Who Gets Into ISB PGP 2025? Admissions, Curriculum and Career Impact
- Goalisb
- May 17
- 21 min read
When ISB launched its PGP back in 2001, its founders dreamed of creating a truly world-class business school. The ISB PGP (Post Graduate Programme in Management) is India’s most competitive and globally recognized one year MBA in India, designed for working professionals with at least two years of full-time experience. Delivered across ISB Hyderabad and Mohali campuses, the program combines rigorous academics, global faculty, and a powerful alumni network to drive accelerated career growth.
Ranked among the top MBA programs worldwide by Financial Times, Bloomberg, and QS, the ISB PGP offers a strong return on investment and is especially popular among professionals seeking career transitions in consulting, tech, product management, and strategy. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the ISB PGP 2025 admissions cycle, 2026 intake for the ISB PGP Class of 2027 — from deadlines and class profile to scholarships, placements, and application strategy.
Table of Contents
Why Choose ISB PGP?
Choose ISB for the career pivot and the long term career growth it offers. The ISB Post Graduate Programme (PGP) is India’s most competitive one-year MBA for working professionals. Ranked among the top global MBAs, ISB offers a high-return, low-opportunity-cost business education with access to top recruiters, global alumni, and leadership roles across industries.
What Makes ISB Stand Out?
Global ISB Rankings
Number 27 – FT Global MBA Rankings 2025
Number 5 – Bloomberg Asia-Pacific MBA 2024–25
Number 15 – QS Global MBA Rankings Asia 2025
Career Acceleration
INR 34.21 LPA average CTC (Class of 2024)
400+ companies, 70% ISB graduates achieved industry switch and 1200+ offers in ISB placements.
One-Year Format
Saves opportunity cost vs 2-year MBAs
Ideal for professionals with 2–8 years of experience
Strong career ROI in India and Asia-Pacific
Diverse Peer Group
870+ students from 147+ universities
40% women | 16,000+ alumni globally
Who Should Consider ISB PGP?
Professionals with 2+ years of experience
Career switchers: tech to consulting, CA to VC, ops to product
Indian applicants considering global MBAs in Asia or Europe
Candidates looking for high-impact roles in India post-MBA
Quick Facts About ISB PGP
Metric | Class of 2024 |
Avg. CTC | ₹34.21 LPA |
GMAT (Middle 80%) | 690–750 (Classic) |
Work Experience (Avg) | 4.5 years |
Recruiters | 400+ |
Offers Made | 1208 |
When does ISB open applications for the PGP Class of 2027?
Applications have opened for 2025, i.e. ISB PGP class of 2027. ISB follows a three-round admission cycle, and candidates can apply in only one round per year.
ISB PGP Deadlines – Class of 2027
Application Round | Deadline | Interview Period | Final Result Announcement |
Round 1 | 14 September 2025 | Late October to Late November 2025 | End of November 2025 |
Round 2 | 07 December 2025 | January to Mid-February 2026 | End of February 2026 |
Round 3 | 25 January 2026 | Mid-February to Early March 2026 | Mid-March 2026 |
Any ISB Application submitted after a round deadline automatically roll into the next round.
No applications are accepted after 25 January 2026.
When should I apply to ISB?
Application Round | Best For |
Round 1 | Early planners, GMAT/GRE-ready candidates, aiming for scholarships |
Round 2 | Competitive window for solid profiles, late testers, retakers |
Round 3 | Risk-takers, reapplicants, or exceptional profiles applying last-minute |
Pro Tip: Applying in Round 1 maximizes scholarship opportunities and gives more time to prepare for financing, relocation, and pre-MBA learning.
ISB PGP Round 1 Application Timeline for Applicants
Timeframe | Action Step |
June – July 2025 | Start GMAT/GRE prep, build résumé, shortlist recommenders |
Mid-July | Application opens |
July – August | Draft and revise essays, upload academic documents |
Late August | Finalize recommendation, take/submit GMAT/GRE score |
1st Week September | Review full application, finalize essays |
By 14 September 2025 | Submit Round 1 Application |
October – November | Interview invites and panel interviews |
End November | Receive admission decision |
December | Attend scholarship interview (if shortlisted) |
What are the steps in the ISB admission process?
