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.
Admissions Process : ISB vs IIM
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
The Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) at ISB is an intensive one-year program designed for high-achieving professionals with clear career goals. The admissions committee seeks candidates who demonstrate leadership potential and a capacity for rigorous academic work.
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline.
- A minimum of 24 months of full-time work experience by the program start date.
- A valid GMAT or GRE score.
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.
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Click on the tabs to explore top IIM programs:
MBA-PGPX
EPGP
MBA Ex
The MBA-PGPX program at IIM Ahmedabad is tailored for executives with substantial work experience. The admissions criteria are as follows:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- A minimum of four years of full-time professional experience.
- A valid GMAT or GRE score.
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.
The Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP) at IIM Bangalore is a rigorous one-year, full-time residential program designed to transform experienced professionals into future leaders. The program seeks candidates with a proven track record and strong academic foundation.
- A valid GMAT or GRE score.
- A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA.
- A minimum of five years of professional experience (preferably under twelve years).
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.
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.
- A bachelor’s degree in any discipline (with a minimum of 10+2+3 years of formal education).
- At least five years of full-time, post-qualification managerial or professional experience.
- A valid GMAT score taken within the last 36 months.
The selection process evaluates academic background, professional experience, GMAT score, personal interviews, statement of purpose, and recommendations.
Summary
| 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.
Q1: Is it easier to get into ISB or IIM?
“Easier” is relative due to different criteria. Getting into a top IIM’s two-year PGP as a fresher is extremely competitive based on CAT score and academic profile. For experienced professionals, ISB’s PGP and IIMs’ executive programs have similarly high selectivity, with both requiring a strong GMAT/GRE score, stellar work experience, and compelling applications. The acceptance rate for both is typically under 10%.
Q2: Can I get into ISB with a low GMAT?
A:Â While a high GMAT (700+) is common, ISB and IIMs practice holistic admissions. An exceptional profile with strong leadership, international experience, rapid career progression, or unique achievements can sometimes offset a slightly lower GMAT score. However, the GMAT remains a critical filtering criterion.
Q3: Does ISB require work experience?
A: Yes, absolutely. ISB’s PGP mandates a minimum of 24 months of full-time work experience by the time of enrollment. This is a non-negotiable criterion and a core part of their learning model, which relies on peer-to-peer learning from experienced professionals.
Programs Structure : ISB vs IIM
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.
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Click on the tabs to explore top IIM programs:
MBA-PGPX
EPGP
MBA Ex
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’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.
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.
Q1: Is ISB better than IIM?
A: “Better” is subjective and depends entirely on your profile. ISB is often better for professionals with 2-5 years of experience seeking a fast-paced, one-year program to pivot their careers. IIMs are better for freshers (via the 2-year PGP) and for highly experienced professionals (via one-year executive programs like PGPX) seeking deep, case-based learning and a strong legacy brand in core sectors like finance.
Q2: Is ISB as good as IIM Ahmedabad?
A:Â In global rankings (Financial Times), ISB ranks slightly above IIMA. However, IIMA holds an unparalleled legacy in India. For a one-year MBA, both are elite peers but cater to slightly different audiences. IIMA’s PGPX cohort is generally more experienced, while ISB’s PGP has a larger, more diverse cohort. The choice hinges on your desired peer group, pedagogy, and career goals.
Q3: What is the main difference between ISB and IIM?
A: The fundamental difference is the program structure and target audience. ISB primarily offers a single, flagship one-year PGP for those with 2+ years of experience. IIMs offer multiple programs: the two-year PGP for freshers/early-career individuals, and separate one-year executive MBAs (e.g., PGPX, EPGP) for professionals with 5+ years of experience.
Fees and Scholarships: ISB vs IIM
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
The total cost for the ISB PGP fee is approximately ₹40 lakhs for the one-year program. This comprehensive cost covers tuition, accommodation, and related academic expenses.
To make this significant investment accessible, ISB offers one of the most extensive financial aid programs among Indian business schools. The school provides a wide range of scholarships for ISB PGP, which are primarily categorized as:
- Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded for outstanding academic and professional achievements.
- Need-based Scholarships: Designed to support students who require financial assistance.
- Diversity Scholarships: Aimed at promoting diversity in the classroom, supporting women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from unique professional or regional backgrounds.
These scholarships can substantially reduce the financial burden, making the ISB PGP a more viable option for many deserving candidates.
The programme fee for the academic year 2026–27 is ₹38,67,160 (including GST) for shared accommodation and single-instalment payment.
