Indian Institute of Management Lucknow
(IIM Lucknow)Last Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Established
1984
Campus Size
195.00 Acres
Total Students
900
Faculty
90
Student-Faculty
10:1
IIM Lucknow Admissions: Process, Eligibility, and Selection Criteria
IIM Lucknow is one of India's premier management institutions, offering postgraduate management programs through a rigorous merit-based selection process. The primary pathway for admission to IIM Lucknow's MBA program is through the Common Admission Test (CAT), a national-level examination conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management. Candidates who qualify in the CAT are shortlisted based on their performance, after which they undergo a comprehensive selection process that includes a personal interview, group discussion, and evaluation of their academic profile. The institute considers multiple parameters including CAT percentile, past academic record, work experience, and interview performance to ensure a diverse and talented cohort.
To be eligible for IIM Lucknow's MBA program, candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university. The institute welcomes applications from candidates across all academic backgrounds—engineering, commerce, arts, or science. There is no specific academic specialization requirement, making IIM Lucknow accessible to candidates from diverse educational streams. Work experience is not mandatory for admission, though the institute values candidates with professional exposure and business acumen.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management and is the primary entrance exam for IIM Lucknow admissions. The CAT exam is held annually and tests candidates on quantitative ability, data interpretation, logical reasoning, and verbal ability. Candidates are advised to visit IIM Lucknow's official website for the most current information on admission criteria, application timelines, examination dates, and program-specific details. The admission process is highly competitive, and candidates should prepare thoroughly to succeed in this premier selection process.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates aspiring for MBA admission at IIM Lucknow must hold a Bachelor's degree in any discipline with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates). The degree should be recognized by the Government of India. Candidates appearing in their final year of Bachelor's programme are also eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of degree completion before the stipulated deadline.
CAT (Common Admission Test) score is mandatory for all applicants. Candidates must achieve the minimum percentile cutoff set by IIM Lucknow, which typically varies based on category and program. While not strictly required, relevant work experience can strengthen the application profile during the Personal Interview stage.
PGDM program candidates follow the same eligibility criteria as MBA. Applicants from all academic backgrounds—engineering, commerce, humanities, and sciences—are encouraged to apply. Meeting the academic eligibility does not guarantee admission; final selection is based on overall merit including CAT performance, academic record, work experience (if any), and interview performance.
Application Process
Register for the CAT (Common Admission Test) entrance exam and submit application during notification period
Appear for CAT entrance exam conducted by IIMs
Meet the minimum CAT percentile cutoff and get shortlisted by IIM Lucknow
Participate in Group Discussion (GD) round to assess communication and analytical skills
Attend Personal Interview (PI) with admissions panel to evaluate profile and motivation
Submit final selection based on CAT score, GD, PI performance, and academic profile
Complete document verification and fulfill admission requirements
Register for the program and complete fee payment to confirm admission
Important Admission Dates 2026
| Event | Programme | Date |
|---|---|---|
| CAT Notification Release | MBA, PGDM | July 2026 |
| CAT Application Registration Deadline | MBA, PGDM | September 2026 |
| CAT Entrance Exam Date | MBA, PGDM | November 2026 |
| CAT Results Announcement | MBA, PGDM | January 2027 |
| Shortlist Announcement | MBA, PGDM | January 2027 |
| Group Discussion and Personal Interview | MBA, PGDM | February–March 2027 |
| Final Merit List Declaration | MBA, PGDM | April 2027 |
| Counselling and Seat Allocation | MBA, PGDM | April–May 2027 |
| Document Verification | All Programmes | May 2027 |
| Program Commencement | MBA, PGDM | June 2027 |
Seat Matrix
| Course | Total Seats | Duration | Admission Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA | 460 | 2 Years | Entrance Exam |
| PGDM | 280 | 2 Years | CAT + Interview |
Latest Cutoff Summary
| Exam | Course | Category | Closing Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAT | - | General | - |
| CAT | - | OBC-NCL | - |
| CAT | - | SC | - |
| CAT | - | ST | - |
| CAT | - | EWS | - |