In Conversation with Dr Rishi Dwesar Dean and Programme Head at IBS Dehradun

ICFAI Business School (IBS), Dehradun is a private co-educational institution established in 2003. The institution is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC). IBS Dehradun admissions are offered based on the scores obtained in entrance exams such as IBSAT/ CAT/ GMAT/ NMAT by GMAC/ XAT.

Careers360 brings you an exclusive interview with Dr Rishi Dwesar, Dean and Programme Head of ICFAI Business School, Dehradun. In this interview, Dr Rishi speaks briefly about vision, mission, admission process, and campus infrastructure at IBS Dehradun.

Careers360: Tell us something about the institute — when it was set up, its vision, and mission.

Dr. Rishi: IBS Dehradun is a constituent of ICFAI University, Dehradun, established under the ICFAI University Act, 2003. Nestled in a serene, picturesque location on the outskirts of Dehradun, the institute began offering its flagship MBA program in 2004–05 and has successfully graduated over 20 batches of management professionals since then.

IBS Dehradun focuses on the holistic development of students through an industry-aligned and dynamic curriculum. The pedagogy is case-based, emphasising learning through real-world business situations drawn from Indian and global contexts. Alongside cases, students engage in simulations, workshops, and industry-led sessions that make the learning process highly experiential and engaging.

Vision:
To be a top-ranking B-School of international standards recognised for excellence in management education and research by imparting the right knowledge, attitude, management, and leadership skills to students.

Mission:
To nurture future business leaders through high-quality case-based teaching, research, and practice-oriented training that meets industry expectations; to foster innovative thinking, applied research, and ethical leadership; and to prepare professionals with a global mindset, strong competence, and integrity—contributing to the holistic development of the state and the nation.

Careers360: Tell us something about the admission process.

Dr. Rishi: The IBS Dehradun admission process is designed to be transparent, merit-based, and comprehensive.

1. Application: Candidates apply online through the official IBS website by filling out their personal and academic details and paying a nominal application fee.

2. Entrance Exam: Applicants must qualify in one of the following exams:

• IBSAT (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test)

• CAT / GMAT / NMAT by GMAC / XAT

3. Selection Process: Shortlisting: Based on entrance exam scores.

• Micro-Presentation: Shortlisted candidates deliver a brief presentation on a given topic (one minute to prepare, three minutes to present).

• Personal Interview: Conducted to evaluate communication skills, clarity of thought, confidence, and managerial aptitude.

4. Final Selection: Final merit is based on a holistic evaluation of entrance exam performance, academic record, micro-presentation, and interview scores.

5. Admission Confirmation: Selected candidates confirm admission by submitting original documents and paying the prescribed program fee.

Careers360: What kind of infrastructure can students expect at the institute?

Dr. Rishi: IBS Dehradun offers a state-of-the-art learning environment spread across a 25-acre green and scenic campus. Some of the facilities include:

• Air-conditioned smart classrooms equipped with digital boards and modern teaching aids.

• IT Labs with the latest computers to support analytical and technology-driven learning.

• A well-stocked library with books, journals, and digital resources.

• Auditorium, gymnasium, cafeteria, and medical clinic.

• Indoor and outdoor sports facilities for overall student well-being.

The campus blends technology, aesthetics, and nature to foster an atmosphere conducive to learning and personal growth.

Careers360: How does the institute promote industry interaction and corporate connect?

Dr. Rishi: IBS Dehradun maintains strong industry linkages through a range of structured initiatives:

• Industry interaction sessions — both online and offline — with senior corporate leaders, HR professionals, and functional experts.

• Alumni talks and mentoring sessions to provide students with corporate insights and career guidance.

• Industry visits and live projects to expose students to real business operations.

• Regular participation in corporate conclaves and guest lectures to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

These initiatives ensure that IBS students graduate with a deep understanding of industry expectations and professional conduct.

Careers360: Internships are now mandatory as per AICTE guidelines. Does the institute help students with this?

Dr. Rishi: Yes, IBS Dehradun has been a pioneer in mandatory internships long before the AICTE directive. Every MBA student undergoes a 14-week Summer Internship Program (SIP) after the first year.

The internship aims to:

• Provide hands-on exposure to real business challenges.

• Allow students to apply classroom learning to practical contexts.

• Develop analytical, interpersonal, and decision-making skills.

The placement and faculty teams jointly facilitate internships based on the students’ areas of interest and specialisation. IBS also leverages its strong corporate network and alumni base to secure quality internship opportunities across industries.

Careers360: Are there any collaborations with universities abroad?

Dr. Rishi: IBS maintains international collaborations with several reputed universities and institutions. These partnerships facilitate:

• Guest lectures and expert sessions from international faculty.

• Global immersion programs, organised through partner institutions and third-party arrangements, enable students to visit foreign universities, experience cross-cultural learning, and interact with international corporate professionals.

Such exposure equips students with a global business perspective and enhances their employability in multinational contexts.

Careers360: Please share recent placement highlights — average package, recruiters, and related details.

Dr. Rishi: For the MBA Class of 2025, IBS Dehradun achieved an impressive placement record of over 95%.

• Average Package: ₹7.12 LPA

• Highest Package: ₹10.7 LPA

• Number of Recruiters: 50+ companies across diverse sectors

Prominent recruiters included: Tech Mahindra, Wipro, Somany Ceramics, Grant Thornton, PB Partners, ICICI Securities, Yes Bank, and AIM India, among others.

This performance reflects IBS Dehradun’s strong industry connect, employability-driven pedagogy, and consistent focus on preparing graduates who can contribute meaningfully from day one.

Disclaimer: This article has been published by Careers360 as a marketing initiative with IBS Dehradun.