The Indian School of Business (ISB) has launched an exciting new 20-month Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGPYL or PGP YL). This program, specifically designed for recent graduates and professionals with up to two years of work experience, adds a fresh dimension to ISB’s renowned portfolio. If you’re someone at the start of your career and looking for a globally competitive program, this could be just what you’re looking for!

But how does it compare to similar programs offered by top business schools in the US and Europe, like MiM (Master in Management) programs? And how is it different from ISB’s flagship one-year Post Graduate Programme (PGP)? Let’s break it down so you can see how this new offering could be the right fit for you.

A New Offering in Response to Market Demand

The new program aims to cater to young professionals who want a management degree but lack significant work experience. It’s ISB’s answer to the growing demand for longer, more immersive management programs designed for those at the beginning of their careers.

According to ISB, this 20-month course will feature a blend of classroom learning, experiential projects, and a required summer internship. This gives participants practical exposure to real-world business environments—a critical need for those with little to no work experience.

Comparing ISB PGP YL to MiM Programs

If you’re weighing options between this new ISB program and MiM programs from top business schools in the US or Europe, here’s how they compare:

While both PGPYL and International MiM programs offer solid management foundations, ISB PGPYL has a distinctive focus on practical learning through projects and internships.

Cost Comparison between ISB PGP YL and Top European/US MiM Program

How Is ISB PGP YL Different from the ISB PGP?

You might be wondering how ISB’s new PGPYL compares to its well-established 12-month PGP. Here’s a quick look at the differences:

The key difference between the two programs is the target audience and depth of work experience expected. If you’re just starting out, the ISB PGPYL might be more aligned with your needs, offering a longer runway to develop critical management skills alongside hands-on projects.

The ISB Advantage for PGP YL Students

The Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGPYL) offers a unique advantage for students through a blend of global insights, access to a renowned faculty, and unparalleled industry connections.

1. Global Faculty: Learn from internationally acclaimed faculty members who bring rich academic and professional experience from top business schools around the world.
2. Learning from Experienced PGP Students: Being on the same campus as ISB’s flagship PGP (Post Graduate Programme) students offers PGPYL participants a unique opportunity to interact with peers who have several years of professional experience. This peer-to-peer learning environment accelerates leadership growth and enhances collaboration skills.
3. Access to Top Recruiters: PGPYL students gain access to ISB’s extensive network of 300+ top recruiters across industries. Some of the leading companies that recruit from ISB include:
   • McKinsey & Company
   • The Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
   • Amazon
   • Google
   • Goldman Sachs
   • Microsoft
   • Deloitte

This robust combination of world-class learning and strong industry connections provides PGPYL students with the ideal launchpad to accelerate their careers.

ISB PGP YL Admissions Process

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the PGP YL program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline.
• Test Scores: Valid GMAT or GRE (test center-based only) or CAT scores at the time of application.
• Work Experience: No more than 0-24 months of full-time work experience as of June 15 in the year they intend to join.
• English Proficiency: If the medium of instruction for the applicant’s undergraduate degree was not English, a valid TOEFL/IELTS score is required.

Selection Process

The PGPYL selection process is conducted in two stages:

• Stage 1: Applicants are shortlisted based on academic performance, test scores, achievements, and a personal essay.
• Stage 2: Shortlisted candidates are invited to personal interviews with ISB faculty, senior industry leaders, and alumni to evaluate their potential and fit for the program.

Application Deadline

March 16, 2025 is the R2 deadline for the ISB PGP YL application for the 2025 intake.

ISB PGP YL Fee Structure & Financial Aid

Fee Breakdown

The total cost of the ISB PGP YL program is INR 29,99,200, which includes:

• Admission Fee: INR 2,36,000 (with GST)
• Tuition Fee: INR 22,60,000 (with GST)
• Accommodation Fee: INR 3,95,000
• Refundable Security Deposit: INR 20,000
• Alumni Membership (Optional): INR 29,500 (with GST)

Scholarships

ISB provides several scholarships to support students in financing their education:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to candidates with the highest interview scores, covering up to 100% of tuition fees.
• Need-Cum-Merit Scholarships: Designed for candidates demonstrating financial need and academic merit.
• ISB Develop India Scholarship: For students committed to contributing to India’s development.

Approximately 40-50% of the class is expected to receive scholarships.

Bank Loans

ISB partners with leading public and private banks to offer collateral-free education loans with a moratorium period. Details about these loans are available on the ISB website.

Who Should Apply?

The PGPYL is designed for achievement-oriented individuals with strong academic backgrounds, lateral thinking abilities, a leadership mindset, and an innovative spirit. ISB seeks candidates with unique or unconventional experiences that contribute diverse perspectives to the cohort.

Ideal candidates for ISB PGPYL have:

• A track record of academic and extracurricular achievements.
• A desire to lead and innovate in the workplace.
• An ability to think strategically and creatively.
• A commitment to making an impact in their field.

ISB PGP YL Curriculum

One of the standout features of ISB’s new program is its focus on experiential learning. Since many participants may lack significant work experience, the program incorporates hands-on components like the Business Design Lab and Innovation Lab. These will allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, helping you bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Additionally, the mandatory two-month summer internship ensures that you gain industry exposure, making you more market-ready by the time you graduate.

The PGPYL curriculum is built on interdisciplinary learning, combining business fundamentals with cutting-edge topics in data, analytics, and technology.

Core Learning Areas

1. Analytical Foundations: Courses in economics, accounting, psychology, and statistics equip students with the ability to define problems, ask critical questions, and develop solutions.
2. Functional Expertise: Students develop a comprehensive understanding of key business functions and the external environment in which they operate.
3. Leadership Development: Courses focus on building communication, motivation, and influence skills to manage and lead teams.

Customized Learning Pathways

Students can tailor their learning through industry-relevant electives that enable deeper exploration of specific fields and career paths.

Business in Action

The PGPYL program emphasizes practical, real-world experiences:

• iDEAS Lab: A business design lab where students work on user-centric solutions to real-world challenges, honing their problem-solving and leadership skills.
• Summer Internship: A mandatory internship at the end of Year 1 provides hands-on experience and helps students apply classroom knowledge to professional settings.
• PiVOT: A platform focused on entrepreneurship and innovation that teaches students how to create business plans, validate models, and develop growth strategies.

Career and Professional Development

The PGPYL program includes a Career and Professional Development Track, guiding students through the complexities of the career landscape.

• Exploration and Foundation: Students gain a deep understanding of various industries and roles, helping them make informed career decisions.
• Excelling in the Workplace: Students undergo practical skills workshops to prepare for their summer internships and receive coaching for enhancing their effectiveness at work.
• Career Mastery: The track provides in-depth industry knowledge to prepare students for management roles post-graduation.

Student Life at ISB

At ISB, learning goes beyond the classroom. The vibrant campus culture encourages collaboration and leadership through various student clubs and activities. The Graduate Student Body (GSB) champions student interests, curates events, and fosters a sense of community among the cohort.

Is This Program Right for You?

If you are looking for a management program that offers more depth and time for skill development compared to a typical MiM but aren’t quite ready for a one-year PGP like ISB’s flagship program, this new 20-month ISB PGP YL might be the perfect middle ground.

It offers the best of both worlds: foundational learning akin to MiM programs but with added time for practical, hands-on experience similar to what you’d find in longer MBA programs. Plus, with ISB’s reputation and network, you’re stepping into a globally recognized institution with a strong alumni base to support your future career.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right program can be daunting, but ISB’s new offering provides an exciting option for young professionals looking to fast-track their careers with a comprehensive and practical management education. Whether you’re considering a MiM from a European school or debating between this and ISB’s PGP, it’s clear that the ISB PGP YL is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and experience to succeed in today’s dynamic business world.

If you’re just starting your career and want a program that offers a blend of academic rigor and real-world experience, this could be the ideal fit for you!

The post ISB PGP YL 2025: The Perfect Path for Early Career Professionals appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

Crafting an MBA resume for ISB admissions is more than just detailing your career history; it’s about presenting a compelling narrative of your leadership, achievements, and potential. This guide offers expert tips and guidelines to structure your resume effectively, ensuring it stands out and resonates with the ISB admissions committee. By focusing on quality over quantity, demonstrating leadership in various roles, avoiding jargon, and highlighting accomplishments, you can create a powerful resume that showcases your capabilities and readiness for the ISB MBA program.

Guidelines to Build an MBA Resume/CV for ISB

Creating an impactful MBA resume involves more than listing your experiences and qualifications. The following guidelines will help you craft a resume that stands out and effectively communicates your leadership and accomplishments.

1. Keep it Concise
   • Aim for One Page: Regardless of your extensive work experience, an MBA resume should be concise. A one-page resume forces you to prioritize the most impactful experiences.
2. Focus on Quality Over Quantity
   • Quality Points Matter: Instead of listing numerous points, focus on the most important points that demonstrate significant achievements and leadership.
3. Demonstrate Leadership Beyond Titles
   • Leadership Can Be Shown in Any Role: Leadership is not confined to high-ranking positions. Demonstrate leadership through initiatives and impactful contributions. Highlight initiatives or instances where you led a project or improved processes, even if these were outside your official job scope.
4. Avoid Jargon
   • Simplicity is Key: Jargon can obscure your message. Ensure that your resume is understandable by individuals outside your specific industry.
5. Highlight Accomplishments, Not Responsibilities
   • Accomplishment-Oriented: Focus on what you achieved rather than what you were responsible for. Quantify your accomplishments where possible to provide concrete evidence of your impact. For example, instead of saying “Responsible for sales strategy,” say “Increased sales by 20% through innovative strategy implementation.”
6. Reflect Future Plans and Transferable Skills
   • Demonstrated Interest: If transitioning to a new field (e.g., from engineering to finance), emphasize any exposure or interest you have in the new field.

7. Introduce your organization
   • Organizational Credibility: If you aren’t working with the likes of Google or Microsoft, it is a good practice to add a line just under the name of your organization, providing more details about the scale, size, nature of work, etc. details to establish the credibility of your organization.
8. Format your Resume Well
   • MBA Focused Formatting: MBA resumes do not expect you to add typical sections like Career Summary, Objective, Key Skills, Hobbies, etc. Ideally, use the format prescribed in the application, or ask your MBA counselor for the right format.

Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading with Information: Avoid the temptation to include every detail. Stick to the most impactful and relevant experiences.
• Focusing too much on titles and designations: Leadership is shown through actions and results, not just titles.
• Relying on Jargon: Jargon can alienate your audience. Use simple, clear language.

By following these guidelines, you can build an MBA resume that effectively showcases your leadership, achievements, and potential, making a strong impression on admissions committees.

Additional Resume/CV Tips for ISB Admissions

• Use reverse chronological order within each section, listing the most recent positions/activities first.
• Emphasize results (quantitative or qualitative) when possible; results can give your reader a better understanding of the scope of your work and how it contributed to an organization.
• Use a readable font size (10 to 12).
• Avoid long bullets. If the statement gets too long, try breaking it into two bullets or sub-bullets.
• Include white space and margins for easy skimming.
• Avoid personal pronouns.
• Do not include a job objective or personal statement.
• Do not include a photo or your age.
• Do not include ‘references available upon request’.
• Use a consistent currency format while presenting amounts
• Monetary figures:
  • K for thousand (e.g. $14K)
  • M for million (e.g. $20M)
  • B for billion (e.g. $50B)
• Email addresses: all in lowercase and not underlined.
• Do not underline words in headings and subheadings.
• While presenting your interests/hobbies, demonstrate passion and present specific actions. Do not write cricket, travel, reading, or adventure sports. Pick fewer activities, but provide more details, e.g. Captained the college cricket team at the state level; Travelled to 15+ countries in the last 2 years, etc.
• Maintain consistency in font size as well as style.
• Use Action Verbs to start your bullets (as much as possible). More details on action verbs are presented on the next page.