Stage | What Happens |
1. Application Submission | Complete online form, essays, documents, test score |
2. Application Verification | ISB checks documents within ~20 days |
3. Evaluation & Shortlisting | Reviewed holistically: test scores, academics, essays, profile |
4. Interview Call | Selected candidates receive 3–7 days’ notice |
5. Interview Process | Panel with ISB alumni/faculty/staff (virtual or in-person) |
6. Admissions Committee Review | Final review and admit decision |
7. Result Announcement | Email sent based on round deadlines |
8. Scholarship Interview | Additional round for shortlisted candidates (merit/need/diversity) |
Summary: What You Should Do Now About Applying to ISB PGP 2026 Intake for the Class of 2027?
Timeline | What to Start Doing |
Now – June | Build test strategy, shortlist schools, write career goals |
July | Begin ISB application + GMAT/GRE finalization |
August | Essay reviews, recommendation letter, resume refinement |
Early Sept | Submit complete and verified application |
ISB Class Profile – Who Gets In?
What is the class size at ISB?
For the PGP Class of 2024 (latest data available), the class size was 870 students across both campuses — Hyderabad and Mohali. Both campuses follow a shared curriculum, have identical faculty, and participate in common placements.
How much work experience do ISB PGP students have?
The average work experience for ISB PGP students has been in the range of 4 to 4.5 years over the past few intakes.
Metric | Class of 2024 |
Average Work Experience | 4.4 years |
Range | 2–8+ years |
Average Age | 26.09 years |
Gender Ratio | ~40% Women |
Average GMAT Score | 717 (Median: 720) |
Unique Universities | 147+ |
ISB’s class is highly diverse in experience level, making it suitable for career switchers, high performers, and re-launchers.
What industries do ISB PGP students come from?
Pre-MBA Industry | % of Class |
Consulting | 21% |
BFSI / Capital Markets / Insurance | 16% |
New Age Tech | 10% |
IT / ITES | 9% |
FMCG / Retail / Consumer Durables | 5% |
Government / PSU / Armed Forces / Services | 5% |
E-Commerce | 4% |
Capital Goods / Professional Services / Advertising | 12% (Combined) |
Energy, Pharma, Logistics, Healthcare, Infrastructure, NGO | ~15% (Combined) |
ISB attracts a strong mix of professionals from core industries, tech startups, consulting, and the public sector.
What job roles do ISB students hold before PGP?
Function | % of Class |
Consulting | 14% |
Sales & Marketing | 13% |
Finance | 13% |
General Management / Strategy | 11% |
Product Management | 8% |
Engineering | 8% |
Analytics & Operations | 10% (Combined) |
R&D, Product Development, Technology, HR | ~9% (Combined) |
Others | 14% |
ISB PGP Curriculum – Core, Flexi-Core, Electives & ELP
What is the structure of the ISB PGP curriculum?
The ISB PGP curriculum is designed to balance business fundamentals with future-facing specialization. It is delivered in four components:
Core Curriculum (Terms 1–4)
Flexi-Core (Terms 2–3)
Electives (Term 4 onwards)
Experiential Learning: Block Week + ELP + Treks
ISB PGP Core Curriculum – Terms 1 to 4
All students complete the core courses to build general management capabilities.
Term | Courses |
Term 1 | Financial Accounting, Managerial Economics, Leading Self & Teams, WAC |
Term 2 | Foundations of Finance, Strategy, Business & Society, Macroeconomics |
Term 3 | Marketing Management, Operations Management, Tech & Analytics |
Term 4 | Ethics & Sustainability |
O-Week | Verbal Communication Module |
These modules ensure all students, regardless of background, are fluent in cross-functional business thinking.
ISB PGP Flexi-Core – Personalize Your Learning
In Terms 2 and 3, students choose 4 out of 10 flexi-core courses aligned with their career goals.
Flexi-Core Options | Focus Area |
Business, Society & Non-Market Strategy | Ethics / ESG |
Frontier Technologies | Emerging Tech |
Navigating Macroeconomic Uncertainty | Policy & Finance |
Managerial Accounting | Financial Decision-Making |
The Art & Science of Decision-Making | Strategy / Leadership |
Business Analytics | Data Strategy |
Analytics for Marketing Decision-Making | Digital Marketing |
Prescriptive Analytics for Business | Tech-Driven Problem Solving |
Business Analytics for Finance | Fintech |
Strategy Analytics | Strategic Planning |
Flexi-core helps candidates build domain fluency before diving into electives.
