faq (2024)

• What is the PGP?

The Post Graduate Programme or PGP refers to ISB’s full-time one-year residential management programme. The PGP is comparable in rigor and content to a regular two-year full-time MBA programme offered by global business schools.

• Is the PGP similar to the Executive MBA programmes offered by several business schools?

No,the Post Graduate Programme is similar in rigor and content to a regular two-year full-time MBA programme offered by global business schools.

• Does the PGP award an MBA degree?

No,only universities can award a degreein India.ISB PGP isneither a degree nor a diploma. 

• What are the concentrations being offered in the PGP?
  

The concentrations offered can be viewed on our website at  learning model

• What are study treks?

Students get an opportunity to be part of various corporate exposure trips that are either faculty-led or student-led treks. These treks offer valuable experiences where participants interact with different stakeholders and gain comprehensive insights into industries and organisations. There are three categories of study treks available:
I. International: Participants journey to organisations located abroad.
II. Domestic: Participants visit organisations in domestic locations.
III. Social Sector: Participants explore organisations in the government or social sector.

• What is the purpose of the Career Week?

Career Week helps students prepare for their placement interviews. The week comprises a range of workshops aimed at preparing students for both interviews and selecting their career paths during the placement week. These workshops involve engaging with influential leaders from the industry and offering guidance on resume building, among other topics.

• How many students will be admitted for PGP?

The approximate batch size is 820 students. The Class of 2025 comprises 819 students across the Hyderabad and Mohali campuses.

• What is the criterion for admission to the ISB Post Graduate Programme?

The eligibility criteria are:

1) Students must possess an undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree)/post-graduate degree in any discipline.

2) A minimum of two years' full-time work experience (for the PGP regular admissions).

3) AValid GMAT/GRE (test centre based test only)

4) TOEFL/IELTS score is required for students from countries other than India, where English is not the primary language ofinstruction

All shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as a part of the selection process.

• Which deadline is better to apply - Round 1 or Round 2 or Round 3?

We encourage everyone to apply early as it helps candidates to plan work & relocation arrangements. Nonetheless, submitting an application during either cycle does not significantly affect your likelihood of being selected.

• Are the selection criteria for R1/R2/ R3 admissions different?

All three rounds have the same eligibility criteria, with no exceptions for GMAT/GRE scores.

• Does ISB accept GMAT / GRE - Online or home-based tests score?

No. Starting with the April 2025 intake, ISB does not accept GMAT / GRE - Online or home-based test scores.

• Is there a cut-off score for the GMAT/GRE for PGP?

There is no specific minimum score required for the GMAT/GRE. Nevertheless, in the current class, the GMAT scores range from 530 to 780, while the GRE scores range from 319 to 330.

• Is it mandatory to take the GMAT/GRE before applying to PGP?

Yes, the applicant has to take the GMAT/GRE and submit the score before sending in the application. 

• Can I apply with a Test Centre score report of the GMAT/GRE?

Yes, you can. The application can be submitted along with the test centre/unofficial score report. The official score report from Pearson VUE (GMAT)/ETS (GRE) should reach the Admissions Team within three weeks of application submission.

• Does ISB require the IR score for evaluation?

No, The Integrated Reasoning (IR) scores will not be considered for your application evaluation. 

• What is the validity period for a GMAT/GRE score?

GMAT/GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the date the exam was taken. Please ensure that your score is valid as on the deadline date of the round in which you apply.

• If I submit more than one GMAT/GRE score, which score will be considered by ISB?

The higher score would be considered, provided it is within the validity period of five years.

• How long does it take for the Official GMAT/GRE scores to reach ISB?

Once you report the scores, it takes up to three weeks for the official scores to reach us.

• Will I be considered for the deadline if I send my GMAT/GRE scores later?

You will not be allowed to submit your application without a valid GMAT/GRE score. However, you can submit the application with your test center score report.

• Can the GMAT / GRE requirement be waived under exceptional circ*mstances?