Action Verbs

It is an established practice to present your resume bullets starting with action verbs. Using action verbs in a resume is crucial for several reasons. Action verbs help to instantly place you at the centre of the action and communicate to the reader your specific role in the task/project.

Use Action Verbs

Here are some examples of powerful action verbs categorized by skill areas:

• Leadership: Led, Directed, Managed, Supervised, Coordinated
• Communication: Presented, Negotiated, Authored, Communicated, Liaised
• Achievements: Achieved, Improved, Increased, Enhanced, Boosted
• Project Management: Planned, Organized, Executed, Facilitated, Delivered
• Problem-Solving: Resolved, Addressed, Rectified, Streamlined, Optimized
• Innovation: Developed, Created, Designed, Innovated, Pioneered
• Analysis: Analyzed, Evaluated, Assessed, Investigated, Quantified
• Collaboration: Collaborated, Partnered, Contributed, Assisted, Supported

ISB Resume Template – Sample Bullets with Explanations

Here is an ISB Resume/CV template to help you craft a winning resume/CV for ISB admissions 2025.

Final Thoughts

An MBA resume for ISB admissions requires a strategic approach, focusing on quality experiences, clear achievements, and demonstrated leadership. By following these guidelines, you can build a resume that not only meets the expectations of the admissions committee but also tells your unique professional story. Remember, your resume is a reflection of your potential and aspirations. Craft it thoughtfully, ensuring it effectively communicates your strengths, accomplishments, and readiness for the ISB MBA journey. With a well-structured and impactful resume, you can make a strong impression and advance your candidacy for admission to one of India’s premier business schools.

The post ISB Resume Tips & Template for 2025 Intake appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

ISB will admit students in three rounds for the Post Graduate Program (PGP) class of 2026. To create a class of approximately 900 admits, ISB receives applications in the range of 3000 to 5000 every year. 

If you are applying for ISB, it can be exciting and stressful at the same time. Every ISB applicant’s key question is: “Which ISB application round will maximize my probability of getting an admission?” Round 1 and Round 2 are the best options since Round 3 started only a couple of years back and ISB will announce the Round 3 lists based on the availability of seats.

So, which ISB application round should you apply in, and what are their deadlines? Let’s find these answers in this article.

ISB PGP Application Deadlines

The ISB PGP admission process generally begins in the month of September and ends in March.

Application deadlines for ISB PGP 2026 intake

The Round 1 deadline for the ISB PGP 2025-2026 admissions is September 14, 2025, Round 2 deadline is December 7, 2025 and Final Round i.e., Round 3 deadline is January 25, 2026.

PGP 2024-25 and Early Entry Option 2025 application

ISB PGP Round 1 interview dates for 2025 intake

Here are the tentative Round 1 interview dates for ISB PGP 2025 intake based on previous years

ISBmantra tips for ISB PGP admission

ISBmantra is the only admissions consulting company with former ISB Admission officials. Here are a few ISB admissions tips for you:

• ISB does not evaluate the incomplete application.
• Make sure your profile is well evaluated and strong enough before you click the submit button. Write to us info@isbmantra.com if you need assistance.
• Submit your application earlier than required to avoid last minute congestion.
• If you are shortlisted, you will receive information from ISB 5 to 7 days before the interview date.

ISB YLP Application Deadline 2025

There are three modes of entry for the PGP Full-time program at ISB. The selected candidates from all three modes will attend the same class of the respective year.

1. PGP – Regular applicants with minimum 2 years of work experience
2. Young Leaders Program (YLP) for students in the pre-final or final year of graduation
3. Early Entry Option (EEO) for candidates with less than 2 years of experience 

To know more about these courses, check this article – PGP full-time program at ISB.

The application process and deadline for EEO are the same as those for regular PGP applicants. However, the application process and deadline are different for YLP. You can check the ISB YLP application deadlines below. These dates are tentative, bookmark this page to check the updated deadlines later.

ISB YLP application deadline 2024-2025

ISB Application Deadlines for Working Professionals MBA programs 

ISB also offers the following MBA programs for working professionals with mid-level experience, high-level experience, and for family business. These programs are also offered at different locations, for more details check this article- Programs offered at ISB. We also provide services to apply for these programs.

Reach out to us for professional consulting.

1. PGPPRO (Post Graduate Programme In Management for Working Professionals)
2. PGPMAX (Post Graduate Programme in Management for Senior Executives) 
3. PGPMFAB (Post Graduate Programme in Management for Family Business)

Here are the application deadlines for the various ISB post-graduate programs.

ISB Application Fee

The application fee is non-refundable and has to be paid at the time of application submission.

The below table provides the application fee details for PGP (Full-time program)

ISB PGP Application Fee

And here are the application fee details of other courses at ISB

ISB Application Fee for other programs

Admissions process at ISB 

“The ISB PGP application is a holistic, multi-stage process that requires diligent planning and execution. From planning your GMAT/GRE well in time, to preparing the right strategy to present your profile, developing an application that stands out from the competition, and practicing well for the interview – a successful application may often require an applicant to commit 6-8 months of their time. ISB evaluates each part of the application and there is no “one” component that may result in an admit or a reject. It is important, therefore, to be detail-oriented, while developing the application, and be well-prepared with specific examples of one’s achievements, while preparing for the admissions interview.”

Prashant Tibrewal, Founder and Mentor at ISBmantra

ISB accepts approximately 900 students each year, with 600 and 300 at the Hyderabad and Mohali campuses, respectively.

The admission process is different for PGP, YLP, PGPPRO, PGPMAX, and PGP MFAB. However, EEO and PGP (with min 2 years of work experience) follow the same admission process. You can find more details about the admission process in this article  – the admission process at ISB.

Filling out the application form is the most important and time-consuming process. So make sure you fill in all the details accurately. Here are the steps for submitting the ISB application form.

How to submit your ISB application form online?

• Step 1 – Register on ISB portal
• Step 2 – Fill out the application form with the correct details. Reach out to us info@isbmantra.com if you need expert advice in applying. 
• Step 3 – Fill out your responses. You can fill out the application at your own pace. Make sure you save it after completing each page and you can modify it until the submission.
• Step 4 – Scan and upload supporting documents. Scan all the pages of a particular document together in one PDF file. (For example, scan the first and last page of the passport together in one PDF)
  Here is the list of documents you have to scan and submit along with the application.
  • Copy of passport (with PIO/OCI card if applicable)
  • Copy of payslip (if you are applying for a tuition waiver)
  • Copy of Mark Sheets or Transcripts 
  • GMAT/GRE scorecard
  • TOFEL/IELTS score report (if your language of instruction was not English at UG level)
  • One recommendation letter in the prescribed format
• Step 5 – Review your information before submitting. Click on the preview button to check what you have filled in so far. However, you won’t be able to see the uploaded documents.
• Step 6 – Once you complete all the sections, make payment and submit the application. For hassle-free application experience submit it well ahead of the deadline.

Requirements for applying to ISB PGP programs

Now that you have an idea of the programs, deadlines, admission process, and the rest, let’s discuss which is the ideal round to apply.

In which ISB application round should you apply?

Applying in any round does not affect the chances of getting an admit at ISB. But if joining ISB is your dream and you have a strong academic, extracurricular or professional experience profile or if you wish to apply for scholarships or fee waiver, then it is advisable to apply in Round 1 which reduces the pressure to wait till the end. 

You will be able to avail full tuition fee waiver only if you apply in Round 1. If you apply in Round 2 or Round 3, you can avail up to 75% of tuition fee waivers.

As per the data from gmatclub decision tracker, we understand the number of applications in round 1 is high compared to the number of applications in round 2 and round 3.

Though the conversion ratio is the same for all the rounds, it is always better to apply in round 1 which will give you enough time to prepare yourself for the PGP class.

If you are an international applicant, it is recommended to apply early in round 1 or round 2 as it may take time for the visa process and formalities. Remember it is always best to apply early than to stress yourself applying at the neck of the moment.

FAQs

ISBmantra Success Stories

Garima Khaneja

Nikhil Kulkarni

Nikita Jain

Sheena Saraf

Garima Khaneja

“The entire ISBmantra team is a group of experienced professionals blessed with patience and understanding of their business and craft. They give incredible attention to details on your applications, your past work experiences and your future goals to give you the best advice that you may need. From the first interaction, Prashant pushed me to continuously improve my applications and helped me realize the reasons which may have caused my rejection last year. Prashant also made me aware of the international B school options and helped me shortlist the best ones suited for my profile and future goals. Working with Prashant and team for my interview prep also added significant value to my approach and content. It came as a reality check in the beginning, but I was prepared well through the process. Overall, it was super enriching working closely with Prashant and I am really thankful for his insights and commitment to my application.”

Garima Khaneja

Technical Solutions Consultant, Google

Nikhil Kulkarni

“I would recommend Prashant and ISB Mantra to anybody who is looking for support at any stage of the b-school application process. Their professionalism and experience will make a great difference! After each mock interview, I was given feedback on my performance on the interview and I received a few tips from the interviewer to improve.

All in all, the ISB Mantra team added structure to my interview preparation, and with their plethora of experience, they ensured that I was able to ace the actual interview and get into my dream b-school. Thank you, Prashant and ISB Mantra!”

Nikhil Kulkarni

Senior Program Manager, Amazon

Nikita Jain

“I would recommend Prashant and ISB Mantra to anyone who is looking for personalized help and coaching to prepare for their b-school application.
I came across ISB Mantra while browsing through Google and after consulting a few friends, I was sure that I was approaching them for application help.
The best part was their approach to the whole process. The team doesn’t have a conventional way of going about college applications. Instead of forcing their ideas on me, I was encouraged and pushed to come up with different ideas for the essays. My suggestions were always welcome which made sure my story was put across in my words.
Prashant has always been a phone call away, personally ensuring that the best possible applications are submitted. Overall, Prashant and the team have been instrumental in my application process and I would highly recommend them!”

Nikita Jain

Senior Consultant, Deloitte

Sheena Saraf

“Having worked with him in the past for ISB YLP application, I approached Prashant in Oct’18 to seek his help for ISB re-application. After thoroughly understanding my profile and goals, he suggested I should apply to 3 other top-ranked international B-schools (which I would not have considered otherwise). We were only 10 days away from the first deadline but with the highly experienced and skilled team at Admit Square, the application process was a sail through. I also used their services for Interview Prep and I couldn’t have been happier with the experience.”

Sheena Saraf

Investment Banking Associate, Bank of America

“I would recommend Prashant and ISB Mantra to anybody who is looking for support at any stage of the b-school application process. Their professionalism and experience will make a great difference! After each mock interview, I was given feedback on my performance on the interview and I received few tips from the interviewer to improve.

All in all, the ISB Mantra team added structure to my interview preparation and with their plethora of experience, they ensured that I was able to ace the actual interview and get into my dream b-school. Thank you Prashant and ISB Mantra!”

