IIM Bangalore Admission 2026 - Dates, Eligibility Criteria, Process

IIM Bangalore Admission 2026 is expected to open from January 2026 for its flagship MBA programme. Alongside MBA, admission to PGPBA is also expected to begin in the same time-frame. For the MBA programme, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) and a valid CAT 2025 score. The admission process follows a two-stage selection system. The Phase 1 includes shortlisting based on CAT performance, academic record, work experience, and diversity factors, while the 2nd Phase includes Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). Final selection is made on a composite score of CAT, WAT, and PI results. 

IIM Bangalore registration is the first step towards applying for any course at the institute. It involves creating an account on the official website with personal details like name, email, and contact number. Candidates can fill out the IIM Bangalore application form after registration with detailed information about their academic qualifications, work experience, and CAT/GMAT scores. 

How to Apply for IIM Bangalore Admission 2026?

Step 1: Visit the official website of IIM Bangalore and register by providing your personal details, such as name, email, and contact number.

Step 2: After successful registration, log in to your account and access the IIM Bangalore application form.

Step 3: Fill in the required details in the IIM Banaglore application form, including academic qualifications, work experience, and CAT/GMAT scores.

Step 4: Upload the necessary documents as per the specifications mentioned in the application form and pay the IIM Bangalore application fee online.

Step 5: Review all the details entered and submit the application form to complete the IIM Bangalore application process.

List of Documents Required to Apply for IIM Bangalore Admission 2026

• Original and xerox copies of 10th, 12th, and graduation mark sheets.
• CAT scorecard printout.
• Caste certificate (if applicable)
• Certificates showcasing achievements.
• Government-issued original identity card.
• Work experience certificate, supported by documents like a joining letter or salary slip.
• Completed form for the specific IIM Bangalore course.
• Updated resume.
• Passport size photographs.

IIM Bangalore admission process is a two-phase process that is the same for all applicants regardless of category. Initially, all eligible candidates appearing for CAT 2025 are evaluated to determine those to be called for a personal interview (PI). Those selected for the PI process also appear for a Writing Ability Test (WAT) on a given topic. The final selection for the programme is based on the cumulative scores of the WAT, interview, and pre-PI scores, with each component carrying specific weightages. The two phases of IIM Bangalore admission process have been explained in detail below.

Phase 1

• During phase 1 of IIM Bangalore admission process, the first shortlist is prepared based on candidates who have secured a minimum score on all sections of CAT 2025. Only candidates with a valid scores in all sections of CAT-2025 are considered. The CAT score alone is used as the basis for the first shortlist.
• For all candidates in the first shortlist, IIM Bangalore admission weightage for the parameters at the pre-Personal Interview (PI) stage is: CAT = 55, 10th board = 10, 12th board = 10, bachelors = 10, gender diversity = 05, work experience = 10.
• The 55 points for CAT are derived from the performance in each of the three sections: Verbal & Reading Comprehension (VARC) - 19 points, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) - 21 points, and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) - 15 points.
• The gender diversity component is only for computing the pre-PI score for deciding on interview calls and is not applicable for phase 2 of IIM Bangalore admissions.

Phase 2

• Candidates are required to take a Written Ability Test (WAT) on topics related to current socio-political, economic and business affairs, among others.
• Candidates are required to provide two confidential reference letters from their employers or from teachers in their previous academic institutions as a part of IIM Bangalore admission criteria.
• The work experience weight assigned while computing Pre-PI score is scaled down during the post-interview process. The quality of work experience score is evaluated on a 5 point scale by each member of the panel during the interviews.
• For all candidates called for interviews, the IIM Bangalore admission weightage for the parameters at the post-PI stage are: Personal interview = 40, WAT = 10, CAT = 25, 10th board = 5, 12th board = 5, Bachelors = 5, Work Experience / Professional Course (whichever weight is higher) = 10.
• 25 points for CAT are derived from the performance in each of the three sections: Verbal & Reading Comprehension (VARC) – 8.75 points, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) - 10 points, and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) – 6.25 points.
• The final offers of IIM Bangalore admission are made strictly on the basis of the final aggregate score.

