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ISB is a preferable choice for applicants with up to 4 or 5 years of work experience who are considering a one-year MBA program. However, if the applicant has over 5 years of work experience, they may also be eligible for the IIM one-year MBA for executives, which offers a broader range of options. For individuals with approximately 8 years of work experience, the IIM Executive programs could be well-suited, considering the average work experience in the IIM one-year MBA class is around 8 to 8.5 years.
Furthermore, there are distinctions in class size, average age, curriculum, and program structure between ISB and IIM. These factors are essential for individual learners to consider when making a decision based on their personal preferences. In this blog, we delve into these aspects in detail.
ISB and IIM are highly ranked schools both in India and globally. However, they differ in various aspects such as average class profile, work experience, post-MBA industry opportunities, and the functional roles offered during placements at IIM versus ISB. While ISB generally holds a higher ranking, determining whether ISB Hyderabad is better than IIM requires an examination of the program offerings and structure. The choice between ISB and IIM for a specific profile depends on what the applicant seeks from the MBA program.
The differences between ISB vs IIM can be categorized into several criteria mentioned below:
1. Class Profile of IIMA PGPX Class of 2024 Vs ISB PGP Class of 2024
Attribute | IIMA PGPX - 2024 | ISB PGP - 2024 |
Class Size | 148 | 881 |
Avg. GMAT Score | 693 | 710 |
Avg. GRE Score | 323 | 325 |
Avg Work Ex | 7.7 years | 4.4 years |
Avg. Age | 30.75 years | 27 |
Other facts about ISB:
40% of them are women, which is a good representation and emphasizes the cohort's diversity.
In addition, 49% of the students had engineering backgrounds, demonstrating the cohort's excellent technological background.
With a combination of technical and business backgrounds, the class of 2024 at ISB PGP is a diversified and promising group overall. 2. Placements at IIM vs ISB over the past few years: When comparing salary packages, career growth, and opportunities at IIM and ISB, it is found that they are relatively similar. However, the outcome depends on factors such as the applicant's profile, sector of interest, educational background, and career goals.
As for the average package of IIMA PGPX in 2022, there was a notable increase in the median salary, reaching a 20% growth compared to previous placements.
The domestic average salary at IIMA PGPX also saw a 6% increase. Among the students of IIMA PGPX in 2022, approximately 35% were hired by consulting firms.
Moreover, the Executive MBA students at IIM Ahmedabad received five international offers in 2022. Additionally, the online services sector accounted for 20% of the Executive MBA hires from IIM Ahmedabad in the IIMA PGPX placements of 2022.
IIMA PGPX Placements trends till 2022:
Year | Recruitment in IT Sector in the last 5 years | Recruitment in Consulting Sector in the last 5 years At IIM Executive MBA | Highest Salary in IIMA PGPX Placements in the last 5 years (INR Annual) | Median Salary in IIMA PGPX Placements in the last 5 years (INR Annual) |
2018 | 38 | 6 | 54.6 L | 28.4 L |
2019 | 47 | 2 | 60 L | 30 L |
2020 | 42 | 13 | 81 L | 30 L |
2021 | 44 | 12 | 82 L | 30 L |
2022 | 17 | 41 | 75.2 L | 36.2 L |
How were the ISB placements 2022?
During the ISB placements in 2022, 41.21% of the placement offers were extended to female students. This percentage is among the highest among leading business schools in this region, showcasing ISB's commitment to gender diversity.
The class composition of ISB placements in 2022 consisted of 39% female students, further highlighting the school's dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
The majority of positions offered during the ISB placements in 2022 were in the Consulting industry, IT/ITES/Technology industry, BFSI industry, FMCG/Retail industry, and Pharma/Healthcare industry.
The average package for ISB in 2022 stood at INR 34.07 lakhs, representing a significant increase of 20.78% compared to the previous year's average CTC of INR 28.21 lakhs. This growth reflects the strong career outcomes for ISB graduates.
The class of 2022 at ISB achieved a remarkable three-fold increase in their post-ISB packages compared to their pre-ISB packages, underscoring the value and impact of the program on their career trajectories.
During the ISB placements in 2022, a total of 2066 offers were made, indicating a robust demand for ISB graduates. On average, each student received 2.32 offers, showcasing the multiple opportunities available to ISB students during the placement process.
