Top MBA Colleges in India accepting GMAT (2025)

Planning to pursue an MBA in India but don’t want to take the CAT? The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) offers a globally recognized alternative accepted by many top MBA colleges in India, especially for 1-year MBA, executive MBA, and PGDM programs.

The GMAT is not just for studying abroad—it’s also a strong gateway to some of the best B-schools in India including ISB, IIMs (for Executive MBAs), SPJIMR, XLRI, Great Lakes, and many more. Whether you’re a working professional aiming for a career leap or an international applicant targeting Indian business education, the GMAT opens doors to multiple prestigious management programs in India.

In this article, we’ll explore the top MBA colleges in India that accept GMAT, their programs, score requirements, application process, and everything you need to know to use your GMAT score to pursue an MBA 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

When is GMAT accepted instead of CAT?

Key Takeaway: If you’re a working professional with 3+ years of experience, the GMAT can be your best bet for getting into a top B-school in India—often with rolling admissions, no group discussions, and profile-based selection processes.

Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT – Overview

Several premier Indian B-schools accept the GMAT score for admission into their flagship MBA or equivalent programs. These colleges are known for their world-class faculty, global recognition, strong industry connections, and diverse student cohorts.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the top MBA colleges in India that accept GMAT scores:

Looking for GMAT score cutoffs for these programs? Read our in-depth article on GMAT score requirements for top MBA programs.

Let’s now dive into detailed profiles of the top MBA colleges in India that accept the GMAT:

1. Indian School of Business (ISB)

Campus: Hyderabad & Mohali
Program: Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 2 years
Average GMAT Score: 710+
Application Rounds: 3
Why ISB?
ISB is one of the top-ranked business schools globally, known for its strong alumni network, world-class faculty, and career outcomes. It accepts both GMAT and GRE scores. The PGP is designed for professionals with work experience and aims to build future global leaders.

2. IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA)

Program: Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPX)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 4–5 years
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Average GMAT Score: 690–710
Why IIMA?
Ranked among the top MBA programs globally, IIMA’s PGPX is highly competitive and tailored for mid-career professionals aiming to transition into leadership roles. A GMAT score is mandatory for international candidates and optional (though recommended) for Indian applicants.

3. IIM Bangalore (IIMB)

Program: Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 5+ years
Average GMAT Score: 690+
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why IIMB?
The EPGP is a full-time MBA equivalent for experienced professionals, featuring global immersion, leadership development, and a strong placement track. GMAT scores are accepted alongside GRE.

4. IIM Calcutta (IIMC)

Program: MBA for Executives (MBAEx)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 5+ years
Average GMAT Score: 685–710
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why IIMC?
This intensive one-year MBA program focuses on leadership, strategy, and global perspectives. It is ideal for professionals aspiring for top-tier roles and international exposure.

5. IIM Lucknow

Program: International Programme in Management for Executives (IPMX) – Noida Campus
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 5+ years
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why IIM Lucknow?
IPMX is an AACSB and AMBA-accredited program designed for executives. The curriculum includes international modules, leadership labs, and personalized development planning.

6. IIM Indore

Program: Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 5+ years
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why IIM Indore?
The EPGP from IIM Indore is a residential program that focuses on strategic leadership and innovation. It’s ideal for professionals seeking a transformative mid-career shift.

7. XLRI Jamshedpur

Program: PGDM (General Management)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 5+ years
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why XLRI?
India’s oldest B-school, XLRI is well-known for its ethics-focused leadership training and strong industry connections. GMAT is accepted for NRI/foreign applicants and for its 1-year PGDM (GM) program.

8. SPJIMR Mumbai

Programs: Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM) / Global Management Programme (GMP)
Program Duration: 1–2 Years
Work Experience: 3–5 years (PGPM)
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why SPJIMR?
With a strong reputation in general management and international exposure through GMP, SPJIMR offers a unique blend of values-based leadership and global career pathways.

9. Great Lakes Institute of Management

Program: PGPM (Chennai & Gurgaon Campuses)
Program Duration: 1 Year
Minimum Work Experience: 2+ years
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why Great Lakes?
This one-year AICTE-approved program focuses on analytics, entrepreneurship, and global business. It offers excellent ROI and placement support.