No

• Is GMAT preferred more than the GRE?

No, ISB does not differentiate between GRE and GMAT scores and neither do we convert them.

• Does the Reapplicants needs to write the test again?

Unless they have taken the GMAT or GRE online or at home, which is not admissible starting with the April 2025 intake, there is no need to submit the test score to ISB again.

• Does ISB accept GMAT / GRE - Online or home-based tests score?

No. Starting with the April 2025 intake, ISB does not accept GMAT / GRE - Online or home-based test scores.

• Does ISB require a test to prove proficiency in English?

A TOEFL/IELTS score is required for non-Indian students who did not have English as the primary language of instruction during their undergraduate studies

• Where would we get more information about TOEFL?

Please visit the official  TOFEL websiteor write to toefl@ets.org

• What is IELTS?

IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. To know more about IELTS,please visit their official website

• Where do I get a copy of the application form?

ISB’s entire application process is available online and therefore,no printed copy of the form is available/accepted. You will need access to an internet-enabled computer to apply to the programme. You will also need to scan some documents to be uploaded and will need access to a scanner.

• Does the entire application need to be completed within one session?

No, youcan complete the online application in multiple sessions and have the option to save parts of the application as you proceed.

• Which deadline is better to apply - Round 1 or Round 2 or Round 3?

We encourage everyone to apply early as it helps candidates to plan work & relocation arrangements. However, applying in either cycle doesn't have any material impact on your chances of selection.

• Do I also need to submit a printed copy of the application form once I have submitted it online?

No 

• How do I send in my academic transcripts/mark sheets, other documents, and photographs required as part of the application?

You may scan and upload the documents (photograph, passport, etc.) in the PDF format as part of the application.

• How will the evaluators submit their recommendation forms? 

Evaluatorscan submit the evaluation/recommendation in the online mode. 
Online evaluation requires you to update the evaluator’s current official email ID in your online application form. However,if your evaluator does not have an official emailID,the personal emailIDwill be accepted. We will forward a questionnaire to your evaluator as a web link, which he/she would have to fill and submit online. Re-applicants also need to fill in the evaluator details afresh.

• How will ISB verify my transcripts/documents?

At the time of joining the programme,you will be required to present all original documents for verification against the provided photocopies/scans. Additionally, we conduct background verification through an external vendor after the applicant accepts the offer.

• Can I reapply?

Yes, youcan reapply. Please note that you cannot reapply within the same academic year. You have to submit a fresh online application along with the application fee and essaysnext year. 

• Do you acknowledge receipt of the application by mail?

We convey the status of your application online. Do remember to check your application status.

• How do I submit a resume as a part of the application?

There is no need for submitting a separate resume.  The online application module will generate a resume in the required format with the details you have filled as part of the application.  It includes your academic details, employment details (along with responsibilities/achievements) and awards & activities.

• Do you have a GD/Personal Interview as part of the admission criteria?

As a part of theadmissionsprocess, all shortlisted candidates will be interviewed. There is no group discussion.

• How many applicants are called for interview in each cycle and how many selected?

There is no fixed percentage of students being called by ISB either for interviews or for admission.

• What will be the mode of my interview if I am overseas at the time of the interview?

You will be interviewed over telephone & Skype call. You have to call the telephone number given in the interview mail sent to you and connect to theSkype IDgiven.

• Are there different fee structures for Indian and International students?

No, the fee structure is the same for all students.

• How do I accept the offer of admission?

You may accept the offer made by remittingpartially refundable admission fee(as per the refund policy) of INR 300,000/-plus taxes within the deadline specified in the offeremail.If the amount has not been paid within the deadline, it will be assumed that you are not interested in joining the programme and the offer will be withdrawn.

• Is the admission fee separate from the overall academic fee?

No, the admission fee is part of the academic fee. On accepting theadmission offer, the admit is initially required to pay partially refundable(as per the refund policy) sum of Rs. 300,000/- plus taxes asadmission fee. Please note that the admission fee ispartially refundable(as per the refund policy)

• I have paid the admission fee but due to unavoidable circ*mstances, I will not be able to join the programme. Will the admission fee be refunded to me?

