Author: shastraedu

A recent report highlights the most competitive MBA programs globally, with Stanford Graduate School of Business leading due to its 6.9% acceptance rate and high GMAT scores (average 737). Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan follow, demanding exceptional academic and professional credentials. European schools like INSEAD and London Business School also rank high, with rigorous selection processes. Key factors include low acceptance rates, high average GMAT scores, and strong work experience. Aspiring applicants must showcase leadership, academic excellence, and unique profiles to stand out in these elite programs, where competition remains fierce.

Several prestigious Indian business schools, including IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, and the Indian School of Business (ISB), accept GMAT scores for MBA admissions. These institutions, ranked highly by QS and Financial Times, require scores typically between 650-720. SPJIMR Mumbai and XLRI Jamshedpur also admit students via GMAT. Over 140 Indian B-schools, offering programs like PGP and Executive MBA, accept GMAT, attracting both freshers and professionals. GMAT’s five-year score validity offers flexibility for applicants aiming for world-class management education.

Indian students from Tier 2 and 3 cities are driving a surge in GMAT registrations, contributing 25% of total registrations, with cities like Jaipur and Pune leading the charge. According to GMAC’s regional director, Gaurav Srivastava, GMAT takers in India have grown over 20%, with 35,000 tests annually. While the US remains the top destination for Indian business school aspirants, interest in studying in India is rising. Specialized programs in Data Analytics, Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship are gaining traction, reflecting industry demand.

New Zealand has emerged as a top choice for Indian students seeking international education, driven by its world-class universities, affordable tuition, and welcoming environment. The country’s post-study work visa, offering up to three years of employment opportunities, enhances its appeal. With a focus on fields like technology, engineering, and healthcare, New Zealand provides a safe, multicultural setting and globally recognized degrees. Streamlined visa processes and a high quality of life further attract Indian students, with over 10,000 currently enrolled, making it a preferred destination for academic and career growth.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) has been ranked No. 1 in Asia and 23rd globally in the Financial Times (FT) Executive Education Custom Ranking 2025, improving from 26th in 2024. ISB’s consistent performance in the FT rankings over the past decade highlights its leadership in executive education. The institute excels in delivering tailored programs for organizations, emphasizing future readiness, leadership skills, and digital transformation. ISB also ranks 7th globally in the open enrolment category, reinforcing its strong global presence in both custom and open executive education programs.

Ivy League MBA programs in 2025 demand high GMAT scores for admission. Harvard Business School’s median is 740 (range: 700–770), Wharton and Columbia average 732 (Wharton’s 80% range: 710–760), and Yale’s median is 725 (690–760). A strong overall profile, including essays and work experience, can compensate for lower scores, but competitive GMAT results remain critical for success. Recent trends show rising medians due to increased competition. Students should aim for the upper range, strengthen holistic application components for better results.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) welcomes the PGP Class of 2026 as orientation for the 2025-26 academic year kicks off on April 4, 2025, across its Hyderabad and Mohali campuses. This vibrant week introduces students to ISB’s rigorous curriculum, faculty, and diverse community. Packed with workshops, networking events, and team-building activities, the orientation sets the stage for a transformative MBA journey, fostering leadership and innovation.

It’s fascinating to see how the GMAT is gaining traction in India, with a 20% jump in test-takers in early 2025. That shift toward domestic MBA programs—53% of candidates choosing Indian B-schools in 2023-24, up from 41%—really highlights a growing confidence in what these institutions offer.Institutions like IIM Mumbai, with its stellar 2025 placement results, showcase the growing appeal of GMAT-accepting programs in India.The trend suggests students are opting for Indian institutions for their world-class business education.

The GMAT Focus Edition remains crucial for MBA admissions, assessing quantitative, verbal, and data insights. Registration for GMAT 2025 is open on mba.com, with varying test dates. The 2025 Financial Times Global MBA Rankings placed Wharton at the top, while Harvard saw a record-low ranking due to lower employment rates. IIM Bangalore ranked 57th globally, reflecting India’s growing MBA appeal. A GMAC survey noted more Indian students choosing domestic MBAs. Some programs now waive GMAT requirements, prioritizing work experience and interviews for admissions.

A GMAC survey reveals a growing trend of Indian GMAT test-takers opting for MBA programs in India over abroad. Factors include cost-effectiveness, strong ROI, and global recognition of top Indian B-schools like IIMs and ISB. The pandemic further accelerated this shift, with students prioritizing affordability and proximity. This trend highlights the rising quality of Indian business education and its ability to compete globally, reflecting a significant change in preferences among Indian MBA aspirants.