Nikhil Kulkarni

Senior Program Manager, Amazon

“I would recommend Prashant and ISB Mantra to anyone who is looking for personalized help and coaching to prepare for their b-school application.
I came across ISB Mantra while browsing through Google and after consulting a few friends, I was sure that I was approaching them for application help.
The best part was their approach to the whole process. The team doesn’t have a conventional way of going about college applications. Instead of forcing their ideas on me, I was encouraged and pushed to come up with different ideas for the essays. My suggestions were always welcome which made sure my story was put across in my words.
Prashant has always been a phone call away, personally ensuring that the best possible applications are submitted. Overall, Prashant and the team have been instrumental in my application process and I would highly recommend them!”

Nikita Jain

Senior Consultant, Deloitte

“Having worked with him in the past for ISB YLP application, I approached Prashant in Oct’18 to seek his help for ISB re-application. After thoroughly understanding my profile and goals, he suggested me to apply to 3 other top ranked international B-schools (which I would not have considered otherwise). We were only 10 days away from the first deadline but with the highly experienced and skilled team at Admit Square, the application process was a sail through. I also used their services for Interview Prep and I couldn’t have been happier with the experience.”

Sheena Saraf

Investment Banking Associate, Bank of America

The post ISB Application Deadlines 2026: ISB PGP, PGPpro, PGPMAX, PGPMFAB appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

The competition for PGP admission at ISB is increasing year after year. Getting into ISB is not easy until you have a clear application strategy. Thousands of applications are received by ISB every year and a low acceptance rate makes the ISB PGP admissions highly competitive. ISB selected merely 843 candidates for the ISB PGP class of 2023.

Therefore, a guide that tells you how to get into ISB is essential for every ISB aspirant. In this article, we have discussed an 8-step guide to getting into ISB.

8 step guide to getting into ISB

Here is a step-by-step approach to creating a strong well-rounded profile. The image shows a snapshot of the steps to get into ISB.

Admission Eligibility for ISB PGP

These 3 criteria make you eligible for admission to the ISB PGP class of 2024:

• You must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline
• You must have at least 24 months of full-time work experience as of March 31, 2024
• You must have a valid GMAT/GRE score

How to get into ISB in 8 steps:

1. Introspect your need to join ISB
2. Do structured research on the programs at ISB
3. Take a look at the class profile
4. Analyze the ISB admissions committee’s expectations from the applicants
5. Understand the evaluation factors
6. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses
7. Create an application strategy
8. Prepare for the interview

Let’s discuss each of these steps in detail:

1. Introspect your need to join ISB

Everyone has a different need to do an MBA at ISB. Some want a career change, some need career growth and some want to take up a family business or become an entrepreneur. So it is necessary to first understand what is your primary goal to join ISB. 

Analyze where you are in your career path and where you want to be moving forward. Make a clear short-term and long-term goal. 

If you are looking to do an MBA to get a salary hike, calculate the ROI. ISB Placements, check this article to know about the ROI of the PGP program at ISB. Examine how your career growth will be by pursuing an MBA at ISB.

2. Do structured research on the programs at ISB

Once you are clear of what your goal is to join ISB, do detailed research on the programs at ISB. The one-year MBA residential program at ISB is a well-received program. Anyone with experience of 2 to 20 years can apply to this program. 

However choosing the program according to your needs, and balancing your professional and personal life is also important. So, analyze and compare the various programs offered at ISB. 

When you do research about the programs it is important to check the following factors

What is the duration of the program?
Is it a part-time or full-time program?
What is the course curriculum?
What are the special features of the program?
What is the faculty profile?
What will be the learning outcome of the program?
What will be the ROI?

Programs at ISB, this article has details about the post graduate management programs offered at ISB.

Let’s see what are some of the special features offered for the MBA programs at ISB.

Digital Headstart Module (DHM)

You can be a part of the ISB ecosystem before joining its flagship program PGP through the Digital Headstart Module (DHM). DHM was introduced by ISB in the year 2021 to adapt to the changes caused by COVID-19, which is held virtually for all the students before the beginning of classroom sessions and is a part of the curriculum. 

ISB has replaced the first term with a 10-week Digital Headstart Module, the overall course duration still being 52 weeks. DHM comprises the following:

4 easy-paced, core courses
Independent research project opportunity under Faculty guidance
Learning and career growth events
O-week and LEAD

DHM will ultimately ease the on-campus experience for students, having already inducted them into 4 core foundational subjects and has given ample opportunities to interact and bond.

Experiential Learning Program (ELP)

ELP is a short-term project that falls under the purview of consulting. ISB tends to solicit these consulting projects from a number of different companies (domestic and international) and float it among teams of current students who may be interested in a particular sector or function.

The majority of the ELPs at ISB arrive between the end of the second term and the beginning of the fourth term. Taking up an ELP is equivalent to a two-credit course.

Leadership development program

You can also analyze your personality through the 360-degree feedback assessment tool. You will be given a systematically structured questionnaire for your personality assessment. From the feedback, you can develop your personal goal and strengthen your leadership skills.

Professional clubs

There are many professional clubs run by the ISB community. It gives you the opportunity to apply the classroom knowledge to the outside world. This helps you to strengthen your leadership qualities and life skills. You can connect with students with similar interests and you also get a chance to interact with the alumni and professionals from the respective field which helps to build your career.

After you have done the detailed structured research of the program, choose the program which aligns the learning outcome of the program with your goal to join ISB.

3. Take a look at the class profile

In a recent online session at ISB, alumni from different PGP batches discussed “How can the diversity at ISB add new dimensions to your career?”. According to the article, there are three things future applicants should be aware of

1. Expect the unexpected
2. With great diversity comes great learning
3. It is potential not achievement that matters

Diversity creates an impression at ISB. Every class of ISB has candidates from different age groups, with different levels of work experience, with different working backgrounds, and also from different parts of the country and world. Let’s take a look at the PGP class of 2023.

PGP class of 2023

• Class size – 843

• Gender diversity
  • 63% male
  • 37% female

• Work experience

From the class profile, we can understand the classroom has a combination of candidates with different demographics. However, when people from different backgrounds come together, there will be a better understanding of the subject. It also teaches us how to use your strengths in a diverse working environment.

4. Analyze the ISB admissions committee’s expectations from the applicants

You should be aware of the admission process and what the admission committee expects from the applicants. The admission process at ISB for its flagship program (PGP) happens in three rounds. It also has two deferred modes of entry – YLP and EEO.

ISB receives thousands of applications each year owing to it’s success over the years, so it is crucial to understand what the school is looking for and make sure your profile fits the criteria as well as stand out from the candidate pool.

Here are a few distinctive qualities that ISB looks for in their potential graduates according to our experts on board:

• Leadership in past experiences
• Consistent thought process
• Ability to present logical arguments
• Analytical acumen
• Conviction in responses
• Clarity of goals

5. Understand the evaluation factors

According to Vikram Singh, CEO & Chief Mentor at ISBmantra, Former Manager, Admissions & Financial Aid, ISB PGP/EEO/YLP, there are four important factors which are considered to decide an admit at ISB – academics, test score, interview performance, and quality & quantity of work.

The weightage of the evaluation factors may vary year on year based on the decision made by the admissions committee.

6. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses

Once you know what the ISB admission committee expects, you should analyze your profile and understand what are the strengths and weaknesses. As mentioned earlier, the weightage of the evaluation factors is not constant and it varies on a case-to-case basis.

By analyzing your profile, you should be able to figure out which part you should concentrate on to create a well-rounded profile. Let's discuss each section in detail.

GMAT score

Being an ISB applicant, you should be aware that the GMAT score is an important factor in the evaluation process. What signifies a good GMAT score depends on the competitiveness of the program and your profile. The average GMAT score for the class of 2022 was 713. So what is the score you need to have that makes you confident of getting an interview invite?

As we discussed earlier 30% of the evaluation factor is the test score. As you score more on the GMAT/GRE your probability of securing an admit also increases.

Want to know what is a good GMAT score? Check this article.

Analyze the essay questions

You have to submit two essays along with the application for the ISB PGP program. If you are a reapplicant, you need to submit an additional essay.

Essay topics for ISB PGP 2024 admission 

• Essay 1: Provide an honest portrayal of yourself, emphasizing your strengths and weaknesses. Highlight the key elements that have shaped your personal journey. Give relevant illustrations as needed. (400 words)

• Essay 2: Contemplate two distinct situations – one where you experienced success and another where you faced failure. Delve into the personal and interpersonal lessons you learned from these instances. (400 words)
  
• Essay 3: Given your previous experience and future aspirations, how do you plan to use the PGP at ISB to fulfill your professional goals? (250 words) [optional]

Before writing your essay you need to understand the purpose of it. Your unique personal quality will be identified which will make the admissions committee realize the value you will be adding to the diverse class.

Keep yourself updated with the ISB essay analysis, to make use of the insights and tips revealed by Sanjay Dhingra, Ex Admission Officer at ISB, Chief Mentor & Managing Partner of ISBmantra.

ISB YLP Essay Analysis, we have discussed the YLP essay and sample essay structure in this article.

Recommendation letter

Another important part of the application is the recommendation letter. You need to submit the details about the person who is going to provide the recommendation (the evaluator) to ISB. He/She will be sent the evaluation form by email and information on how to fill it. The recommender has to provide details about your strengths, weaknesses, leadership skills, and achievements.

This gives an idea to the admission committee of your ability which helps in determining whether you are a good fit for the program. So choose the evaluator who knows you well and helps you in the detailed structuring of your profile.

Be thorough with what is required to craft the perfect ISB PGP Letter of Recommendation while applying.

The evaluation form has to be submitted on or before the application deadline.

Now that you know what they expect and where you are, you should create an application strategy.

7. Create an application strategy

According to Prashant Tibrewal, founder of ISBmantra - “MBA selection at ISB is a holistic process that evaluates an applicant on multiple parameters, some of the primary ones being test score, academic performance, leadership potential, career progression, career goal clarity, and extracurricular participation. 

Most successful applicants start preparing at least a year in advance. This includes working on their GMAT or GRE preparation, participating in activities that demonstrate their leadership skills, taking initiatives at work or beyond work, networking with ISB alumni and learning about the school, and above all, researching one's own career goals. 

All that one does during this one year, and during one's entire professional and academic career, translates to stories that one can present through the application essays required by ISB. Active development of essays is just the final step into the process. ISB typically requires an applicant to answer two essay questions. Over the years, the first one has been about one's leadership experience and examples, and the second one relates to one's career goals.

Developing rich answers to these questions requires multiple iterations, and allocating anything between 30-45 days may work fairly well for most candidates. Reapplicants, and applicants with higher professional experience, may want to commit some extra time to their application, given the additional work required in presenting the depth and breadth of their experience, and because they are expected to present strong career goal clarity.”

Prashant Tibrewal, Founder and Senior Consultant at ISBmantra

Knowing how early you should start preparing for applying to ISB, the next question would be in which round you should apply for ISB. It is always better to apply in round 1 of the application which reduces the stress to wait till the end. 

Here are a few case studies for you to understand our service better.

Case study 1: Manav’s application strategy with a low GMAT score

In spite of having a low GMAT score of 690, Manav got an admit to ISB as she started building his application well ahead of time, worked on his strengths, and took professional help for evaluation.

Case study 2: Ritika’s strategy for ISB application and interview

Ritika Bandale is a NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Technology) graduate and has diverse work experience of 3 years mainly in the field of content writing and advertising.

