Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
(IIM Bangalore)Last Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Established
1973
Campus Size
100.00 Acres
Total Students
1,300
Faculty
140
Student-Faculty
9:1
IIM Bangalore MBA Admissions: Eligibility and CAT Requirements
The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore offers flagship MBA programs with admission primarily through the Common Admission Test (CAT). Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university in any discipline to be eligible for the IIM Bangalore MBA program. The selection process is rigorous and merit-based, with CAT score forming a crucial component of the evaluation.
The admission process at IIM Bangalore involves multiple stages following CAT performance. Shortlisted candidates are called for a Written Ability Test (WAT), followed by Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. The institute evaluates candidates holistically, considering their academic background, work experience, entrance examination performance, and overall profile during these assessment rounds. Admission decisions are based on a composite score derived from CAT performance, WAT score, GD evaluation, PI assessment, and past academic credentials.
IIM Bangalore releases its official admission timeline and important dates on its website (www.iimb.ac.in), typically including CAT registration deadlines, application submission windows, and interview schedules. Prospective MBA applicants are advised to regularly check the official website for the latest admission notifications and enrollment deadlines. The institute maintains high admission standards, attracting candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds across India and internationally.
Eligibility Criteria
MBA Programme: Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university in any discipline. A valid CAT (Common Admission Test) score is mandatory for Indian nationals. The institute considers CAT percentile, undergraduate academic performance, work experience (if any), and performance in group discussions and interviews for shortlisting and final selection.
Executive MBA Programme: Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree from a recognized university along with a minimum of 2-3 years of post-graduation work experience. A valid CAT or GMAT score is required. The programme emphasizes professional maturity and managerial potential alongside academic credentials.
All applicants must meet character and conduct standards set by the institute. Final selection is merit-based, considering overall performance across entrance examination, essays, group discussions, and personal interviews.
Application Process
Register and apply for the MBA or Executive MBA program through IIM Bangalore's official portal
Appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT) in November/December (for MBA candidates)
Submit CAT score, academic records, and other required documents as part of the application
Undergo shortlisting based on CAT percentile, academic profile, and work experience
Complete an essay writing round if shortlisted for further evaluation
Participate in Group Discussion (GD) round to assess communication and analytical skills
Attend Personal Interview (PI) with IIM faculty to evaluate overall fit and motivation
Receive final admission offer based on aggregate performance across all rounds
Important Admission Dates 2026
| Event | Programme | Date |
|---|---|---|
| CAT Entrance Exam | MBA | November/December 2025 |
| MBA Application Registration Opens | MBA | December 2025 |
| Last Date for MBA Application Submission | MBA | January 2026 |
| Shortlist Announcement | MBA | February 2026 |
| Essay Writing and Group Discussion Rounds | MBA | February/March 2026 |
| Personal Interview Rounds | MBA | March/April 2026 |
| Final Selection List Release | MBA | April 2026 |
| Executive MBA Application Opens | Executive MBA | To be announced |
| Admission Confirmation and Fee Payment | All Programmes | May/June 2026 |
Seat Matrix
| Course | Total Seats | Duration | Admission Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA | 420 | 2 Years | Entrance Exam |
| Executive MBA | 50 | 1 Years | Entrance Exam |
Latest Cutoff Summary
| Exam | Course | Category | Closing Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAT | - | General | - |
| CAT | - | OBC-NCL | - |
| CAT | - | SC | - |