The list of non-IIM MBA colleges to apply before and after CAT 2024 includes DMS, SJMSOM, MDI Gurgaon, and IIFT Delhi. While IIMs are esteemed for their management education, many non-IIM MBA colleges also offer quality education and excellent placements. With the release of the CAT results 2024, participating B-schools will begin their selection processes. However, some colleges accept applications before the exam, while others do so after the exam concludes or once the results are declared. If you are targeting non-IIM MBA colleges in India through CAT 2024 exam, you must apply separately by completing their application forms. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most popular MBA entrance exams in India, with scores accepted by 21 IIMs and over 1,300 other MBA colleges. Here is a look at the top 10 non-IIM MBA colleges to consider applying to before and after the CAT 2024 exam.

Also Read:

Application Dates & Links for Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges in India

Many B-schools in India allow candidates to apply before the CAT exam to get admission into their MBA/PGDM courses, while some require students to apply after the exam when the CAT result is declared. In the following table, we have provided a list of non-IIM MBA colleges to apply to before and after the CAT exam, along with their application dates and direct links to apply.

Also Read:

Courses Offered & Fees at Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges in India:

Take a look at the courses offered and fee structure of the top non-IIM MBA colleges in India provided in the table below.

Expected CAT Cut Off 2024 a Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges

Listed below are the expected CAT cutoff 2024 of some of the top MBA colleges other than the IIMs offering MBA/PGDM courses. 

Also Read: What is a Good Percentile in CAT 2024?

Is Pursuing MBA from Non-IIM Colleges a Good Choice?

Deciding whether to pursue an MBA from a non-IIM college fundamentally depends on your career goals, financial considerations, and the specific offerings of a school. While IIMs are prestigious and boast a strong alumni network, numerous non-IIM institutions also provide quality education, excellent faculty, and significant opportunities for personal and professional growth. These colleges might offer niches or specialities not available at IIMs that align more closely with your career aspirations. Furthermore, they may present a more financially viable option with a lower tuition fee without substantially compromising on the prospects of landing a good job. Additionally, getting into IIMs is highly competitive, and not everyone can secure a spot. In such cases, selecting a top-tier non-IIM college could be a strategic move. Ultimately, the choice should be based on thorough research, including faculty credentials, placement records, campus culture, and how well the program fits one's career trajectory.

Also Read: IIM Placements 2024

MBA Selection Process Through CAT

While CAT scores are crucial in the MBA admissions process, they are not the only factor considered when selecting candidates for MBA programs. You must demonstrate proficiency in various areas. Here is an overview of the MBA selection procedure for those applying through CAT:

• Register for the CAT Exam: The first step is registering for the CAT exam. You should visit the official website to review the eligibility requirements before submitting your application. If you meet the criteria and complete the registration process, you can take the exam and use your scores to apply for MBA programs.
• Appear for CAT: The CAT exam is conducted annually for applicants seeking admission to management programs at top B-schools in India that accept CAT scores. You must score well on the CAT exam and meet the cutoffs set by these universities to qualify for MBA admission.
• Apply to MBA Colleges Accepting CAT: The application process for MBA colleges accepting CAT scores begins around the same time as the CAT exam. Some colleges start their application process before the exam, while others do so afterwards. You should visit the official websites of their preferred colleges to apply for MBA admission through CAT.
• Participate in GD/PI/WAT Rounds: The final stage of the MBA selection process involves Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and Written Ability Test (WAT) rounds. You selected for these rounds based on their CAT performance are assessed on various criteria. A composite score evaluating their performance in all stages is used to make the final admission decision.

Also Read:CAT 2024 Reservation Policy

CAT Selection Parameters

As mentioned earlier, CAT scores are not the only criteria for MBA admissions. You must also perform well in other areas that are important to most management institutes. The factors considered during MBA admissions, in addition to CAT scores, include:

• Class 10 Scores: Board exam results from Class 10 are considered, though they carry less weight. Different colleges may assign varying levels of importance to these scores.
• Class 12 Scores: Performance in the Class 12 board exams is also considered. While it is important, it is generally weighted less than other criteria. The weight assigned to Class 12 scores varies across institutions.
• Graduation Scores: Bachelor's degree performance is a significant factor in the selection process. These scores are often as important as Class 10 and 12 results in determining eligibility for MBA programs.
• Written Ability Test (WAT): Many universities include a Written Ability Test, or essay writing round, as part of the final selection process. In some institutions, this may be replaced by a group discussion.
• Group Discussion: Group discussions are important to the selection process at many IIMs and other top colleges. This stage evaluates candidates' interpersonal and communication skills, which are crucial for MBA programs.
• Personal Interview (PI): The personal interview is a key component of the selection process and carries significant weight. Strong performance in the personal interview greatly enhances the chances of admission to prestigious MBA programs.
• Weighted Work Experience: Candidates with relevant work experience are given additional weight during selection. While this factor is considered, it typically carries less weight than academic scores and personal interview performance.

You can check the admission process of the selected college to know more about their admission process. You can even check our CAT College Predictor 2024 and CAT Percentile Predictor 2024 tools to get an idea of your results based on your performance in the CAT exam.

Related Articles:

If you are facing any issues while selecting top MBA colleges in India, you can clear your doubts by consulting our experts in the Q&A zone. For further admission guidance, you can call our toll-free number 1800-572-9877, or fill out the Common Application Form (CAF). Stay tuned with us for more updates!