Which Indian Colleges Accept the GMAT? IIMs, ISB and Beyond
- MBA Entrance Exam Expert
- Aug 18
- 5 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
For candidates aiming to pursue a management degree in India, the landscape of entrance exams can be confusing. Many applicants wonder whether they should take the GMAT or the Common Admission Test (CAT) and whether Indian schools accept GMAT scores at all. As an admissions consultant, I’m often asked: “Do IIMs accept the GMAT?” and “Does ISB accept the CAT?” This article clarifies which Indian schools accept the GMAT, how exam requirements differ across programs, and how to make an informed decision about which test to take.
Understanding GMAT Acceptance in India
Globally, the GMAT is accepted by more than 7,700 programs at over 2,400 schools[1]. While its primary audience is international MBA programs, many Indian business schools also use GMAT scores—especially for executive and global programs. The GMAT signals to admissions committees that a candidate has strong quantitative, verbal and analytical skills[2]. However, it’s important to distinguish between schools and programs that require the CAT and those that accept the GMAT.
Do IIMs Accept the GMAT?
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are prestigious business schools known for their rigorous flagship program—the two‑year Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP). For most PGP programs, the CAT is mandatory for domestic applicants. However, certain IIMs accept the GMAT for specific programs and applicant categories:
Executive and One‑Year MBA Programs
Several IIMs offer one‑year or executive MBA programs targeted at experienced professionals. These programs—such as IIM Ahmedabad’s Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPX) and IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP)—commonly accept GMAT scores instead of the CAT. These programs value candidates with substantial work experience and often attract applicants who have been out of the domestic test‑taking pool for years. The GMAT’s global recognition and flexibility make it a suitable measure for these applicants.
International Applicants to Two‑Year PGPs
Some IIMs accept GMAT scores from foreign or non‑resident Indian (NRI) applicants to their two‑year PGP programs. For example, IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore may allow overseas candidates to submit GMAT scores through the General Management Admission Test route. Domestic applicants, however, generally must take the CAT. Always check each IIM’s admissions policy for the latest requirements, as policies can change from year to year.
IIM Indore’s Integrated Programme in Management (IPM)
While not an MBA program, the IPM is a five‑year integrated program that accepts scores from standardized tests like SAT or IPMAT (IIM Indore’s own test). The GMAT is not generally accepted for this program. This highlights how each IIM uses different criteria for different programs.
Does ISB Accept CAT Scores?
The Indian School of Business (ISB) is one of India’s most prominent business schools with a global reputation. It offers the Post Graduate Programme (PGP) and a range of advanced management programs. ISB does not accept CAT scores for its flagship PGP. Instead, it accepts the GMAT and GRE. This policy reflects ISB’s positioning as an international program that targets a global student body and frequently draws faculty and resources from top U.S. business schools. Applicants aiming for ISB should prepare for the GMAT or GRE and plan accordingly.
For ISB’s specialized programs, such as the Management Programme for Family Business (MFAB) or the Advanced Management Programme in Public Policy, admissions requirements may vary. Some programs accept the Business Admissions Test (BAT) or other assessments. Be sure to review each program’s specific admissions criteria.
Other Indian Colleges Accepting GMAT Scores
Beyond the IIMs and ISB, several reputable Indian business schools accept GMAT scores for various programs. Examples include:
XLRI Jamshedpur: Known for its flagship PGDM (General Management) and Executive PGDM programs. The executive program may accept GMAT scores.
SPJIMR (S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research): Accepts GMAT scores for its PGPM (Post Graduate Programme in Management) and other modular programs aimed at professionals.
Great Lakes Institute of Management: Accepts GMAT scores for its PGDM and PGPM programs. The school uses the GMAT to evaluate quantitative and verbal aptitude.
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT): The executive programs and MBA (International Business) may accept GMAT scores for foreign nationals or NRIs.
NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies): The Global MBA and executive programs often accept the GMAT.
T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), MDI Gurgaon, and IMT Ghaziabad: These institutions may accept GMAT scores for specialized or executive programs.
Keep in mind that admissions policies vary by program. Some schools accept the GMAT only for foreign or NRI candidates, while domestic applicants must take other exams such as the CAT, XAT or CMAT. Before choosing which test to take, carefully review the requirements on each school’s admissions page and contact the admissions office if anything is unclear.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between GMAT and CAT
Target Schools and Programs: Identify which programs you’re applying to and confirm their exam requirements. If your top choices include international programs or Indian executive programs, the GMAT may be the better choice. If you’re focused exclusively on two‑year IIM programs, the CAT is essential.
Global Mobility: The GMAT is accepted worldwide[1]. If you’re considering pursuing an MBA abroad or working internationally, a GMAT score gives you more options.
Flexibility and Scheduling: The GMAT is offered year‑round and can be taken at a test center or online[1]. The CAT is offered once a year. If you need flexibility to fit your work schedule or want the option to retake the test within a short timeframe, the GMAT may suit you better.
Exam Content: The GMAT focuses on critical reasoning, data analysis and problem solving[2], while the CAT tests more advanced math, logical puzzles and vocabulary. Choose the exam that aligns with your strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do all IIMs accept the GMAT?
No. Most IIMs require the CAT for their two‑year flagship programs. However, many IIMs accept GMAT scores for executive and one‑year MBA programs, and some accept GMAT scores from international applicants for their PGPs. Always check the specific program’s requirements.
Q2: Does ISB accept CAT scores?
No. ISB’s flagship PGP accepts only the GMAT and GRE. ISB is not part of the IIM system and has different admissions criteria.
Q3: Which Indian colleges accept the GMAT?
Several institutions accept GMAT scores, including ISB, executive programs at IIMs, and programs at XLRI, SPJIMR, Great Lakes, NMIMS and more. Acceptance policies vary by program and applicant category.
Q4: Should I take the GMAT or the CAT?
It depends on your goals. If you plan to apply to international programs or executive programs in India, the GMAT provides flexibility and broader recognition. If your focus is exclusively on the two‑year IIM PGPs, the CAT is mandatory.
Q5: Can I apply to both IIMs and ISB with the same exam?
Yes. If you take the GMAT, you can apply to ISB and certain IIM programs that accept GMAT scores. If you take the CAT, you can apply to two‑year IIM PGPs. Some applicants choose to take both exams to maximize their options.
Conclusion
The GMAT plays an important role in India’s management education landscape, especially for executive and globally oriented programs. While the CAT remains the primary gateway to two‑year IIM programs, many Indian business schools—including executive programs at IIMs, ISB and several private institutions—accept GMAT scores. ISB does not accept CAT scores, highlighting the distinction between these exams. To decide which exam to take, consider your target programs, career ambitions, flexibility needs and personal strengths. By understanding where the GMAT is accepted and how it differs from the CAT, you can choose the right path and position yourself for success.