Top 10 MBA Colleges in India: A Comprehensive Guide

India is home to some of the world’s most prestigious MBA colleges, offering a diverse range of programmes that cater to the needs of students and working professionals alike. 

Pursuing an MBA is a significant step toward advancing your career, whether you are looking to climb the corporate ladder or start your own business.With the myriad options available, selecting the right institution can be daunting. 

In this article, we will discuss the top 10 MBA colleges in India, fees, NIRF rankings, entrance exams, and much more. This guide provides clear and detailed information to help you make an informed decision.

Top 10 MBA Colleges in India

Let’s begin with India’s top 10 MBA colleges, renowned for their rigorous academic programme, excellent faculty, and outstanding placement opportunities.

Top Traditional MBA Colleges in India

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA)
  1. NIRF Ranking: 1
  2. Fees: ₹23,00,000
  3. Entrance Exam: CAT
The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) is India’s premier MBA college. Known for its innovative curriculum and distinguished faculty, IIMA has consistently ranked as the top business school in the country.  The institute offers a two-year full-time Postgraduate programme(PGP) in Management, which is highly sought after by students aspiring to leadership roles in the corporate world. Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB)
  1. NIRF Ranking: 2
  2. Fees: ₹23,00,000
  3. Entrance Exam: CAT
Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) is another top-notch MBA college in India, recognised for its exceptional teaching standards and state-of-the-art facilities.  The institute’s two-year PGP in Management focuses on building strong analytical and managerial skills. IIMB also offers various executive education programmes, making it a preferred choice for working professionals. Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC)
  1. NIRF Ranking: 3
  2. Fees: ₹23,00,000
  3. Entrance Exam: CAT
Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) is a pioneer in management education in India. Established as the first IIM, it offers a comprehensive PGP programme  emphasising analytical skills, leadership qualities, and a global perspective.  The campus is well-known for its vibrant student life and diverse cultural events, adding a unique dimension to the MBA experience. Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad
  1. NIRF Ranking: 6
  2. Fees: ₹39,63,000
  3. Entrance Exam: GMAT, GRE
The Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad offers a globally recognised one-year Postgraduate programme in Management. Unlike the two-year programme at other institutes, ISB’s programme is designed for professionals with work experience and focuses on practical and strategic aspects of management. The school is highly regarded for its strong corporate connections and excellent placement record. Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML)
  1. NIRF Ranking: 4
  2. Fees: ₹19,25,000
  3. Entrance Exam: CAT
Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML) offers a two-year PGP in Management. The institute is known for its rigorous curriculum and outstanding faculty. Its sprawling campus provides a conducive environment for learning and research. IIML also offers various specialised programmes, including Agribusiness Management and Sustainable Management.

Comparison Table of Top MBA Colleges in India

 
Given below is the table of top MBA colleges in India:
College Name NIRF Ranking Fees (INR) Entrance Exam
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) 1 23,00,000 CAT
Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) 2 23,00,000 CAT
Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) 3 23,00,000 CAT
Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad 6 39,63,000 GMAT, GRE
Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML) 4 19,25,000 CAT
Note – Fees can be changed as subject to time.

Top Online MBA Colleges in India

As the demand for flexible learning options grows, many prestigious institutions offer online MBA programmes. These programmes are ideal for working professionals and individuals who need more time to commit to a full-time course. 

Here are the top online MBA colleges in India.

1. Amity University Online

Course Fees: ₹1,95,000

Amity University Online offers well-structured online MBA programmes that combine theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 

The curriculum covers various specialisations, including Finance, Marketing, and International Business. The programme is designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments.

2. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL)

Course Fees: ₹65,000

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) is a leader in distance education. Its online MBA programme, the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PGDBA), is well-regarded for its comprehensive curriculum and flexibility. SCDL specialises in various fields, including HR, Finance, and Marketing.

3. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Course Fees: ₹2,80,000

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) offers an online MBA programme to provide a strong foundation in management principles. 

The programme includes interactive online sessions, case studies, and real-world projects, making it highly engaging and practical.

4. DPU Centre for Online Learning

Course Fees: ₹1,69,200

DPU Centre for Online Learning offers a comprehensive online MBA programme to provide a strong business and management principles foundation. The programme includes various specialisations, such as Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, and International Business. It features interactive online sessions, recorded lectures, and access to a rich digital library.