ISB PGP Electives – Customize Your MBA Experience
From Term 4 onward, students can choose from 100+ electives across 10 domains:
Elective Domain | Example Focus Areas |
Finance | PE, VC, M&A, Financial Modeling |
Strategy & Leadership | Growth Strategy, Org Behavior, Crisis Mgmt |
Marketing | Brand Mgmt, Pricing, Consumer Insights |
Operations | Supply Chain, Service Ops, Lean Mgmt |
Information & Management | Digital Transformation, Data Governance |
Public Policy | Policy Design, Regulation, Development |
Healthcare | Pharma Strategy, Health Economics |
Infrastructure | Urban Planning, Project Finance |
Entrepreneurship | New Ventures, Family Business, Innovation |
Manufacturing | Productivity, Process Design |
What is ISB PGP’s Block Week?
Block Week is a 5-day immersive module offering experiential, simulation-based, or on-ground learning.
Block Week Formats | Example Activities |
Study Treks | Visits to Dubai, Singapore, Bharat |
Simulation-Based Courses | Crisis response, negotiations |
Field-Based Learning | Village immersions, social sector projects |
These modules help develop real-world agility, leadership presence, and problem-solving under pressure.
What is ISB’s Experiential Learning Programme (ELP)?
The ELP is a live consulting project conducted by ISB students for real organizations, under faculty guidance.
ELP Focus Areas | Sample Domains |
Strategy | Market entry, business expansion |
Digital Transformation | Tech roadmaps, product digitization |
Operational Efficiency | Supply chain, cost optimization |
Sustainability & ESG | Reporting, clean energy, social impact |
For many students, the ELP serves as a career pivot tool, a credibility booster in interviews, and an early post-MBA portfolio.
Summary – ISB PGP Curriculum Overview
Component | Description |
Core Curriculum | Foundational business knowledge (mandatory) |
Flexi-Core | Personalized learning across 10 options |
Electives | Choose 18+ from 100+ courses in 10 domains |
Block Week | Real-world simulations, treks, and experiential modules |
ELP | Live consulting project with corporate / NGO client |
ISB Placements – Salary, Companies & Career Shifts
What is the average salary after ISB MBA?
The average CTC for the ISB PGP Class of 2024 was INR 34.21 Lacs.
Metric | Value |
Average CTC | ₹34.21 LPA |
Median CTC | ₹30.21 LPA |
Highest International Offer | $146,000+ |
Total Offers Made | 1208 |
Companies Participated | 405 |
Students Placed | 95%+ within placement week |
Which companies recruit at ISB?
ISB placements witness a diverse range of sectors and functions recruiting every year.
Top Consulting Recruiters | Top Tech Recruiters | Others (Diverse Sectors) |
McKinsey & Company | Amazon | L'Oréal |
Boston Consulting Group | Microsoft | Hindustan Unilever |
Bain & Company | Flipkart | Mahindra Group |
Accenture Strategy | Navi Technologies | Reliance Industries |
Kearney, EY, KPMG | Nagarro | Asian Paints, PepsiCo, AB InBev |
What kind of roles are offered post-ISB?
Function | Sample Roles Offered |
Strategy & Consulting | Management Consultant, Associate, Strategy Analyst |
Product Management | Product Manager, Senior PM, Platform Lead |
General Management / CEO’s Office | Leadership Program, EA to CEO, Chief of Staff |
Marketing & Sales | Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Lead, Growth Head |
Finance & FinTech | Investment Associate, Credit Analyst, FinOps Lead |
Operations & Supply Chain | SCM Manager, Transformation Analyst |
Tech Roles | Program Manager, Business Analyst, Digital Delivery |
ISB continues to be a top choice for MBB firms, Big 4 advisory, and fast-growth tech players.
What sectors hire most from ISB?
Sector | % of Offers (approx) |
Consulting | 34.8% |
Technology (Product + Services) | 18.3% |
Financial Services | 11% |
FMCG / Retail / Consumer | 7% |
E-Commerce & Startups | 4–5% |
Pharma / Healthcare | 3% |
Energy, Infrastructure, Public | ~5% |
Consulting and tech together account for over 50% of total ISB hiring.
Do students successfully switch careers at ISB?
Yes. ISB is known for enabling industry and functional transitions:
Type of Switch | % of Students |
Industry Change | 70% |
Functional Role Change | 74% |
Common transition examples:
Tech to Consulting
Ops to Product Management
Army to Corporate Leadership
Finance to FinTech or VC
Social Sector to Strategy & Policy Roles
Summary – ISB PGP Career Outcomes
Metric | Value / Insight |
Avg. Salary (CTC) | INR 34.21 LPA |
Number of Offers | 1208 |
Number of Recruiters | 405 |
Career Switch Rate | 70%+ |
Top Hiring Domains | Consulting, Product, Strategy |
International Opportunities | SE Asia, Middle East, Africa |
Get a profile review for the ISB PGP from an MBA admission consultant at GOALisB.
