Top GMAT Accepting Colleges in India for 2025

Pursuing an MBA in India has become increasingly exciting for students with the growing number of GMAT accepting colleges in India. The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a widely accepted entrance exam that can help you secure admission into some of the country’s top business schools. Many universities here offer world-class education and global exposure, making India one of the best countries to study abroad for international students. 

In this article, we will discuss the top institutions in India that accept GMAT scores with and without work experience.

Top Prestigious GMAT Accepting Colleges in India

Most of the top business schools in India accept GMAT scores as part of their admission process, including IIMs. Some of these institutions also have good rankings on the QS world rankings. 

•  Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad

Located in Gujarat, IIM Ahmedabad stands at the pinnacle of management education in India. Ranked first in the 2023 IIRF Ranking, this institute offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring business leaders. The school accepts GMAT scores for the Full-time Postgraduate Program in Management for Executives and the Two-year MBA program (for NRIs, PIOs, and Indian candidates abroad). 

• Course: Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPX)
  
• Fees: Approximately ₹31.5 lakhs
  
• Average Salary: Median salary around ₹28-32 LPA
  
• Work Experience: Minimum of 4 years of full-time work experience
  
• Educational Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
  
• GMAT Score: 665+

Students who graduate from this school secure prestigious positions in consulting and investment banking with some of the top companies in the world.

• ISB (Indian School of Business), Hyderabad and Mohali

The Indian School of Business (ISB) is one of the most sought-after GMAT colleges India, known for its world-class faculty and strong industry connections. It has campuses in Hyderabad and Mohali and is consistently ranked among the top business schools in India and Asia.

ISB accepts GMAT scores for admission into its Post Graduate Program in Management (PGP), which is designed for professionals with a minimum of two years of work experience. However, candidates with less experience can apply through the Early Entry Option (EEO).

• Course: Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
• Fees: Approximately ₹40 lakhs
• Average Salary: Around ₹34.21 LPA
• Work Experience: Minimum of 2 years required
• Educational Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
• GMAT Score: Not specified, but a minimum score of 650+ is advised

Its curriculum is globally focused, making it a preferred choice for MBA aspirants looking to enhance their leadership and business skills.

• Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta

IIM Calcutta is one of the top business schools in India, known for its rigorous academic approach and strong industry connections. It is among the top MBA colleges in India accepting GMAT scores, offering programs designed for experienced professionals looking to enhance their management skills.

The institute accepts GMAT scores for its MBA for Executives Programme (MBAEx), a one-year full-time residential course tailored for mid-career professionals.

• Course: MBA for Executives Programme (MBAEx)
  
• Fees: Approximately ₹27 lakhs
  
• Average Salary: Around ₹30.90 LPA
  
• Work Experience: Minimum 5 years required
  
• Educational Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
  
• GMAT Score: Not specified, but a minimum score of 650+ is advised

Candidates are evaluated based on their academic record, work experience, GMAT score, and personal interview performance. International exposure and leadership experience can be an added advantage.

With a strong focus on strategic thinking, leadership development, and global business trends, IIM Calcutta remains one of the most sought-after GMAT accepting MBA colleges in India, attracting professionals who aim to excel in the corporate world.

• Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore

IIM Bangalore is one of the top MBA colleges in India accepting GMAT score, known for its strong academic reputation and outstanding placement opportunities. The institute accepts GMAT scores for its Executive Post Graduate Program in Management (EPGP), a one-year, full-time MBA designed for experienced professionals.

IIM Bangalore’s EPGP program is ideal for those looking to advance into leadership roles. The selection process also considers leadership experience, career achievements, and a strong statement of purpose. Having international exposure can be an added advantage.

• Course: Executive Post Graduate Program (EPGP)
  
• Fees: ₹30-35 lakhs
  
• Average Salary: ₹40-45 LPA
  
• Work Experience: Minimum 5 years required
  
• Educational Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
  
• GMAT Score: Not specified, but a minimum score of 650+ is advised

With its world-class faculty, global business perspective, and strong alumni network, IIM Bangalore stands out as one of the best colleges accepting GMAT scores in India for professionals aiming for senior management roles.

• Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode

IIM Kozhikode is a leading business school in India, known for its innovative teaching methods and emphasis on leadership development. It is one of the top MBA colleges in India accepting GMAT scores, offering programs designed for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals.

The institute accepts GMAT scores for its Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) and other specialised programs. Candidates with work experience and strong academic backgrounds are given preference.

