Why Choose GMAT for MBA Admissions in India?
The GMAT is an internationally recognized entrance exam that assesses analytical writing, quantitative, verbal, and integrated reasoning skills. As one of the top MBA entrance exams, Many Indian business schools accept GMAT scores for their full-time, executive, and one-year MBA programs due to their global credibility and standardized evaluation process. Unlike other exams that may be limited to specific regions or universities, the GMAT is accepted by more than 7,000 business programs worldwide.
Additionally, the exam is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to think critically and solve complex problems, making it an effective tool for evaluating readiness for a rigorous MBA course. GMAT scores remain valid for five years, offering flexibility to candidates who wish to apply at a later stage. Many top business schools also provide the option to retake the GMAT to improve scores, giving aspirants multiple chances to achieve their target scores and secure admission into their dream institutions.
Benefits of Taking the GMAT for Indian MBA Programs
Here is the information converted into a clear and structured table format:
Category | Details |
Global Recognition | – Accepted by business schools worldwide.- Preferred by multinational companies for hiring MBA graduates. |
Flexibility | – Can be taken year-round at test centers or online.- Allows rescheduling, unlike most other MBA entrance tests. |
Better Assessment of Skills | – Focuses on critical reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical writing.- Adaptive format ensures fair evaluation of strengths and weaknesses. |
Higher Acceptance for Executive MBAs | – Preferred by top institutions (including IIMs) for executive and one-year MBA programs.- Ideal for working professionals seeking an alternative to CAT. |
Top 20 GMAT Accepting MBA Colleges in India
Is GMAT Accepted for MBA in India?
Yes, the GMAT is widely accepted by many top MBA colleges in India, especially for specific types of programs. While the CAT is the go-to exam for 2-year full-time MBAs at IIMs, the GMAT is accepted for:
- 1-Year MBA programs (especially for experienced professionals)
- Executive MBA programs (EMBA)
- PGDM programs offered by top private business schools
- International applicants applying to Indian B-schools
- There are over 200 programs in over 140 top MBA colleges in India that accept GMAT scores. GMAT accepting B-schools in India generally attract candidates with work experience, thus defining their target candidate as more than the average CAT candidate.
- Some B-schools admit Indian students with no work experience to their flagship PGP/MBA programs. Below is a list of GMAT-accepting colleges in India with cut-off according to the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) ranking.
Top 10 Top Indian B-Schools for GMAT scores
Following is the list of top Indian B-schools which accept the GMAT scores.
GMAT Colleges | Average GMAT Cutoff | Programmes |
IIM Ahmedabad | 720 | MBA-PGPX |
IIM Bangalore | 720 | EPGP |
IIM Calcutta | 720+ | Executive MBA |
IIM Lucknow | 710+ | MBA for Working Executives |
IIM Kozhikode | 700+ | MBA in Business Leadership MBA in Finance |
IIM Indore | 700+ | Executive MBA |
IIM Udaipur | 680+ | MBA in Digital Enterprise Management MBA in Global Supply Chain Management |
IIM Trichy | 680+ | Executive MBA |
IIM Raipur | 680+ | PhD program in Management |
IIM Rohtak | 650+ | Doctoral Program in Management (DPM) |
Top 10 GMAT cutoffs for Indian MBA programs
Here are the GMAT cutoffs for the top 10 MBA colleges
GMAT Colleges | Cutoff | Programmes |
Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur | 630-720 | Business and General Management Programs |
Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon | 660 | Executive MBA |
SP Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai | 700 | MBA |
Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Ghaziabad | 500 | MBA and PGP Management |
TA Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal | 630 | MBA |
MICA, Ahmedabad | 80% (Verbal & Quant) | Business programs |
Xavier Institute of Management (XIM), Bhubaneswar | 550 | MBA EMBA |
Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai | 650 | Postgraduate Program of Management (PGPM) |
International Management Institute (IMI), New Delhi | 650 | MBA |
FORE School of Management, New Delhi | 600-65 | Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) |
GMAT Accepting Colleges in India with Work Experience
Most of the MBA colleges that admit freshers through the GMAT route also admit students with work experience. For those with work experience, especially Indian students with more than 5 years of experience, the list of business schools in India that accept GMAT scores expands to include the following top B schools in India.