ISB Scholarships – Types, Eligibility & Strategy
Does ISB offer scholarships?
Yes. ISB offers over 10 scholarship types across Merit, Need-Cum-Merit, Diversity, and Donor-funded categories. About 25% of the class receives some form of financial aid.
Some ISB scholarships cover up to 100% of tuition, and most merit-based waivers are automatic — no separate application required.
ISB-Supported Scholarships (No Separate Application)
Category | Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Waiver |
Merit | ISB Merit Waiver | High GMAT/GRE + profile strength | 25% – 100% |
Merit | Dean Don Jacobs Memorial Scholarship | Exceptional merit | 50% |
Merit (Women) | Prof. Manasa Mandava Memorial Scholarship | High-merit female applicant | 50% (2 tranches) |
Diversity | Merit by Diversity Waiver | Unconventional academic/career background | 25% – 100% |
Diversity | International Diversity Waiver | Foreign passport holders | 25% – 100% |
Diversity | AIESEC Waiver | Active/former AIESEC members | 25% |
Diversity | Bridge to India Waiver | Indian origin, working abroad, returning | 25% |
Diversity | Armed Forces Scholarship | Military background | 50% |
Need-Cum-Merit | ISB Need-Cum-Merit Waiver | Family income < ₹18 lakhs + essay & docs | 25% |
Donor-Funded & Alumni-Sponsored ISB Scholarships
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Value | Application |
Bajaj Auto Scholarship | Top merit applicants | 100% | Auto-considered |
Vidula Jalan Scholarship | 1 Male + 1 Female, Need-Cum-Merit | 100% | Essay + Docs |
Deepak Parayanken Waiver | Merit; 1 awardee must be female | ₹15L | Auto-considered |
Alumni Endowment Fund Waiver | Top two merit candidates | 25% | Auto-considered |
PGPMAX Co’12 Social Impact Waiver | Applicants from social sector | 25% | Essay |
Ramesh C. Khanna Nurture India Scholarship | Sole earning family member | 25% | Essay + Docs |
Indira-Vasudha Scholarship | Women relaunching careers | Up to 25% | Essay |
Jagannath Arora Scholarship | Need-based, funded by alumnus | ₹5L | Auto-considered |
Visiting Faculty Scholarship | For international students | 25% | Auto-considered |
Ishwar Prakash Agarwal Scholarship | Specially abled or women after sabbatical | ₹6L | Essay + Docs |
Note: Most donor scholarships require an essay, supporting documentation, or meet specific eligibility set by the sponsor.
Graduation Linked ISB Scholarship – Develop India
Scholarship | Who It’s For | Support Provided |
Develop India Scholarship | Graduates joining NGO, PSU, social impact | EMI support for up to 24 months |
How to Increase Your Scholarship Chances at ISB?
With the right application strategy and interview preparation you can increase your chances to get a scholarship at ISB.
Strategy | Why It Helps |
Apply in Round 1 | Maximum scholarship pool available |
Score well on GMAT Focus / GRE | Many merit waivers are tied to strong scores |
Choose the right optional essay story | Frame need, diversity, or social contribution authentically |
Prepare supporting documents early | Required for need-based or donor-funded awards |
Demonstrate leadership & clarity | Essays and recos should reflect clear impact trajectory |
Summary – ISB MBA Scholarships Overview
Category | Count | Coverage Range | Requires Separate App? |
ISB Waivers (Merit/Diversity) | 8 | 25% – 100% tuition | Mostly No |
Donor-Funded Awards | 12+ | ₹5L to Full Tuition | Some Yes (Essay/Docs) |
Graduation Waiver | 1 | EMI for 2 years | Yes |
% of Class Receiving Aid | ~25% |
GMAT/GRE Score Ranges & Test Strategy – ISB PGP 2025
What tests are accepted by ISB for PGP admissions?
ISB accepts the following standardized tests for admission to the PGP Class of 2027:
Accepted Exam | Accepted Format |
GMAT Focus Edition | Test center only |
GMAT Classic (still valid) | Test center only |
GRE | Test center only |
Note: ISB does not accept scores from online or at-home test formats. Your test score must be valid as of the application deadline of the round you apply in.
What is the GMAT Focus score range for ISB?
Section | Score Range | Middle 80% Range |
Total Score | 645 – 745 | 655 – 715 |
Verbal Reasoning | 80 – 90 | 81 – 86 |
Quantitative Reasoning | 81 – 90 | 83 – 90 |
Data Insights | 77 – 87 | 78 – 84 |
Applicants scoring above 680 in GMAT Focus are typically competitive. However, ISB evaluates applications holistically and does not publish a cut-off.
