MBA in India is a great option for those looking to advance their careers in the field of business and management. With a wide range of programs and specializations available, students have the flexibility to choose the right program to match their interests and career goals.
An MBA (Master of Business Administration) is a postgraduate-level degree that focuses on business and management. In India, MBA programs are offered by both private and public universities, as well as by business schools.
Management institutes in India deliver over 30 different MBA specialisations. Finance, Marketing, International Management, Human Resources, Information Technology/Systems, Operations Management, and Entrepreneurship have traditionally been the most common MBA specialisations.
These programs typically take 2 years to complete and may be offered on a full-time or part-time basis.
To be eligible for an MBA program in India, candidates need to have a bachelor’s degree and a certain level of work experience. The admissions process for MBA programs in India often includes an entrance exam, such as CAT, XAT, and GMAT, followed by a personal interview.
The CAT and MAT exams are among the most widely recognized national-level MBA entrance tests for gaining admission to top business schools in India.
In India, 20 IIMs, more than 1,000 B-schools and 600+ management institutions accept CAT scores for admission. MAT scores are also accepted by a considerable number of institutions for admissions.
“Benefits of Pursuing an MBA from a Top-Ranked Institute”
Most of the Institutes provides scholarships are given to deserving candidates who fulfill all the terms and conditions.
The Institutes have a robust placement cell and its graduates & postgraduates have been placed in top companies and organizations across various industries.
Additionally, these institutes have a very strong alumni network, with its students holding leadership positions in various companies and organizations across the world.
16 Best Private B-Schools in India with Established Legacies, their Latest Fee Structures (taken from the College Websites) and 2022 NIRF Rankings
- Xavier Labour Relations Institute – [XLRI], Jamshedpur, Jharkhand
XLRI started in 1949, is not only the oldest business school of the country, but also the first institute to offer management courses though online platform in India. XLRI is amongst the elite group of B-Schools with triple accreditation in the country from AACSB, AMBA and the NBA. Started several management-centric courses for trade unions. XLRI is known for its Best Student-Faculty Ratio, Good RoI, Human Resource Program, Rich Alumni Network and Student Exchange Program. Over the years, XLRI has established itself as a leading business school in the country and has been ranked among the top 5 B-Schools in India by various publications.
XLRI has a rigorous selection process for admission to its management programs, which includes a combination of academic performance, entrance exams, work experience, and personal interviews. The faculty at XLRI is highly qualified, with many holding doctorates from leading universities in India and abroad. The institute also attracts top recruiters from a variety of industries, with its graduates being highly sought after by both Indian and multinational companies.
The institute also has collaborations with leading management schools and universities around the world, which provide opportunities for exchange programs and joint research projects.
Founding year: 1949
NIRF Ranking: No. 8
Entrance Exam: XAT/ GMAT/ CAT

2. Indian School of Business [ISB], Hyderabad, Telangana
ISB is a private business school located in Hyderabad, was established in 2001 and has since then become one of the leading business schools in India and Asia.
ISB offers several postgraduate programs, including a one-year Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP), a Post Graduate Programme in Management for Senior Executives (PGPMAX), a Post Graduate Programme in Management for Family Business (PGP MFAB), and a doctoral program (Fellow Programme in Management). The programs are designed to cater to the diverse needs of students, ranging from fresh graduates to mid-career professionals and family business owners.
Although the Indian School of Business is a highly reputed and prestigious institution, it is not ranked in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings. This is because the NIRF only ranks institutions that are fully or partially funded by the central or state government of India. As a private business school, the ISB does not receive any government funding, and hence, is not eligible for inclusion in the NIRF rankings.
However, the Indian School of Business is ranked by several international ranking agencies such as the Financial Times, The Economist, and QS World University Rankings. These rankings take into account various factors such as research output, quality of faculty, student diversity, and placements, among others, to assess the performance and quality of an institution. ISB consistently features in these global rankings and is considered among the top business schools in the world.
Founding year: 2001
NIRF Ranking: –
Entrance Exam: GMAT / GRE