No,theadmission feeis partially refundable as per the refund policy.

• How much time do I have to accept or decline an admission offer?

ISB should receive your acceptance decision within 10 days from the date of the admission offer. Candidates who have been made an offer after being put on the waitlist, need to pay the admission fee by the date mentioned in the offer letter.

• How can I pay the application fee?

You may remit the application fee using any Master/Visa/credit card or through net banking.

• Can the admission offer acceptance date be extended?

No, theacceptance dates are fixed by the Admissions Committee. If the acceptance amount is not received by the due date,it will be assumed that the applicant is not interested in the programme and the offer made to the applicant will automatically standwithdrawn.

• I fulfill the eligibility criteria but cannot afford the full tuition fee. Can ISB help?

Financial Aid is provided to students in the form of tuition waivers, scholarships, and loans. 

Tuition Waivers & Scholarships: ISB awards both merit and need-based tuition waivers to qualifying applicants ranging from INR 3,00,000 to full tuition. Details of these waivers will be indicated in the admission offer where applicable. The details of the waivers/ scholarships are available on our website. Please visit the link for scholarship details.

Loans: Student loans are available through a few leading financial institutions.Please check the website for details

• What is the difference between tuition waivers and scholarships?

Tuition waivers are discounts on the tuition fee granted by ISB and communicated in the admission offer while scholarships are generally granted by other organisations and dependent on your performance in the programme.

• Does ISB offer financial aid to international students?
  

Yes, ISB offers financial aid to qualifying international students through tuition waivers 

• What kinds of profiles usually get selected for scholarships?
  

The selection criteria usuallydependon the organisation granting the scholarship. The qualifying process is highly competitive,and the selection criteriavaryfrom year to year.

• How can an applicant apply for a tuition waiver?

While there is no application needed for applying for a merit waiver, the applicantmustwrite the essay given in the application form and submit proof of income as detailed in the application.

• When can one apply for an educational loan?

Once the admission process has been completed, all admitted students will be informed of the loan application deadlines through a separateemail.

• Can I get a sponsorship from the company where I am working?

Yes, applicantsare encouraged to get themselves sponsored by their employers.

• Are there any other criteria to be fulfilled by the applicant for getting sponsorship from their employer?

No, there are no separate admission criteria for such candidates and the regular admission procedure will apply.

• Is there a different fee structure for sponsored students?
  

No, thefee structure and the selection criteria are universally applicable.

• How many students normally go on Exchange Programmes?

The number varies from year to year. ISB has established partnerships with over 50 esteemed schools across several countries including the U.S., France, South Africa, Israel, Germany, China, Pakistan, South Korea, Singapore, U.K., Canada, Italy, Australia, Spain, Switzerland, Chile, Netherlands, Taiwan, Poland, Thailand, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and more. This international collaboration brings students from various global schools to the ISB campus, enhancing diversity and fostering a rich peer-learning experience.

For further information, visit:

https://www.isb.edu/en/study-isb/post-graduate-programmes/pgp-management/learning-model/international-exchange-programme.html

• When do students go on Exchange Programmes?

Students go on an exchange programme depending upon the mutual schedules of ISB and the concerned exchanged partner school.The duration of this programme typically spans one to two ISB elective terms, primarily terms 7 and 8, although there are instances where students participate in terms 5 and 6.

• What are the selection criteria for the Exchange Programmes?

The students are allotted bidding points which they use to bid for their preferred exchange programme.

• How does the bidding process work?
  

Each student is allocated an equal number of bidding points. During each term, students are required to allocate their points to specific courses, with the highest bidder securing enrollment in each course. Typically, the majority of students are able to secure most of the courses they bid for.

• How do people manage possible time-clashes between the placement season and the Exchange Programme?

Most students return during placement week to participate, while others manage their placements from overseas.