The curriculum is crafted to combine theoretical knowledge with practical insights, ensuring that students gain the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive business environment. With flexible scheduling, the programme caters to both fresh graduates and working professionals looking to

5. Lovely Professional University (LPU) Online

Course Fees: ₹1,62,800

Lovely Professional University (LPU) Online provides a comprehensive online MBA programme that focuses on the practical application of management theories. The programme offers a range of specialisations and includes interactive learning modules, making it a popular choice among students seeking flexible education options.

Comparison Table of Top 10 MBA Colleges in India (Online)

 

Given below in the table are the top online MBA colleges:

B -Schools

Course Fee ( INR)

Amity University Online

1,95,000

DPU Centre of Online Learning

1,69,200

Manipal Academy of Higher Education

2,80,000

Manipal University Jaipur

1,75,000

Jain University Online

1,60,000 – ₹2,60,000

Lovely Professional University Online

1,62,800

Symbiosis School For Online & Digital Learning

3,00,000

University of Uttaranchal

1,60,000

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL)

65,000

GLA University

1,00,000

 

Note: Fees can be changed as subject to time. For confirmation about the fee and more details, you can get free career counseling from expert advisors of Hike Education.

Entrance Exams for MBA in India

To gain admission in top 10 MBA colleges in India, candidates must typically clear specific entrance exams. Here are some of the most common exams:

  1.   CAT (Common Admission Test): Required for IIMs and other top institutes.
  2.   GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): Often used by international and some Indian institutes like ISB.
  3.   XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test): Required for XLRI and other Xavier institutes.
  4.   MAT (Management Aptitude Test): Accepted by a wide range of colleges.
  5.   CMAT (Common Management Admission Test): Another widely accepted entrance exam.

Highest Salary Offered by Top 10 MBA Colleges in India

Given below in the tables is the highest salary offered by top MBA colleges in India:
College Name Highest Salary Offered (INR per annum) Top Recruiters
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) 1.32 crore Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs
Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) 1.25 crore Microsoft, McKinsey & Company
Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) 1.54 crore The Boston Consulting Group, Tata Administrative Services
Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad 1.05 crore Google, Bain & Company
Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML) 65.00 lakh Accenture, Deloitte
These recruiters are among the top companies that frequently participate in campus placements, offering MBA graduates lucrative packages and prestigious roles.

Why Choose an Online MBA?

Choosing an online MBA offers several advantages, especially for working professionals. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Flexibility: Online MBA programmes allow you to learn at your own pace and schedule, making it easier to balance work, studies, and personal life.
  2. Cost-Effective: Online programmes are generally more affordable than full-time programmes, saving on tuition fees and other associated costs.
  3. Access to Quality Education: Many online MBA programmes offer the same education as their on-campus counterparts, with experienced faculty and comprehensive curricula.
  4. Networking Opportunities: Online MBA programmes often include interactive sessions, webinars, and networking events, allowing students to connect with peers and industry professionals.

Conclusion

Choosing the right MBA college in India is crucial to shaping your career trajectory. Whether you opt for a traditional or an online MBA, you must consider factors such as fees, ranking, curriculum, faculty, and placement opportunities.

The top 10 MBA colleges in India, including IIMA, IIMB, and ISB, offer world-class education and excellent career prospects.

Conversely, the top online MBA colleges, including Amity University Online and MAHE, provide flexibility and convenience, making them ideal for working professionals.

For personalised career guidance and assistance with admissions, consider exploring the services offered by Hike Education. Itt specialises in helping students and professionals choose the right online MBA programme that aligns with their career goals.

With expert counselors and a wealth of resources, Hike Education is your go-to partner for navigating the complexities of MBA admissions.

Top 10 MBA Colleges in India : FAQs

Q1. What entrance exams are required for admission to top MBA colleges in India?

Common entrance exams include CAT, GMAT, XAT, MAT, and CMAT.

    Get Free Counselling

    I agree to Hike Education's Terms and Conditions and provide consent to be
    contacted via WhatsApp, SMS, Mail, etc.

    Q2. Are online MBA degrees recognised in India?

    Yes, online MBA degrees from accredited universities/institutes are recognised and valued by employers.

    Q3. What are the typical fees for an MBA programme in India?

    MBA fees in India can range from ₹1.5 lakh for online programmes to ₹50 lakh for top traditional colleges.

    Q4. Can working professionals pursue an MBA?

    Many colleges offer flexible part-time and online MBA programmes tailored for working professionals.

    Q5. What is the duration of MBA programmes in India?

    Full-time MBA programmes usually last two years, while executive and online programmes may vary from one to two years.