ISB average package 2022 for different sectors is as below:
Advertisement/ Media sector : INR 32,72,727
BFSI in 2022 : INR 36,82,710
Conglomerate sector : INR 25,04,286
Consulting sector : INR 34,25,089
Technology sector : INR 38,01,875
Urban Mobility sector in 2022 : INR 37,18,519
Pharma/ Biotech sector : INR 31,34,575
IT/ ITES sector : INR 35,15,260
Manufacturing sector in 2022: INR 27,70,000
IT Consulting sector : INR 30,28,571
Education sector : INR 25,92,502
Infrastructure sector : INR 28,00,000
Oil/ Energy sector in 2022 : INR 34,00,000
Transportation/ Logistics sector : INR 36,40,000
Comparing placements for IIM vs ISB over the last few years we find:
IIMA PGPX placements for 2021 average: ~ INR 28 lacs
IIMB EPGP placements for 2020 averaged : INR 29.88 lacs
IIMC MBAEx placements for 2021 averaged : INR 28.75 lacs
ISB PGP average placements for 2021 average: INR 27,13,055
The average figures provided above demonstrate that the averages for IIM and ISB are relatively close in terms of various metrics. These numbers indicate that both institutions offer competitive opportunities and outcomes for their students. 3. Prominent Sectors in Placements at IIM vs ISB differ: Over the years, we have observed that both IIM and ISB, with their respective one-year MBA programs, have facilitated role changes and sector transitions for applicants. When examining the recruitment patterns at IIM and ISB, the following trends emerge:
At IIM's Executive MBA program, the IT sector has consistently been the largest sector pool for recruitment, followed by online services. Consulting and BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) are also significant sectors for placements. Other sectors, including energy, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), also contribute to the recruitment pool.
In terms of functions, the majority of placements at IIM's Executive MBA program are in marketing roles, followed by operations and general management positions.
At ISB, a substantial proportion of hiring occurs in the consulting sector. E-commerce, FMCG and retail, and finance/financial services are also prominent sectors for placements. These sectors offer a wide range of career opportunities for ISB graduates.
These recruitment patterns highlight the diverse opportunities available to students at both IIM and ISB, showcasing the versatility and relevance of their one-year MBA programs in facilitating career transitions across various sectors and functions.
4. Salary progression in Placements at IIM vs ISB also differs: The CTC enhancement at ISB for graduates across a range of work experience for the class of 2021 has been observed as below:
For graduates with a work experience of 2 years to 3 years the hike in CTC post an ISB MBA has been recorded at close to 275%.
Graduates with an experience in the range of 5 to 6 years achieved an enhancement of approximately 145% in their CTC post the ISB MBA.
This evaluation of IIM vs ISB might be important for some applicants who are quite sector and role focused in their MBA investment decision. 5. Batch size at IIM vs ISB differs giving a very different learning experience to students: The IIM Executive MBA programs have varying batch sizes, and each student may have different preferences when it comes to the size of the cohort they prefer.
IIMA PGPX typically enrolls a batch size of 140 students (148 in 2023), providing a moderate-sized cohort for an enriching learning experience.
IIMB EPGP maintains a batch size of around 75 students (75 in 2023), offering a more intimate learning environment with a smaller cohort.
IIMC MBAeX enrolls a batch size of approximately 80 students (78 in 2023), creating a close-knit community conducive to interactive learning.
On the other hand, ISB PGP has a larger batch size, enrolling close to 900 students (843 in 2023), which fosters a diverse and extensive network of peers.
When considering IIM vs ISB, it is crucial for the applicant to evaluate their preferred learning style and environment. Some individuals thrive in smaller, tight-knit groups, while others prefer a larger network with diverse perspectives.
Understanding one's own learning preferences can guide the decision-making process between IIM and ISB.
Attribute | ISB | IIMA PGPX | IIMB EPGP | IIMC MBAEX | IIML IMPX | IIMI EPGP |
Seats | 900 | 140 | 75 | 78 | 101 | 57 |
Avg Work EX | 4.6 | 7.3 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 8.3 | 9.1 |
FT Rank 2023 | 39 | 51 | 52 | 76 | 90 | 89 |
Avg. GMAT | 720 | 710 | 697 | 693 | | 650 |
6. The range of work experience within the class varies between ISB and the different IIM Executive MBA programs, which contributes to a distinct classroom experience:
At ISB, the work experience range in the class spans from 2 years to 20 years. This wide range of experience levels brings together individuals with diverse professional backgrounds and insights.
For IIMA PGPX, the work experience range typically falls between 4 years and 19.5 years. This range encompasses professionals with substantial experience across various industries and sectors.
IIMB EPGP usually enrolls students with work experience ranging from 5 years to 13 years. This narrower range still captures professionals with a considerable amount of experience in their respective fields.
IIMC MBAEX class includes individuals with work experience ranging from 5 years to 17 years. This range covers professionals who have gained substantial expertise and insights through their years of work.