• Will all admitted students be allowed to participate in the exchange programmes?

Yes, formore details, please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/international-exchange and http://www.isb.edu/pgp/learning-model/inter-campus-exchange

• Is there a summer internship at ISB? If yes, how does it work?

As ISB's PGP is a one-year programme, a summer internship is not possible. However, ISB offers the Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) to benefit students interested in doing projects while on campus. For more on ELP,please visit http://www.isb.edu/for-organisations/recruit/student-projects/experiential-learning-programme

• When do the Placements start?

Placementsusuallystart in the second week of November/December every year. While a few international companies start coming in from October onwards,theplacementscontinue till end of March.

• Does ISB guarantee placements? What are the placements for graduates of ISB PGP likely to be?

No,ISB does not guarantee placements but every effort is made by the Career Advancement Services (CAS) Office to help students find and secure their ideal career opportunities. It's important to note that placements depend on market demand and supply dynamics, and the CAS supports students in managing their career expectations realistically.

• How was the placement scenario this year? Which are the companies that recruited this year? What was the average salary offered?

The details are on the website under the Placement highlights section.You can alsodownloadthePlacementReport for this year from thewebsite

• Does ISB’s PGP enable career shifts across function & industry?

Yes, our PGP programme enables career shifts across function & industry.

1) As a first step,a studentmustbe clear on what they seek. This comes from personal preferences, aspirations, research etc.

2) When you join our PGP, our Career Advancement Services (CAS) gives you the necessary inputs through workshops, psychometric analysis and one-on-one discussions for furthering your career aspirations. You will work with our L&D (Learning & Development) team so you are able to make informed decisionsandprepare for the career you would like to embark upon.

3) The case-study classroom and peer group interactions are also designed so that you can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make the career transition you desire.

4)It is imperative for students to take ownership of developing the necessary skill set when employers visit the campus for recruitment. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the students to effectively demonstrate to the employer that they are the ideal candidates for the roles they are seeking.

• What is the role of visiting faculty at ISB?

ISB invites faculty members to teach courses during a term, and they remain available on campus throughout the term. Distinguished faculty from esteemed institutions such as Wharton, Kellogg, London Business School, Stanford, Chicago, Duke, Texas, and others have taught at ISB.For more details, please visit http://www.isb.edu/faculty-research/faculty/directory

• How accessible are the faculty to the students?

Faculty members are easily accessible to the students, as they stay on campus throughout the term.

• Does AICTE/UGC recognise ISB’s Post Graduation Programme in Management?

ISB neither offers a diploma nor a degree. It is a certificate programme for students with experience. Therefore, we have not sought recognition for our Post Graduate Programme in Management from either the AICTE or the UGC.  However, ISB's PGP is accredited by the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (EFMD Quality Improvement System).

• Are all students required to live on campus?

Given the rigour of the course and ISB’s aim to build a small but highly interactive campus community, it is a fully residential programme for all students.

• Does ISB provide accommodation for married students?

We offer fully serviced studioapartmentswith a preferential allotment to married students. However, your preferred type of accommodation cannot always be guaranteed, though every reasonable effort is made to address your specific requirements.

• What all is provided in the accommodation?

Accommodation information can be foundat http://www.isb.edu/pgp/campuses

• What is the procedure to visit the campus?

We encourage prospective applicants to visit the campus at Mohali/Hyderabad and have a look at our facilities. Campus tours are organised on Fridays from 2 pm to 4 pm.         
Kindly schedule a confirmed appointment for a mutually convenient slot byemailingyour request with a copy of your updated Curriculum Vitae/Resume to Team Admissions at pgp@isb.edu preferably a week in advance.

• What are the facilities provided on campus?