3. Management Development Institute [MDI], Gurugram, Haryana
Management Development Institute, Gurgaon is one of the top-ranked business schools in India, offering a range of management programs to students from diverse backgrounds. Founded in 1973, the institute has established a strong reputation for providing world-class management education to its students and producing competent professionals who are well equipped to meet the challenges of the corporate world.
MDI, Gurgaon offers various postgraduate and doctoral management programs, including PGDM, PGPM, and PGP-HRM. The curriculum is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of various management concepts and theories, as well as practical exposure to real-world business problems. The programs are designed in collaboration with industry experts and academic professionals to ensure that students receive the best possible education.
MDI, Gurgaon is accredited by AACSB and AMBA, two of the most prestigious international accreditations in management education. This recognition confirms the institute’s commitment to providing high-quality education and its ability to meet the standards set by these accreditation bodies.
Founding year: 1972
NIRF Ranking: No. 13
Entrance Exam: CAT/ GMAT

4. Symbiosis Institute of Business Management [SIBM], Pune, Maharashtra
Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM) is a premier management institute established in 1978, it is part of the Symbiosis International (Deemed University) and offers a two-year full-time MBA program. SIBM has a strong reputation for its academic curriculum, industry partnerships, and student-centered approach to education.
The MBA program at SIBM is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of business management. The curriculum covers a range of management disciplines, including finance, marketing, human resources, and operations, and is designed to be both theoretical and practical in nature. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas of their interest through electives and live projects.
Has a well-equipped campus that includes modern classrooms, computer labs, a library, and sports facilities. SIBM is known for its student-centered approach to education. The institute has a number of student-led clubs and committees that organize various events and activities, providing students with opportunities to develop their leadership and interpersonal skills. The institute also provides students with opportunities to participate in national and international competitions, attend workshops and seminars, and interact with alumni.
Founding year: 1978
NIRF Ranking: No. 17
Entrance Exam: SNAP & (GE-PIWAT)

5. S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research [SPJIOMR], Mumbai, Maharashtra
S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) is a premier management institute established in 1981, a leading management institute that offers postgraduate management programs and executive education programs to students. With its modern campus, industry partnerships, and student-centered approach to education. SPJIMR has a well-equipped campus that includes modern classrooms, computer labs, a library, and sports facilities. It is well positioned to continue providing world-class management education for many years to come.
Founding year: 1981
NIRF Ranking: No. 21
Entrance Exam: CAT/ XAT

6. SVKM`s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies [NMIMS], Mumbai, Maharashtra
the Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal (SVKM) made the decision to cater to the rising demand of management institutes in the country. This led to the birth of the Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS). It began humbly by offering two-year full-time master’s programme in management studies with 4 full time faculty, 3162 books and an intake of 40 students above Bhaidas Hall, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai.
SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) is a premier management institute located in Mumbai, India. Established in 1981, it is part of the Narsee Monjee Educational Trust and offers a range of management programs, including MBA, PGDM, and executive education programs.
The management programs at NMIMS are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of business management. The curriculum covers a range of management disciplines, including finance, marketing, human resources, and operations, and is designed to be both theoretical and practical in nature. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas of their interest through electives and live projects. NMIMS is well positioned to continue providing world-class management education for many years to come.
Founding year: 1981
NIRF Ranking: No. 25
Entrance Exam: Bachelor’s Degree with minimum 50% marks

7. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham [AVV], Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a private, multi-campus, research university located in India. It was founded in 2003 by Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, also known as Amma, and is headquartered in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The university has five campuses in total, located in Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Amritapuri, Chennai, and Mysuru.
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in engineering, business, arts and sciences, biotechnology, medicine, journalism, and several other areas. The university has a strong focus on research and innovation, with its faculty and students working on a wide range of interdisciplinary projects.
The university is known for its strong emphasis on values such as compassion, sustainability, and spiritual growth, and for its innovative approach to education that combines academics with spiritual practice and social service.
Founding year: 2003
NIRF Ranking: No. 27
Entrance Exam: CAT/ XAT/ MAT/ CMAT/ GMAT/ GRE

8. Amity University, Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
Amity Business School is a premier business school, known for providing high-quality education in the field of management and business. Established in 1995, it has since then established itself as one of the top business schools in India and has received numerous accolades and recognition for its innovative and industry-relevant curriculum, experienced faculty, and outstanding student performance.
The school offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in management, including MBA, BBA, and other specialized management courses. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the business world, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
One of the key strengths of Amity Business School is its commitment to industry relevance and practical learning. The school has strong ties with a number of leading companies, both in India and globally, which provides students with opportunities to interact with industry professionals, participate in internships, and gain real-world experience.
Founding year: 1995
NIRF Ranking: No. 28
Entrance Exam: MAT/GMAT/ CMAT/ CAT/XAT/ NMAT Or Amity Written Test
Direct Admission will be offered to candidates securing 80%+ aggregate in Class XII

