Choosing the right one-year executive MBA program is a critical decision for mid-career professionals seeking to accelerate their careers or pivot into new industries.
Among the top options in India, the Indian School of Business (ISB) and the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) — namely IIM Ahmedabad (MBA-PGPX), IIM Bangalore (EPGP), and IIM Calcutta (MBA Ex) — offer exceptional programs designed to meet the needs of experienced professionals.
While these programs share similarities in structure and goals, they also differ in admissions criteria, curriculum, fees, class profiles, placement opportunities, and more. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide clarity on these programs, helping you make an informed choice based on your career aspirations and personal preferences.
ISB vs IIM: Admissions Process
The admissions processes for the one-year executive MBA programs at ISB and the top IIMs—namely IIM Ahmedabad’s MBA-PGPX, IIM Bangalore’s EPGP, and IIM Calcutta’s MBA Ex—are designed to select candidates with substantial professional experience and strong academic backgrounds.
Indian School of Business (ISB) – PGP
ISB’s Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline and a minimum of two years of full-time work experience. Candidates must submit valid GMAT or GRE scores as part of their application. The selection process evaluates academic performance, professional experience, test scores, essays, and interviews. Applicants are also required to provide a statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation.
IIM Ahmedabad – MBA-PGPX
The MBA-PGPX program at IIM Ahmedabad is tailored for executives with substantial work experience. Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and have at least four years of full-time work experience after graduation. A valid GMAT or GRE score is mandatory. The selection process involves a rigorous evaluation of academic credentials, professional experience, test scores, and personal interviews. Additionally, candidates must submit essays and letters of recommendation.
IIM Bangalore – EPGP
IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) seeks candidates with a strong academic background and significant professional experience. Eligibility criteria include a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks and at least five years (preferably less than twelve years) of work experience as of March 31, 2025. Applicants must provide valid GMAT or GRE scores. The admission process assesses academic performance, quality of work experience, test scores, a statement of purpose, and two letters of reference. Shortlisted candidates undergo a personal interview as part of the final selection.
IIM Calcutta – MBA Ex
The MBA for Executives Programme (MBA Ex) at IIM Calcutta is designed for professionals with at least five years of full-time post-qualification managerial or professional experience. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (minimum 10+2+3 years of formal education) or equivalent in any discipline. A valid GMAT score, taken within the last 36 months of the application date, is required. The selection process evaluates academic background, professional experience, GMAT score, personal interviews, statement of purpose, and recommendations.
| Parameter | ISB PGP | IIM Ahmedabad MBA-PGPX | IIM Bangalore EPGP | IIM Calcutta MBA Ex |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required in any discipline | Required in any discipline | Required with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) | Required (minimum 10+2+3 years of formal education) |
| Work Experience | Minimum 2 years | Minimum 4 years | Minimum 5 years (preferably less than 12 years) | Minimum 5 years |
| Test Scores Accepted | GMAT/GRE | GMAT/GRE | GMAT/GRE | GMAT |
| Additional Requirements | Statement of purpose, 2 letters of recommendation | Essays, letters of recommendation | Statement of purpose, 2 letters of reference | Statement of purpose, recommendations |
| Selection Process | Evaluation of academic performance, professional experience, test scores, essays, interviews | Evaluation of academic credentials, professional experience, test scores, personal interviews | Assessment of academic performance, quality of work experience, test scores, interviews | Assessment of academic background, professional experience, GMAT score, interviews |
Each institution has a comprehensive admissions process aimed at selecting candidates who demonstrate strong academic capabilities, significant professional achievements, and leadership potential. Prospective applicants should carefully review the specific requirements and deadlines of each program to ensure a successful application.
ISB vs IIM: Programs Structure
The one-year executive MBA programs at ISB, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta are meticulously structured to provide experienced professionals with a comprehensive and intensive management education.
Indian School of Business (ISB) – PGP
ISB’s Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) spans 12 months and is divided into eight terms. The curriculum begins with core courses that establish a solid foundation in management principles, covering areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategy. As the program progresses, students can choose from a wide array of electives, allowing them to tailor their learning to specific interests and career goals. A distinctive feature of ISB’s PGP is the Experiential Learning Programme (ELP), where students engage in real-world projects with organizations, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application.
IIM Ahmedabad – MBA-PGPX
The MBA-PGPX at IIM Ahmedabad is a one-year, full-time residential program designed for executives with substantial work experience. The program is structured into four segments: Induction, Building Blocks, Preparation for Top Management, and Integrative Courses. This progression ensures a holistic development of managerial competencies, starting with fundamental concepts and advancing to strategic decision-making and leadership skills. The curriculum emphasizes case-based learning, a hallmark of IIM Ahmedabad, fostering analytical thinking and practical problem-solving abilities.
IIM Bangalore – EPGP
IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) is a rigorous one-year, full-time program aimed at professionals with significant work experience. The course structure comprises core courses that cover essential management disciplines, followed by a selection of electives that enable students to specialize in areas aligned with their career aspirations. A unique aspect of the EPGP is the International Immersion module, which exposes students to global business environments and practices, enhancing their international perspective.