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Click on the tabs to explore top IIM programs:
MBA-PGPX
EPGP
MBA Ex
The IIM Ahmedabad PGPX fee for the 2025-26 academic year is structured based on accommodation type:
- Single Accommodation (SSH): ₹35 lakhs
- Married Student Housing (MSH): ₹37.10 lakhs
This fee includes tuition, course materials, and other academic expenses. A refundable caution deposit (₹35,000 for SSH, ₹70,000 for MSH) is also required. The institute offers flexible installment payment options for the PGPX program to assist with financial planning.
The total IIM Bangalore EPGP fee is ₹33.71 lakhs, covering tuition, course materials, and campus facility access , and 36.62 lakhs for family accommodation outside campus.
IIMB supports its students through several scholarship programs:
- Merit Scholarship (Admission): ₹6 lakhs for top-ranking candidates based on the overall admission score.
- Merit-cum-Means Scholarship: ₹5 lakhs to support students from diverse backgrounds.
- In-Program Merit Scholarship: ₹3 lakhs awarded to high-achieving students based on their academic performance after Term 2.
- Programme fee for the academic year 2025-26 will be Indian Rupees 33.50 Lakhs (non-refundable)
- Payment of Indian Rupees 2,00,000/- (commitment fee) at the time of acceptance of the admission offer.
- Rs 60,000/- is to be paid as security deposit along with the second installment which will be refunded on completion of the programme after necessary adjustments of dues, if any.
Summary
| Institution | Program Name | Total Fees (₹) | Scholarships Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISB | PGP | ₹38,67,160 | Merit-based, need-based, diversity scholarships |
| IIM Ahmedabad | MBA-PGPX | ₹ 35,00,000 (SSH) ₹ 37,10,000 (MSH) | Installment payment options available |
| IIM Bangalore | EPGP | ₹ 33,71,000 | Merit and merit-cum-means scholarships ranging from ₹3,00,000 to ₹6,00,000 |
| IIM Calcutta | MBA Ex | ₹ 33,50,000 | 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.
Placements : IIM vs ISB
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
The ISB PGP placement record underscores its status as a premier talent pipeline. The program consistently achieves a 100% placement rate, with graduates receiving multiple offers.
- Average Accepted Salary: ₹35 LPA (Placement Report 2024)
- Key Recruiting Sectors: Consulting, BFSI, FMCG/Retail/Consumer Durables/Ecommerce/Agri
- Top Recruiters: McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Amazon, Microsoft
The strong presence of global consulting giants and tech leaders highlights the high demand for ISB graduates and the program’s success in facilitating major career pivots and advancements.
For a complete and detailed analysis of year-on-year trends, sector-wise breakdowns, and salary statistics, read our dedicated guide to ISB Placements.
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Click on the tabs to explore top IIM programs:
MBA-PGPX
EPGP
MBA Ex
The IIM Ahmedabad PGPX placement report for 2024 confirms its elite standing. Of 147 eligible students, 126 accepted offers, while 21 pursued entrepreneurial ventures or independent opportunities, a common trend in senior executive programs.
- Top Recruiting Sectors: Consulting, BFSI, Technology
- Median Domestic Salary: ₹30.00 LPA
- Median International Salary:Â $88,669
The IIM Bangalore EPGP placement outcomes for the 2023-24 cohort demonstrate robust demand from top firms. The program saw participation from 29 companies.
- Average Salary: ₹34.33 LPA
- Median Salary: ₹33.00 LPA
- Offers per Student Ratio:Â 70 offers for 75 students
- Key Recruiters:Â Accenture, Genpact (highlighting strength in Consulting and IT)
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx placement data for its 17th batch shows strong compensation growth for mid-career professionals. The cohort received a total of 68 offers.
- Average CTC: ₹35.37 LPA
- Median CTC: ₹32.88 LPA
- Highest Domestic CTC: ₹125.00 LPA
- Key Recruiters:Â Accenture, Genpact, Infosys, Persistent
Summary
| Business School | Average Salary (₹ lakhs per annum) | Median Salary (₹ lakhs per annum) | Top Recruiting Sectors | Notable Recruiters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISB PGP | 35 | 32.00 | Consulting, Technology, Consulting, BFSI, FMCG/Retail/Consumer Durables/Ecommerce/Agri | McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Amazon, Microsoft |
| IIM Ahmedabad MBA-PGPX | 30 | 30.00 | Consulting, BFSI, Technology | Not specified |
| IIM Bangalore EPGP | 34.33 | 33.00 | Consulting, IT | Accenture, Genpact |
| IIM Calcutta MBA Ex | 35.37 | 32.88 | 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.