- ISB, Hyderabad & Mohali
- IIM Ahmedabad
- IIM Calcutta
- IIM Bangalore
- IIM Lucknow
- IIM Indore
- XLRI Jamshedpur
How to Apply with GMAT Scores in 2025?
Applying to top business schools with GMAT scores in 2025 requires a strategic approach to maximize your chances of admission. Whether you plan to apply for MBA programs in India or globally, understanding the application process, deadlines, and score submission guidelines is crucial. This section outlines the key steps to ensure a smooth and successful application journey.
1. Check Eligibility Criteria
- Each B-school has specific GMAT eligibility criteria. Candidates should visit the respective official websites to verify the requirements for their desired programs.
- Some programs require work experience, while others accept fresh graduates.
- Certain schools have additional requirements like Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
2. Register and Take the GMAT Exam
- Candidates must register for the GMAT through the GMAC official website.
- The exam is conducted year-round, and candidates can choose their test date based on availability.
- A good GMAT preparation strategy includes practicing mock tests, focusing on weak areas, and understanding question patterns.
3. Submit GMAT Scores to B-Schools
- Applicants should ensure they send their GMAT scores directly to their preferred institutions through the GMAC portal.
- Some schools may require additional essays or statements of purpose alongside GMAT scores.
- Candidates can retake the GMAT if they wish to improve their score, but there are limitations on the number of retakes per year.
4. Attend Interviews and Selection Rounds
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for further selection rounds, including personal interviews, group discussions, and written ability tests.
- Work experience, academic records, and extracurricular activities also play a role in final selections.
- Many B-schools assess leadership potential and problem-solving skills in interviews.
5. Final Admission and Enrollment
Successful candidates receive admission offers based on their GMAT scores, interview performance, and overall application profile.
Once selected, candidates must complete the enrollment process by submitting the required documents and paying the admission fees.
Some institutions offer scholarships based on high GMAT scores and overall application strength.
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Conclusion
With the rising popularity of GMAT in India, several prestigious business schools offer admissions based on GMAT scores. Choosing the right MBA program depends on your career goals, experience, and GMAT performance. Ensure you research well, prepare strategically, and apply early to increase your chances of admission in 2025.
Comparison Table: MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT
Business School | Program Type | GMAT Accepted For | Duration | Work Experience Required | Ideal For |
ISB Hyderabad & Mohali | PGP | All applicants | 1 Year | 2+ years | Mid-level professionals |
IIM Ahmedabad | PGPX | All applicants (PGPX only) | 1 Year | 5–7+ years | Senior professionals |
IIM Bangalore | EPGP | All applicants (EPGP only) | 1 Year | 5–12 years | Leadership-track professionals |
IIM Calcutta | MBAEx | All applicants | 1 Year | 5+ years | Global management roles |
IIM Indore | EPGP | All applicants | 1 Year | 5+ years | Mid-to-senior professionals |
XLRI Jamshedpur | GMP | All applicants | 15 months | 5+ years | Career switchers/advancers |
SPJIMR Mumbai | PGPM | All applicants | 15 months | 5+ years | Professionals with strong backgrounds |
Great Lakes Chennai & Gurgaon | PGPM | All applicants | 1 Year | 2+ years | Career accelerators |
MDI Gurgaon | PGDM (NRI/Foreign nationals) | NRI/Foreign nationals only | 2 Years | Not mandatory | NRI and international students |
IMI New Delhi | PGDM | NRI/Foreign nationals only | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Global applicants |
IMT Ghaziabad | PGDM Executive, PGDM (NRI) | Executive/NRI applicants | 1–2 Years | 5+ years (Executive) | Marketing/Leadership roles |
TAPMI Manipal | PGDM | NRI/Foreign applicants | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Entry-level or early career |
IFMR GSB, Krea University | MBA | All applicants | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Analytical and finance aspirants |
Woxsen University | MBA | All applicants | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Emerging B-school aspirants |
SOIL Institute of Management | PGPM & PGDM | All applicants | 1–2 Years | 2+ years (PGPM) | Experiential learners |
Amity Global Business School | PGPM + MBA | NRI/Foreign nationals | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Global/NRI candidates |
Key Notes:
- Programs like ISB PGP, IIM PGPX/EPGP, and XLRI GMP are designed for experienced professionals.