IIM Calcutta – MBA Ex
The MBA for Executives Programme (MBA Ex) at IIM Calcutta is a one-year residential program tailored for mid-career professionals. The curriculum is divided into six terms, each comprising compulsory courses that build a robust foundation in management. As the program advances, students have the opportunity to select electives across various disciplines, allowing for customization based on individual interests. IIM Calcutta’s pedagogy emphasizes analytical rigor and case-based learning, equipping students with critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Summary
| Institution | Program Name | Duration | Structure | Unique Features |
| ISB | PGP | 12 months | 8 terms: Core courses followed by electives | Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) with real-world projects |
| IIM Ahmedabad | MBA-PGPX | 12 months | 4 segments: Induction, Building Blocks, Preparation for Top Management, Integrative Courses | Emphasis on case-based learning |
| IIM Bangalore | EPGP | 12 months | Core courses and electives | International Immersion module for global exposure |
| IIM Calcutta | MBA Ex | 12 months | 6 terms: Compulsory courses and electives | Focus on analytical rigor and case-based learning |
Each of these programs is designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in leadership roles, with distinct features catering to diverse learning preferences and career objectives.
ISB vs IIM: Fees and Scholarships
When considering one-year executive MBA programs in India, it’s essential to evaluate the financial investment required for each institution. Below is a detailed comparison of the fees and available scholarships for the programs at the Indian School of Business (ISB), IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta.
Indian School of Business (ISB) – PGP
ISB’s Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) has a comprehensive fee structure that includes tuition, accommodation, and related expenses. The total program fee is approximately ₹40,00,000. ISB offers a range of scholarships to support deserving candidates, including merit-based, need-based, and diversity scholarships. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden for students.
IIM Ahmedabad – MBA-PGPX
The MBA-PGPX program at IIM Ahmedabad has a fee structure that varies based on accommodation preferences. For the 2025-26 batch, the program fee is ₹34,15,000 for Single Accommodation (SSH) and ₹36,20,000 for Married Student Housing (MSH). This fee covers tuition, course materials, and other academic expenses. Additionally, there is a refundable caution deposit of ₹35,000 for SSH and ₹70,000 for MSH. The institute provides options for fee payment in installments to ease the financial planning for students.
IIM Bangalore – EPGP
IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) has a program fee of ₹31,90,000, which includes tuition, course materials, and access to campus facilities. The institute offers several scholarships to support students financially. The Merit Scholarship – Admission is awarded to top-ranking students based on the overall admission score, providing ₹6,00,000, disbursed in two installments. The Merit cum Means – Admission scholarship targets diversity groups and offers ₹5,00,000, also disbursed in two installments. Additionally, a Merit scholarship during the program awards ₹3,00,000 to students who achieve top ranks based on their CGPA at the end of Term 2.
IIM Calcutta – MBA Ex
The MBA for Executives Programme (MBA Ex) at IIM Calcutta has a program fee of ₹31,00,000 for the academic year 2024-25, payable in four installments. This fee encompasses tuition, books, and other academic materials. Additionally, a commitment fee of ₹2,00,000 is required at the time of acceptance, which is part of the total program fee. A refundable security deposit of ₹60,000 is also required, payable along with the second installment.
Summary
| Institution | Program Name | Total Fees (₹) | Scholarships Available |
| ISB | PGP | ~40,00,000 | Merit-based, need-based, diversity scholarships |
| IIM Ahmedabad | MBA-PGPX | 34,15,000 – 36,20,000 | Installment payment options available |
| IIM Bangalore | EPGP | 31,90,000 | Merit and merit-cum-means scholarships ranging from ₹3,00,000 to ₹6,00,000 |
| IIM Calcutta | MBA Ex | 31,00,000 | Information on scholarships not specified |
Prospective students need to consider both the financial investment and the potential return on investment when choosing an executive MBA program. Additionally, exploring available scholarships and financial aid options can help alleviate the financial burden and make the programs more accessible.
IIM vs ISB: Placements
When evaluating the one-year executive MBA programs at ISB, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta, it’s essential to consider the placement opportunities and career outcomes associated with each institution.
Indian School of Business (ISB) – PGP
ISB’s Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) has consistently demonstrated strong placement performance. According to the ISB Placement Report 2023, the institution achieved a 100% placement rate, with a significant number of students receiving multiple offers. The average accepted annual salary stood at ₹34.21 lakhs, reflecting the program’s robust industry connections and the high demand for its graduates. Prominent recruiters spanned various sectors, including consulting, technology, finance, and healthcare, with companies such as McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Amazon, and Microsoft among the top employers.
IIM Ahmedabad – MBA-PGPX
The MBA-PGPX program at IIM Ahmedabad is renowned for its exceptional placement outcomes. The audited placement report for the 2024 batch indicates that out of 147 students eligible for placements, 126 accepted offers, while 21 students opted out of the placement process. The median salary for domestic placements was ₹36.00 lakhs, with the top quartile earning a median of ₹44.00 lakhs. International placements offered a median salary of $110,000. The program attracted a diverse range of recruiters, including leading firms in the consulting, finance, and technology sectors.