What is the GMAT Classic score range at ISB?
Section | Score Range | Middle 80% Range | Median Score |
Total Score | 620 – 780 | 690 – 750 | 720 |
Verbal | 30 – 48 | 35 – 42 | 39 |
Quantitative | 42 – 51 | 47 – 50 | 49 |
AWA | 0 – 6 | 4 – 6 | 5 |
Note: The GMAT Classic format is being phased out. Applicants testing after mid-2024 should consider the GMAT Focus Edition.
What is the GRE score range at ISB?
Section | Score Range | Middle 80% Range | Median Score |
Verbal Reasoning | 153 – 169 | 157 – 165 | 161 |
Quantitative Reasoning | 159 – 170 | 165 – 170 | 169 |
AWA | 2.5 – 5.5 | 3 – 4.5 | 4 |
The GRE is equally accepted at ISB. Applicants aiming for top outcomes should target 160+ in Verbal and 165+ in Quantitative Reasoning.
GMAT Focus vs GMAT Classic vs GRE – Which test should you choose?
Test Type | Best For |
GMAT Focus | Applicants strong in Quant; targeting consulting or finance |
GMAT Classic | Retakers using older scores still within the 5-year validity |
GRE | Applicants with strong verbal reasoning or non-technical backgrounds |
ISB does not express a preference between tests. Choose the one that allows you to demonstrate your strengths most effectively. Do you have the right GMAT score for ISB? Get in touch with an ISB admission consultant at GOALisB to discuss your stand out positioning.
ISB PGP Interview
How are ISB interviews conducted?
ISB interviews are structured to assess your alignment with the program’s core values — analytical thinking, leadership potential, and growth mindset. Interviews are by invitation only, extended to shortlisted applicants based on a holistic review of the application.
Interview Element | Details |
Mode | Virtual or in-person (depending on round and location) |
Panel | 2 to 3 members: ISB alumni, senior admissions team, or faculty |
Duration | 25 to 45 minutes |
Style | Behavioral + conversational + application-based |
Preparation Time | 3 to 7 days after receiving the invite |
Note: There are no group discussions. The interview is focused solely on your submitted profile.
Who Should Apply to ISB? Profiles That Fit
What is the eligibility criteria for ISB PGP?
To apply to the ISB Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP), you must meet the ISB eligibility criteria as below:
Criterion | Requirement |
Work Experience | Minimum 24 months full-time post-bachelor's as of application deadline |
Academic Qualification | A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline |
Test Score | A valid GMAT Focus, GMAT Classic, or GRE score (test center only) |
Language | Proficiency in English |
Application Components | Online form, essays, resume, test score, one recommendation |
What types of professionals typically get into ISB?
ISB admits a wide range of professionals with 2 to 8 years of work experience across diverse industries and roles. Meet some successful profiles who have made it to ISB.
Profile Type | Common Traits |
Engineers & Product Managers | Technical skills + desire to move into leadership roles |
Consultants | Looking to switch domains or fast-track career growth |
Finance Professionals (CAs, CFAs) | Strong quant background + aim to enter VC, fintech, or corp fin |
Entrepreneurs & Startup Leads | Seeking scale, structure, and network to grow their ventures |
Armed Forces Officers | Transitioning to civilian leadership or general management |
Public Sector or Government | Applying analytical skill sets in private/global roles |
Marketing & Brand Managers | Moving toward digital, product, or global marketing leadership |
Analytics & Tech Professionals | Switching to consulting, product, or business strategy |
What experience level is ideal for ISB PGP?
ISB values quality of experience, not just number of years. Candidates with fewer years of experience can be competitive if they show clarity, impact, and drive.
Experience Range | Admission Fit |
2 – 3 years | Strong fit if career clarity and achievements are evident |
4 – 6 years | Ideal for career switchers and leadership accelerators |
7 – 8 years | Still eligible; must show upward trajectory or industry relevance |
9+ years | May be better suited to ISB PGPMAX or IIM one-year MBAs |
ISB PGP ROI, Program Fit & Application Strategy
Is ISB worth the investment?
For professionals looking to fast-track their careers, ISB offers one of the strongest ROI propositions in India and Asia. The program condenses leadership preparation, network building, and industry access into a 12-month format. Though the ISB fees may look high the end value is definitely justified anyday.
