Top Colleges Accepting GMAT Score in India–Direct MBA Admission
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission.The Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) is increasingly becoming popular in India with a lot of MBA colleges using GMAT scores for admission to their management courses. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
In fact, in quite a few B-schools in India (more than 100), GMAT has replaced previously popular entrance exams like MAT, CMAT etc. Get to know Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
If your aim is to get into an MBA program offered by the best B-schools around the world, it is important that your Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) score is more than 700.
Last year (2015), the average GMAT score accepted by Stanford University was 733, while Wharton’s MBA program requires an average GMAT score of 732.
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Similarly Booth requires 726 and Harvard Business School needs an average GMAT score of 725. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
What is Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT)
Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT)
The Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) is a computer-adaptive test that has been created by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC.)
The GMAC is a non-profit body of some of the best and top management schools and B-schools from across the globe. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
The GMAT is a test that is used to check the suitability of students aspiring to pursue MBA/ Management programs. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
By testing the various skills needed in business & management (such as problem-solving, critical & logical reasoning, analytical writing, etc.),
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
the GMAT is a reliable test that allows the school/university take a call on whether the candidate is a right fit for the course. Top Colleges Accepting GMAT Score in India–Direct MBA Admission
For this reason, 7000+ programs offered by 2300+ universities/ colleges in 110 countries have been using the GMAT as a mandatory part of their admission/ selection process.
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Also, you can easily find sufficient details regarding GMAT registration, GMAT exam dates 2024, GMAT eligibility, etc. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
You can prepare for your GMAT 2026 test with several materials and mock tests that are available online. Top Colleges Accepting GMAT Score in India–Direct MBA Admission
Many management schools in India such as ISB Hyderabad, IIM Ahmedabad accept applications for PGP, PGPX management programs on the basis of GMAT scores and shortlist candidates for further selection procedures like group discussions & personal interviews. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
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:
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
- 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
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When is GMAT accepted instead of CAT?
| Program Type | GMAT Accepted? | CAT Accepted? |
| 2-Year Full-Time MBA | Rare (IIMs generally do not accept GMAT for Indian applicants) | Yes |
| 1-Year MBA for Experienced Professionals | Yes | No |
| Executive MBA (EMBA) | Yes | No |
| PGDM Programs (Private B-Schools) | Yes | Yes |
| Foreign/NRI/PIO Applicants | Yes | No |
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT – Overview
| Business School | Program | Minimum Work Experience | GMAT Required? | Program Duration |
| ISB (Hyderabad & Mohali) | PGP | 2+ years | 1 Year | |
| IIM Ahmedabad | PGPX | 4-5 years | 1 Year | |
| IIM Bangalore | EPGP | 5+ years | 1 Year | |
| IIM Calcutta | MBAEx | 5+ years | 1 Year | |
| IIM Lucknow | IPMX | 5+ years | 1 Year | |
| IIM Indore | EPGP | 5+ years | 1 Year | |
| XLRI Jamshedpur | PGDM (General Management) | 5+ years | 1 Year | |
| SPJIMR Mumbai | PGPM / GMP | 3-5 years | 1-2 Years | |
| Great Lakes Institute of Management | PGPM | 2+ years | 1 Year | |
| IMT Ghaziabad | PGDM | 0-2 years | (for international applicants) | 2 Years |
| MDI Gurgaon | PGDM / NMP | 5+ years (for NMP) | 1-2 Years | |
| IMI New Delhi | PGDM / Executive PGDM | 0-5+ years | 1-2 Years | |
| TAPMI, Manipal | PGDM | 0-2 years | 2 Years |
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Who can take the GMAT? | GMAT Eligibility Criteria
You need to be 18 years+ to be eligible to appear for GMAT. For candidates between the ages 13 to 17, parental approval is needed to write the GMAT. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
There is no specific eligibility criterion to be able to write the GMAT.
- Since the exam is used for admissions to various MBA/ Management programs around the world, what you need to check is your eligibility for the MBA program you’re applying for.
- The GMAT eligibility criteria for admissions may vary for every MBA or Management course.
- Some management programs may require you to have a certain number of years of work experience, while others may not. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
- So before you register for GMAT, please ensure that you fulfill all other parameters that would allow your selection into your chosen program.
