The Indian School of Business (ISB) holds a strong reputation as a premier business school in India and has gained prominence globally. It has established itself as one of the leading institutions for management education in the country, offering a sought-after MBA program that attracts students from around the world. ISB’s unique features, such as its industry-focused curriculum and global exposure opportunities, make it an excellent choice for pursuing an MBA.
ISB implements a cohesive admission process for both its campuses in Hyderabad and Mohali. The admissions occur in three rounds during each admission cycle, and candidates are allowed to submit their application only once within a cycle.
The Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad is older and renowned for its rigorous and prestigious MBA program. If you are considering applying to ISB Hyderabad, it is crucial to understand the admission process and the requirements to increase your chances of acceptance.
In this article, we will discuss some key points regarding the reputation and recognition of ISB, as well as the eligibility criteria and other requirements involved in getting admitted to the MBA program at ISB Hyderabad.
For ISB MBA Hyderabad eligibility, applicants need to meet certain criteria as follows:
PGP
1) Bachelor’s or equivalent degree
2) Valid GMAT / GRE score
3) Minimum 2 years of full-time work experience as of 31st March in the year they intend to join ISB
EEO (PGP deferred)
1) Bachelor’s or equivalent degree
2) Valid GMAT / GRE score
3) Less than 2 years of full-time work experience
YLP (PGP deferred)
1) A current college student
2) In the pre-final or final year
3) Have no full-time work experience
*It is important to note that Proficiency in English is essential, and applicants may need to provide proof of English language proficiency. In cases where the medium of instruction is not English, a valid TOEFL/IELTS score is necessary.
ISB Hyderabad follows a three-round admission process annually. The application deadlines for these rounds typically fall in September, December, and February. Applying in the first round is highly recommended as it increases your chances of selection. Therefore, it is advisable to submit your application by the September deadline to enhance your prospects of securing admission to ISB Hyderabad.
Round 1 Deadline: September 10, 2023
PGP 2024-25 & Early Entry Option 2024 (PGP Deferred)
First-time applicants:
Round 1: ₹5,000
Round 2: ₹7,500
Round 3: ₹7,500
Re-applicants:
Round 1: ₹2,500
Round 2: ₹2,500
Round 3: ₹2,500
*The fees include the Government of India’s mandated taxes.
Make sure to check the ISB Hyderabad website for the latest information, as fees and deadlines can vary from year to year.
ISB values well-rounded candidates with strong academic abilities. While there is no specific ISB GMAT cut-off, a competitive GMAT test score is important for your application. The average GMAT score for ISB candidates in 2021 was 713, higher than other top programs globally. To provide a comparison, let’s look at the GMAT Score chart used by a few schools in the past.
The average GMAT score for admitted students at the London Business School MBA program in 2021 was 700, whereas INSEAD’s average score stood at 710. However, a GMAT total score of 700+ score is not necessary if your application is strong in other areas thought it is considered as a good GMAT score.
ISB has admitted candidates with GMAT score range from 580 to 780 in 2021.
Applicants also have the option to apply for the ISB MBA program by submitting a GRE score. The ISB MBA class of 2022 had a range of GRE scores between 311 and 335.
To apply for the MBA program at ISB Hyderabad, you are required to complete the application process online. This involves creating an account on the ISB website and submitting the necessary information through the online application form.
The form will include sections for providing personal details, academic history, and work experience. To apply for the program, the applicant must:
Each component plays a crucial role in evaluating an applicant’s suitability for the program. It is essential to invest time and effort in crafting a compelling application that highlights your strengths, experiences, and goals.
Academic qualifications are an important aspect of the ISB admission process. You will be required to submit scanned PDFs of your mark sheets or transcripts as part of your application. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. While there is no specific field of study required, a strong academic background can enhance your application. ISB considers academic performance and looks for applicants with a strong track record of achievement.
ISB uses essay prompts to gain deeper insights into the applicant’s personality, aspirations, and alignment with the values of the institution.
As part of the application process, candidates need to submit two essays and obtain a letter of award and achievements from a professional peer. It is crucial to approach these essays thoughtfully and authentically, showcasing your unique perspective and experiences. Choose recommenders who can speak to your strengths and provide valuable perspectives on your suitability for an MBA program.
ISB initiates interview invitations about 10-15 days after the application deadline. Candidates should ensure that emails from ISB’s mailer domain are added to their approved contacts to avoid them being marked as spam. Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis, and candidates may receive an invite up to a week before admission decisions. It is advisable to start interview preparation early, even without an invitation, if confident in profile and test scores. ISB accommodates virtual interviews for travel or personal reasons. Interviews typically last 25-30 minutes, focusing on the candidate’s profile, goals, and functional areas rather than academic knowledge. The ISB interview questions can be categorized into four main areas:
Candidates need to carry their passports for identification, with no additional documents required. Interviews take place in October and November for the Round 1 applicants
By default, all applicants who are selected will be automatically considered for a merit-based waiver. However, if you are specifically interested in applying for a tuition waiver, there is an application available on the portal for you to fill out. If you are applying under the Early Entry Option, you will have the opportunity to apply for a tuition waiver only after you have been selected and in the year you will be enrolling into.
The ultimate admission decision will be made through a comprehensive assessment of various aspects of the candidate’s profile, including their academic background, work experience, essays, recommendations, and interview performance. A holistic evaluation will be conducted to determine the final admission outcome.
ISB has a well-established reputation as a premier MBA school with a strong track record of producing successful graduates. Its consistent rankings in national and international surveys, along with its recognition for innovation and industry engagement, further solidify its prominence in the field of management education. Understanding the admission process and requirements for the MBA program at ISB Hyderabad is vital for prospective applicants. By carefully preparing your application, showcasing your strengths and experiences, and understanding the evaluation criteria, you can increase your chances of being admitted to ISB’s prestigious MBA program. Start early, gather the necessary documentation, and present your best self to embark on a transformative journey at ISB.
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