Top 20 MBA Colleges without CAT 2025 in India: How to Get Direct Admission

Shivangi Ahirwar

Updated On: January 07, 2026 04:02 PM

The top MBA colleges without CAT India are XLRI Jamshedpur, SIBM Pune, SP Jain Mumbai, NMIMS Mumbai, Jamia Millia Islamia Delhi, Great Lakes Institute of Management Chennai, LPU Phagwara, and Amity University Noida. These colleges offer MBA admission without the CAT scorecard.
Best MBA Colleges in India Without CAT

Looking for the top MBA colleges without CAT 2025 in India ? XLRI Jamshedpur, SIBM Pune, SP Jain Mumbai, NMIMS Mumbai, Jamia Millia Islamia Delhi, Great Lakes Institute of Management Chennai, LPU Phagwara, and Amity University Noida are some of the few names among the top B-schools that offer MBA, PGDM, and other postgraduate management programs without CAT. Most of these institutes offer MBA course admissions based on other entrance exams like XAT, SNAP, NMAT, CMAT, MAT, etc. Performance in Class 10, Class 12, and Bachelor’s degree scores, personal interviews, and various university entrance exams are also important factors for admission to these institutes.

Also Read :

CAT Cutoff 2025 for IITs/IISc

List of Non-IIM MBA Colleges to Apply to Before and After CAT 2025 Exam

Top 20 MBA Colleges without CAT in India 2025

Check out the list of the best MBA colleges in India without CAT provided in the table below, along with their NIRF ranking 2025:

Name of the College

NIRF Ranking 2025

Selection Criteria

Average Placement Package Offered (in INR)

XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur

9

XAT Exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

31.08 LPA

Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune

11

SNAP Exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

28.83 LPA

S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai

20

XAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

32 LPA

SVKM`s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai

24

NMAT exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

18.64 - 25.13 LPA

Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

28

JMI Entrance Test

25 LPA

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore

26

Amrita MBA Entrance Test Score + Bachelor’s Degree

8.33 LPA

Amity University, Gautam Budh Nagar

49

XAT/ GMAT Exam / MAT/ NMAT by GMAC Score + Bachelor’s Degree

10 - 30 LPA

Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad

33

MICAT Exam / XAT/ GMAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

19.21 LPA

Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai

37

XAT/ GMAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

15.10 - 17.30 LPA

Chandigarh University, Mohali

32

CUCET/ MAT Exam / XAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

9.54 LPA

Goa Institute of Management, Sanquelim

43

CMAT Exam / XAT/ GMAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

14.81 LPA

Lovely Professional University, Phagwara

44

LPUNEST Exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

10.23 LPA

ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, Hyderabad

46

IBSAT Exam / NMAT by GMAC/ GMAT/ CAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

10 LPA

International Management Institute, Delhi

40

XAT/ GMAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

16.71 LPA

University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun

36

UPES MET Exam Score + Bachelor's Degree

7.69 LPA

Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneshwar

45

XAT/ XGMT Exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

19.53 LPA

Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad

30

XAT/ GMAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

16.25 LPA

T. A. Pai Management Institute, Manipal

39

NMAT by GMAC/ XAT/ GMAT Score + Bachelor’s Degree

13.84 LPA

Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneswar

68

KIITEE Exam / MAT/ XAT/ CMAT/ GMAT/ ATMA Exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

6.5 LPA

Anna University, Chennai

69

TANCET Exam Score + Bachelor’s Degree

8 LPA

Location-wise MBA Colleges in India without CAT

If you are willing to get admission into one of the best colleges for an MBA without CAT or any other entrance exams, then you can find the same based on academic qualifications. Find below the list of reputed colleges in various cities offering direct MBA admission without CAT or any other entrance exam.

MBA Colleges without CAT in Bangalore

Check out the list of without CAT MBA colleges for direct MBA admissions in Bangalore in the table below:

MBA Colleges without CAT in Delhi

Check out the list of colleges in Delhi that offer direct MBA admissions mentioned in the table below:

Name of the College

MBA Course Fee (Approx.)