IIM Bangalore Application fee varies depending on the course applied for. For the Post Graduate Programme (PGP), the application fee is Rs 2,400 and for the Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP), the fee is Rs 3,000. IIM Bangalore PG application fee for Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM) is Rs 1,500.

IIM Bangalore Application Fee for PG Programmes 

IIM Bangalore accepts CAT 2025 as the key entrance exam for PGP and PGPBA, requiring 85+ percentile for general category. EPGP and PGPEM recognise GMAT or GRE with no expiry if valid at application, while PhD admits via UGC-NET or IIMB Test. BBA DBE uses CUET UG at 70th percentile as the entry gate.

• CAT sectional cutoffs include 80 in QA, VARC, DILR for PGP eligibility.
• GMAT minimum score of 650 is ideal for EPGP Round 1 success.
• IIMB Test for PGPEM occurs October 12, 2025, with February 2026 retry.

The MBA at IIM Bangalore spans 2 years in 6 trimesters, interweaving core management with electives and a mandatory summer internship at firms like McKinsey.

The curriculum of the IIMB MBA includes case-based learning drawing from Harvard collaborations, while the leadership labs give students real-life practice in handling boardroom challenges and making quick, confident decisions. The 2025-26 batch profile of IIM Bangalore MBA students reveals average CAT score of 99.5 percentile, 22 months work experience average, and 52% female representation across engineering (60%), commerce (20%) streams. The 2025 batch hit 100% placement with consulting, and finance domains ruling the game.

• Equips 415 students for roles at BCG, Goldman Sachs, turning analytical minds into visionary executives.
• Immersive case-based pedagogy draws from 200+ Harvard collaborations, building real-world strategic acumen for global challenges.
• The diverse batch of IIMB PGP  features  37.5% women and 70% engineers, providing inclusive leadership networks on Bengaluru's innovation campus.
• The last average package for MBA grads in IIM Bangalore placement stands at Rs 34.88 LPA, with median Rs 32.61 LPA across 660 offers.

IIM Bangalore MBA Eligibility

• Bachelor's degree in any discipline with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD); final-year students eligible with provisional proof by June 30, 2026.
  • CA/ICWA/CS after Class 12 qualifies as equivalent, sans traditional degree.
• On the date of application, a valid CAT 2025 scorecard is required.
• There is no age cap, but reservations apply for seat booking:
  • EWS = 10%
  • NC-OBC = 27%
  • SC = 15%
  • ST = 7.5%
  • PwD = 5%.
• Work experience preferred but not required; 
  • Among the total intake, 20% are freshers.
  • Candidates with up to 3 years of experience receive increasing credit points during IIM Bangalore’s Pre-PI stage, while those with more than 3 years of experience get the same points. No extra point is credited.

IIM Bangalore MBA Selection Criteria

The IIMB MBA selection criteria involves all the required components of the candidate's profile, such as education that includes both schooling and graduation, work experience if any, professional course, along with the obvious CAT scorecard, WAT and PI. The selection criteria involves 2 phases: Pre-PI Shortlist and Post-PI Composite. 

Pre-PI Shortlist:

• CAT score: 55% weightage
• Class 10, 12, Graduation: 10% each
• Work experience / professional course: 10%
• Gender diversity: 5%
• Sectional cut-offs (General): VARC 80 | DILR 75 | QA 75 | Overall 85
• Top 10 CAT scorers in each category automatically qualify.
• Academic scores are normalised before evaluation.

Post-PI Composite Score:

• Personal Interview (PI): 40%
• Written Ability Test (WAT): 10%
• CAT score: 25%
• Academics: 15%
• Work experience: 10% (quality assessed on a 5-point scale)

IIM Bangalore MBA eligibility mandates a bachelor's degree with 50% marks for general candidates. Reserved categories need 45% marks. Executive variants require specific work experience.