Q1: Who has better placements, ISB or IIM?
A: Both have stellar placements but with different strengths. ISB places a massive number of graduates into Consulting (37%) and Technology (28%) roles. IIMs, especially IIMA and IIMC, have historically dominated Finance and General Management roles. The average salaries at the top 4-5 institutions are highly comparable, making the “better” choice about your target industry.
Q2: What is the average salary at ISB?
A: For the PGP Class of 2024, the average CTC was approximately ₹35 LPA. It’s important to look at the median salary and the salary increase percentage, which for ISB is a remarkable 247%, highlighting its value for career pivots.
Q3: Do IIMs have better ROI than ISB?
A:Â IIMs often have a higher perceived “value for money” due to their lower program fees (especially for two-year programs). However, ISB’s one-year format means you forego only one year of salary, leading to a quicker break-even point. The ROI is excellent for both, but IIMs’ two-year PGP often wins on pure cost-to-salary ratio.
Class Profile : ISB vs IIM
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.
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Click on the tabs to explore top IIM programs:
MBA-PGPX
EPGP
MBA Ex
The IIM Ahmedabad PGPX class profile is designed for seasoned executives. The cohort is characterized by a high average GMAT score of 697, ensuring a rigorous academic environment.
- Average GMAT Score: 692 (GMAT FE 642)
- Female- 31%
- Key Diversity Stats:Â Over 50 participants bring international work or educational experience.
- Professional Background:Â The class draws from diverse industries, with a significant portion holding advanced degrees (like Masters or PhDs) and professional certifications (such as CA, CFA, etc.).
The IIM Bangalore EPGP class profile for the current year is the largest in the program’s history, comprising 83 professionals.
- Average Work Experience:Â 7 years
- Average GMAT Score:Â 690
- Diversity:Â 27% female representation
- International Exposure:Â 14% of the cohort has international work experience.
- Academic Background:Â Predominantly Engineering, followed by Commerce and Science.
The IIM Calcutta MBAEx class profile consists of 77 highly experienced professionals poised for senior leadership roles.
- Batch size– 90
- Average Work Experience:Â 7.8 years
- Average GMAT Score:Â 696
- International Exposure:Â 13% of the class possesses international experience.
Summary
| Business School | Average GMAT Score | Average Work Experience (Years) | Average Age (Years) | Female Students (%) | Batch Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISB PGP | 720 | 4 | 26 | 47% | 826 |
| IIM Ahmedabad MBA-PGPX | 692 | 7.7 | 31 | 31% | 157 |
| IIM Bangalore EPGP | 689 | 7 | 30 | 27% | 83 |
| IIM Calcutta MBA Ex | 696 | 7.8 | NA | NA | 90 |
These class profiles highlight the diverse and experienced cohorts that each program attracts, offering a rich environment for peer learning and networking.
Explore More About ISB & IIMs
- ISB Placements 2025: Offers, Salaries, Top Industries & Trends
- Guesstimate Questions in ISB Interviews 2025
- ISB Interview: Tips & Experiences
- ISB Essay Analysis & Tips
- ISB WAT Preparation 2025: A Comprehensive Guide with Sample Questions
- ISB PGP Interview Expert Tips & Commonly Asked Questions
- ISB Letter of Recommendation (LoR)
- The Indian School of Business (ISB) PGP Program
- ISB PGPYL: Everything You Need to Know
- ISB Reapplication: A 6-Step Guide To Success
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.
Q1: I have 3 years of experience. Should I choose ISB or IIM?
A: With 3 years of experience, you are in the prime target group for ISB’s PGP. For IIMs, you would be a younger candidate for their one-year executive programs (which prefer 5+ years) and over-experienced for their two-year PGP. ISB is likely the ideal fit for your profile.
Q2: Is ISB worth the higher fee?
A:Â For the right candidate, yes. The higher fee is justified by the accelerated one-year format (meaning a quicker return to the workforce with a higher salary), the extensive and powerful alumni network, and the strong focus on consulting and tech placements that command high salaries.
Q3: For a career in finance, should I prefer IIM Calcutta over ISB?
A: If your goal is strictly core finance (investment banking, equity research, portfolio management), IIM Calcutta’s legacy and dedicated finance curriculum are arguably stronger. Its two-year PGP program has long been a feeder to top global finance firms. ISB’s strength is more diversified across consulting and tech.
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