The Supreme Court’s ruling against affirmative action has intensified scrutiny of legacy admissions in Ivy League schools. Critics argue that these preferences reinforce privilege, while universities claim financial benefits. Studies, however, challenge this justification. With public opposition rising—75% of Americans disapprove—more colleges are dropping legacy admissions, fueling the debate on fairness in higher education.

The GMAT Exam (Focus Edition) has a new scoring system, ranging from 205 to 805, unlike the previous edition’s 200-800 scale. This change reflects a broader range of test-takers and aims for a more even distribution of scores. For comparison, a 645 on the Focus Edition is roughly equivalent to a 700 on the older (10th Edition) exam. While the new scores might appear lower, business schools are aware of this adjustment and will focus on percentile rankings rather than the raw score when evaluating candidates.

Over 75% of MBA and business master’s programs now incorporate AI into their curricula, focusing on business ethics, decision-making, practical applications, and strategy, according to GMAC. Since the rise of generative AI, spurred by ChatGPT in 2022, business schools have addressed growing student demand for AI education. GMAC surveys show 40% of prospective students prioritize AI in their studies, while employers predict AI competencies will be vital in five years, highlighting the evolving synergy between education and industry needs.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) is introducing a new 20-month management program designed for recent graduates and those with limited work experience (up to two years). This program, launching in July 2025, will align ISB’s offerings more closely with traditional two-year programs offered by IIMs. With a fee exceeding 29 lakhs, it will be a substantial investment for aspiring managers.

GMAT testing volume has risen, driven by India’s 20.1% growth (4,500+ test takers) and the U.S.’s 6.1% increase (1,500+ test takers). Emerging markets like Uzbekistan showed notable growth, while Western Europe grew 6.0%, led by Germany (+242) and Sweden (+198), despite a slight decline in the UK (-94). Over half of tests in Europe used the new GMAT format.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is crucial for most MBA programs in India, but some, like IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP), don’t require it. This one-year MBA for professionals with 5-12 years of experience focuses on core management skills. Admission is based on GMAT/GRE scores, academic performance, work experience, and an interview. Prepare for GMAT/GRE by understanding the format, studying strategically, and practicing consistently.

The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has officially opened applications for its 2026–28 Blended Post Graduate Programme in Management (BPGP), aimed at working professionals and global entrepreneurs seeking to advance their careers without leaving their jobs. The two-year blended MBA combines 80% live online learning with 20% immersive, week-long on-campus modules, delivered through IIMA’s technology partner, VCNow. The curriculum emphasizes case studies, simulations, group projects, and strategic decision-making to develop leadership skills and cross-functional judgment. Admissions will follow IIMA’s standard evaluation process, considering academic records, professional experience, career goals, and aptitude test performance. Applications are now open via the official IIMA portal.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode has officially declared the CAT 2025 results on December 24, 2025, on the CAT official website iimcat.ac.in, with scorecards accessible for download using registered credentials. Around 2.58 lakh candidates who appeared for the November 30 exam can now check their scaled scores and percentiles online.
Notably, 12 candidates achieved 100 percentile, including 2 females and several from non-engineering backgrounds. Scorecards include sectional and overall scaled scores, percentiles, valid until December 31, 2026. Aspirants can access them directly via the portal for MBA admissions 2026.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 results are expected to be declared today at 6 PM, by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode. Candidates who appeared for the exam held on November 30, 2025, can check and download their scorecards from the official website once the link goes live. The result announcement will enable MBA aspirants to proceed with shortlisting and interview rounds for admissions into IIMs and other top B-schools.

IIM Kozhikode is expected to publish the provisional CAT 2025 answer key along with individual response sheets in the first week of December — most likely between December 5 and December 8, 2025. Once released, candidates can log in at iimcat.ac.in using their credentials to download a PDF listing responses they marked. Once released, students can compare their marked responses with the official answer key to estimate raw scores and predict percentiles ahead of the final result. If there’s a discrepancy, there will also be provision to raise objections after payment of the requisite fee.

The final countdown for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 has officially begun, with less than two days remaining until the exam on Sunday, November 30th. Aspirants for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools are advised to switch focus from learning new material to final revision. Experts recommend concentrating on short notes, formulas, and mock test analysis. Crucially, candidates must ensure their Admit Card and a valid photo ID are ready. Prioritize getting adequate sleep and staying calm. Focus on a clear mindset and maintaining composure, as these factors will be key to success on exam day.