9. International Management Institute – [IMI], Delhi
Since its founding in 1981, IMI Delhi has been developing a unique pool of talent that has been serving the industry with outstanding results. It is one of the first private sector institutes in India to offer management education. IMI has since then established itself as one of the leading business schools in India, known for its high-quality education and research programs in the field of management.
IMI offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in management, including MBA, PGDM, and other specialized management courses. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the business world, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in today’s competitive business environment. The institute also has a strong focus on research, with its faculty and students actively engaged in a range of cutting-edge research projects and initiatives.
Founding year: 1981
NIRF Ranking: No. 30
Entrance Exam: CAT/ XAT/ GMAT

10. Great Lakes Institute of Management – [GLIM], Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Great Lakes Institute of Management is a business school located in Chennai, India, with a second campus in Gurgaon, near New Delhi. It was founded in 2004 and offers a variety of postgraduate management programs, including a one-year full-time MBA, a two-year full-time MBA, and executive education programs.
The institute is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and has also been accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA) and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). The one-year MBA program offered by the institute has consistently been ranked among the top business programs in India by various ranking agencies.
The faculty at Great Lakes Institute of Management comprises experienced academics and industry professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. The institute also has tie-ups with several leading universities around the world, including the University of Houston, Stuart School of Business, Illinois Institute of Technology, and Nanyang Business School, among others.
Overall, Great Lakes Institute of Management is known for providing a high-quality management education and has a strong reputation in the Indian business community.
Founding year: 2004
NIRF Ranking: No. 31
Entrance Exam: All applicants are required to appear for GMAT/CAT/XAT +/ CMAT before applying to Great Lakes Institute of Management

11. ICFAI Business School Hyderabad – [IBS], Hyderabad, Telangana
ICFAI Business School Hyderabad (IBS Hyderabad) is a business school was established in 1995 as part of the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, a deemed university. The business school offers several postgraduate management programs, including a two-year MBA program, a one-year Executive MBA program, a PhD program in management, and several executive education programs.
IBS Hyderabad is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and is also a member of the Association of Indian Management Schools (AIMS). The faculty at IBS Hyderabad comprises experienced academics and industry professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom.
In addition to its academic programs, IBS Hyderabad also conducts research in management, organizes seminars and workshops, and provides consulting services to industry and government. The school has collaborations with several leading international universities and business schools, which provide opportunities for students and faculty to engage in academic exchange programs and research collaborations.
IBS Hyderabad has a strong track record of placing its graduates in top companies in India and abroad. The institute’s placement cell works closely with recruiters to ensure that students have access to a wide range of job opportunities.
Founding year: 1995
NIRF Ranking: No. 32
Entrance Exam: Applicants will be shortlisted based on their academic qualifications & work Experience.

12. Mittal School of Business – [MSB] Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab
MSB is a rapidly growing business school located within the Lovely Professional University (LPU) campus in Punjab. The school was founded in 2017 and has since become a prominent name in business education in India.
The MSB is named after the Mittal Family, who are the founders and patrons of LPU. The Mittal family has a long-standing legacy of philanthropy, and their support for the MSB has allowed it to establish itself as a leading business school in India in a short period.
The school offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of management, including finance, marketing, human resources, operations, and business analytics. These programs are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in business fundamentals and practical skills that are essential for success in today’s global business environment.
MSB has a highly qualified and experienced faculty that is committed to providing students with a world-class education. The faculty members have diverse backgrounds and are experts in their respective fields. The school also has a strong alumni network that provides students with mentorship, guidance, and career opportunities.
Founding year: 2017
NIRF Ranking in 2022: No. 34
Entrance Exam: LPUNEST / CAT / MAT / XAT / NMAT / CMAT

