Why Choose IPMAT 2026? Benefits of a 5-Year IIM Program

Are you a Class 12 student looking for a career in management? Then, IPMAT 2026 is a great opportunity for you. The Integrated Programme in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) is an entrance test conducted by IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak and other IIMs for admission to IIMs' 5-year integrated management programs. This test allows you to join IIM right after school. In this blog, let's explore why choose IPMAT 2026 and the benefits of a 5-year IIM program.

Why IPMAT? Why is it Popular in 2026?

IPMAT ( Integrated Programme in Management Aptitude Test) is an entrance exam conducted by IIMs to get admission to IIMs' 5-year dual degree program ( BBA + MBA). The IPMAT exam was first started in 2011 by IIM Indore and later adopted by other IIMs. This program aims to build leaders and entrepreneurs by providing management education after school.

The IPM program structure includes:

• First 3 years: Core BBA subjects like Mathematics, Economics, Statistics and humanities.
• Last 2 years: Core MBA subjects stream like ( Finance/ Marketing/HR), along with other subjects.

This program helps you to become IIM-Certified by the age of 21-22 with good industry training, global exposure and a strong alumni network.

Benefits of a 5-Year IIM Program After Class 12

By enrolling in a 5-Year Integrated Programme in Management (IPM) offered by top IIM institutes, students can get different benefits. It can act as a game-changer for them in the following ways:

1. Opportunity to be a part of the IIMs

The IPM program can act as a pathway for students, which can help them to get into IIMs by clearing the IPMAT exam right after Class 12. Moreover, they do not have to clear the CAT exam or any post-graduation entrance exams at a later stage.

2. Structured Curriculum

The IPM program has two components:

• Initial 3 years (BBA): Candidates can learn about the foundation in psychology, economics, statistics, humanities and mathematics.
• Last 2 years (MBA): Candidates can learn about the core management studies.

This curriculum can strengthen candidates academically and make them industry-ready.

3. Cost and Time-Efficient Option

IPM is both cost and time-efficient as candidates do not have to focus on their bachelor’s degree, MBA preparation and admission.

For example:

The Cost for IPM ( BBA + MBA):

• The cost for the First 3 years (BBA) will be around INR 15-18 lakhs, depending on the IIMs
• The cost for the Last 2 years ( MBA) will be around INR 15-21 lakhs, depending on the IIMs.

So, the total cost will be around INR 30-39 lakhs for 5 years.

The Cost of Standalone BBA and MBA:

• A standalone BBA from an IIM will be around INR 15-18 lakhs
• A standalone MBA from an IIM will be around INR 20-35 lakhs.

So the total cost will be around INR 35-53 lakhs.

In conclusion, the IPM program offers a more cost-effective program as compared to a standalone BBA and MBA program.

4. Practical Exposure

The IPM program can create the opportunity for students to take part in internships with reputed companies and work on live business projects. They can also take advantage of rural and social internships, along with top international exchange programs.

5. Development of Leadership and Soft Skills

The program encompasses workshops, modules, as well as group tasks where students get the chance to gain hands-on experience and skills in different areas like critical thinking, team management, decision-making and emotional intelligence.

6. Solid Placements

After the completion of the IPM program, candidates can take part in the final placement along with MBA students. So they have high chances of getting placed in leading companies.

For more details, you can refer to the official IIM Indore Final Placement Report for IPM

7. Strong Alumni Community

IPM graduates can be a part of a strong IIM alumni ecosystem. Thus, they can establish professional connections across global industries, business schools and startup businesses.

Comparison: IPMAT vs Traditional Standalone BBA + MBA

When Should I Start Preparing for IPMAT?

If you are planning to take the IIMs 5-year program, then you need to begin the preparation from early Class 11 or at the start of Class 12. This provides you with a good 10-12 months of time frame to build your core for the following key areas:

• Quantitative Aptitude
• Verbal Ability
• Logical Reasoning

Preparation tips:

• First, schedule your time to combine school studies with IPMAT preparation.
• You need to dedicate 1-2 hours daily to IPMAT preparation
• Try to solve the previous year's papers as much as you can.
• Join different mock tests regularly to analyse your performance.

How iQuanta Can Help You Crack IPMAT 2026?

If you are preparing for IPMAT 2026, you will need to have a smart plan, expert guidance, and extensive practice and the right online IPMAT coaching. This is where iQuanta steps in as your reliable partner in preparation. iQuanta, known for its real-time doubt-solving and peer-driven model, has helped numerous students crack the IPMAT, CAT, and many other exams.

• They offer a structured, dedicated IPMAT course that mostly focuses on Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning.
• Their flexible live and recorded class lectures help you to learn at your own pace. iQuanta IPMAT coaching adopts dual pedagogy of live and application classes.
• They offer 24/7 doubt-solving community-driven groups.

Know more about iQuanta Online Coaching and Free Counselling

Is IPMAT Worth it in 2026?

Yes, IPMAT is worth it in 2026. You don't need to take any additional exams, such as the CAT, to gain admission to IIMs. You will save at least 2 years of preparation, and you will become IIM-certified at the age of 21-22. You will gain early exposure to various corporate projects and internships. Therefore, IPMAT is worthwhile for students who are certain about pursuing a management career from school.

IPMAT Future Scope: What After 5 Years?

After completing IPM from an IIM, you’ll be equipped to:

• Grab top placements in consulting, finance, marketing, or analytics.
• Pursue higher education abroad (GMAT/GRE ready).
• Start your entrepreneurial journey with the foundation built.
• Work with Fortune 500 companies or even in public policy and government sectors.

So, choosing IPMAT 2026 is a smart career decision for students who want to get into IIMs after school and get a good head start in their management career.