Metric | Value (Class of 2024) |
Program Duration | 1 year |
Approx. Cost (All-In) | ₹38.5 – ₹40 lakhs |
Average Post-MBA CTC | ₹34.21 LPA |
Top 25% Post-MBA CTC | ₹46+ LPA |
Time to Break-Even | 12–18 months (average) |
Career Switch Rate | Over 70% |
In comparison to two-year MBAs in India or global MBAs abroad (which often cost ₹80L – ₹1.2 Cr), ISB offers a cost-efficient pathway to top roles in consulting, tech, finance, and strategy.
Who should avoid applying to ISB PGP?
While ISB is a strong program, it may not be the ideal fit for every applicant.
Not Ideal If... | Reason |
You have less than 24 months full-time work ex | You won’t meet eligibility |
You’re looking for a research/PhD pathway | ISB is industry-focused, not academic |
You seek a two-year campus life MBA | ISB is fast-paced, with limited internship windows |
You expect placement in the US/Europe post-MBA | ISB is best for careers in India/Southeast Asia |
In these cases, consider programs like ISB YLP (for college seniors), INSEAD or Oxford (for global mobility), or ISB PGPMAX/IIM Executive MBAs (for 10+ years experience).
What is the best time to apply to ISB?
Application Round | Best For |
Round 1 (Sep) | Strong scores, early planners, scholarship hopefuls |
Round 2 (Dec) | Retakers, career switchers with refined profiles |
Round 3 (Jan) | Exceptional or late applicants, reapplicants with improvements |
Our recommendation: Start your application prep by June–July to apply in Round 1 and maximize chances of conversion and scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions about ISB PGP
What is PGP in ISB?
The Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Management at ISB is a one-year MBA-equivalent program designed for professionals with at least two years of work experience. The curriculum is industry-focused, with an emphasis on leadership, global exposure, and career transitions.
Connect with an ISB admissions consultant at GOALisB to craft a strong application.
Is PGP equivalent to an MBA?
Yes, ISB’s PGP is globally recognized as an MBA-equivalent degree. Many ISB graduates secure leadership roles in consulting, finance, and technology, similar to traditional two-year MBA graduates.
Can an average student join ISB?
Yes, ISB evaluates applications holistically. If your GMAT/GRE score is lower, you can compensate with:
Strong work experience with leadership exposure
Well-crafted essays that highlight career clarity
Impressive interview performance
🔹 Not sure if your profile is competitive? Get a profile evaluation at GOALisB.
Does ISB accept freshers?
ISB does not accept freshers for the ISB PGP. It requires at least 2 years of work experience. Freshers can apply via Young Leaders ISB PGP YL and secure admission to the new two year MBA at ISB.
How does ISB evaluate applications?
ISB evaluates applications using a holistic profile score, which includes:
Academics: Class 12 and undergraduate GPA
Test Scores: GMAT or GRE
Work Experience: Minimum 2 years required
Essays: Career goals and self-awareness
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
Each component contributes to the final selection and scholarship decisions.
Is work experience mandatory for ISB?
Yes, ISB requires a minimum of 2 years of full-time work experience by March 31, 2025 for the ISB PGP applications.
Internships and part-time jobs do not count.
Candidates with less experience can apply via ISB PGP YL for admission to the 2 year MBA at ISB.
What is the ISB acceptance rate?
The ISB PGP acceptance rate is estimated to be 15-20%. Admissions are competitive, and ISB evaluates candidates holistically, considering GMAT/GRE scores, work experience, and career clarity.
Does ISB offer 100% placement?
ISB has one of the highest placement rates, but it does not guarantee 100% placement.
Average CTC: ₹30-35 LPA
Top recruiters: McKinsey, Amazon, Goldman Sachs
70% of students switch industries, 74% change job functions
Career transitions are supported by alumni networking, case competitions, and leadership coaching.
What is the ISB PGP fee for 2025?
The total tuition fee for ISB PGP 2025 is approximately ₹45 lakh (excluding living expenses).
Scholarships Available:
Merit-Based Scholarships: ₹8.5 - 25 lakh
Need-Based Scholarships: Available for families earning <₹18 lakh per year
Diversity Scholarships for women and underrepresented groups
Does ISB offer scholarships in all rounds?
Yes, ISB scholarships are available in all three rounds, but applying in Round 1 increases chances due to a larger scholarship pool.
100% tuition waivers possible
Scholarships based on merit, need, and diversity
Can I apply to ISB with a second MBA?
Yes, ISB accepts second MBA applicants.
Candidates must justify why a second MBA is needed.
Strong career clarity and upskilling goals improve admission chances.
Does ISB accept online GMAT scores?