In a stellar achievement, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) wrapped up summer internships for its PGP and PGP-BA 2025-27 batch, placing all 601 students— the largest cohort among IIMs—from October 13-18, 2025. A whopping 137 companies, including 30% first-timers, extended offers, with consulting leading at a record 46% (up from 38% last year), spearheaded by Accenture Strategy’s unprecedented 132 roles. Healthcare surged 70% to 23 offers, while investment banking, e-commerce, and FMCG saw robust hiring from giants like BCG, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, and Unilever. IIM Bangalore says the outcomes reflect strong industry engagement and improving student readiness for competitive roles.

Last Chance! CAT 2025 registration closes today, at 5:00 PM IST. Originally set for September 13, the deadline was extended to September 20 to give candidates more time, but officials have confirmed no further extensions will be granted. Candidates aspiring for admission to IIMs and top B-schools must complete their applications before the deadline. The exam is scheduled for November 30, 2025, and admit cards will be released on November 5, 2025. Don’t miss the opportunity — register now on the official website

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode has extended the registration deadline for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 to September 20, 2025, giving candidates an extra week to apply. Originally set to close on September 13, the new deadline allows aspirants more time to complete their applications on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Candidates are urged to submit accurate details and required documents, including academic records and identification, before the deadline to secure their chance at top MBA programs.

India’s premier B-schools, including IIMs and non-IIMs like FMS and SPJIMR, have outlined final admission weightages for their 2026-28 MBA programs via CAT 2025. CAT scores hold 25-50% weight, with IIM Ahmedabad and FMS emphasizing interviews (up to 60%) and academics, respectively. IIM Calcutta and Lucknow prioritize diversity, allotting 5-6% for non-engineers and females. MDI Gurgaon includes sports and regional diversity (2.5% each). Aspirants should aim for 95+ percentiles, bolster resumes, and prepare for WAT/PI to secure seats.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow has announced its MBA admission policy for the 2026-28 batch, assigning 30% weightage to CAT 2025 scores. The selection process involves two stages: shortlisting for Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) based on CAT percentiles, academic performance, and diversity factors, followed by final selection. Class 12 and graduation marks each carry 5% weightage, while work experience and diversity factors contribute 5% each. CAT 2025, scheduled for November 30, will shortlist candidates for WAT-PI by late January 2026, with the final merit list announced in May 2026.

The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have officially opened registration for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025. you can now apply online at the official CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) until September 15, 2025. CAT 2025 exam is scheduled for November 30, 2025, in three sessions across 170 test centres. Register as soon as possible to avoid any last minute complications.

The CAT 2025 advertisement has been published in several newspapers in multiple languages across the country
The Indian Institutes of Management will conduct a computer-based Common Admission Test 2025 (CAT 2025) on November 30, 2025 in three sessions. Detailed information on CAT 2025 may be obtained from the CAT website.
Important Dates for CAT 2025:

• Registration opens: August 01, 2025 (10:00 am)
• Registration closes: September 13, 2025 (5:00 pm)
• Admit card download: November 05-November 30, 2025
• Test Date: November 30, 2025
• Result declaration: First week of January, 2026 (Tentative)

A notable shift is occurring in India’s premier business schools, with non-engineering students increasingly securing spots in institutions traditionally dominated by engineers. According to recent data, IIM Ahmedabad’s 2023-25 batch includes 20% non-engineers, up from 15% in prior years, reflecting a broader trend across top B-schools. This change stems from evolving admission criteria that value diverse academic backgrounds, such as commerce and humanities, alongside strong CAT scores and soft skills. By prioritizing holistic profiles, B-schools aim to foster richer classroom discussions and diverse perspectives, reshaping the landscape of management education.

IIM Bangalore welcomed the new batches of its Post Graduate Programme (PGP) and Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) for 2025-27 with a week-long orientation. The event included interactive sessions, leadership talks, and networking opportunities to help students acclimate to campus life. Faculty and industry experts shared insights on academic rigor and future career prospects. The orientation aimed to foster camaraderie and prepare students for the challenges ahead. The programme highlights IIMB’s commitment to holistic development, blending academic excellence with real-world business exposure.

IIM Bangalore welcomed the new batches of its Post Graduate Programme (PGP) and Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) for 2025-27 with a week-long orientation. The event included interactive sessions, leadership talks, and networking opportunities to help students acclimate to campus life. Faculty and industry experts shared insights on academic rigor and future career prospects. The orientation aimed to foster camaraderie and prepare students for the challenges ahead. The programme highlights IIMB’s commitment to holistic development, blending academic excellence with real-world business exposure.

