When it comes to pursuing an MBA in India, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are often considered the gold standard. However, many prestigious non-IIM business schools also offer world-class education, excellent placement opportunities, and strong industry connections. These institutions accept CAT scores or other entrance exam scores, making them attractive options for MBA aspirants.
In this article, we explore the top non-IIM business schools in India that you shouldn’t miss, based on fees, average placement packages (Avg CTC), and percentile requirements.
1. Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi
- Fees: ₹1.92 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹34.10 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 99.3+ percentile
FMS Delhi, often called the "Red Building of Dreams," is one of the most sought-after business schools in India. With its ultra-low fee structure and exceptionally high ROI, it attracts some of the brightest minds. Known for finance, consulting, and marketing, FMS is the dream college for those looking for an MBA without a hefty tuition fee.
2. Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad
- Fees: ₹45.96 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹33.25 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 98+ percentile
ISB Hyderabad is a top-ranked business school that follows an internationally recognized curriculum. It offers a one-year PGP program designed for professionals with work experience. With a strong alumni network, global exposure, and corporate collaborations, ISB provides excellent career prospects in consulting, strategy, and leadership roles.
3. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai
- Fees: ₹2.20 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹19.62 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 98+ percentile
TISS Mumbai is widely known for its Human Resources Management and Labour Relations (HRM & LR) program, which rivals even the best MBA HR programs in the country. It is a preferred choice for those aiming to build careers in human resource management, corporate social responsibility, and social impact roles.
4. SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai
- Fees: ₹19 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹33.02 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 85+ percentile
SPJIMR offers a unique profile-based admission process, allowing candidates with strong work experience and leadership qualities to secure admission at a relatively lower CAT percentile. With top-notch faculty, experiential learning modules, and strong corporate connections, SPJIMR is a great choice for finance, marketing, and operations aspirants.
5. Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai
- Fees: ₹6 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹28.02 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 99.9+ percentile
Known as the “CEO Factory”, JBIMS is one of the most prestigious B-schools in India. With a strong finance, banking, and consulting ecosystem, JBIMS Mumbai has produced some of the finest leaders in the corporate world. Being located in the financial hub of Mumbai, students benefit from proximity to major business districts.
6. Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), Delhi
- Fees: ₹21.70 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹29.10 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 97+ percentile
IIFT is renowned for its specialized MBA in International Business, making it a top choice for those looking to build careers in global trade, export-import management, and business strategy. The rigorous curriculum and industry exposure make IIFT an excellent alternative to IIMs.
7. Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon
- Fees: ₹24.70 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹27.67 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 97+ percentile
MDI Gurgaon offers a balanced mix of academic rigor and industry exposure. With global exchange programs, corporate tie-ups, and an active alumni network, it is one of the best choices for students aiming for careers in finance, consulting, and general management.
8. Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), IIT Bombay
- Fees: ₹9.06 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹28.88 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 97+ percentile
Housed within IIT Bombay, SJMSOM offers a unique blend of technology and management, making it a popular choice among engineers and tech-savvy professionals. The strong industry collaboration and proximity to India’s financial capital provide ample opportunities in technology management, analytics, and consulting.
9. Department of Management Studies (DMS), IIT Delhi
- Fees: ₹11.20 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹25.82 LPA
- CAT Percentile Required: 97+ percentile
DMS IIT Delhi is another great option for tech-driven management careers. It attracts a mix of engineers and business graduates, offering them top placements in analytics, product management, and technology consulting.
10. MICA, Ahmedabad
- Fees: ₹20.09 lakh
- Average CTC: ₹23.00 LPA
- Admission Requirement: 45+ marks in MICAT
MICA is India's premier institute for strategic marketing and communication. With its unique MICAT exam and specialized courses in digital marketing, advertising, and branding, MICA is the perfect choice for those who want to make a mark in media, entertainment, and brand management.
Final Thoughts: Why Consider These Non-IIM B-Schools?
1. High ROI (Return on Investment)
Many of these colleges, such as FMS Delhi and JBIMS Mumbai, offer low fees with high average placements, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a high ROI.
2. Specialized Programs
Institutes like TISS Mumbai (HR), IIFT Delhi (International Business), and MICA Ahmedabad (Marketing and Communication) cater to niche domains, making them a better choice than generic MBA programs.
3. Strong Corporate Connections
With strong alumni networks, international collaborations, and strategic locations, these B-schools provide a competitive edge in placements.
4. Global Recognition
Institutions like ISB Hyderabad and SPJIMR Mumbai have global partnerships and international rankings, making them attractive for students with global career aspirations.
Conclusion
While IIMs continue to dominate the MBA landscape in India, these non-IIM business schools provide outstanding opportunities for career growth, leadership development, and corporate success. With competitive admission criteria, strong placement records, and specialized courses, they offer an equally strong MBA experience, if not better, in certain domains.
If you’re looking to maximize your career prospects while considering factors like fees, specialization, and ROI, then these top non-IIM B-schools are worth applying to!
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