10. MDI Gurgaon

Programs: PGDM, National Management Programme (NMP)
Program Duration: 1–2 Years
Work Experience: 5+ years (NMP)
GMAT Accepted: Yes (especially for international/NRI candidates)
Why MDI?
One of the top private B-schools in India, MDI Gurgaon offers global exposure, industry tie-ups, and international dual-degree options. GMAT is widely accepted for executive programs.

11. IMI New Delhi (International Management Institute)

Program: PGDM (for Foreign Nationals, PIOs, NRIs)
Program Duration: 2 Years
Work Experience Required: Not mandatory
GMAT Accepted: Yes (for international applicants)
Why IMI?
IMI Delhi is one of the leading private B-schools in India, with AMBA accreditation and excellent industry integration. For Indian students, CAT scores are required; for foreign/NRI students, GMAT is accepted.

12. IMT Ghaziabad (Institute of Management Technology)

Program: PGDM, PGDM Executive
Program Duration: 1–2 Years
Work Experience: 5+ years (Executive)
GMAT Accepted: Yes (for Executive & International candidates)
Why IMT?
Renowned for its marketing and leadership focus, IMT Ghaziabad accepts GMAT scores for its 1-year PGDM Executive and 2-year PGDM (for foreign nationals).

13. TAPMI Manipal (T.A. Pai Management Institute)

Programs: PGDM, PGDM-Healthcare, PGDM-BKFS
Program Duration: 2 Years
Work Experience: Not mandatory
GMAT Accepted: Yes (especially for NRI/foreign applicants)
Why TAPMI?
TAPMI, part of the prestigious Manipal Academy, is AACSB-accredited and known for its strong placement record. It accepts GMAT for international applicants and offers domain-specific programs.

14. IFMR GSB (Krea University)

Program: MBA (Full-Time)
Program Duration: 2 Years
Work Experience: Not mandatory
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why IFMR GSB?
This business school blends quantitative rigor with liberal arts perspectives. GMAT is accepted alongside CAT, XAT, NMAT, and GRE.

15. Woxsen University (Hyderabad)

Program: MBA (General & Specializations)
Program Duration: 2 Years
Work Experience: Not mandatory
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why Woxsen?
Woxsen is an emerging B-school with a global curriculum, modern infrastructure, and partnerships with international universities. GMAT is accepted for all full-time MBA programs.

16. SOIL Institute of Management (Gurgaon)

Program: 1-Year PGPM & 2-Year PGDM
Program Duration: 1–2 Years
Work Experience: Minimum 2 years (for 1-Year PGPM)
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why SOIL?
SOIL is known for its leadership-centric curriculum and social innovation. It emphasizes experiential learning and values-based leadership.

17. Amity Global Business School

Program: PGPM + MBA
Program Duration: 2 Years
Work Experience: Not mandatory
GMAT Accepted: Yes
Why Amity?
Amity accepts GMAT for international and NRI candidates and offers flexible entry options across various campuses in India and abroad.

Comparison Table: MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT

✅ 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.

Tips to Choose the Right MBA College Based on Your GMAT Score

Your GMAT score opens doors—but choosing the right door is just as important. Here’s a step-by-step guide to shortlist the best MBA colleges in India that accept the GMAT:

Step 1: Know Your GMAT Score Range

• 700+: Target elite programs like ISB, IIM PGPX/EPGP, XLRI GMP.
• 650–700: Consider top-tier B-schools like SPJIMR PGPM, Great Lakes PGPM, and select executive MBAs.
• 600–650: Look into mid-range programs like IFMR, IMI, and TAPMI.
• Below 600: Focus on upcoming B-schools like SOIL, Woxsen, or explore improving your score.

Step 2: Assess Your Work Experience

• If you have 5+ years, explore 1-year executive MBA programs (ISB, IIMs, XLRI).
• With 2–5 years, go for programs like SPJIMR PGPM or Great Lakes PGPM.
• Freshers or early professionals can target PGDM programs accepting GMAT for NRI/Foreign Nationals.

Step 3: Identify Your Post-MBA Goals

• Want to switch careers or go global? Choose ISB or IIM 1-year MBAs.
• Want to accelerate your current career? Great Lakes or SPJIMR PGPM are great options.
• Aiming for consulting or tech roles? Look for schools with strong industry partnerships and placements.