The IIM Common Admission Process (CAP) 2025 results for newer IIMs, including Bodh Gaya, Jammu, Kashipur, Nagpur, Ranchi, Sirmaur, Trichy, and Udaipur, were released in second week May, accessible at cap2025.iimbg.ac.in. Merit lists reflect CAT 2024 scores, WAT, PI, and diversity factors. IIM Indore has issued provisional offers for PGP and PGP-HRM, with waitlist updates pending (iimidr.ac.in). IIM Kashipur have announced MBA and MBA (Analytics) results for 2025-27, available at iimkashipur.ac.in. Candidates are advised to monitor official websites for updates.

​The final results for IIM admissions 2025-27, based on CAT 2024, are rolling out. IIM Ahmedabad announced results on April 16, followed by IIM Bangalore on April 21. IIM Calcutta and Lucknow are expected by May 1 and May 8, respectively. CAP IIMs (Bodh Gaya, Raipur, etc.) released results on May 10. Approximately 385 seats were filled at IIM Ahmedabad, with others following suit. Candidates can check status on IIM websites or the CAP portal. Waitlist movements are ongoing, with offer letters sent via email.

​The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai has achieved a 100% placement rate for its 2025 batch. The highest salary package reached ₹47.5 lakh per annum (LPA), with the top 20% of students securing an average salary of ₹41.2 LPA. The placement drive saw participation from 198 companies, marking a 10% increase in job offers compared to the previous year. Notably, there was a 130% surge in job offers from the pharma and healthcare sectors, and a 47.73% increase in the retail and e-commerce sectors. Top recruiters included Accenture, PwC India, and PwC US Advisory.

IIM Bangalore’s 2023-25 placement season concluded successfully, with over 650 offers extended to students. Consulting emerged as the top sector, attracting a significant number of candidates. Notable recruiters included Accenture Strategy, which made 75 offers, and Boston Consulting Group, with 25 offers. Other prominent firms participating were TCS Management and several leading banks. The robust placement outcomes underscore IIM Bangalore’s strong industry ties and the high employability of its graduates.

IIM Ahmedabad has achieved 100% placement for its MBA-PGP 2024-25 batch. Top recruiters spanned consulting, finance, and tech sectors, offering diverse roles. The three-cluster placement process ensured high-profile job offers. This success reaffirms IIMA’s position as a premier B-school, attracting top talent and recruiters alike.

IIM Ahmedabad has achieved 100% placement for its MBA-PGP 2024-25 batch. Top recruiters spanned consulting, finance, and tech sectors, offering diverse roles. The three-cluster placement process ensured high-profile job offers. This success reaffirms IIMA’s position as a premier B-school, attracting top talent and recruiters alike.

Get ready! CAT 2025 is coming! Mark your calendars for the last Sunday of November, the 30th, as the potential exam date. The official notification from IIM Kozhikode, the expected administering body, is anticipated in July 2025. Over 400,000 candidates are projected to participate in the examination, which serves as the entry point for the 21 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other leading business schools.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya closed the registration for the MBA Common Admission Process (CAP) 2025 on January 23, 2025. The CAP 2025 process involves shortlisting candidates based on their CAT scores, followed by a Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). The final selection considers academic performance, work experience, and performance in the WAT and PI. The interviews will be conducted offline in multiple cities, including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, providing candidates with an opportunity to showcase their skills and secure admission to participating IIMs.

IIM Ahmedabad has released its PI shortlist for the 2025-2027 batch. CAT 2024 qualifiers who chose IIM Ahmedabad in their application can now check their status and apply via the institute’s website. Candidates meeting the 80 percentile CAT cut-off (final cut-offs typically 98-100 percentile) qualify for the PI round. With CAT 2024 results announced on December 19, other IIMs, including Calcutta, Lucknow, and Kozhikode, have also initiated their PI shortlisting and registration processes.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Rohtak has announced the MBA admission criteria 2025. As per the IIM Rohtak admission criteria 2025, CAT scores have been allotted 60% weightage. As per IIM Rohtak admission policy 2025, final selection will be based on CAT 2024 score, Personal Interview (PI), academic record and gender diversity.

CAT 2024 toppers list has been released by IIMCAT today. A total of 14 candidates have scored 100 percentile in CAT 2024. 29 candidates have score 99.99 percentile and 30 candidates have scored 99.98 percentile. CAT 2024 result has been announced today.

To ensure you can access your results smoothly, please take note of the following:
Password Issues: The CAT website is currently prompting users to change their passwords. Be aware that the new password requirements may be restrictive. It’s highly recommended to change your password now and keep it handy for easy login later.
Website Traffic: In the past, the CAT website has experienced crashes due to high traffic after results announcements. To avoid delays, try checking your results as early as possible. Good luck!