• No upper age limit applies across MBA programmes.
• Professional qualifications like CA count as equivalents for non-degree holders.
• Valid entrance scores are essential for all MBA tracks.

Alongside its flasghsip PG programmes, IIM Bangalore also offers 3 UG courses at its premises. The BBA in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship at IIMB integrates entrepreneurship, digital technology and management, building a strong foundation in business with practical, digital-first knowledge. On the other hand, BSc Economics and Data Science courses focus on blending the principles of both to curate path for data-driven problem solving with economic policy and quantitative analysis.

BBA DBE registration closes April 2026 for July start, using CUET UG at 70th percentile. Online process via dbe.iimb.ac.in verifies Class 12 at 60%. 1000 seats fill via merit list in May 2026. Students need to complete Class 12, with specific requirements like maths for the BSc programs. Admission involves entrance tests, scores from national exams, or interviews to select suitable candidates.

• The BSc entrance test focuses on English, maths, data, and logic, scheduled to be held on December 13, 2025.
• Programmes offer internships, global exposure, and flexible exits; BBA DBE is fully online with digital focus.
• Flexible online format suits remote learners.

PGPEM Round 1 applications run July 21 to October 8, 2025, accepting IIMB Test on October 12. Interviews November 8-9 lead to offers by November 20 for 60 seats. Round 2 extends to January 2026 for late applicants.

• Two references mandatory, one from current employer for credibility.
• Bengaluru-only interviews suit local executives.
• 6-year exp minimum ensures mid-career focus.

EPGP rounds open June 16, 2025, needing GMAT/GRE valid on apply date. Interviews in Bangalore/Delhi span August to December 2025 over three rounds. Composite score blends test, experience, and PI for offers by January 2026.

• Round 1 fee Rs 5,000 targets early birds with August interviews.
• Online interviews for overseas applicants maintain equity.
• Work quality score adjusts experience weight up to 12 years cap.

PGPBA shortlists on CAT 2024 cutoffs like 85 aggregate for general by December 2025. Pre-PI score emphasises QA at 80 sectional for analytics fit. WAT-PI in January weighs PI at 40% for joint IIMB-IIMC degree.

• Mathematics 10th score gets 5% post-PI boost for quant edge.
• 50 seats prioritise Python-proficient candidates.
• Work ex quality scale 0.25-2 adjusts for relevance.

PhD applications open till January 24, 2026, requiring UGC-NET or GMAT. IIMB Test rounds on October 12, 2025 & February 1, 2026 shortlist for interviews. 20 seats across nine areas like finance get Rs 42K stipend monthly.

• Master's 55% minimum suits research aspirants.
• Area-specific tests probe domain knowledge.
• Teaching assistantships build academic skills early.

IIM Bangalore has set specific admission criteria for international students for the academic year 2026. Applicants must possess a foreign passport and a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognised university. The degree should be at least three years' duration, with a minimum score of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA. A valid GMAT/GRE score is also required. Candidates must also note that scores from online GMAT/GRE exams taken at home are not accepted for IIM Bangalore admissions 2024. Lastly, these test scores should be reported to GMAC/ETS before applying to IIM Bangalore.

After meeting the CAT cutoff, the next crucial step of IIM Bangalore admissions for candidates is the personal interview. During the PI round in IIM Bangalore admission process, candidates are assessed on various skills such as analytical abilities, communication proficiency, leadership qualities, and decision-making aptitude. 

Know all about IIM Bangalore Interview

IIM Bangalore interview is a vital step in the admissions process for candidates aspiring to join the institute. It is an opportunity for candidates to showcase their skills and knowledge in their desired management programmes during IIM Bangalore admissions. The interview evaluates various aspects, including analytical thinking, communication abilities, leadership potential, and decision-making skills. To excel in IIM Bangalore interview, candidates should be well-prepared, stay updated with industry trends, and have a clear vision of their goals and aspirations. Adequate preparation, confidence, and effective communication are key to making a positive impression during IIM Bangalore interview process.