JIMS Delhi

INR 9.90 Lakh

JIMS Rohini

INR 9.90 Lakh

Apeejay School of Management

INR 9.70 Lakh

Millennium School of Business

INR 5.25 Lakh

Asian Business School

INR 9 Lakh

Amity University

INR 15.8 - 23.78 Lakh

GD Goenka University – School of Management

INR 9 Lakh

Bridge School of Management

INR 4.8 Lakh

Manav Rachana International Institute of Research & Studies – Faculty of Management

INR 5.29 Lakh

MBA Colleges without CAT in Punjab

Check out the list of top MBA colleges without CAT in Punjab that offer direct MBA admissions:

Name of the College

MBA Course Fee (Approx.)

Lovely Professional University (LPU)

INR 1.4 - 3.5 lakhs

Universal Group of Institutions (UGI)

INR 1.60 lakhs

School of Management Studies (SMS)

INR 1.37 lakhs

Apeejay Institute of Management Technical Campus (AIMTC)

INR 2.04 lakhs

UEI Global

INR 1.27 lakh - 5.5 lakhs

Punjab Insitute of Management and Technology (PIMT)

INR 1.62 lakhs

L M Thapar School of Management (LMTSOM)

INR 13.5 lakhs

Chitkara Business School

INR 6.8 - 15 lakhs

Quest Group of Institutions

INR 1.76 lakhs

CT University (CTU)

INR 1.31 - 7 lakhs

MBA Colleges without CAT in Gujarat

Check out the list of colleges that offer direct MBA admissions in Gujarat mentioned in the table below:

Eligibility Criteria for MBA without CAT

If you are seeking MBA admission, you must meet certain eligibility criteria besides the entrance exam requirements like CAT score. All B-schools and MBA colleges set these eligibility criteria, and they are similar in nearly all colleges with slight variations. Take a look at the eligibility criteria for the best MBA colleges in India without CAT, as mentioned below:

  • Completed graduation or equivalent in any stream from a recognized university.
  • You must have scored at least a 50% to 65% aggregate score in a bachelor's degree.
  • If you are in the reserved category, the minimum score should be at least 45% aggregate.
  • If you are a final-year student you are also eligible to apply, but the final admission will depend on the aggregate score obtained after completing the degree.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing MBA without CAT

Pursuing an MBA without taking the CAT or any other major MBA entrance exam has its pros and cons. Direct admission to an MBA program and admission through entrance exams each have advantages, so you need to carefully consider both pathways to determine which is best for you and will lead you to the best MBA colleges in India without CAT. Let's examine some of the most common advantages and disadvantages of pursuing an MBA without CAT:

MBA without CAT: Pros and Cons

Category

Explanation

PRO: Faster Admission Timeline

One of the most significant advantages of direct MBA admission is the speed and convenience it offers. When opting for MBA without CAT, students can begin their MBA program immediately after completing their undergraduate degree. Since there is no requirement to prepare for or sit through competitive exams like CAT, MAT, or XAT—which often demand months of preparation—students save substantial time. Traditional MBA admissions often involve a lengthy process including exam preparation, entrance tests, group discussions, personal interviews, and final merit lists. This extended timeline can span over a year. In contrast, direct MBA admission eliminates these stages, allowing students to secure admission earlier and begin coursework without unnecessary delays.

PRO: Early Enrollment in Reputed Institutes

Direct admission allows students to join earlier batches of MBA programs offered by reputable private management institutions. Many colleges provide rolling admissions, meaning seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Students who choose the direct route benefit from securing their seats promptly, avoiding the stress of waiting for entrance exam results. This early start can also give them an academic advantage, helping them complete their program sooner and enter the corporate world ahead of their peers who are still going through the selection stages of competitive exams.

PRO: No Need to Relocate

Direct MBA admissions are ideal for students who prefer pursuing higher education close to home. Not everyone is willing or able to relocate to another city or country due to personal, financial, or family-related reasons. Direct admission gives candidates the flexibility to choose from a range of colleges in their hometown or nearby regions. This convenience reduces living expenses and helps maintain a familiar environment, which can be especially beneficial for students who prefer stability or who might be working alongside their studies.

CON: Limited Salary Packages

While direct MBA admission can provide good job opportunities, the salary packages offered to these students are generally not as competitive as those secured through entrance exam-based programs. Candidates who enter top-tier institutes through CAT or similar exams tend to attract higher salary offers, owing to the brand reputation of their institutions. Companies often view admission through entrance exams as a sign of academic rigor and strong analytical skills, factors that influence compensation packages.