ISB offers an extensive range of facilities to cater to the needs of its students and staff. Here is an improved version of the facilities:

• Canteen serviced by Sarovar in Hyderabad and Mohali Campus.
• ICICI Bank in Hyderabad and Indian Bank in Mohali Campus.
• ICICI and SBI ATMs in Hyderabad and Indian Bank ATM in Mohali Campus.
• A full-fledged Post Office at Hyderabad Campus.
• Daily Needs Store - Sampoorna in Hyderabad and MORE in Mohali Campus.
• Infirmary – Branch of Care in Hyderabad and Max Wellness Centre in Mohali Campus.
• Recreation Centre – Equipped with Squash, Swimming pool, Basketball ground, Tennis, Table Tennis, Gymnasium, Toddler’s room etc.
• House Keeping.
• Washing machines in addition to laundry service
• Please note that these facilities are subject to change and it's always best to check with the institution for the most up-to-date information.
  Please check the website for further information: 

http://www.isb.edu/about-isb/campuses

• Do you have any quotas for NRIs/SC/ST/BC?

No, ISB doesn't give any reservations or quotas. However, we encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

• Will Indian and foreign applicants be evaluated on the same basis?

Yes.

• Do you have a deferral policy in ISB?

Yes, we have a deferral policy in place. However, it is approved only in extenuating situations on a case by case basis.

• I have been offered admission into PGP. However, I would like to defer my admission to the following year. How can I do that?

You may send in a request along with reasons (including supporting documents) by email and it will be referred to the Admissions Committee. A decision will be taken on a case by case basis and communicated to the applicant.

• Is there an additional fee applicable, if I wish to defer my admission?
  

An additional interest-free deposit of INR 250,000/-needsto be remitted within 10 days from the dateofdeferralbeingcommunicated.

• Can the deferred admission be deferred for a further year?

No, further deferral will not be possible.

• What would be the tuition applicable to me if I wish to defer my admission?

Tuition fee payable is applicableasperthe class you will be enrolling for.

• Will the admission fee/additional deposit be refundable, if I fail to join the programme, even after getting my admission deferred?

The initial admission fee of INR 250,000 is non-refundable under any circ*mstances. However, the additional deposit is refundable.

• Will part-time work experience be considered?

Work experience should be full-time. Part-time work experience will not be considered.

• Is CA article-ship considered as work experience?

While the article-ship will add value to the exposure, it will not be considered as work experience for admission.

• Will Army service be considered as work experience?

Yes, your work experience will be viewed in the context of the responsibilities you have handled.

• I have worked in my family owned business for the past three years – will this experience be considered?

If this experience is full-time and if you can support this with relevant documents in your application, you can apply. The quality and relevance of your experience in your business will be critical. You will still have to furnish recommendations. Recommendations from your father, friends and family will not be accepted. You should furnish recommendation from people with whom you have a strictly professional interaction such as your clients, vendors etc.

• Do I need 16 years of formal education?
  

No, as long as you have been awarded a Bachelor'sDegree from a recognised university, you are eligible to apply.

• How important are extra-curricular activities in the application?

ISB would like to admit well-rounded students. Extra-curricular activities add that extra dimension to your personality. In the US,it is routine for people to do community service, which they can mention as an extra-curricular activity in their applications. But Indian conditions are different, so not having done such activities is understandable. However, you mayhave done things outside your academic pursuits that are worth a mention.Did you tutor a kid anytime, did you organise a festival in your apartment complex, did you volunteer your time in some campaign or raise funds for acause?If you haven't done anything at all, it's never too late to start. Don't do it just to get your B-school admission,but do what interests you. If you are in the IT area, think of something related to IT that you can do after office hours. How about persuading your company to donate their obsolete computers to charity? The possibilities are endless.

• Will I need to buy textbooks?

Although most study material is included in the course packs, you will need to buy textbooks for various coursesperiodically.The expenditure on textbooks for the programme is estimated at INR 15,000 - INR 20,000.

• Are there any schools for children in the vicinity of ISB?

Yes,thereareseveralschools around ISB. More information is available upon request.

• Having done an MBA, am I eligible for ISB's programme?

There is no restriction in applying to ourprogramme,but you should demonstrate very good reasons in your application for wanting to do the PGP from ISB.