Upon getting rejected by ISB in her first attempt, She said, “ not being honest, not knowing the learning outcome of the program, not having a clear goal and not being able to enhance her strengths at the interview were the reasons for not getting an admit in the first attempt.”

But that didn't stop her from trying. She did better research, attended the info sessions conducted by ISB, understood her strengths and weaknesses, made a clear career goal, and took professional help from ISBmantra for interview preparation.

8. Prepare for the interview

Once you created an application strategy and successfully submitted the application, start preparing for the interview well in advance.

Though they have an idea of your ability through your application, the interview helps them to know you better. The interview performance has a weightage of 20%. Even if you don't have a strong profile, your performance at the interview can help you get an admit to ISB. So make sure you prepare well. It is important you are confident of what you have mentioned in the application & essays and it is also important to know what to say, what not to say, and how to say.

ISB interview, in this article we have shared important interview tips and interview questions by A M Kannan, Ex ISB Director, Admissions and Financial Aid, Senior Mentor at ISBmantra.

Going through ISB interview experiences, can help you understand what type of questions will be asked for different profiles as well.

Following the above steps whether you are a first-time applicant or reapplicant will definitely give you the confidence to get an admit to ISB.

FAQs

The post 8 steps – How to get into ISB (Updated 2024) appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

Nanda Das, Director – Genpact, ISB PGPpro alum class of 2019 said “You perish when you stop growing intellectually. To be the first where knowledge is being shared is the key to staying relevant, continuing to grow and sharpen yourself.” 

There comes a time in everyone’s career path when you feel you are no longer learning anything new or know the latest economic trends. Upgrading your leadership skills is also an important quality no matter how many years of work experience you possess. The best solution to this is to pursue an MBA. It is an optimum way to upgrade your leadership skills, gain knowledge of the latest economic trends, and be ahead in the competitive world.

PGPpro at ISB is one such MBA program for mid-career working professionals. It is an executive MBA program structured in a way that you can balance professional life and upskilling.

What is PGPpro?

PGPpro is a Post Graduate Program in Management for working professionals which focuses on strategy and leadership insights with one additional area of specialization in either Finance or Marketing.

This is the first program at ISB which is offered outside the ISB campus. It has a hybrid learning model. Major component of the program is classroom learning and a part is also conducted in online mode.

You don’t have to shift to Hyderabad or Mohali to pursue this program. Only two weeks of the program are conducted at the ISB campuses (first and last week)  and the remaining classes are conducted on the weekends at four locations in India. It has also one international immersion in an Asian country.

Before discussing further, let’s first understand what are the advantages of pursuing this executive MBA (PGPPRO) at ISB.

Advantages of PGPpro

1. World-class faculty – 200+ visiting faculty from top B-schools
2. Contemporary curriculum and pedagogy
3. No opportunity cost as you can continue to work
4. With 12500+ alumni network and peer group you get an opportunity to expand your business network
5. More convenient as you don’t have to attend the classroom session only at ISB campuses

Program Location 

The program is conducted at four locations.

Bangalore – Hotel Sheraton Grand

Delhi – Westin Gurugram

Mumbai –  Indian School of Design and Innovation in Lower Parel

Hyderabad – ISB campus

Contact Details

Address: PGPpro Admissions Office, Indian School of Business, Gachibowli, Hyderabad – 500111.

Phone: +917036031777

Email:  pgppro@isb.edu

ISB PGPpro – Duration of the program

PGPpro is conducted for a duration of 18 months.

The program starts in January for Bangalore and Mumbai, in July for Delhi and Hyderabad.

Classes are held on alternate weekends – Friday & Saturday or Saturday & Sunday. These weekend classes are conducted online and offline alternatively.

ISB PGPpro program timeline

The PGPpro program starts and ends with one week campus residency at one of the campuses. Here is the program structure and calendar for Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad.

Eligibility criteria

PGPpro is for working professionals and business owners with 5+ years of work experience.

To apply to this program, you must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline. An equivalent qualification will be determined by the Admission Committee of the programme and will include the likes of CA, ICWA, etc.

I know what you must be wondering! Are there any test requirements for applying to this program? No, you don’t need any test score (GMAT/GRE) for applying to the PGPpro.

However, you will not be eligible to apply to this program if you have less than 5 years of experience as of 1st January 2024 for the Bengaluru and Mumbai locations and as of 1st July 2024 for the Delhi and Hyderabad locations.

This may further raise questions 

• Does everyone who applies for the PGPpro get admission?
• How does the admissions committee shortlist the candidates? 

Let’s discuss further.

PGPpro – Selection criteria

Only candidates who have strong academic ability, exceptional managerial experience, and superior interpersonal skills are selected for the ISB PGPpro.

Your profile will be evaluated based on

1. Academic performance
2. Interpersonal skills
3. Communication skills
4. Leadership qualities
5. Professional achievements
6. Interview performance

Now that you know how the candidates are shortlisted, let’s check the class profile of PGPPRO to analyze your strengths and weaknesses. But before that let’s also check the info sessions conducted by ISB.

ISB PGPpro admission events

To know more about the program you can attend the admission events conducted by ISB every Wednesday throughout the year. You can also clarify your doubts about everything related to  PGPPRO through the Q&A sessions.

Click here to register for the ISB PGPpro info sessions conducted by ISB.

Class profile

The PGPpro at ISB has a diverse class profile with candidates of different disciplines like engineers, marketers, doctors and defense persons. 

• IT services - 18%
• IT products - 13%
• Biotech, pharma and healthcare - 11%
• Consulting - 9%
• Finance - 8%
• Real estate - 4%
• Telecommunications - 4%
• Others - 34%

• Women - 30%
• Non-engineers - 46%
• 10+ Functional representation
• 15+ Industry representation
• Average work experience - 10 years
• Average age - 36

If you are confident that your profile is strong enough to convince the admissions committee, go ahead and start preparing to apply for the PGPPRO. If you feel you need to put more effort on your weakness to build a strong profile, start working on it.

Still confused? We are here to help you. 

Get a free profile evaluation now from former ISB Admission Officers. We also help through the application process and interview preparation services.

ISB PGPpro Application Deadline

Here are the deadlines to apply to the PGPPRO. Bookmark this page to use it later once you have worked on your profile building.

Application fee

The application fee for ISB PGPpro is INR 5,000. GST is included in this fee.

ISB PGPpro fees and scholarship

The total fee for the ISB PGPpro is INR 37,38,180 including GST. Here is the detailed breakdown of the fees:

Everyone who applies to ISB will be considered for the Merit scholarship. But if you want to avail the need-based scholarship, you need to check the criteria and indicate it in the application along with a support essay. If eligible you can avail up to 50% scholarship on tuition fees.

Scholarship Essay

In the essay, you need to provide details on how you meet the scholarship criteria, what your contribution to the program will be, and why you are eligible for the scholarship. The essay has a limit of 250 words. In the further section, we have provided a detailed analysis of the scholarship essay.

Here are the criteria to avail scholarship for PGPpro:

• Demonstrates financial need
• Community-minded and socially responsible
• Strong academic and professional profile
• Demonstrates leadership skills
• Potential for future exceptional performance 
• Potential to become an excellent ambassador for ISB as a student and as a member of the alumni network
• Entrepreneurs
• Women Leaders and professionals
• Spouse of PGPpro alumnus
• Defense Personnel 
• Children and Spouse of Martyrs

ISB PGPpro admission process

There are three steps in the admission process of the ISB PGPpro.

Step 1: Online application

You have to fill out and submit the application online. Make sure you save and review each section before submitting it. 

Apply now for PGPPRO 2025 intake.

You have to scan and submit the following documents along with the application.

1.  Academic certificates

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Marksheet or Transcripts of class 12th and all semesters

2. Passport (first and last page)
3. Color photograph

You also have to submit professional evaluations in the prescribed format from the recent manager. If you are self-employed you must get the evaluation from your customers or vendors. 

Step 2: Interview invite

Once shortlisted you will be invited for a face-to-face interview with the admissions representative or alumni.

Step 3: Final decision

You will receive an admission decision within 4 weeks of completing the interview process. If selected you have to pay the admission fee within 10 days to reserve your place in the program.

ISB PGPpro Essays

The PGPpro Application requires applicants to answer a Main Essay, a Scholarship Essay, and an Additional optional Information Essay. Following are the respective essay questions:

Main Essay 

One of the intrinsic values at the Indian School of Business is “to develop principled, future leaders who improve lives around the world…" Please discuss how you will contribute towards this mission citing examples from your past work experience and activities? 400 words Max

Scholarship Essay 

Why should the Admissions Committee offer you over other qualified candidates? (250 words max)

Additional Information (Optional) 

Additional Information: Kindly share information that you feel is relevant for the Admissions Committee to be aware. For example: current or past gaps in education or employment, professional achievements, awards or other information relevant to your application. (250 words max)

Role Description

In addition to these essays, applicants are also required to provide a 300-word statement that describes each role they have been in:

Describe the department/organizational unit for which you are responsible. Relate it to the whole organization in terms of size, scope, and autonomy of responsibility. What human resources, budget, and capital investment are you responsible for? (Maximum 300 words)

For detailed ISB PGPpro essay analysis and tips from the team of ISBmantra, check this article - ISB PGPpro Essay Analysis.

FAQs

The post ISB PGPpro: Executive MBA at ISB – A Complete Guide appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

D J Mathews – Director/Pepsico, ISB PGPMAX alumnus class of 2017 said “PGPMAX is a perfect blend of a course which helps professionals grow into leaders.”

Leadership is not always playing the front role. Sometimes you have to take a step back to develop a vision. Leaders can see what others cannot. The ISB PGPMAX is one of the MBA programs that will guide you to manage your leadership skills and evolve as an effective leader.

ISB PGPMAX is a unique executive MBA program for senior executives who are already well-established in their industry but want to gain in-depth knowledge of current industry trends. It is designed in a way to boost your skills with minimal work disruption.

If you are someone who is looking to enhance your leadership skills and have 10+ years of work experience, reading this article will give you more clarity about the program. 

We have discussed everything you need to know about the unique executive MBA program – ISB PGPMAX. Let’s begin by understanding what is ISB PGPMAX.

What is ISB PGPMAX?

Program Highlights for ISB PGPMAX:

1. Target Audience: Executives and business owners with 15+ years of work experience.
2. Duration: 15 Months.
3. Locations: Hyderabad and Mohali.
4. Format: Modular Programme with minimal work disruption.
5. Degree: Executive MBA-equivalent degree.
6. Objective: Enhance and broaden existing skills, offer exposure to the latest industry developments, and prepare for greater responsibilities.
7. Program Structure:
   • 12 Campus Residency Weeks: Intensive on-campus learning sessions.
   • 2 International Immersions: Gain global perspectives through immersive experiences.
8. Credits: 24 credits.
9. Contact Hours: 508 hours of interactive learning sessions.
10. Alumni Network: Join over 15,000 members in the PGP Suite Alumni Network for networking and collaboration opportunities.

The ISB PGPMAX is an executive MBA program for senior executives, business managers, and entrepreneurs with 10 to 25 years of work experience. The primary objective of the program is to develop global leaders with analytic and strategic skills that are essential in the ever-evolving business world. 

ISB PGPMAX is the only EMBA equivalent program from India to be ranked in The Economist’s Executive MBA ranking. It is designed in a way to earn an MBA with minimal work disruption. This program will help you improve your existing skills, and provide exposure to the latest industry trends which will give you the confidence to take up greater responsibilities in your professional life.