CON: Restricted Recruitment Opportunities

Many top recruiters, especially multinational corporations (MNCs), prefer visiting campuses that follow the entrance exam-based admission route. They believe that such institutions maintain higher academic standards and train students rigorously. As a result, students admitted directly may not be exposed to the same quality of recruiters or the same number of placement opportunities. This gap in exposure can impact career growth and access to high-paying roles.

CON: Higher Costs in Private Universities

Direct MBA admissions are often more expensive, especially in private colleges that do not rely on entrance exams. Without the filtering process of standardized tests, institutions may charge premium fees for admission. While paying more does not necessarily guarantee better educational outcomes, many students opt for this route due to convenience or lack of entrance exam preparation. However, comparatively, students who crack exams like CAT have opportunities to join top government-funded institutions like IIMs, where fees are justified by strong placement records and institutional reputation.

Also Read: Popular MBA Colleges in Kolkata without CAT Exam

Factors to Consider Before Choosing MBA Colleges Without CAT

While selecting from the list of best MBA colleges in India without CAT, it's crucial to consider several factors that can significantly influence your educational journey and future career opportunities. Here are five key aspects to keep in mind:

Factors to Consider Before Choosing MBA Colleges Without CAT

Factor

Explanation

Accreditation and Rankings

The first and most crucial step in evaluating an MBA college is to verify whether the institution is accredited by recognized national or international bodies such as AICTE, UGC, NAAC, AACSB, or EQUIS. Accreditation ensures that the college adheres to established academic and administrative standards, guaranteeing the credibility and recognition of your degree both nationally and globally. Along with accreditation, rankings published by reputed agencies—such as NIRF, QS, Times Higher Education, or Business Today—provide insights into various parameters like faculty experience, research contributions, student satisfaction, campus facilities, and placement performance. While rankings should not be the sole deciding factor, they help identify colleges that consistently maintain high educational quality and industry relevance.

Specializations Offered

MBA programs offer a variety of specializations, and your selection should align with your long-term career goals. Whether you aim to enter fields such as finance, marketing, human resources, business analytics, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, or healthcare management, choosing a college that excels in your chosen domain is essential. Some institutions are particularly strong in specific areas because of expert faculty, advanced curriculum, industry tie-ups, or dedicated research centers. Look into course structure, elective flexibility, internship requirements, and value-added certification programs that can enhance your specialization. A well-designed specialization will provide deeper subject knowledge, practical exposure, and industry-ready skills.

Location and Network

The geographical location of the college plays a major role in shaping your academic and career experiences. Institutions located in metropolitan cities or industrial hubs often provide better access to corporate networks, internships, guest lectures, and job opportunities. Proximity to relevant industries increases the likelihood of interacting with business leaders, participating in industry events, and attending recruitment drives. Additionally, studying in a vibrant commercial environment enhances exposure to real-world business challenges. Consider factors such as safety, transportation, cost of living, and access to professional communities when evaluating the location.

Alumni Success and Networking Opportunities

A strong alumni network is one of the greatest assets of a good MBA college. Alumni who have excelled in their careers serve as mentors, industry connectors, and potential employers. Investigate the alumni’s achievements, roles in global companies, entrepreneurial success, and involvement in college activities. Many institutions conduct alumni meets, networking events, and mentorship programs where current students can benefit from real-world guidance. The stronger the alumni network, the better your chances of accessing high-quality internships, job referrals, and professional growth opportunities.

Cost and Return on Investment (ROI)

Before finalizing an MBA college, it is essential to evaluate the total cost, which includes tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, study materials, and miscellaneous expenses. Compare this financial investment with the expected return, particularly in terms of placement packages, job roles, career growth, and long-term earning potential. An MBA from a top-tier institution typically offers high ROI because of strong placement support and industry reputation. However, even mid-tier colleges can provide good ROI if they have strong industry partnerships and affordable fee structures. Ultimately, choose a program that balances cost with career outcomes and aligns with your financial capacity.

Management Quota Admission in MBA without CAT

Management Quota seats are common in many MBA colleges without CAT in India and are called institute-level seats. These seats are set aside for applicants who want to enter the college via the management quota. The administration or higher management of an institute recommends candidates for admission to seats at the institute level to allocate the management quota seats available in an MBA college or B-school. Every institute offering MBA degrees through management quota direct admissions has unique admissions policies. For admission to the MBA without CAT, if you fall into the NRI, POI, or foreign nationality categories you may contact these institutions to apply for management quota seats.