No, ISB does not accept online GMAT/GRE scores. Only test-center-based GMAT or GRE scores are considered for PGP 2025 admissions.
What is the minimum GMAT score accepted at ISB?
Lowest GMAT score for ISB last admitted: 610
Median GMAT: 710-720
Median GRE for the last cycle: 330
A higher score improves scholarship chances, but a holistic profile can offset a lower score.
How does the ISB international exchange program work?
ISB has 56+ partner schools, including Kellogg, Wharton, INSEAD, and Fletcher.
Students bid for exchange slots using points.
Placements in Europe, the U.S., Australia, and Southeast Asia.
This allows students to gain global exposure and networking opportunities.
Want to maximize your chances at ISB? Get expert guidance on ISB essays, interviews, and scholarships with an ISB admissions consultant at GOALisB.
Can I request an online interview for ISB?
Yes, candidates can request an online ISB interview if they are located in a remote city or international location.
What industries recruit the most ISB graduates?
ISB placements sees strong recruitment in:
Consulting: McKinsey, BCG, Bain
Finance: Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, PE firms
Technology: Amazon, Microsoft, Google
General Management: Tata, Reliance, Aditya Birla
Around 70% of ISB graduates switch industries, leveraging ISB’s strong alumni network.
ISB Application Process & Eligibility
What is the role of undergraduate grades in ISB admissions?
ISB considers undergraduate GPA as part of the academic evaluation.
Class 10 scores are not required in the application.
More emphasis is placed on recent academic performance and professional experience.
How does ISB handle applicants with a gap year?
Gaps in work experience are not an issue, but candidates must justify them in their essays and interviews.
If a gap was taken to prepare for GMAT/GRE, candidates should explain why they needed time off.
ISB focuses on what the candidate has achieved during and after the gap.
How do re-applicants improve their ISB applications?
They must write a re-applicant essay detailing improvements since their last attempt.
Areas to improve include a higher GMAT/GRE score, better essays, leadership experience, and clearer career goals.
Past applications are not considered, meaning a fresh approach is required.
Does ISB prefer younger candidates?
No, ISB does not have an age preference.
The average age in the ISB PGP class is 26 years.
Work experience ranges from 2 to 22 years, showing ISB accepts both early-career and senior professionals.
What type of work experience is valued by ISB?
ISB values a mix of corporate, entrepreneurial, and social impact work.
Leadership roles, industry exposure, and domain expertise carry more weight than just years of experience.
Freelancing and startup experience can be considered if properly structured in the application.
What is the Experiential Learning Program (ELP) at ISB?
The Experiential Learning Program (ELP) is a live consulting project where students:
Work with real companies to solve business challenges
Gain hands-on consulting experience
Conduct market research and strategic analysis
Present their findings to company executives
Many firms use ELP as a pre-recruitment opportunity, allowing students to land job offers based on their work.
Does ISB PGP provide opportunities to participate in business competitions?
Yes, ISB PGP students participate in top B-school case competitions such as:
Amazon ACE Challenge
Google Case Challenge
HUL LIME
Mahindra War Room
P&G CEO Challenge
Flipkart WiRED
These competitions allow students to network with industry leaders.
How does the ISB PGP international exchange program work?
Outbound Exchange: ISB students can study abroad for one or two terms at a partner university.
Inbound Exchange: Students from top international business schools study at ISB, enriching classroom diversity.
Selection Process: Students bid for exchange opportunities based on their academic performance and industry focus.
What career support does ISB PGP provide?
ISB offers dedicated career services, including:
One-on-one resume reviews
Mock interviews with alumni
Placement coaching for career switchers
Industry networking events
Career Advancement Services (CAS) helps students leverage ISB’s strong recruiter network.
Get a free ISB profile evaluation from an expert at GOALisB.
Does ISB PGP offer executive coaching for career advancement?
Yes, ISB provides career coaching and mentoring through:
Industry mentors & alumni connections.
Mock interviews & resume reviews.