The differing work experience ranges in the classes at ISB and the various IIM Executive MBA programs contribute to distinct classroom dynamics and discussions. The diverse perspectives and experiences of the participants enrich the learning environment and enable collaborative learning from peers with varied professional backgrounds.
7. The average work experience of the class is indeed another factor that contributes to the distinct cohort composition at IIM and ISB:
At ISB, the average work experience of the class typically ranges from around 4 to 6 years. This average work experience level reflects a mix of early-career professionals seeking to enhance their skills and mid-career individuals looking to accelerate their career growth.
In the case of IIM Executive MBA programs, the average work experience varies. For example:
IIMA PGPX: The average work experience of the class is typically around 8 to 10 years. This indicates a cohort of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of industry knowledge and managerial expertise to the program.
IIMB EPGP: The average work experience of the class is usually around 7 to 9 years. This suggests a cohort of professionals with significant work experience, contributing to rich peer-to-peer learning and discussions.
IIMC MBAEX: The average work experience of the class is generally around 8 to 10 years. This signifies a cohort of seasoned professionals who have acquired substantial industry insights and leadership experience.
The variation in average work experience between IIM and ISB reflects the different stages of professional development and career trajectories of the participants. This diversity in work experience levels enhances the learning environment by facilitating knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among individuals with different perspectives and experiences.
8. Rankings of the IIM Executive MBA and ISB:
IIM vs ISB QS Leap Global MBA Rankings Asia 2023:
ISB ranks in QS Leap Global MBA Rankings Asia 2023 - 15
IIMA ranks in QS Leap Global MBA Rankings Asia 2023 - 8
IIMB ranks in QS Leap Global MBA Rankings Asia 2023 - 10
IIMC ranks in QS Leap Global MBA Rankings Asia 2023 - 13
IIM vs ISB as per the FT Business School Rankings 2023: ISB FT MBA ranking 2023 - 39 IIMA FT MBA ranking 2023 - 51 IIMB FT MBA ranking 2023 - 52 IIMC FT MBA ranking 2023 - 76 IIMI FT MBA ranking 2023 - 89 IIML FT MBA ranking 2023 - 90 While considering the FT Global MBA rankings for 2023, it is worth noting that ISB has achieved a higher ranking than IIM. However, it is important to recognize that the preference between IIM and ISB can vary for each individual. 9. According to the FT rankings for Business Schools 2023, there is a notable difference in the percentage of international faculty between ISB and IIM:
ISB scores: 14 percent while it was 13 percent in 2022,
IIMB scores: 6 percent while was 8 percent in 2022,
IIMA scores: 3 percent which was 2 percent in 2022
IIMC scores nil which was 3 percent in 2022.
IIML scores 1 percent in 2023.
10. International rankings of IIM vs. ISB:
The FT MBA ranking 2023 positions 6 Indian schools as leading institutions of education. In all we observe that the MBA programs in India rank the third in terms of a country represented in the ranking.
1. Number of MBA programs in US in the FT MBA ranking 2023 - 46
2. Number of MBA programs in UK in the FT MBA ranking 2023 - 10
3. Number of MBA programs in India in the FT MBA ranking 2023 - 6
The Indian MBA programs that rank in the FT MBA ranking 2023 are:
ISB MBA: FT Rank 2023 is 39
IIM Ahmedabad: FT Rank 2023 is 51
IIM Bangalore: FT Rank 2023 is 52
IIM Calcutta: FT Rank 2023 is 76
IIM Indore: FT Rank 2023 is 89
IIM Lucknow FT Rank 2023 is 90
11. Eligibility for the IIM vs ISB program: ISB MBA programs and Executive MBA programs from IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta are well-suited for experienced professionals. When comparing the minimum eligibility criteria in terms of years of work experience for ISB and IIM Executive MBA programs, the following can be observed:
ISB MBA Eligibility: Minimum of 24 months of work experience.
Executive MBA at IIM Ahmedabad: Minimum 4 years of work experience
Executive MBA at IIM Bangalore: Minimum 5 years of work experience
Executive MBA at IIM Calcutta: Minimum 5 years of work experience
12. Score requirements for the IIM Executive MBA vs the ISB:
If we compare the score requirements for the IIM vs ISB there is a slight difference among the individual schools as below:
ISB: Accepts the GMAT score or the GRE score
IIMA PGPX : accepts the GMAT score or the GRE score
IIMB EPGP : accepts the GMAT score of the GRE score
IIMC MBAEX : accepts only the GMAT score
Average GMAT scores for the Class of 2022 for IIM vs ISB
ISB : 710, GMAT score range 600 to 780
IIMA PGPX : 701
IIMB EPGP: 690, maximum 770
IIMC MBAEX: 685 , maximum 750
Average GRE score for the Class of 2022 for IIM vs ISB
ISB : 328, GRE score range 311 to 335
IIMA PGPX : 323
IIMB EPGP : Not declared
IIMC MBAEX : Not applicable
13. Course components at IIM Executive MBA and ISB PGP: Both the Executive MBA program from IIM and the PGP program at ISB have a curriculum that combines core and elective courses.
