Last updated on December 26th, 2024 at 11:29 am

Step-By-Step Guide To Get into Indian School of Business (ISB)

The Indian School of Business (ISB), renowned for its world-class management education, offers transformative leadership skills and global business perspectives. ISB is one of the top business schools in India. Getting admission into ISB is highly competitive and requires thorough preparation. This guide outlines a step-by-step approach to increase your chances of admission to this prestigious institution.

ISB PGP PRO Interview

1. Research About ISB

The first step is to thoroughly research ISB – its programs, admission process, eligibility criteria, fees, scholarships, placements, etc. Go through the official website and admission brochures in detail. Talk to ISB alumni, students, and faculty to get insights. This ISB admission tip will help you understand what this premium institution looks for in applicants.

2. Choose Your Suitable Program

 

The Indian School of Business offers various management programs, so decide which one aligns best with your career goals. The flagship Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) is a one-year full-time residential MBA equivalent course.

Additionally, there is a Post Graduate Program in Management for Senior Executives (PGPMAX) targeting professionals with over 10 years of work experience. If you wish to specialize, the Post Graduate Programme in Management with various specialisations in Finance, Marketing, Operations, etc., is most suitable.

3. Check Eligibility Criteria

 

ISB has laid down eligibility criteria for its various programs. For the flagship Post Graduate Programme (PGP), you need:

  • Minimum of 2 years of work experience after graduation.
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline.
  • GMAT scores between 700 and 750.
  • TOEFL scores of at least 100.

Even if your academics are average, scoring well in national-level entrance exams like the CAT, GMAT, and GRE proves your quantitative, verbal, and analytical abilities are essential for an MBA program. The work experience requirement is relaxed for the younger PGP program.

4. Prepare Well for Entrance Exams

 

  • Crack the GMAT and TOEFL exams as required. 
  • Aim for high scores to strengthen your application.
  • GMAT focuses on quantitative, verbal, analytical, and writing skills. 
  • Enroll for GMAT prep classes or self-study using books/online resources. 
  • Take GMAT practice tests to know where you stand and improve weaker areas.

Consider taking Career Launcher’s GMAT Prep program to receive expert guidance from our well-reputed teachers and excel in your exam. 

For non-native English speakers, excelling in TOEFL underscores your English proficiency, a vital component of ISB’s interactive and diverse environment. 

  • Improve your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills. Solve sample papers and take mock tests. 
  • Manage your time well during the actual exam.

5. Work on Your Application

 

The ISB application has several components:

  • Academic Transcripts – Submit transcripts of all your academic degrees with strong grades.
  • Application Essays – Write stellar essays to stand out. Be genuine and convey your personality, goals, achievements, and strengths.
  • Letters of Recommendation – Get recommendations from professors/supervisors who know you well.

Interview – Clear the interview round by preparing answers to common questions. Demonstrate your soft skills.

6. Apply for Scholarships

 

ISB offers scholarships of up to ₹10 lakhs for deserving candidates. The main scholarships are:

  • PGP Scholarship – For well-rounded candidates based on application, essays, academics, and work experience.
  • Young Leaders Scholarship – For young professionals with outstanding achievements.
  • Women’s Scholarship – For female candidates with strong credentials.
  • Diversity Scholarship – For candidates from underrepresented communities.

Research the scholarships and apply to those where you meet the eligibility. This can significantly lower your fees.

7. Arrange Financing

 

ISB fees for the PGP program, including tuition, books, accommodation, etc., are around ₹32 lakhs.

Start planning the finances early. Explore education loans from banks. Some companies sponsor deserving employees. 

ISB also facilitates loans through tie-ups with banks/NBFCs. Save money through part-time work or freelancing.

8. Apply and Complete Admissions

 

  • Apply Online – Submit your completed application on the ISB website before the deadline. The earlier you apply, the better.
  • Interview – Prepare thoroughly for your admissions interview if called. Project confidence and strong motivation. Answer questions honestly and coherently.
  • Offer letter – Accept ISB’s offer letter within the stipulated date after paying the initial deposit fee. Complete any other formalities.

VISA – For international applicants, get your student VISA processed on time.

9. Arrange Accommodation

 

On acceptance, book your accommodation in ISB’s on-campus dorms on a first-come-first-served basis. Options are:

  • Twin sharing – Share room with 1 roommate
  • Triple sharing – Share with 2 roommates (cheaper)
  • Suites – Higher end, for married students

Alternatively, you can look for off-campus accommodation in nearby areas. Evaluate options on a budget, distance, amenities, etc.

10. Immerse Yourself at ISB!

 

Immerse yourself fully into life at ISB. Attend classes regularly. Participate in group activities. Develop meaningful relationships. Leverage alumni networks. 

Make use of career services and join clubs and committees. Take up leadership roles to represent ISB in competitions. Travel for exchange programs. Make the most of the lifetime opportunity at a premier institute like ISB!

Conclusion

With thorough planning and hard work over 1-2 years, you can realise your dream of studying at the prestigious Indian School of Business. Lay out a comprehensive plan highlighting your strengths while addressing any gaps early. The rewards will be immense in the form of a world-class management education, a brilliant peer network, and doors to top career opportunities.

Shaifali Bhardwaj - career launcher content writer

Shaifali Bhardwaj
Content Writer

About Author

A people- and story-person, Shaifali enjoys crafting narratives inspired by the life of people she meets. She likes to read autobiographies and fiction, indulge in some YRF drama, and even spin stories inspired by everyday objects (like her work desk). Stories being her oxygen, she began her career with HT Media, where she wrote health and entertainment news stories, and later started helping students write and edit essential application documents like statements of purpose. This fulfilled her desire to uncover unique stories and articulate them in the most compelling manner, while forming lasting bonds with her students. Presently with Career Launcher Study Abroad, she’s expanding her skills in website content and copywriting to advance in her field. On weekends, you may find her at a dance workshop or requesting weekday leaves for trekking adventures.

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