Step 4: Consider ROI & Location

• Calculate tuition, living costs, and expected salary post-MBA.
• Metro cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi offer better networking and placement opportunities.

Step 5: Check Eligibility & Application Requirements

• Some schools accept GMAT for only NRI/foreign candidates (like MDI, IMT, TAPMI).
• Others require essays, LORs, interviews, and work experience—plan your application accordingly.

✅ Pro Tip:

Create a spreadsheet with columns for GMAT score range, fees, location, deadlines, and ROI. This helps in comparing schools efficiently and making a data-driven decision.

How to Apply to Indian MBA Colleges with GMAT

Applying to Indian MBA programs with your GMAT score is relatively straightforward—but the process and requirements can differ from one school to another. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply efficiently:

1. Shortlist Programs That Accept GMAT

Not all Indian MBA colleges accept GMAT for domestic candidates. Here’s how to break it down:

• For Indian nationals: Most IIMs (for their 1-year programs like PGPX, EPGP) and schools like ISB, SPJIMR PGPM, XLRI GMP accept GMAT.
• For NRI/Foreign candidates: Many top 2-year PGDM programs (e.g., MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad, TAPMI, etc.) accept GMAT.

Tip: Always check the official website for the latest eligibility criteria and deadlines.

2. Take the GMAT and Get Your Score

• Register at mba.com and schedule your GMAT exam.
• Choose up to 5 programs to send your official scores for free on the test day.
• You can send additional score reports later for a fee.

3. Prepare Application Materials

Most top Indian B-schools require the following:

• GMAT score report
• Essays/Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your goals and fit
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – usually from supervisors
• Resume – highlighting professional accomplishments
• Academic transcripts

Some may also ask for:

• Video essays (e.g., SPJIMR)
• Additional forms or SOPs
• Work experience proof (for executive programs)

4. Apply Online via the College Website

• Create an account on the college’s official admission portal.
• Fill in your academic, professional, and personal details.
• Upload documents and pay the application fee.

Deadlines: Most Indian MBA programs accepting GMAT have rolling admissions or multiple rounds—early applications are recommended!

5. Prepare for the Interview

Once shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview. Prepare for questions like:

• Why MBA and why now?
• Why this school?
• What are your short and long-term goals?
• Leadership experiences and challenges

Tip: Be authentic, back your answers with examples, and demonstrate clarity of purpose.

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)
✔️ Look at the average GMAT scores of previous admits to assess your competitiveness

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.

FAQs on MBA Colleges Accepting GMAT in India

1. Do Indian MBA colleges accept GMAT scores?
Yes, several top MBA colleges in India accept GMAT scores, especially for Executive MBA programs, one-year MBAs like ISB’s PGP, and for international or NRI applicants to flagship two-year programs like those at the IIMs.

2. Which IIMs accept GMAT scores for Indian students?
IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, and other IIMs accept GMAT scores for their one-year full-time Executive MBA programs (PGPX, EPGP, PGPEX, IPMX, etc.). However, for their two-year MBA programs, GMAT is generally accepted only from foreign nationals or NRIs.

3. Can I apply to ISB with a GMAT score?
Absolutely. The Indian School of Business (ISB) accepts GMAT (and GRE) scores for its PGP program and other specialized postgraduate programs.

4. What is the minimum GMAT score required for MBA in India?
While there’s no official cutoff, competitive GMAT scores vary by school. For ISB, a score above 700 is considered competitive. For IIM executive programs, successful applicants typically score between 680–730.

5. Is GMAT accepted for the two-year MBA in India?
Yes, but mainly for foreign nationals, NRIs, or Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs). Domestic applicants to two-year MBA programs usually need to take the CAT.

6. How long is a GMAT score valid for Indian MBA programs?
A GMAT score is valid for 5 years, and most Indian B-schools adhere to this policy for their admissions criteria.

7. Do Indian colleges prefer CAT over GMAT?
Yes, for domestic applicants to two-year MBAs. However, for one-year MBA programs and international applicants, GMAT is often the preferred or only accepted exam.

8. Are GMAT-accepting MBA programs in India globally recognized?
Yes, institutions like ISB, IIMs, XLRI, and SPJIMR that accept GMAT scores are globally ranked and offer world-class education comparable to top international B-schools.