• I hold a Master Mariner’s competency certificate. Will I be eligible for applying to ISB?

Yes, you will be. However, you will need to obtain a certificate from World Education Services (http://www.wes.org) to the effect that your certificate course is equivalent to a degree.

• I have completed a three-year diploma course but do not have an undergraduate degree. Am I eligible for the ISB Programme?

The eligibility criterion at ISB requires all students to have an undergraduate degree. If your diplomaisequivalent to a degree by the appropriate authorities,it will be acceptable,otherwise not.

• I have a CABM certification in addition to an Undergrad degree.  Is this going to be an added advantage in my application to ISB?

We recognise the CABM Credential as an additional qualification and could help with the shortlist for the interview.

• Who should be your evaluator/ Recommender?

Ideally, your evaluator should be someone who has closely observed your work in the recent past, gaining valuable insights into your abilities, areas of improvement, and overall performance. It is important that your evaluator is well-acquainted with your skills and potential for growth.

• When can an applicant submit the recommender details?

To ensure a thorough evaluation, it is advisable to provide your recommender with sufficient time. Therefore, it is recommended to submit your request as early as possible.

• How to get a LOR / Recommendation?

You will be required to provide their name, phone number, and official email address, following which an evaluation link will be sent to them.

• How many recommendations ISB needs?

We only need one LOR.

• Is there any template that ISB prescribes?

No template is necessary, and there is no need to email a PDF or send a physical copy. The entire process is conducted online, and your recommender will receive the email.

• Is the change of recommender possible?

Email the details topgp@isb.edu.The tech team will do the needful from the backend.

• Is being a re-applicant a deterrent?

ISB does not distinguish between fresh applicants and re-applicants when considering applications. If you fall into the category of re-applicants, it is important to emphasise your accomplishments since your previous application. Moreover, all reapplicants are eligible for a 50% waiver on the application fee.

• Does the Reapplicants needs to write the test again?

Unless they have taken the GMAT or GRE online or at home, which is not admissible starting with the April 2025 intake, there is no need to submit the test score to ISB again.

• What are the minimum and maximum scholarships available in various admission rounds?

Tuition fee waivers will be provided to deserving candidates regardless of the application round, with a minimum of 25% and a maximum of up to 100% being offered.

• What is the eligibility for merit-based scholarships?

By default, all applicants to ISB are automatically considered for the merit-based scholarship. The scholarship selection process includes an evaluation of the overall application, which considers factors such as the GMAT/GRE scores, academic background, quality of work experience and performance in the interview.

• What kinds of profiles usually get selected for scholarships?

The selection criteria for scholarships generally depend on the organisation providing the scholarship. The qualification process is highly competitive, with the specific selection criteria varying from year to year.

• What is the eligibility for the need-based scholarships?

The total annual family income should not exceed Rs 18 lakhs. This income encompasses the earnings or pensions of yourself, your father, your mother, and your spouse (if applicable). Documentation supporting the income must be provided.

• How to apply need to need-based scholarships?

In the scholarship section of the application portal, you must select the appropriate scholarships that allow applicants to submit a separate essay specifically for the need-based scholarship they are applying for.

• What are all the documents ISB accepts as proof of income?

1) Working Professionals: Last month's salary slip.

2) If you wish to submit the variable/bonus component of CTC, merge the salary slip with an offer letter.

3) Entrepreneurs: Last 3 months’ bank statement, latest ITR filed.

4) Retired Parents: No proof of Income is required. Upload the retirement letter or self-declaration.

• How to apply for scholarships that are not listed on the application portal?

All applicants to ISB are automatically eligible for consideration for additional scholarships that are not specifically mentioned on the website. The evaluation process for these scholarships takes into account various factors such as GMAT/GRE scores, academic achievements, quality of work experience, and interview performance.

• Does merit-based scholarship based on Academic scores?

No, there are parameters based on which scholarships are awarded which include your Academics, Work exp, your Test score, LOR & Essays.