• Course: Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP)
  
• Fees: Approximately ₹15.95 lakhs
  
• Average Salary: Around ₹30-35 LPA (varies by program)
  
• Work Experience: Minimum 5 years preferred for EPGP
  
• Educational Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
  
• GMAT Score: Not specified, but a minimum score of 650+ is advised

IIM Kozhikode’s programs focus on global business trends, leadership skills, and real-world applications, making it a preferred choice for professionals looking to advance their careers. 

GMAT Accepting Colleges in India Without Work Experience

While many Indian MBA colleges require work experience for GMAT-based admissions, some colleges accepting GMAT scores in India without work experience include:

• Indian School of Business (ISB) through the Young Leaders Program (YLP)
• SP Jain Global MBA (SPJIMR) through their Early Entry Option
• Great Lakes Institute of Management (for its PGDM program)
• IFIM Business School, Bangalore

These programs allow fresh graduates to secure MBA admissions based on their GMAT scores and academic performance.

Why is There an Increase in GMAT Accepting Colleges in India?

Over the past few years, the list of top MBA colleges in India accepting GMAT scores has been growing rapidly. While students primarily prepared for the GMAT for international B-school admissions, it has now gained popularity to get admissions in India as well. But what’s driving this shift?

1. A Globally Recognised Admission Test

Top business schools worldwide use GMAT to assess candidates’ analytical, quantitative, and verbal reasoning skills. Many colleges that accept GMAT in India now prefer it as a standardized way to evaluate applicants, helping them attract top talent.

2. Growth of Executive MBA & Specialised Programs

Several leading GMAT colleges in India, including ISB, IIMs, and SPJIMR, offer Executive MBA and niche management programs. Since these are designed for professionals with work experience, the GMAT has become a preferred entrance test for admission.

3. Flexible Exam Scheduling

Unlike CAT, which is held once a year, GMAT allows candidates to choose their exam date and even retake it multiple times. This flexibility makes it an appealing option for working professionals and students applying to colleges accepting GMAT score in India.

4. International Exposure & Collaborations

Many colleges accepting GMAT scores in India are partnering with global universities to enhance their reputation. Accepting GMAT aligns their admission process with international standards, making their programs attractive to students looking for global career opportunities.

5. Opportunities for Fresh Graduates

While the GMAT was earlier associated with Executive MBAs, today, there are several GMAT accepting colleges in India without work experience, allowing fresh graduates to apply directly. This has expanded the range of options for MBA aspirants.

GMAT Exam Structure

The GMAT (Graduate Management Aptitude Test) is a globally recognised exam that evaluates candidates on key skills essential for business and management studies. It measures analytical, quantitative, verbal, and reasoning abilities to assess a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level business programs. 

Recently, the exam underwent a structural change, eliminating the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section and reducing the overall test duration. These modifications aim to streamline the testing experience while maintaining its effectiveness in evaluating critical skills for business success.

The test is a mix of multiple-choice questions and a written essay, with a total duration of 2 hours 15 minutes. The GMAT is now scored on a scale of 205 to 805, and a score of 700+ is generally considered competitive for colleges accepting GMAT scores in India.

How to Get Into GMAT Accepting Colleges in India? 

The process of taking admission into colleges that accept GMAT in India is not that different from the normal admission procedure. The admission process for GMAT accepting MBA colleges in India generally involves the following steps:

1. GMAT Score Submission: Candidates need to submit their GMAT scores along with their application forms.
2. Application Review: The colleges assess academic records, work experience (if required), essays, and recommendation letters.
3. Personal Interview & Written Ability Test: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews and may have to take a written test.
4. Final Selection: Selection is based on the overall profile, GMAT score, interview performance, and other application components.

Study in the US Without GMAT

Pursuing a master’s degree in the US no longer requires a GMAT score, thanks to The WorldGrad’s All American Graduate Program. This Smart Program allows students and working professionals to begin their master’s studies online in their home country and later transition to a top US university. With options in STEM and non-STEM fields, the program partners with leading institutions like Hofstra University, Lander University, Indiana Institute of Technology, San Diego State University and more.

By completing up to 12 credits online in just 2 to 3.5 months, students can save up to ₹24 lakhs in tuition and living expenses. This approach not only reduces the financial burden but also strengthens visa applications by demonstrating academic progress before moving abroad. 

Additionally, participants receive personalised academic support and access to exclusive scholarships, ensuring a smooth transition to on-campus studies. With no GMAT or GRE required, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers with a US degree while minimising costs and maximising flexibility.

Conclusion 

With a wide range of GMAT accepting colleges in India for MBA, students have multiple options to pursue their dream business education. As international educational trends emphasise global entrance exams, the GMAT provides flexibility and worldwide recognition, making it an excellent choice for MBA students.