Now that you have an idea of what the program is, let’s discuss why you should take up this program and how it is going to help you in the next leap of your career.

Why ISB PGPMAX?

Here is the list of features that make the ISB PGPMAX a unique executive MBA program:

• Cutting edge curriculum 
• Top global faculty
• Exceptional peer group learning
• Two international immersions
• Classroom based learning with minimal work disruption
• Membership in Executive MBA Council

Advantages of ISB PGPMAX

• Value addition to your personal brand
• Lifelong access to connections across organizations and regions
• Opportunity to implement and analyze your learnings immediately
• Knowledge of global business ecosystem

ISB PGPMAX – Program highlights

Global EMBA ranking – #44
Program duration – 15 months
Contact Hours – 508
In campus residency weeks – 12 
Program delivery location – 2
Courses – 24
Alumni network – 12500+

ISB PGPMAX – Duration of the program

The ISB PGPMAX is conducted for 15 months.

The program usually starts in August and ends next year in November.

You will have classroom sessions for one week after every 5 weeks at the Hyderabad or Mohali campus. There will be 10 modules in India and two modules in International immersions.

ISB PGPMAX – Program Calendar

Here is the program calendar for ISB PGPMAX 2024-2025. These dates are subject to change. Hence, bookmark it for future reference.

ISB PGPMAX – Program location

Hyderabad campus : Indian School of Business, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500 111

Mohali campus : Indian School of Business , Knowledge City, Sector 81, SAS Nagar, Mohali, Punjab – 140 306

ISB PGPMAX – Contact details

Phone : 040-71327428

Email : pgpmax@isb.edu

ISB PGPMAX – Class Profile

Average work experience – 16 years
Average age – 40
Industries represented – 10+

Functional distribution of PGPMAX class

• Marketing/Sales - 37.5%
• IT Consulting - 19.3%
• Operations - 14.8%
• Finance - 6.8%
• General Management - 6.8%
• Accounting - 3%
• Consulting - 3%
• Others - 7%     

ISB PGPMAX - Fees and scholarship

The ISB PGPMAX fee for the academic year 2024-25 is ₹ ​41,78,000 plus GST(18%). Here is the breakdown of the fee structure:

The program fees include the accommodation charges during the residential stay for classroom sessions and international immersion but it does not include the travel charges and other miscellaneous charges.

There are a limited number of merit-based scholarships available for the PGPMAX candidates. These scholarships cover up to 20% to 35% of the tuition fees. You can apply for the scholarship if you satisfy the following criteria:

• Community minded and socially responsible
• Strong professional profile with a track of achievements
• Demonstrate leadership skills
• Potential for exceptional performance and impact
• Potential to become an excellent ISB ambassador
• Spouse of a PGPMAX alumni
• Women leaders mainly who are working in public sector

Who can apply to the ISB PGPMAX?

To apply to the ISB PGPMAX you should have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in any discipline and you must possess a minimum of 15 years of full-time work experience post your bachelor’s degree as of the program start date.

No test score is required. However, you need a letter of consent from your current employer to pursue the program.

Get a free profile evaluation now from former ISB Admission Officers. We also help through the application process and interview preparation services.

Here are the key components which ISB looks for in the applicants.

1. Well balanced and mature
2. Self-motivated and passionate about learning
3. Have a global outlook and mindset
4. Possess high ethical standards
5. Display leadership potential

Application deadline

Application fee

Application process

You need to fill out and submit the ISB PGPMAX application online. Make sure you fill in all the details correctly. Focus on your current roles, responsibilities, and professional achievements.

Click here to apply for the ISB PGPMAX.

You need to scan and submit the following documents along with your application

• Updated resume/ CV
• Color photograph
• Bachelor’s degree mark sheet for all semesters
• Bachelor degree certificate
• Copy of your passport
• Proof of income
• Consent letter from your current employer (this can be submitted later as well along with the acceptance of the admission offer)
• Business card
• Two professional references (they have to provide online evaluation as per the prescribed format in the application)
• Organizational chart

ISB PGPMAX - Admission events

You can attend the admission events conducted by ISB to understand about the program and admission process. These events also give you clarity on the benefits and objectives of the ISB PGPMAX.

Here is the list of admission events conducted by ISB. Bookmark this page for updated information about the ISB PGPMAX admission events.

The 2024-2025 calendar is to be updated.

You can also visit the campus to understand the curriculum, and teaching methodology, interact with the team members of the program, and analyze the relevance of the program in your current career stage. 

Here are the days and times you can visit the campuses

ISB PGPMAX - Placement

ISB does not provide placement to the PGPMAX candidates. The learning and development (L&D) team of ISB helps you achieve your career goals and provides personalized customer service to develop your career. Here is the list of services provided by the L&D team:

• Personalized coaching by the ISB alumni
• Workshops to train you on job search skills
• Enhance your relationship with alumni and corporate recruiters
• Training sessions to inspire job seekers

You will also have lifetime access to career resources that will support your long-term career goals.

FAQs

The post ISB PGPMAX – A Unique Executive MBA Program appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

ISB YLP is equivalent to Harvard 2+2, where you can apply in the pre-final or final year of graduation to get an admit to ISB PGP. Once you get an admit to the YLP program, you have to gain 20 months of full-time work experience to join the PGP program.

Are you a college student, aspiring to get an admit to the PGP (MBA) program at ISB? Do you believe you have good leadership qualities but don’t have the required work experience to join the full-time MBA program at ISB? Why wait till you gain two years of work experience to get an admit? The Young Leaders Program (YLP) at ISB is a deferred entry to the full-time MBA program.

However, you might have a few more questions like

• Does getting an admit to YLP guarantee admission to the ISB PGP program?
• What if I don’t acquire the required experience before the commencement of the PGP full-time program?

We have answered all these questions in this article. Here is the outline of this article:

Who can apply to the ISB YLP program? 

Students in the pre-final or final year of graduation can apply to the ISB YLP program. You will have the basic foundation through this program to join the Post Graduation Program (PGP) at ISB.

Students with a qualitative academic or extracurricular profile can apply to this program to get off the stress of waiting till they complete the required work experience for the PGP at ISB.

There is another deferred mode of entry to the PGP program which is the Early Entry Option (EEO). Let’s understand the difference between EEO and YLP modes of entry to the full-time PGP program at ISB before discussing further the YLP program.

Difference between EEO and YLP

Both YLP and EEO are gateways to enter the full-time PGP program at ISB. Here is the difference between both programs. 

ISB YLP highlights

Here are the key highlights of the ISB YLP program

• Early admission
• Extended membership
• Enhanced engagement with ISB
• Higher career advancement

ISB YLP Acceptance rate

Through the Young Leaders Program (YLP), ISB receives between 2000-3000 applications every year, of which, up to 150 end up receiving an admit, based on the quality of profile, test score, application, and final interview. Hence, the acceptance rate of ISB YLP ranges between 5% to 7.5%.

ISB YLP 2023 Class profile

• Class size - 843
• Gender diversity
  • 63% male
  • 37% female
• Average GMAT: 720
• Average GRE: 328

ISB YLP Admission process

The admission process is fairly straightforward and focuses on understanding the profile of the candidate in whole and the motivation behind applying for the course. I think getting the essays right and being honest about the essays is extremely important. YLP gets top quality applications from students with strong pedigrees and top notch profiles. I think it is a very competitive course to get admitted into specially given the limited number of seats. One really needs to be very particular about the application and seek appropriate guidance if needed

Sanchit Aggarwal, Associate Director, Flipkart, an ISB alum

The admission process of YLP happens in 3 stages and applicants are filtered at each stage.

ISB YLP Essay Analysis, check this article to know how to write an essay to apply for the YLP.

How to transition from YLP to PGP?

If you are a college student who has good leadership qualities with a strong academic or extracurricular profile, you can become a great leader with proper guidance from ISB from the early stage. Hence, the YLP is introduced which is a pathway to the full-time MBA program (PGP) at ISB.

• Step 1 - Apply to stage 1 of the Young Leaders Programme during your pre-final or final year of graduation.
• Step 2 - Once you clear stage 1, apply to stage 2 with a decent GMAT/GRE score and the required documents.
• Step 3 - Once you clear stage 1, apply to stage 2 with a decent GMAT/GRE score and the required documents.
• Step 4 - Perform your best, and if your interview performance has convinced the ISB YLP selection panel, you will receive the offer letter.
• Step 5 - At this stage, you have to pay a non-refundable admission fee of INR 1,00,000 + GST (as applicable) and submit your acceptance within 15 days of receiving the offer.
• Step 6 - Now, you have to focus on gaining full-time work experience of a minimum of 20 months to join the MBA program at ISB (PGP)
• Step 7 - Connect with the PGP students, faculty, and industry leaders with the weekend learning programs offered by ISB till you join the full-time PGP class.
• Step 8 - Once you have the required work experience and are ready, you can join the ISB PGP class.

Now, this may make you wonder, what happens if you couldn't gain the mandatory experience before the commencement of PGP? Scroll down to know about the conditions to enroll in the PGP program through YLP. 

Before that let's see a case study where Sanchit Aggarwal, Associate Director, Flipkart, an alumnus of ISB shares his experience of the journey from YLP to PGP.

Case study : Sanchit’s journey from YLP to PGP

“My journey from YLP to PGP was very smooth because of the way the YLP program is designed by ISB. ISB conducts 4 learning weekends spread over 2 years across both campuses, where actual ISB professors teach you relevant subjects like leadership, managing change, finance, statistics etc. These weekends also offer a great chance to interact with the current class, ISB professors, YLP cohort and gives a clear picture about what to expect at ISB. 

This helped me a lot as I got a head start visavis the PGP class, got clarity on what I should do at ISB and post ISB. Apart from these learning weekends, ISB helped connect me to other YLP alums and ISB alums working in the areas I aspired to work in. This actually helped me start preparing for these roles, sectors etc well in advance.”

ISB YLP Fees

The fees structure at ISB is high compared to the other B-schools in India. However, the international standard of education compensates for the high package. 

After you receive the offer letter to the YLP program, you need to pay a non-refundable admission fee of INR 1,00,000 + tax along with the acceptance of the offer. 

When you enroll in the PGP program this is the fee you need to pay for shared and studio accommodation in one installment. 

You can also pay the fees in two installments with an interest of 6%.

ISB YLP Scholarship

The scholarship for the YLP admits is the same as the ISB PGP regular applicants. All applicants by default will be considered for merit scholarships offered at ISB. There is no separate essay needed unless you are interested in applying for a tuition waiver. ISB PGP Scholarships, in this article you can find more details about scholarships offered at ISB.

ISB YLP Application fee

You have to pay the full application fees of INR 3,000 when you submit the application form at stage 1 and it is non-refundable. You can pay the application fee in any currency but the amount obtained by the school should be INR 3000.

ISB YLP 2024 Application deadlines

ISB has announced the YLP stage 1 deadline for 2023 - 24 as 22nd October 2023.

You have to submit the application for stage 1, wait for the result, and then apply to stage 2 if you have been shortlisted. Here are the key dates for application deadlines and results for each stage of the YLP program. Bookmark this page to check the latest update of deadlines.

ISB YLP 2024 deadlines

ISB YLP Advantages

The Young Leaders Program (YLP) lays the perfect foundation for young, bright minds. It gives you the liberty to explore the industry or profession of your choice or even dabble in the possibility of their own start-up while enjoying the security of an ISB MBA program.