13. Xavier Institute of Management – [XIM], Bhubaneswar, Odisha
XIM is a business school established in 1987 as an off-campus department of Xavier Institute of Management, Jamshedpur (XLRI) and became an independent institute in 2013. XIM University now has 12 schools offering doctoral, masters, and undergraduate programmes in business and management, including a two-year full-time MBA, a one-year full-time Executive MBA, a part-time MBA for working professionals, and doctoral programs in management.
The school is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, emphasis on social responsibility and ethics, and its focus on sustainability and entrepreneurship. XIMB has collaborations with several leading universities and institutions in India and abroad and is accredited by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). The school has been consistently ranked among the top business schools in India and Asia by various ranking agencies.
Founding year: 2013
NIRF Ranking. 35
Entrance Exam: XAT/ CAT/ GMAT/ NMAT/ X-GMAT

14. Goa Institute of Management – [GIM], Sanquelim, Goa
GIM is a premier business school was established in 1993 and offers postgraduate and doctoral programs in management, including a two-year full-time PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management), PGDM (HCM) for healthcare management, and PGDM (BDA) for big data analytics. The institute is known for its emphasis on ethical and socially responsible leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural exposure.
Fr Romuald D’Souza founded the Goa Institute of Management at Panaji Goa and served as its director till 2004.
Before that he served as the Director of XLRI, Jamshedpur from 1982 to 1989. In 1987, he also founded the Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar and was its Director till 1993.
GIM has collaborations with several leading universities and institutions in India and abroad, and has been accredited by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA). The school has been consistently ranked among the top business schools in India and Asia by various ranking agencies. Additionally, GIM has a strong alumni network, with its graduates holding leadership positions in various companies and organizations across the world.
Founding year: 1993
NIRF Ranking: No. 36
Entrance Exam: XAT/CAT/GMAT/CMAT

15. T. A. Pai Management Institute – [TAPMI], Manipal, Karnataka
TAPMI is a constituent unit of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), from 1st August 2021. TAPMI is a private autonomous and premier business institute was established in 1980 and is one among the 7 institutes in India and 5% of the top business schools worldwide to have been accredited with the illustrious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation, the oldest and toughest accreditation in the world of business education. It is also the 5th institution in India to have both the AACSB as well as Association of MBAs (AMBA) accreditation.
It offers postgraduate and doctoral programs in management, including a two-year full-time PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management), a one-year full-time PGDM for working professionals, and doctoral programs in management. TAPMI is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, faculty expertise, and industry partnerships. The school has collaborations with several leading universities and institutions in India and abroad, and has been accredited by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA).
TAPMI has a strong focus on experiential learning and is known for its innovative teaching methods, including case studies, simulations, and group projects. The school has also established several research centers, including the Center for Leadership and Human Values, the Center for Inclusive Development and Governance, and the Center for Family Enterprise and Ownership.
TAPMI has been consistently ranked among the top business schools in India and Asia by various ranking agencies. Additionally, the school has a strong alumni network, with its graduates holding leadership positions in various companies and organizations across the world. TAPMI’s beautiful campus, located in the picturesque town of Manipal, provides a conducive environment for learning and personal growth, making it a sought-after destination for students seeking a management education.
Founding year: 1980
NIRF Ranking: No. 38
Entrance Exam: XAT/CAT/ NMAT by GMAC

16. Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab
Chandigarh University is a private university located in Mohali, Punjab, India. Established in 2012, the university has quickly become one of the largest universities in India, with over 30,000 students from India and abroad. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, including engineering, management, law, architecture, journalism, and humanities, among others.
The university’s management program, offered through the University School of Business (USB), is one of its flagship programs. The USB offers several undergraduate and postgraduate management programs, including a two-year full-time MBA program, a one-year full-time Executive MBA program, and a PhD program in management. The management programs at Chandigarh University are known for their experiential learning approach, which includes live projects, case studies, simulations, and internships, enabling students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations and has a strong track record of placing its graduates in top companies in India and abroad.
Founding year: 2012
NIRF Ranking: No. 40
Entrance Exam: Bachelor degree with at least 55% marks from recognized Institution

All of these institutes are widely regarded as leading management colleges/schools in India, providing students with exceptional education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, coupled with world-class infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities, these institutes are well-equipped to offer an all-encompassing educational experience to their students.
Sources:
NIRF Management Ranking, https://www.nirfindia.org/2022/ManagementRanking.html

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