Management Quota Eligibility

If you wish to seek MBA admission through management quota and without entrance exam scores you must meet the eligibility criteria for management quota admission. The basic management quota admission eligibility criteria are as follows:

  • Different B-schools undertake different selection procedures when accepting students directly for management quota seats. Some universities may shortlist applicants based on their bachelor's degree results. If you have scored at least a 50% aggregate in your graduation, you can apply to top B-schools for management quota seats.

  • An important criterion that you must meet is that you should not be receiving any type of scholarship for your higher education.

You can also apply for MBA colleges without CAT through the management quota available at various colleges such as JBIMS, SIMSREE, Nirma University, Andhra Loyola College, etc. If you're seeking admission to the best MBA colleges in India without CAT you can contact us and get in touch with our counsellors to know everything!

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List of MBA Colleges without Sectional CAT 2025 Cutoff

Top Jobs after MBA in 2025

Distance MBA in India in 2025

Direct MBA Without Entrance Exam in 2025

If you have further questions related to direct MBA admission then you can clear your doubts on the QnA zone . You can also call our toll-free number 1800-572-9877 and fill out the Common Application Form (CAF) .

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FAQs

Which are the MBA colleges with low fees without CAT?

Some of the top MBA colleges with low fees without CAT are:

  • IFIM Business School
  • Institute of Rural Management, Anand
  • Loyola Institute of Business Administration
  • Indira Institute of Management, Pune
  • MET Institute Management (METIM)

What are the best MBA colleges in India without CAT?

The best MBA colleges in India without CAT include XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune, S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai, SVKM`s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore, Amity University, Gautam Budh Nagar, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, etc.

Can I get admission into MBA colleges without CAT?

Yes, you can get admission into MBA colleges without CAT. There are various other entrance exams like XAT, MAT, ATMA, GMAT, CMAT, SNAP, MAH MBA CET, etc. which candidates can take to get admission into some of the top colleges.

Is it compulsory to appear for CAT to take MBA admission?

No, it is not compulsory to appear for CAT to take MBA admission. Candidates can appear for other entrance exams like MAT, CMAT, ATMA, GMAT, XAT, SNAP, etc.

Can I get admission into IIMs without CAT?

No, you can’t get admission into IIMs without CAT. Admission into Indian Institutes of Management is offered only through valid CAT scorecards. So, it is compulsory to appear for the exam to get selected into one of the 21 IIMs.

What are the top colleges offering direct MBA admission?

Some of the top colleges offering direct MBA admission include Indus Business Academy, Alliance School of Business, JIMS Rohini, Apeejay School of Management, Lovely Professional University, Universal Group of Institutions, Narayana Business School, Auro University, Sindhi Institute of Management, Ballari Institute of Technology and Management, etc.

What are the eligibility criteria for admission into MBA colleges without CAT?

The eligibility criteria for admission into MBA colleges without CAT include-

  • Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree with at least 50-60% marks from a recognized university.
  • It is compulsory to have a valid scorecard of entrance exams accepted by MBA colleges other than CAT.
  • Final-year students can also apply; however, admission will be offered based on the final score.

Which is better- MBA admission through entrance exams or direct admission?

MBA admission through entrance exams and direct admission both have their own benefits. If you are willing to take admission into IIMs or other top MBA colleges in India, then you need to appear for entrance exams like CAT, XAT, CMAT, etc. However, many reputed universities in India offer direct MBA admission based on merit.

Which colleges offer MBA admission through management quota?

The colleges that offer MBA admission through management quota include Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, MDI Gurgaon, SP Jain Institute of Management & Research, XLRI Jamshedpur,  National Institute of Industrial Engineering, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, MICA Ahmedabad, SIMB Pune, IMT Ghaziabad, etc.

How can I get admission into colleges for MBA without CAT?

You can get admission into colleges for MBA without CAT by appearing for other entrance exams like XAT, CMAT, MAT ATMA, SNAP, MAH MBA CET, TS ICET, AP ICET, etc. Many colleges also offer direct MBA admission on the basis of merit.

What are the selection criteria for MBA colleges without CAT?

The selection criteria for MBA colleges without CAT can include a scorecard of another MBA entrance exam and a bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university. Many colleges conduct PI/ GD/ WAT rounds as a part of the selection process while some don't require any entrance exam score at all.

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