Let's discuss in detail the advantages of applying to YLP

• Enviable learning weekends: Once you are selected for the YLP program, you will be invited to the learning programs on the weekend at either one of the ISB campuses - Hyderabad or Mohali. 

• Tri-SEP: It is a unique three-week entrepreneurial exchange and immersion program for YLPs, where you will be exposed to a real-world experience of start-up markets in 3 booming economies of Asia.

• Guidance, Mentorship & Unimaginable Networking: You will get an opportunity to connect with the current students and faculties of ISB PGP.
  
• Skill-building and development: You also get to develop your skills through a mix of on-campus and online learning modules before the eventual integration with the flagship ISB PGP.
  The modules focus on enhancing leadership abilities, exposure to diverse career options, personality and career assessment, strengthening communication, relationship management and presentation skills.

• Early birds catch the worm: Though opportunities offered to all candidates during the PGP are the same, you will have an early bird edge both in experience and CTC as compared to others.

How to apply to the ISB YLP program?

Here is what Prashant Tibrewal, Founder and Mentor at ISBmantra says about the application process,

”The YLP application is split into three stages, with the first two stages requiring essays to be submitted. For applicants to the Young Leaders Program (YLP), there are three primary challenges to overcome, while developing their essays:

To present a rich profile even without full-time experience (vis-a-vis applicants to the PGP)
To present career plans and the need for an MBA, even before one has started their career
To present a holistic profile with components of leadership, teamwork, and academic potential

These are easier said than done when you are still in college. Our team of Former Admissions Officers from ISB have put together some important pieces of advice, along with detailed tips on writing the YLP Essays.”

Here is a detailed explanation of each stage of the YLP application process.

• Stage 1: Login and fill out the application form at the ISB portal, pay the application fee, and submit the application. 

Here is the list of details you will be entering in the application form,

1. Application details
2. Personal details
3. Contact details
4. Education details
   • Class X
   • Class XII
   • Undergraduate Education / Integrated Program / Postgraduate Education (as applicable)
5. Awards and activities
6. One Essay (check this article for YLP essay analysis and sample structure - YLP Essay Analysis)
7. Application submission
   • Declaration
   • Statement of integrity
   • Application fee

You can also check the list of details in the snapshot,

• Stage 2: Once cleared, apply to stage 2 with a GMAT/GRE score card, an essay and one recommendation letter. 

Here are the codes to send the GMAT/GRE score to ISB

For GMAT: N2D-J5-01: Young Leaders Program
For GRE: 7891

• Stage 3: After you clear stage 2, the next step would be a face to face interview. 

If you are shortlisted, you will receive the offer for admission. You have to pay an admission fee of INR 1,00,000 + GST (as applicable) and also accept their offer online within 15 days of receiving the offer letter.

What is ISB looking for in the YLP applicants?

The Young Leaders Program is a foundation program designed for high-potential college students to secure admission to ISB’s flagship PGP program. Over and above academic excellence, candidates are assessed on their personality (Personal strengths and attributes), leadership skills and the world view. Because the students through this foundation program are securing admission to ISB’s flagship program, selection criteria mirror the PGP selection criteria.

Vikram Singh, CEO & Chief Mentor at ISBmantra, Former Manager, Admissions & Financial Aid at ISB says

Applicants are holistically evaluated in the following parameters:

1.  Academic Credentials: The application keenly evaluates your ability to cope with the rigor of the program through your past academic performance of 10^th , 12^th and semester marks till pre-final/final year in stage 1 followed by the GMAT/GRE score in stage 2. However, no cut off criteria is applied either for academic score or the GMAT/GRE score.

2.  Leadership Potential: Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the impact they have made in their personal life. This aspect is assessed through the initiatives that the applicant may have taken, the responsibilities handled. The one professional evaluation (i.e., recommendation) which forms an important part of the application also helps in gauging the leadership potential of the applicant.

3.  Personal Attributes: ISB, looks for versatile and well-rounded individuals who have/can contribute to society in positive and meaningful ways. People who can bring different perspectives to the class and appreciate different points of view. Extracurricular activities and interests beyond academic life give ISB an insight into your personal qualities.

Conditions to enroll in the PGP full-time MBA program at ISB through YLP

Getting an admit to the YLP program confirms an admit to the PGP full-time program at ISB based on the following conditions

1. You should complete the course you are pursuing at the time of applying to the YLP program the same year or the next year after submitting the application.
2. Gain 20 months of full-time work experience before 31st March of the respective year of enrolling to the PGP after getting an admit to the YLP.
3. You have to submit the academic or experience certificate or any other information requested by the Admissions and Financial Aid department of ISB within the specified timeline.
4. Once you are enrolled, ISB verifies your details through an independent verification agency.
5. You also need to submit the following documents at the time of enrolling in the PGP.
   • Original academic and extracurricular certificates
   • Proof of identity ( Aadhar card / Passport / Driving license / Voter ID)
   • Visa if applicable

For more details on the enrollment process check this article, ISB PGP full-time MBA program.

Remember, the admission committee of ISB can prohibit you from enrolling in the PGP class, if the duration or quality of work experience is not satisfactory or if you provide any false information in the application.

ISBmantra is the only consulting company with a team of former ISB Admissions Officials, along with 25+ISB Alumni. 
We provide detailed assistance for your ISB Application Essays and Interview. 
Feel free to reach out to us for any queries. 

ISB YLP Placements

You will have one-on-one interaction sessions with alums from various industries during the first term, followed by resume review workshops in further terms. You will also have mock interviews by alums as you near placements. All around the year you will have industry overview, career building, resume building, and LinkedIn profile building workshops conducted by the Learning and Development (L&D) team at SEAL. 

You will have an integrated placement process for the Hyderabad and Mohali campuses. The placement process happens for four months at ISB. It starts with on-campus presentations and job postings. You will get the opportunity to learn about national and international recruiting companies.

Here are the key highlights of the ISB PGP 2023 placement.

To know more about the number of companies registered and the number of offers received for various classes at ISB. Take a look at this table.

ISB YLP Success Story

Nandini Pankaj, who has a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Shri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi shares her experience of applying to the ISB YLP. She explains how she prepared for the YLP interview which accomplished her dream of joining ISB.

In this video, Nandini and Vikram Singh, CEO & Chief mentor, ISBmantra discuss the advantages of applying to the ISB YLP program, YLP application strategy, YLP interview experience, and career plan before joining ISB.

ISB YLP Success Story - Check this article to know how Nandini strategized her ISB YLP application and interview.

FAQs

The post ISB YLP (Young Leaders Programme)- Everything you need to know appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

It must be painful to see the rejection letter from your dream school (ISB) when you have spent months preparing for the application be it taking the GMAT, writing essays, or preparing for the interview. It is okay to not be okay. But don’t stay in the rejection zone. It’s meant to help you introspect so that you can bounce back even stronger. So, move on and start planning on how to increase your chances of getting admission to ISB in your next attempt. Rejection does not mean you are not fit, it means you missed portraying your potential in the best way.

What to do after rejection from ISB?

Before analyzing what went wrong, it is important for you to take a break and make your mind peaceful. Just stressing yourself immediately after the rejection won’t work. Relax! Breath! Do something that makes you feel better. Go on a vacation, talk to an old friend, spend time with family or friends, and develop a new routine like yoga or a morning walk. 

Once you feel calm and relaxed, start working on your application. So, how should you start? We have the answer for you in this article. We have discussed a detailed step-by-step guide on how to create a rejection recovery plan for ISB.

Take a look at Vidhi’s Amazing Successful Reapplication Strategy

ISB rejection recovery plan for reapplicants

Step-by-step guide for ISB rejection recovery plan:

1. Analyze the reason for your rejection
2. Build a strong profile
3. Improve your candidacy  
4. Understand the re-application process
5. Decide which round to apply
6. Get feedback from experts

Analyze the reason for your rejection

A successful recovery plan starts with analyzing the reason for the rejection.

Questions to understand your reasons for rejection

• Was I clear about my goal?
• What are my strengths and weaknesses?
• Did I have the required GMAT/GRE score? 
• Were my essays up to the mark?
• How did I do in the interview?
• Did I communicate clearly?
• Was my body language correct?

When you have asked these questions to yourself, you must have figured out or at least have an idea of where you lacked in the last attempt. Once you know where you lack, you should start working on building a strong profile.

Build a strong profile

ISB is well known for its diverse class profile. Analyze the class profile for what GMAT score they had, how many years of experience they possess, what kind of achievements they had, etc. This will give you exposure to what kind of profile the candidates bring to the class of ISB and how to position yourself as uniquely as possible. 

Here are some tips to build a strong profile that can impress the Admissions Committee:

• Certificate courses
• Internships
• Keep yourself updated on the latest economic trends
• Learn a new language
• Gain International exposure
• Attend admission events conducted by ISB Admissions Committee to understand their requirements
• Attend conferences
• Consider retaking the GMAT if your score was lower
• Work hard for the promotion which you think might boost your profile

Academic credentials are not the only criteria for admission, hence introspect your profile and start working on how to build a well-rounded profile.

ISB admission events, check here for the latest admission events conducted by ISB.

Improve your candidacy

Building a strong profile alone is not enough to increase your chances of admission to ISB, it is also important to highlight and communicate what you have built.

• Think about how to write essays in a better way highlighting your skills 
• Work on your body language 
• Work on your communication skills 
• Take more mock interviews if required
• Reconsider your recommender

ISB Letter of Recommendation, in this article we have discussed in detail how and when to choose the recommender.

It is more important to work on your weaknesses along with enhancing your strengths to prove your capability to the ISB admissions committee. 

The prime question for any PGP applicant would be ‘Why MBA?’ The motive of this question is to understand whether you are clear about your short-term and long-term career goals. It is also important to have a solid answer about what value it is going to add to your profile and what value you are going to add to the ISB PGP class.

Hence, be prepared to explain how your career goals are aligned with the learning prospects of ISB.

Understand the re-application process

The process of reapplying to ISB is the same as applying for the first time except that you have to write an additional essay (reapplicant essay), mentioning improvements in your profile. This is the best opportunity to prove your eligibility for getting admission to ISB as a reapplicant. Hence, make use of it wisely.

Reapplicant Essay Analysis, in this article we have discussed in detail how to write a reapplicant essay.

Decide which round to apply

Being aware of the re-application process, the next step is to decide which round to apply to ISB. As you know, there are three rounds for the ISB PGP application. Applying in any round does not increase or decrease your chances of getting admission to ISB. 

However, as a reapplicant, you need to decide which round to apply to based on the time you take to analyze and create a well-rounded profile that would increase your chances of getting an admit. 

Get feedback from experts

Nobody likes to see the rejection from ISB the second time after doing all the hard work. Though you know what went wrong and how to correct it, it is advisable to reach out to professionals who can help you frame your application in a better way this time.

Sometimes you might have missed noticing your flaw which could have caused the rejection. So it is always better to get it checked and corrected by ISB admissions consultants.

Case study: Aditya Dev’s re-application strategy 

Aditya, who has a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from SRM University, Chennai explains how he strategized his ISB PGP application and interview as a reapplicant. He has 2.5 years of experience in Healthcare Analytics and Consulting at ZS Associates and PWC. He shares how ISBmantra helped him put together the pieces of his profile into a unique story which helped him gain confidence. 