- Most 2-year PGDM programs accept GMAT only for NRI or international candidates.
- GMAT scores are valid for 5 years, so you can apply to multiple schools over time.
- Admission is not just about your GMAT score—work experience, essays, recommendations, and interviews also play critical roles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does FMS Delhi accept GMAT?
A: FMS accepts GMAT only from a foreign national, and they must have a minimum score of 650; for Indian nationals, CAT is mandatory.
Q: Is work experience mandatory for GMAT-based MBA admissions in India?
A: While work experience is beneficial for MBA admission, however, it is not mandatory for GMAT based on MBA programs in India, especially for traditional MBA programs. Certain B-schools have MBA programs designed for fresh graduates.
Q: Do Indian B-Schools accept GMAT scores from international applicants?
A: Yes, many B-schools in India offer MBA admission based on GMAT scores, including ISB and IIMs, particularly for international applicants and those unable to take the Common Admission Test (CAT).
Q: What is the typical GMAT score required for top Indian B-Schools?
A: Top B-schools generally have a GMAT cutoff in the range of 650 to 740. If a candidate can secure that many marks in GMAT can pursue an MBA from a good business school.
Q: Which B-schools in India accept GMAT?
A: Check out some of the top B-schools in India that accept GMAT.
- ISB, Hyderabad & Mohali
- Ahmedabad | PGPX Program
- IIM Calcutta | PGPEX Program
- IIM Bangalore | ePGP Program
- IIM Lucknow | IPMX Program
- IIM Indore | EPGP Program
- XLRI Jamshedpur | PGDM (General Management)
Q: Does XLRI accept GMAT?
A: XLRI is India’s leading management institute that accepts GMAT scores for MBA admission. Also, it accepts the XAT exam.
Q: Does SP Jain accept GMAT?
A: Yes. The SP Jain accepts both GMAT and CAT scores. However, candidates should score within the range of 650-700.
Q: Does Symbiosis Pune accept GMAT?
A: Although Symbiosis primarily relies on SNAP for MBA admissions, it also accepts GMAT scores for non-resident Indians (NRIs).
Q: Is the GMAT score valid for 2 years?
A: GMAT scores are valid for up to five years after the test date, but can be reported as a score attempt for up to ten years to any institution.
Q: Does IIM accept GMAT for 2 2-year MBA?
A: If you are an international applicant or an Indian studying or working abroad and want to apply for the IIM Ahmedabad 2-year MBA-PGPX program in India, you can submit your GMAT score.
Final Thoughts on MBA Colleges Accepting GMAT in India
The GMAT opens doors not just to top global B-schools, but also to some of the best MBA colleges in India. Whether you’re targeting a globally ranked institution like ISB or a prestigious IIM for its executive MBA equivalent programs, the GMAT is your gateway to a high-quality management education.
While the CAT remains the default for most Indian MBA aspirants, the GMAT gives you a flexible, globally recognized alternative—especially valuable for those with international ambitions, professionals with work experience, or NRIs looking for an Indian MBA.
Before you apply, do your research:
- Check if the program aligns with your career goals
- Understand if GMAT scores are accepted for your applicant category (Indian, NRI, foreign national)
If you already have a GMAT score or are planning to take the test, you’re well on your way to unlocking opportunities at India’s finest MBA programs.
Students who are interested in Top MBA Colleges Accepting GMAT Low Score Direct Admission for a full-time MBA program should approach Mr. Ankit Mishra for direct admissions in Top MBA Colleges Accepting GMAT Low Score Direct Admission. Even if you need information about any other top MBA college then call us at 9742479101 or 9742886036 or check our website.
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