Rising Confidence in Indian B-Schools with GMAT

Indian MBA education is experiencing a shift marked by growing confidence in the Indian business schools. According to GMAC, India ranks 2nd in terms of the number of GMAT test-takers, with over 29,000 candidates taking the test in 2024 alone. MBA aspirants are also increasingly considering Indian B-Schools as their top choice, particularly those that accept the GMAT score.

Top Indian B-Schools like the Indian School of Business (ISB), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and other top private B-Schools such as SPJIMR and IMT have gradually started to accept the GMAT as a key admission criterion. This acceptance helps Indian B-schools meet global standards. It attracts more working professionals and international students who want flexible and widely accepted admission options.

With improvements in the quality of education, international accreditations, and placement outcomes, Indian B-Schools accepting GMAT scores are challenging the traditional dominance of MBA programs abroad. This article explores the reasons behind this rising confidence and what it means for the future of management education in India.

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Changing Perceptions of Indian B-Schools

Indian B-Schools have historically been considered as a second option to MBA programs abroad. But they have now moved on from their “Plan B” image and are emerging as first-choice destinations for MBA aspirants, both domestic and international. Here are some of the reasons for this trend:

• Significant recent investments:
  • IIM Ahmedabad completed a new campus expansion worth over INR 250 crore in 2023.
  • ISB Hyderabad increased its global faculty ratio to over 40% in 2024.
  • Over 15 Indian B-Schools hold global accreditations like AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA as of 2024.
• GMAT Acceptance:
  • More than 100 Indian B-Schools accept GMAT scores for MBA or Executive MBA admissions.
  • GMAC reports 29,316 GMAT test-takers in India (2024), a 25% increase since 2019.
  • Around 40% of these candidates apply to Indian B-Schools.
• Placement Highlights:
  • Average package at ISB Hyderabad’s PGP crossed ₹30 LPA in 2023.
  • IIM Bangalore’s EPGP saw a 15% salary increase from 2022 to 2023.
• According to recent surveys, over 60% of Indian GMAT test-takers prefer Indian B-Schools over foreign ones, citing better ROI and career opportunities.

Indian B-Schools Quality of Education & Global Exposure

Indian B-Schools accepting GMAT have improved their education standards in the last few years. Many now follow global teaching methods, hire experienced faculty, and offer international opportunities.

• Good placements and learning environment: IIM Bangalore and IIM Ahmedabad offer high average packages (₹35+ LPA). Colleges like SPJIMR and XLRI provide strong learning with good industry exposure.
• Global recognition: Many Indian B-Schools now have international accreditations like AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. These accreditations show that their programs meet global standards.

Check: Top AACSB-approved MBA Colleges in India

• International Exposure: Many colleges offer student exchange programs and international internships. Some programs also attract students and faculty from outside India.
• Strong ROI: While course fees range from INR 10–33 lakh, the average salaries after graduation are high. This makes Indian B-Schools more affordable and attractive compared to foreign MBA programs.

Indian B-Schools Student Diversity & Opportunities

Indian B-Schools accepting GMAT are attracting students from different academic and professional backgrounds, including engineers, doctors, entrepreneurs, and international students. This diversity adds value to the classroom and helps students learn from different perspectives.

• Wide range of professional backgrounds:
  • Programs like ISB PGP and IIM PGPX attract students with 2–10+ years of work experience.
  • Students come from fields like technology, finance, healthcare, marketing, and public service.
• More women are joining MBA programs:
  • Schools like ISB and SPJIMR reported over 35–40% female enrollment in recent years.
  • Many B-Schools also offer diversity scholarships to promote gender and academic balance.
• International students and global exposure:
  • Indian B-Schools like ISB and SPJIMR attract candidates from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa.
  • GMAT makes it easier for international students to apply, as it is a globally accepted test.
• Leadership and peer learning:
  • Classrooms include students who have worked at top companies like Google, Microsoft, Deloitte, TCS, and startups.
  • Peer interactions help in developing leadership, teamwork, and networking skills.

Indian B-Schools Future Outlook & Challenges

As Indian B-Schools continue to gain global attention, their future looks strong. The increasing use of GMAT in admissions reflects a shift toward international standards. However, there are still areas where the Indian B-Schools can improve to stay globally competitive.

• Growing trust in Indian MBA programs:
  • More students are choosing Indian B-Schools over international options because of better ROI, high-quality education, and strong placements.
  • Programs like ISB, IIMs, and SPJIMR are regularly ranked among Asia’s top business schools.
• More international partnerships expected:
  • B-Schools are forming global alliances for student exchange, dual degrees, and research.
  • For example, ISB’s partnerships with Kellogg, Wharton, and LBS, and IIMs collaborating with ESCP, HEC, and UCLA.
• Digital and hybrid MBA formats:
  • With rising demand for flexibility, more schools are launching hybrid or online MBA formats, often open to GMAT applicants.
• Challenges that remain:
  • Need for more global faculty and diverse recruiters.
  • Branding and international visibility are still limited for many 2-tier B-Schools.
  • Competition from foreign MBA programs, especially in Europe and Southeast Asia, is growing.
  • NEP 2020 and UGC reforms could open doors for more international faculty and global recognition.

GMAT scores are now accepted for admission to over 270 Indian B-Schools. Institutes like ISB and IIMs offer average salaries above ₹30 LPA. Therefore, it is clear that Indian MBA programs are gaining serious traction. Backed by global accreditations, diverse cohorts, and strong placement outcomes, Indian B-Schools are no longer seen as an alternative, but as a first choice for Indian MBA aspirants.