The post ISB Reapplication 2025: How to bounce back from an ISB rejection? appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) being the dream business school of several MBA aspirants, applicants put in months of effort in preparing for the GMAT/GRE and developing a strong application. An interview invitation from ISB, therefore, is a welcome development for an applicant – one that takes you much closer to the long-awaited final admit. An interview is normally not a make-or-break step in the admission process but it does hold a significant weight if you are to make it to ISB. This is also your only chance to seal the deal, having worked so hard in the preceding months. It is, therefore, crucial that you prepare well and practice enough to perform to your strengths in the final interview. 

ISB Interview Structure

ISB rolls out the interview invite 4 to 6 days before the interview date. The Interview panel consists of members from the admission committee and ISB alumni. A typical interview lasts for 25-30 minutes and may continue for 35-40 minutes in some cases.

In wake of the Covid- 19 and the absence of a physical environment, ISB interviews are now held virtually.  Through the interview, the panel wants to understand how you fit at ISB. They break down the details of your background, professional experience, future goals, and aspirations to understand you better.

On the day of the interview, you may face connectivity issues, waiting rooms, and stretched interviews. For the convenience of candidates, ISB, in the past, has also moved the video interview to a telephonic one. ISB has designed the interview process in a way that does not put any candidates under undue stress.

Most commonly asked ISB interview questions

Like every business school, ISB focuses on asking a few specific questions. Here is a list of the most commonly asked ISB interview questions: 

1. Tell us something about yourself
2. Tell us something that is not there in your application
3. What do you do at work?
4. What are some of the challenges you generally face at work?
5. What is your biggest/best achievement in your career?
6. Where do you see yourself 3-5yrs from now?
7. Why MBA?
8. What if MBA does not happen this year?
9. Why do you think ISB is the best choice for you?
10. Do you have any specific questions for the interview panel?

Types of ISB interview questions

There are 4 broad categories under which we can divide the ISB interview questions: 

Work Experience related Questions

The interviewers will dive deep into your professional experience seeking information on skills developed, achievements, responsibilities, and business decisions. team structure, project delivery, approach, work culture, etc.

In order to excel in this part, it is important for you to be really well versed in your engagement at work. You can expect the panelists to get into the details of the work mentioned in the application, and the personal values presented in the first essay.

Future Goals Related Questions

This is an extremely critical part of the process that can decide your future at ISB. Every business school is looking for candidates who add value to their legacy and ISB is no different. The institute prefers candidates who can project clarity in their goals and aspirations. They want to see how ISB fits into your future and how you can contribute to the holistic environment at ISB. 

The interviewees will try to understand the quality of work experience you have had and your plan of action to enhance the same. It is also very important to be aware of the scope of the work and the fundamentals of your work. 

It is okay if you don’t have a fixed goal in mind. ISB will open up many new avenues for you to choose from, and it is justified to have no one option fixed in your mind.

But at the same time, there is a difference between keeping your options open and knowing nothing of your options.

Guesstimates, hobbies,  puzzles, current affairs related questions

ISB requires its potential graduates to think analytically, be creative, and be multilateral in nature. Every ISB cohort consists of students who are both smart thinkers and all-rounders.

You should be well prepared to answer guesstimates questions and puzzles. Questions related to current affairs, economy, politics, sports, etc. aren’t asked very often but if you mention your interest in one of these subjects, the interviewer may be tempted to understand the authenticity and depth of your interest.

Application-related Questions

“It is often noticed during the interviews that candidates find it hard to defend their achievements as stated in the essays and application form since most of those achievements are inflated or not well thought out. You must make it a point to state only those facts in your application that are realistic, defensible, and genuine; and that you prepare on them religiously and with solid details to back them up.”

Sanjay Dhingra, ex-ISB Admissions Officer, and Chief Mentor at ISBmantra

The questions asked are centered around what is written in the application & essay. The interviewer can ask questions about recent achievements and challenges faced in achieving them. Your application is the most important source of information for the interviewers. 

It’s highly likely that the interviewer may pick on the examples you have listed in your essays or in the application form and go deeper to understand the same. 

In conclusion, you must keep in mind that a successful ISB interview is a balanced mix of preparation,  deep and verified knowledge of your profile, a clear view of your future goals, and an informed mindset

ISB Interview – Evaluation Parameters 

There are two non-negotiable parameters during the ISB interview, quality of work experience and communication skills. Other parameters are the science of leadership potential, team player, and analytical skills. 

Apart from your academics and work experience, ISB also looks at your ability to handle pressure, innovate, and your personal and moral integrity, communication skills, and learnability. Areas like your extracurricular activities and interests beyond your work life give the panel insights into your personal qualities. Overall ISB aims to admit well-rounded and versatile individuals who can contribute to society in positive and meaningful ways. 

We have listed below a few distinctive qualities that ISB looks for in their potential graduates:

• Leadership in past experiences
• Consistent thought process
• Ability to present logical arguments
• Analytical acumen
• Conviction in responses
• Clarity of goals

ISB interview admission & Interview panel

“At the time of shortlisting, you give the benefit of doubt to the candidate and shortlist anyway if they are on borderline. At the end of the day, the Adcom takes the final decision. The benefit of the doubt at that time goes to the school. While we do not want a deserving candidate to get rejected, we also do not want a non-deserving candidate to come into the school. We focus on maintaining a delicate balance in each batch.“

AM Kannan, Former Director, Admission and Financial Aid at ISB

Every year close to 5000 candidates apply for the flagship program at ISB. The admissions committee at ISB has a set admission process for the same. Let me take you through what happens once you submit your application at ISB.

The ISB admissions committee consists of around 6-7 people. Deputy Dean of Admission, Admission Director, 2-3 ISB faculty members, and 2 senior alumni. There is a difference between the admissions team and admissions committee to avoid any biases. The final decision rests with the senior team members of the Admissions Committee.

Two people from the admissions team will go through your applications once received. The admissions team will then put you under one of the three categories, i.e. yes, no, and maybe. The Admissions Director will take the final call for your applications if there is a tie-breaker.

It is important to note that selected ISB students from the current batch will check your applications. They only give recommendations to the Assistant Director or Associate Director. The admission team ratifies the recommendation and either confirms or negates it. There are chances of rejection for positive recommendations and acceptance of the negative ones

Now let’s talk about the Interview, 2-3 alumni members conduct the ISB interview. Every alumnus on the panel gets training to conduct the interviews. ISB tries to match you with an interviewer with a similar profile but it’s not necessary. E.g. An alumni with a tech background interviews a candidate with a marketing background.

Let us talk about how we can help you. ISBmantra has been a pioneer in the education consulting industry. We are the only Consulting Company with former ISB Admissions Officials on board. Our core team comprises ex ISB senior manager, Director, and Associate Director. 

One of our core team members is Mr. A M Kannan, Senior Mentor at ISBmantra and Ex ISB Director, Admissions and Financial Aid. He worked with ISB as the Director, Admissions and Financial Aid and also coached ISB students on career options during his 7-year stint with ISB. He was heading admissions to the flagship PGP program at ISB to ensure quality intake of students. A graduate of IIT Kharagpur and IIM Bangalore, he has extensive industry exposure and uses his 25+ years of experience to mentor students to identify and achieve the right career path. 

If you wish to be mentored and assisted by ISBmantra in your B-school journey then you can write to us at info@isbmanta.com for a free profile evaluation. 

How to prepare for the ISB Interview?

ISB Interview Tips

The interview round helps ISB understand what you bring to the table and know you better. A lot of you might be looking for some interview tips that would help you sail through the process. Do not worry we have you covered! 

• Your story should have consistency. The content in the LOR and Essay should match. Achievements and actions listed in the LOR should also appear in the essay; it helps in validating your story.
• You should show and defend your motivation, need, and intent to pursue an MBA. It is also essential to have clarity on career goals. 
• Make sure to go through your application end to end and do not leave it up to the consultant. Be prepared with behavioral event-based and guesstimate questions. 
• Do not prepare 50-60 questions and be a parrot during the interview. It shows. 
• If you are someone with a high amount of work experience then it is necessary that you have demonstrated some amount of leadership experience. 
• Candidates with less than 2 years of experience should focus on the initiatives taken at the workplace that lead to leadership.
• Communication is a very important aspect of your interview. Prepare your responses to deliver impact during the interview. Work on how you converse, your language, clarity of thought, your listening skills, and the energy you bring into the room.
• Enjoy the interview, and be positive, realistic, and honest. It will definitely come across in the interview and, needless to say, ISB values it.

ISB Interview Myths

ISB is undoubtedly the dream college for MBA aspirants across the world. Candidates make sure that they do not leave any stone unturned to add ‘ISB’ into their CVs.  However, there are several myths that have cropped up about ISB interviews. Let’s look at a few ISB myths and bust them for you. 

A high GMAT score will guarantee one’s admission into ISB:

There are 2 types of selection criteria, objective and subjective. GMAT and academic scores are objective criteria and LOR and Essay are subjective criteria and a judgment call. For example, someone can have a high GMAT score and have a poor academic performance and vice versa. It is unfair to compare the application based on the GMAT score. Each candidate in the application pool is compared with other similar candidates. For example, Engineers are compared with engineers.  

The interview panel focuses on weaknesses:

ISB does not believe in harping on the candidate’s weakness. Questions are usually centered around their strengths and work experience. 

Timing of the Interview:

Timing of the interview invite post application does not indicate that you are a more preferred or less preferred candidate. Interview invites are sent on a rolling basis, and this could just be based on when your application was read by the admissions team. 

Duration of the interview :

A typical interview lasts for 25-30 minutes and may continue for 35-40 minutes in some cases. While there are many factors that can affect the length of an interview, duration of the interview does not determine one’s chances of securing an admit. 

ISB panel grills candidates with low GMAT score:

The ISB interview panel does not have access to a candidate’s GMAT score. That said, your GMAT score is only one component of the many factors considered. While a higher score increases your chances of receiving the final admission letter. In the interview process, other objective and subjective criteria also play a pivotal role. The interview questions will be focused on the details mentioned in your application. 

ISB Interview Questions asked in 2022-2023

ISB has recently concluded the second round of admission for their PGP Program. Let us take you through a few unique questions that candidates were asked during their interviews. 

Work Experience Related Questions 

It is important to be aware of the changes and developments happening in organizations you have worked for. For your benefit we have listed below a few questions candidates were asked this year.

1. What learnings or strengths have you brought from your previous job that helps you with your current role?
2. Why did you transition from your previous organization to your current one? Was it your choice?
3. What did you do at your previous job?
4. Your previous organization has acquired an e-commerce platform – what are your thoughts on that?
5. Where do you think your previous organization is headed wrt to the new verticals that have come up

Why ISB

It is important for ISB how they fit in your future and why you want to be a part of their institution. Mentioned below are a few questions asked by the interview panel.

1. Given you’ve had this kind of experience, why do you want an MBA? Why not continue in your current position for a few more years? What is your short-term goal?
2. What do you hope to take away from ISB and contribute to ISB? 
3. How would ISB enable you?
4. What are your post-MBA goals and why can’t you achieve them by staying in your current role/position. 
5. Why do you need an MBA? Are you sure this is the right school for you?

Questions about yourself

ISB is looking for candidates who have clear goals and aspirations. The interview round helps the panel understand if you are the right fit for ISB. 

6. Where did you grow up? How has that shaped you?
7. What are your interests? How have your interests changed you?
8. Who/what influences me?
9. You are in the 50% of the applicants with an engineering degree and IT background, what are you gonna do to differentiate yourself from the rest applicants, from an admission perspective?
10. What is your life story?