IIM Bangalore – EPGP
IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) has demonstrated impressive placement statistics. For the 2023-24 cohort, the median salary was reported at ₹33.00 lakhs, with an average salary of ₹34.33 lakhs. The program saw participation from 29 companies, extending 70 offers to a class size of 75 students. Notably, sectors such as consulting and IT were prominent recruiters, with companies like Accenture and Genpact making multiple offers.
IIM Calcutta – MBA Ex
The MBA for Executives Programme (MBA Ex) at IIM Calcutta has also showcased strong placement performance. For the 17th batch, comprising 67 students who availed placements, the average (mean) CTC was ₹32.68 lakhs per annum, with a median CTC of ₹32.27 lakhs. The highest CTC offered was ₹52.00 lakhs per annum. The cohort received a total of 68 offers, with recruiters spanning various industries, including consulting, finance, and IT. Notable recruiters included Accenture, Genpact, Infosys, and Persistent.
Summary
| Business School | Average Salary (₹ lakhs per annum) | Median Salary (₹ lakhs per annum) | Top Recruiting Sectors | Notable Recruiters |
| ISB PGP | 34.21 | 32.00 | Consulting, Technology, Finance, Healthcare | McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Amazon, Microsoft |
| IIM Ahmedabad MBA-PGPX | 31.79 | 30.00 | Consulting, Finance, Technology | Not specified |
| IIM Bangalore EPGP | 34.33 | 33.00 | Consulting, IT | Accenture, Genpact |
| IIM Calcutta MBA Ex | 32.68 | 32.27 | Consulting, Finance, IT | Accenture, Genpact, Infosys, Persistent |
Each of these premier institutions offers robust placement support and attracts a diverse range of recruiters, ensuring that graduates have access to lucrative career opportunities across various sectors.
ISB vs IIM: Class Profile
When evaluating the one-year executive MBA programs at ISB, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta, it’s essential to consider the class profiles, as they offer insights into the diversity and experience of the cohorts.
Indian School of Business (ISB) – PGP
ISB’s Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) attracts a diverse cohort from various professional backgrounds. The program emphasizes a rich mix of industries and functions, fostering a collaborative learning environment. While specific statistics for the current batch are not detailed in the provided source, ISB typically enrolls students with substantial work experience, contributing to a dynamic and experienced class profile.
IIM Ahmedabad – MBA-PGPX
The MBA-PGPX program at IIM Ahmedabad boasts a cohort with an average GMAT score of 697. Participants come from diverse industries, with a significant number holding advanced degrees and professional certifications. Notably, over 50 participants have international experience in work or education, enhancing the global perspective within the class.
IIM Bangalore – EPGP
IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) comprises 83 students, marking the largest cohort in the program’s history. The class includes 27% female students, with an average age of 30 years and an average work experience of seven years. Additionally, 14% of the cohort possesses international work experience, and the average GMAT score is 690. The majority of students have backgrounds in engineering, followed by commerce and science disciplines.
IIM Calcutta – MBA Ex
The MBA for Executives Programme (MBA Ex) at IIM Calcutta comprises 77 candidates, with an average age of 31.5 years and an average work experience of 8.6 years. The cohort includes 8 female students, and 21% have international experience. The average GMAT score for the class is 691, with the highest score being 780. Students come from over 16 diverse professional backgrounds, contributing to a rich and varied learning environment.
Summary
| Business School | Average GMAT Score | Average Work Experience (Years) | Average Age (Years) | Female Students (%) | Batch Size |
| ISB PGP | 716 | 4 | 26 | 47% | 819 |
| IIM Ahmedabad MBA-PGPX | 697 | 7.5 | 31 | 26% | 158 |
| IIM Bangalore EPGP | 690 | 7 | 30 | 27% | 83 |
| IIM Calcutta MBA Ex | 691 | 8.6 | 31.5 | 10% | 77 |
These class profiles highlight the diverse and experienced cohorts that each program attracts, offering a rich environment for peer learning and networking.
Final Thoughts – ISB vs IIM
Each of these one-year executive MBA programs offers distinct strengths and opportunities, making them highly sought-after among professionals looking to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
The ISB PGP stands out for its globally oriented curriculum, strong placement outcomes, and experiential learning opportunities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking international exposure and rapid career progression.
The MBA-PGPX at IIM Ahmedabad emphasizes analytical rigor and leadership, attracting professionals aiming for strategic roles in diverse industries.
IIM Bangalore’s EPGP is ideal for those looking to combine leadership training with global business immersion, while the MBA Ex at IIM Calcutta offers a robust focus on analytics and decision-making, particularly appealing for professionals in finance and consulting.
Ultimately, your choice should align with your career goals, work experience, and preferences for curriculum focus and industry connections. By understanding the unique offerings of each program, you can embark on a transformative journey that positions you for long-term success in the global business landscape.