chances of getting selected.

  20. ISB admissions FAQ: Responses to some questions that applicants have asked over the previous years.

FAQs about the ISB admissions process 2024:


Q. How are reapplicants assessed at ISB?

A. Reapplicants are welcome to apply and are given a chance to write a reapplicant essay. They can explain how their candidature has improved since their last application. ISB does not hold it against reapplicants and evaluates each application on its own merits.


Q. Is ISB reapplicant-friendly in general?

A. Yes, ISB is reapplicant-friendly. They encourage reapplicants to apply and consider their updated application without any prejudice.


Q. Is there a difference in evaluating reapplicants versus new applicants at ISB?

A. Reapplicants are evaluated based on their current application and improvements made since their previous application. ISB does not discriminate against reapplicants and assesses each application independently.


Q. What are the chances for a waitlisted candidate at ISB?

A. If a candidate is waitlisted, they can improve their profile based on the feedback provided by the admissions team. They can work on the feedback and enhance their application to increase their chances of admission.


Q. Can a letter of recommendation (LOR) be obtained from a college internship manager or does it have to be from the current company manager?

A. Ideally, if you have two years of experience, the LOR should come from your current boss. However, if you have recently changed companies, you can also approach your previous boss for an LOR. It is generally recommended to avoid getting an LOR from a college internship manager unless there are no other options available.


Q. Will having 13.5 years of experience pose difficulties in getting placed at ISB?

A. Having 13.5 years of experience does not pose difficulties in getting placed at ISB. ISB has a Senior Executives Club that works closely with candidates having extensive work experience to secure suitable placements. The GMAT score expected for such candidates varies, but having a strong profile and performance in the admission process increases the likelihood of placement.


Q. Can someone reapply in Round Two if not selected in Round One?

A. ISB allows candidates to apply only once in one admission cycle. If a candidate is not selected in Round One, they should consider applying in the next cycle rather than the next round. The selection process is holistic, and if a profile needs improvement, it is unlikely to improve within a short period of two months.


Q. Are there more chances of being shortlisted by taking the GMAT compared to the GRE online?

A. ISB does not show any partiality towards GMAT or GRE applicants. Both tests are accepted, and applicants can choose to submit scores from either exam. The selection is based on the overall profile and not solely on the test scores.


Q. Can a recommendation be obtained from a long-standing client or a network in the extracurricular field for an applicant from a family business background?

A. Yes, a recommendation can be obtained from a long-standing client or someone in the extracurricular field if they can vouch for the applicant's work and character. ISB understands the dynamics of family businesses and considers recommendations from relevant individuals.


Q. What kind of profiles are recruited from the auto industry at ISB?

A. The specific profiles recruited from the auto industry vary each year, and the Placement Team provides information about the companies and profiles offered. Applicants can attend sessions conducted by the Placement Team or refer to the placement records to gain insights into the profiles typically recruited from the auto industry.


Updates from ISB in 2023:


  1. S.D. Shibulal, Co-founder of Infosys, and Kumari Shibulal, Founder of Advaith Foundation, graced the Mohali campus. S.D. Shibulal engaged with PGP students, sharing the growth journey of Infosys and leadership insights from his professional experience. The duo participated in a roundtable discussion, organized with Sanjhi Sikhiya, on 'Scaling Business and Serving Society,' attended by industry, media, and academia representatives.

  2. His Excellency Dr. Phillipp Ackermann, German Ambassador to India, visited the Mohali campus, reflecting on the strengthened Indo-German bilateral relations across various areas of cooperation. He joined the Dance Club of PGP Co’2024 in a performance to the tune of ‘Naato Naato’ and received a memento from Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Member of the Executive Board, ISB.

  3. Dean Madan Pillutla, after two years of leadership at ISB, reflected on the school's key accomplishments in the past year, outlined development plans for the near future, and highlighted the ongoing contribution of its alumni in its growth as a prominent global B-school.


To get in touch with us for ISB application assistance or ISB Interview preparation, Whatsapp at +91 7719497187 or email us at contact@goalisb.com.

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