ISB Interview Experiences 

ISBmantra has been part of the education industry for over 10 years. We have a decade of experience in mentoring candidates for the wide range of programs offered by the Indian School of Business (ISB). In the last 10 years, we have helped applicants from diverse backgrounds secure an admit to ISB. 

Let’s have a look at a few candidates with diverse backgrounds who secured an admit to ISB through ISBmantra. 

Sagar’s journey to ISB as a re-applicant 

Sagar had close to 7 years of experience when he applied to ISB PGP. He did his undergraduate in Management studies followed by MBA in Communication Management. Over the course of 7 years, he worked on various film marketing campaigns and launched the largest theater initiative in the country. 

“So, I didn’t apply with the same profile to ISB. When I was reapplying I got in touch with ISBmantra, Prashant told me that we can’t change fixed variables in my profile. i.e 10th & 12th scores. Instead, he told me to put all my efforts into the next year. He asked me to work on my GMAT scores, improve the quality of work experience, get a promotion, etc. These small nuances added to the improvement which I put together with ISBmantra’s guidance.” Sagar Shirodkar, ISB PGP Batch 2020

“ISBmantra helped me calm the chaos & turmoil in my mind. The consulting team helped me put together all the bits of my profile into a unique story. The team also helped me gain confidence and clarity of thoughts which reflected well during the interview.” says Sagar 

You can hear more about Sagar’s journey to ISB with ISBmantra in the below video.

Here are a few more ISB interview experiences of successful candidates.

Ramapriya made it to ISB as a Full-time Trek Leader

Ram joined the Hyderabad Campus of ISB in 2020. He has one of the most unique profiles that got into ISB. After completing his engineering, Ram worked in the corporate sector for a short period before becoming a full-time trek leader. Ram was responsible for leading treks in the Himalayas. He planned & executed the terrain, supply of food, local transportation, etc. 

“When I decided to apply to ISB, I knew that the leadership skills I had could easily transition to what a business school is looking for. ISBmantra added a lot of value to my application, the consultants helped me highlight the strengths in my career and my goals.” Ramapriya Ranganath, ISB PGP Batch 2020 

To know more about Ram’s experience as a trek leader and his journey to ISB, check this video.

FAQS

The post ISB Interview 2024: How to prepare, experiences, common questions, Tips, and Myths appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.

Prashanth Venkatesh, Marketing Director, Unilever, an ISB PGP Alum said “he lived a lifetime in one year” when asked about his journey with ISB.

While sharing his experience (Prashanth Venkatesh’s incredible one year at ISB) he said “You really get to know how much can happen in a single calendar year. You meet professionals from all over the country and different parts of the globe. You can participate in conferences, presentations, quizzes, events, clubs, networking, and much more.”

According to him, world-class academics, extraordinary networking, and personal growth were the key takeaways that helped him in career development and leadership.

If you want to get into ISB and want to experience what Mr. Prashant did, you first need to know more details about ISB.

• What are the special features of the ISB programs?
• How is class diversity?
• How will be the admission process?
• When is the application deadline?

We will discuss everything in this article. We also update this page with the admission events conducted by ISB for various programs.

ISB Accreditation

ISB has triple-crown accreditation from 

• Association of MBA (AMBA)
• EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS)
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

These accreditation represent the high standard of education in the MBA programs.

ISB Rankings

ISB ranked #1 in India and #6 in Asia in the Financial Times(FT) Global MBA ranking.
The one-year MBA program (PGP) ranked #32 globally in the Financial Times Global MBA rankings 2023
ISB ranked #6 in the Asia-Pacific region and #2 in India for the best B-Schools 2022-2023 by the Bloomberg Businessweek.

The Bloomberg Businessweek’s ranking was based on learning, networking, entrepreneurship and compensation. In Asia-Pacific region ISB has ranked

• #2 in learning
• #2 in networking
• #3 in entrepreneurship 
• #6 in compensation

As per the news article published by ISB, it is the only B-school in India among the top 25 global business schools.

ISB campus

Contact details of ISB

• Website: www.isb.edu
• Email: pgp@isb.edu
• Social Media: LinkedIn,Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Blog
• Contact : https://www.isb.edu/en/connect.html

Partnerships

• Founding schools
  1. Kellogg School of Management
  2. Wharton University of Pennsylvania

• Associate Schools
  1. MIT- Sloan School of Management
  2. The Fletcher School, Tufts university
  3.  London Business School

Dean of ISB

Professor Madan Pillutla took charge as Dean of ISB on 1st July 2021. He is the 6th Dean of Indian School of Business.

Professor Madan Pillutla, Dean, Indian School of Business (ISB)

According to Professor Madan Pillutla’s inaugural address, “ISB is an internationally recognized world class business school with the aim of developing global leaders by providing world class infrastructure and resources. Being in the third decade of ISB, they wanted to continue to leverage their knowledge for the development of India. They want to establish ISB as the first B school that comes to mind for anyone across the globe who searches for the best business school.”

Why ISB?

ISB was designed to inspire young leaders who can direct the ever-changing business industry towards economic growth and social transformation. Their holistic and unique approach to education helps in developing future leaders.

Here are the reasons why you should join ISB:

Association with International universities
World-class infrastructure
Prominent faculty in the business industry from different parts of the world teach at ISB
High-quality research center
Strong alumni network
International exposure

Programs at ISB

ISB is well known for its one-year MBA program (PGP). Apart from this flagship program, ISB also offers other management, Advanced management, and Doctoral programs.

Post Graduate Program

1. PGP – Post Graduate Programme in management (one year MBA program)

There are two deferred entries to this program

• YLP – Young Leaders Programme
• EEO – Early Entry Option

2. PGPPRO – Post Graduate Programme in management for mid level working professionals
3. PGPMAX – Post Graduate Programme in management for senior executives
4. PGP MFAB – Post Graduate Programme in management for family business

Advanced Management Program (AMP)

1. AMPBA – Advanced Management Programme in Business Analytics 
2. AMPH – Advanced Management Programme for Healthcare 
3. AMPI – Advanced Management Programme for Infrastructure 
4. AMPOS – Advanced Management Programme in Operations and Supply Chain 
5. AMPPP – Advanced Management Programme in Public Policy 

Doctoral Studies

1. FPM – Fellow Programme in Management 
2. EFPM – Executive Fellow Programme in Management

ISB Fees 

The fees for the PGP program at ISB, according to the college, is 30,97,620 at both Hyderabad and Mohali. 

Here is the full breakdown of the fee of various MBA programs at ISB:

The college does provide scholarships based on various factors such as your GMAT/GRE score, income levels, profile & experience etc. Learn how to avail these scholarships here.

ISB Hyderabad and Mohali Placements 2023 Report

ISB Placements 2023 saw 222 recruiters make 1578 offers to the ISB PGP class of 2023 with 40% of these going to women students. The average salary received by the class stood at 34.21 Lakhs per annum which is a 2.5X increase from the average pre-ISB CTC of Rs 13.39 lakh.

The top industries in terms of offers were Consulting, IT/ITES/Technology, BFSI, and FMCG/retail. Consulting, product management, sales and marketing, and general management/leadership programs were the leading functions that students got job offers in. 

ISB PGP Class Profile of 2023 – Hyderabad and Mohali

• Class size - 843
• Average GMAT - 720
• Average GRE - 328
• Gender diversity
  1. 63% male
  2. 37% female

ISB PGP - Eligibility criteria

ISB admissions process for Hyderabad and Mohali

The admission process takes place in 3 rounds for the PGP and PGPpro programs and 2 rounds for the PGPmax and PGP MFAB programs.

You need to submit the application online with a GMAT/GRE score, necessary documents, essays, and recommendation letter (if applicable). Once shortlisted, you will get an invite from ISB for a face-to-face interview. You will get an admit to ISB based on your profile, GMAT/GRE score, and your performance in the interview. What is a good GMAT score for ISB?, check this article to know about good GMAT score for ISB.

ISB - Application deadline

For more details about the application deadline, read this article on ISB application deadline.

ISB - Application fee (in INR)

ISB curriculum - Hyderabad and Mohali

The academic year at ISB consists of 8 terms with 1.5 months each term and you must complete 32 credits to gain an MBA.

• First 3 terms - core courses
• Fourth term - crossover term which is a mix of core and elective courses
• Last four terms - elective courses

Digital Headstart Module (DHM)

Adapting to the changes because of COVID, ISB has replaced the first term with a 10-week Digital Headstart Module (DHM). DHM comprises of

4 easy-paced, core courses
Independent research project opportunity under Faculty guidance
Learning and career growth events
O-week and LEAD

DHM will ultimately ease the on-campus experience for students, having already inducted them into 4 core foundational subjects and has given ample opportunities to interact and bond.

You can choose from five functional specializations (called Majors)

• Finance
• Operations
• Marketing
• Entrepreneurship
• Strategy & Leadership

ISB also offers industry specializations, such as Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Information Technology. You must take up at least one functional Major and a maximum of two functional specializations. The industry specializations are optional.

There is a mandatory elective for each specialization which may be distributed in one or more terms. So, two or three courses are designated as mandatory electives and if you are planning to pursue a particular Major you have to opt for one of the mandatory electives.

Experiential Learning Program (ELP)

ELP is a short-term project that falls under the purview of consulting. ISB tends to solicit these consulting projects from a number of different companies (domestic and international) and float it among teams of current students who may be interested in a particular sector or function.

The majority of the ELPs at ISB arrive between the end of the second term and the beginning of the fourth term. Taking up an ELP is equivalent to a two-credit course.

Steps for ELP

• The first step involves forming a diverse team that can offer a wide range of skills and experiences. 
• After exchanging emails, and trying different combinations, a team of three to six members is formed. 
• A brief document is then to be drafted, elaborating the team profile, skillset of the members and the plan for execution. This along with CVs of team members go to the ISB team who then prepares a list of shortlisted candidates. 
• The shortlisted teams then interact with the client who takes the final call.
• Students taking up the ELP have to agree to certain deadlines set by the client by stating them in a charter. 

ISB Alumni

ISB has a strong alumni network with 12500+ graduates from different parts of the world. The current students get a chance to interact with alumni in their field of interest who guide them in building their careers.

ISB - Notable Alumni

Here are a few notable alumni of ISB:

1. Ankur Warikoo, Founder of nearbuy, former CEO of Groupon India
2. Neeraj Arora, Former Chief Business Officer of WhatsApp
3. Shvetha Jaishankar, Entrepreneur, author, and model
4. Namrata Brar, News anchor and investigative journalist, former US Bureau Chief for NDTV
5. Viren Rasquinha, CEO of Olympic Gold Quest, former Indian Hockey Team Captain
6. Manik Gupta, Founder of CVKey, former Chief Product Officer for Uber
7. Sujayath Ali, Founder of ShopUp
8. Nipun Malhotra,Social Entrepreneur and Activist
9. Sriram Venkataraman,CFO and COO of Flipkart
10. Ravinder Singh, Author and Speaker

ISB Admissions events

ISB conducts various admission events and webinars throughout the year. You can clear all your doubts regarding the program and admission by attending these events. We will update this calendar regularly, so bookmark this page to know about upcoming events.

FAQs

The post ISB Hyderabad and Mohali – Admissions 2024, Fees, Ranking, Placements & Alumni appeared first on ISB Mantra Blog.