Placement workshops for career switchers
ISB PGP Class of 2024 Class Profile
Class Size - 845
Average GMAT - 720
Males in Class - 59%
Age Representation in Class profile
Age 22 years to 26 years - 45%
Age 26 years to 30 years - 42%
Age above 30 years - 13%
Average Age in Class - 27.09 years
Work Experience Representation in ISB PGP Class Profile 2024
2 years to 5 years - 70%
Above 5 years - 30%
Average Work Experience in class - 4.07 years
Engineers in Class - 49%
Non Engineers in Class - 51%
Industries Diversity in ISB Class of 2024
Consulting 18%
Banks, Financial Institutions 15%
IT and IT enabled Services 11%
New Age Technologies 7%
FMCG, retail 6%
Capital Goods 4%
Energy utilities, chemicals 4%
Advertising, media 4%
E Commerce 4%
Commercial and professional services 3%
Pharma, biotech 3%
Transportation and logistics 3%
Others 14%
Functional Background in ISB Class of 2024
Consulting - 14%
Sales and marketing - 13%
Finance - 13%
General Management and strategic planning - 11%
Engineering - 8%
Product Management - 8%
Analytics - 5%
Operations - 5%
Product Development - 3%
Technology - 3%
Research and development - 3%
Human Resources - 2%
In order to secure its stature with all types of companies, ISB partnered strategically with some of the most prestigious names in management education. Among them were the London Business School; MIT Sloan; Wharton at Penn; and Northwestern's Kellogg School. With their help, ISB developed a demanding and hands-on curriculum!
ISB has two campuses- one in Hyderabad and another one in Mohali. Both locations meet the same high standards that place ISB among the top Asian and global business schools. This expansion allows more students to access a premier management degree.
Maximize your chances of ISB admission success! Get in touch ISB admissions consultants.
It's worthwhile to share some applicant profiles who we have worked together with for their selection to ISB.
This will definitely exemplify that there is always a range of GMAT scores which get admitted, so GMAT alone is not a roadblock.
ISB PGP Admit: Merchant Navy Background, 3.5 years work experience.
ISB PGP Admit: Second MBA applicant.
ISB PGP Admit: Work Experience 3 years, Merchant Navy.
ISB PGP Admit with 50% Scholarship.
ISB PGP Admit: Work experience 3.5 years, Consulting, GRE 331, selected to ISB
ISB PGP Admit: IT Sector
ISB PGP Admit: Work experience 10 years, retail consulting sector.
ISB PGP Admits: International work experience, CA background, Merchant Navy, Finance Sector
ISB PGP Admits: Women Professionals - IT, Investment Banking, Oil&Gas
ISB PGP Admit: Work Experience 3.5 years, IT engineering, GMAT 750.
ISB PGP Admit: Work experience 2.5 years, financial services sector, GMAT 680, selected to ISB.
ISB PGP Admit: Work experience 8.5 years, IT sector, GMAT 720, selected to ISB.
ISB PGP Admit: Work experience 3 years, Tech Sector.
Work experience 6 years, Consulting sector, GMAT 760, selected to ISB.
Work experience 4 years, Entrepreneur, GMAT 760, selected to ISB.
Work experience 5 years, Consulting sector, GMAT 700, selected to ISB
Work experience 3.5 years, Financial services sector, GRE 327, selected to ISB
Work experience 3 years, Financial services sector, GMAT 700, selected to ISB.
Work experience 4.5 years, CA/ CS, GMAT 700, selected to ISB.
Work experience 6 years, CA, Consulting sector, GMAT 760, selected to ISB.
Work experience 5 years, IT freelancing, GMAT 330, selected to ISB.
Work experience 5 years, PSU sector, GMAT 700, selected to ISB.
Work experience ~10 years, Retail sales, GMAT 690, selected to ISB.
Work experience 6 years, IT sector, GMAT 690, selected to ISB.
Work experience 6 years, IT startup, GRE 321, selected to ISB
Work experience 3 years, public policy, GMAT 650, selected to ISB.
Work experience 5 years, Education Freelancer, GMAT 740, selected to ISB.
Work experience 5.5 years, Startup marketing, GMAT 700, selected to ISB.
Some further cases where applicants were awarded scholarships at ISB are:
Work experience 3.5 years, IT Development, GMAT 750, Full tuition fee waiver
Work experience 5 years, IT software engineering, GMAT 750, Merit Scholarship of INR 5 Lacs
Work experience 6 years, Automotive, International, GMAT 690, Diversity waiver of 14 Lacs (approx)
Work experience 2 years, GMAT 680, YLP applicant, Consulting experience, Need based waiver of INR 5 Lacs
Get in touch with an expert at GOALisB to discuss your chances at the ISB MBA.
Comprehensive ISB Resource Guide
ISB Application Essentials
Expert advice on writing ISB essays that reflect your goals and aspirations.
Step-by-Step Guide to ISB Admissions
Learn about the stages of the ISB admissions process.
Completing the ISB Application
A comprehensive guide to the ISB application process.
Answers to frequently asked questions on ISB admissions.
Eligibility for ISB’s MBA Program
Review ISB’s eligibility criteria to see if you’re a match.