These programs prioritize providing students with a comprehensive learning experience that includes international exposure, group work, team projects, esteemed faculty, and leadership training.
By incorporating these elements into the curriculum, both IIM and ISB aim to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve their future career goals. 14. Flagship program status at IIM Executive MBA and ISB PGP: The ISB PGP stands as the primary program at ISB, while the flagship program at IIM is the two-year MBA. 15. Admission process of the school: Upon comparing the admission processes of IIM and ISB, we observe that there are similarities in the basic requirements. Both schools require a GMAT score and essays or SOPs as part of the application. However, there are some differences in the specific requirements. ISB asks for one recommendation, while IIM requests two.
The interview process also varies between the two schools. IIM A initiates the interview with an extempore discussion, while IIM B and IIM C have their own distinct interview sequences. The ISB interview emphasizes the applicant's work experience and their suitability for the program. In both IIM and ISB, the evaluation considers the depth of past work experience, the rationale for pursuing an MBA, and the applicant's post-MBA aspirations.
Comparing IIM vs ISB according to the admission process:
| ISB | IIMA PGPX | IIMB EPGP | IIMC MBA EX | IIML IMPX | IIMI EPGP |
Minimum Work EX | 2 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Tests | GMAT or GRE | GMAT or GRE | GMAT or GRE | GMAT Only | GMAT or GRE | GMAT Only |
Rounds | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 1 |
Essays | 2 + 1 optional | Only after shortlisting of form - 2 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
LOR | 1 | NA | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Interviews | 1 | 1 + extempore | 1 + Written ability round | 1 | 1 + Written ability round | 1 |
Resume | NA | Yes | NA | NA | NA | NA |
16. The selection interview process:
The interview process varies between IIM and ISB, mainly in terms of the interaction format employed. Each institute has its unique approach. For instance, IIM A initiates the interview with an extempore discussion, while IIM B and IIM C differ in the sequence of events during the interview. On the other hand, the ISB interview focuses primarily on the applicant's work experience, examining their fit and readiness for the ISB PGP program.
Both IIM and ISB assess the depth of the candidate's past work experience, their rationale for pursuing an MBA, and their ability to articulate clear growth plans aligned with their post-MBA goals.
17.Assessing the ROI of the IIM Executive MBA or the ISB program:
It is important to note that the true ROI of an Ivy League program cannot be accurately measured within the first year, as comparing placements alone provides a limited perspective on the value these programs offer.
The actual return on investment, as most MBA graduates from these institutions would concur, becomes evident after 2-3 years post-MBA. During this time, individuals delve into the mystique of the institution they have graduated from and begin to reap the benefits.
In light of this long-term perspective, debating whether ISB Hyderabad is superior to IIM becomes less relevant. Instead, it is more prudent to focus on thorough preparation, articulating your goals, and devising a clear path towards achieving them. 18. Degree status of IIM vs ISB MBA The IIM Executive MBA programs have been approved by the AICTE and confer degrees, while ISB, not being a university, does not grant degrees to its graduates.
Ultimately, it is evident that both the IIM Executive MBA and the ISB PGP programs have gained industry recognition in India and abroad, thanks to the achievements of their alumni.
Considering the criteria discussed above, choosing between IIM and ISB undoubtedly offers significant rewards for future career growth. 19. Fees of IIM vs ISB 2023: ISB Fees: INR 41.5 Lacs to INR 44 Lacs (depending on type of accommodation & payment plans) IIMA PGPX One year MBA for Executives Fees: INR 31.5 Lacs to 33.5 Lacs (depending on type of accommodation & payment plans) IIMB EPGP One year MBA for Executives Fees: INR 30 Lacs to 32 Lacs (depending on type of accommodation & payment plans) 20. Scholarships at IIM vs ISB:
ISB provides a diverse selection of scholarships compared to the one-year MBA programs at IIMs.
21. Alumni for IIM vs ISB:
The alumni network at ISB currently exceeds 14,500 members, whereas the alumni network for the one-year MBA programs at IIMs is relatively smaller compared to the alumni network for their two-year PGP programs.
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