How to crack IIM Bangalore Interview?

To crack IIM Bangalore interview, candidates should focus on the following aspects:

• Understanding IIM Bangalore Interview Process: Familiarise yourself with the parameters on which candidates are evaluated.
• Communication: Work on improving both your verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
• Writing Skills: Enhance your writing skills, as they may be assessed during the Written Ability Test (WAT).
• Listening Skils: Develop active listening skills to understand and respond effectively to questions.
• Decision Making Skills: Highlight instances where you have made critical decisions.
• Problem Solving Skills: Showcase your ability to solve problems effectively and efficiently.
• Critical Thinking: Develop your ability to analyse situations and think critically.
• Subject Expertise: Have a thorough understanding of your academic subjects and areas of interest.
• Self-confidence: Maintain a positive attitude and show confidence in your abilities.
• Leadership Qualities: Demonstrate your ability to lead and manage teams effectively.
• Presentation: Work on your ability to present ideas clearly and convincingly.
• Interpersonal Skills: Show your ability to engage in meaningful and productive conversations.

IIM Bangalore admission without CAT is possible in the case of certain courses that accept different qualifications. One such course is the Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP). This one-year full-time residential programme is designed for working professionals with a minimum of 5 years of work experience. IIM Bangalore admission criteria for the EPGP course requires a valid GMAT/GRE score instead of a CAT score. Candidates need to apply directly to the institute, providing their GMAT/GRE scores, academic records, and details of their work experience. 

Is CAT mandatory to take admission in IIM Bangalore?

For most of the programmes at IIM Bangalore, CAT is a mandatory requirement. However, the institute offers a one year programme called the Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP), which accepts GMAT/GRE scores instead of CAT. This programme is specifically for working professionals, and IIM Bangalore admission criteria require a minimum of 5 years of work experience.

Admission at IIM Bangalore without CAT

IIM Bangalore offers admission without CAT scores to candidates applying for the Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP). This one-year full-time residential programme requires applicants to have a graduation degree with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA, and at least 5 years of work experience. As per IIM Bangalore admission criteria for EPGP, a valid GMAT or GRE score is mandatory. IIM Bangalore application process for EPGP involves submitting an online application form, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), and two online references. Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, where they are evaluated on various parameters, including work experience, leadership qualities, and social sensitivity. The final round of IIM Bangalore selection process is based on a composite score calculated using a multi-factor model, including academic record, GMAT/GRE scores, work experience, and performance in the interview and writing ability test. 

IIM Bangalore admissions after class 12 are not possible as the institute only offers postgraduate programmes. IIM Bangalore admission process involves completing a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA, followed by appearing for CAT. Students who are wondering how to get admission in IIM Bangalore after class 12 can start preparing for future admissions by focusing on their undergraduate studies, developing leadership and managerial skills, and gaining a strong foundation in subjects that will be beneficial for CAT.

How can I join IIM Bangalore after 12th?

IIM Bangalore does not admit students directly after the completion of their 12th standard. Candidates must first complete a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised institution. Next, they need to qualify in the CAT, which is the main entrance exam for IIM Bangalore. After obtaining valid CAT scores, prospective candidates can apply for their desired management course at IIM Bangalore. Shortlisted candidates will then undergo IIM Bangalore selection process, which includes written ability test, group discussion, and personal interview.

How to get admission in IIM Bangalore for BBA?

IIM Bangalore does not offer BBA programme. The institute offers postgraduate programmes such as Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP), the Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM), Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM) and Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP). IIM Bangalore admission to PGP, PGPPM, and PGPEM is based on CAT score, followed by a Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). For EPGP, IIM Bangalore accepts GMAT or GRE scores along with atleast 5 years of work experience.