- It is advisable that college final year students and those who have completed college write the GMAT, as the GMAT score is used for admission into postgraduate management programs in India and across the world. Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
Countries and Territories that accept GMAT score
| GMAT Score Validity | The GMAT score is valid for 5 years. Students studying undergraduate courses can hence appear for GMAT from the first year. |
| Reappearing for GMAT | You can take the GMAT any number of times till you get your desired score. There are certain points that you need to know before retaking the GMAT exam – |
| An individual can retake the GMAT exam 5 times in one year. | The individual must wait for a 16-day period before initiating or re-applying for another GMAT test. Your entire GMAT exam scores will be listed on their website which if shared can be regarded by the B-schools. |
| GMAT Exam Fees | The GMAT exam fee for a single attempt is INR 17,244 (USD 250). In case, you want to change or reschedule your GMAT exam 2025 – a sum of INR 3449 (USD 50) will be charged. Individuals can register/apply for GMAT test online or even choose the offline mode. |
| GMAT Exams Dates | The GMAT exam dates are flexible. You can apply/register/schedule your GMAT test according your date of preference. You can register or schedule your GMAT exam dates through the online mode, you can also prefer to schedule your exam date by calling the customer care at GMAT. The GMAT exam is conducted 5 times a year. If you are planning to appear for GMAT test you can visit their official website and schedule an exam date according to your preference. |
| GMAT Score Results | It is a computer adaptive test and the score results are available within three weeks of taking the examination. The unofficial score is available immediately after the examination. |
5 Study Tips to help you Score 700+ in GMAT
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
- Register for GMAT & get your exam date in place. This will help a lot as you now have a fixed deadline and you’ll be able to work towards preparing yourself for the D-day.
- Diagnose your GMAT preparation level. That is, take a full-length GMAT test before you start studying. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. And this is where the official GMAT Software comes in handy. Your GMAT score with zero-preparation level will give you a good idea of how intensely you need to prepare.
- Arm yourself with enough preparation material. To be honest, most GMAT toppers have only used the official GMAT material. You too should ensure that for starters, you cover “The Official Guide for GMAT Review, 2017” completely. Only after you are thoroughly well-versed with the official study material, should you think of moving on to other books (like the Manhattan GMAT package.) Also, hunt for free online GMAT prep material, there’s a lot of free stuff floating around on the internet. Use them to your advantage. Also read: Preparation tips & free GMAT study material
- Aim for the stars, only then will you reach the moon. Keep your target score as 750, better still – let your dream GMAT score be 800. That way, even if you miss and fall short, you would safely cross the 700 mark.
- Maintain a routine. You need to study for at least 2 hours every day, instead of sitting for 10 hours once a week. Daily practice would result in better retention of what you learn, rather than long cram sessions.
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission
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
| Business School | Program Type | GMAT Accepted For | Duration | Work Experience Required | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISB Hyderabad & Mohali | PGP | All applicants | 1 Year | 2+ years | Mid-level professionals |
| IIM Ahmedabad | PGPX | All applicants (PGPX only) | 1 Year | 5–7+ years | Senior professionals |
| IIM Bangalore | EPGP | All applicants (EPGP only) | 1 Year | 5–12 years | Leadership-track professionals |
| IIM Calcutta | MBAEx | All applicants | 1 Year | 5+ years | Global management roles |
| IIM Indore | EPGP | All applicants | 1 Year | 5+ years | Mid-to-senior professionals |
| XLRI Jamshedpur | GMP | All applicants | 15 months | 5+ years | Career switchers/advancers |
| SPJIMR Mumbai | PGPM | All applicants | 15 months | 5+ years | Professionals with strong backgrounds |
| Great Lakes Chennai & Gurgaon | PGPM | All applicants | 1 Year | 2+ years | Career accelerators |
| MDI Gurgaon | PGDM (NRI/Foreign nationals) | NRI/Foreign nationals only | 2 Years | Not mandatory | NRI and international students |
| IMI New Delhi | PGDM | NRI/Foreign nationals only | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Global applicants |
| IMT Ghaziabad | PGDM Executive, PGDM (NRI) | Executive/NRI applicants | 1–2 Years | 5+ years (Executive) | Marketing/Leadership roles |
| TAPMI Manipal | PGDM | NRI/Foreign applicants | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Entry-level or early career |
| IFMR GSB, Krea University | MBA | All applicants | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Analytical and finance aspirants |
| Woxsen University | MBA | All applicants | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Emerging B-school aspirants |
| SOIL Institute of Management | PGPM & PGDM | All applicants | 1–2 Years | 2+ years (PGPM) | Experiential learners |
| Amity Global Business School | PGPM + MBA | NRI/Foreign nationals | 2 Years | Not mandatory | Global/NRI candidates |
Top MBA Colleges in India Accepting GMAT-Direct Admission