Symbiosis Online MBA or NMIMS Online MBA - A Comparative Analysis
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Symbiosis Online MBA or NMIMS Online MBA - A Comparative Analysis

#MBA
Vivek KumarUpdated on 15 Jan 2026, 11:31 AM IST

The Online Master of Business Administration (MBA) has become a preferred credential for working professionals who look for career acceleration without leaving their job. With several online MBA colleges in India, two institutes often come on top for Online MBA: Symbiosis International and NMIMS. Both institutes deliver significant brand value in the corporate ecosystem.

Symbiosis Online MBA or NMIMS Online MBA - A Comparative Analysis
Symbiosis Online MBA or NMIMS Online MBA - A Comparative Analysis

Despite their brand name and value, students often ask questions: Which one is better, Symbiosis or NMIMS for online MBA? While both Symbiosis and NMIMS offer UGC-entitled Online MBA, this article discusses an unbiased, data-driven comparison across critical parameters, from accreditation and pedagogy to fees, specialisations and career support, to help prospective students make effective decisions that align with their career goals, budget, and learning style.

Accreditation and Recognition

When it comes to enrolling in an Online MBA programme, accreditation and recognition of the degree becomes a primary concern for students. A degree without proper accreditation may lack value in the job market. However, both Symbiosis and NMIMS are highly credible.

FeatureSymbiosisNMIMS

University Status

Deemed University

Deemed-to-be-University

Online MBA Approval

UGC-Entitled and AICTE-approved

UGC-Entitled and AICTE-approved

NAAC Accreditation

NAAC 'A++'

NAAC 'A++'

AICTE Approval

Yes

Yes

Autonomy Status

Category 1 University

Category 1 University

NIRF Ranking 2025 (University Category)

24

52


  • Symbiosis International (Deemed University) offers Online MBA through Symbiosis School for Online and Digital Learning (SSODL).
  • SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed-to-be-University) offers Online MBA through NMIMS CDOE.
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Online MBA Programme Structure and Duration

Both Symbiosis and NMIMS Online MBA programmes are of two years duration and follow a delivery mechanism with flexibility regarding examinations and course completion.

Feature

Symbiosis Online MBANMIMS Online MBA

Duration

2 Years (4 Semesters)

2 Years (4 Semesters)

Maximum Duration

24 Months

4 Years

Total Credits

100

102

Project

2 Capstone Projects

2 Projects (3rd & 4th Semester each)

Delivery Format

Blend of live classes, recorded content, and e-learning material.

Online Instructor-led, recorded as well as blended

Classes per week

16 hours

5+ hours

Frequency of live classes

Weekends

Both. Weekdays and Weekends

Exams

Online assessments as per UGC Guidelines

Online proctored examinations.

Intake Session

Twice a year

Twice a year


Also Read: How an Online MBA Helps Empower Women?

Symbiosis vs NMIMS Online MBA: Specialisations Offered

Online MBA specialisations aim to tailor your career goals. Choosing the niche specialisation helps you pursue your desired career.

FeatureSymbiosis Online MBA SpecialisationsNMIMS Online MBA Specialisations

Variety

Offers a wide range of contemporary and traditional specialisations.

Offers specialisations in industry-demand areas.

Number of Specialisations Available

9 Specialisation

5 Specialisations

Specialisations Offered

Marketing, HRM, Finance, Operations, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Agri Operations Management, International Business, Business Analytics, Hospital and Health Care Management

Business Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations & Data Sciences, Human Resources


Also Read: 10 Myths and Facts About an Online MBA That Everyone Should Know

Fee Structure and Affordability

The course outcome or the return on investment (ROI) is a major factor when it comes to an online degree. Candidates usually choose Online MBA due to its flexibility, accessibility, and affordability. While fees are subject to change annually, students must compare the tuition fees and other hidden charges of an Online MBA programme.

FeatureSymbiosis Online MBANMIMS Online MBA

Total Programme Fee

Rs 3,15,000

Rs 1,96,000

Payment Options

Semester-wise or annual

Semester-wise, annual, or one-time payment

Additional Costs

Exam fees per subject/semester

Admission Processing Fee, Exam fee per subject per attempt, Project fee per exam attempt

Scholarship / Concession

Rs 50,000

20% concession on the programme fe


Explore 10 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in An Online MBA

Eligibility and Admission Criteria

Both institutions have their eligibility requirements and admission criteria.

FeatureSymbiosis Online MBANMIMS Online MBA

Academic Requirement

Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST).

Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from recognised University or an equivalent degree recognised by Association of Indian

Universities (AIU) with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD).

Work Experience

Not mandatory

Not required

Entrance Test

Direct admission

Not required


Also Read: How to Apply for Online MBA at Symbiosis International University, Pune

Pedagogy and Learning Experience

Both Symbiosis and NMIMS distinguish themselves based on the quality of the digital platform and the teaching methodology.

FeaturesSymbiosis Online MBANMIMS Online MBA

Learning Platform

Utilises an exclusive LMS powered by Infosys

Uses internally developed LMS (Learning Management System)

Teaching Method

Focuses on academic rigor through a blend of live interactive sessions by faculty and recorded lectures.

Live sessions, recorded videos and digital study material, along with the access to Student Portal

Faculty

Experienced faculty from Symbiosis International University.

Lecture presentations prepared by experienced faculty

Interaction

One to One for doubt clearing, One to many for the live class

Live lectures with Q&A, plus academic and student support desks.

Assessment

30% internal component and 70% component as external (University) examination.

Case-based and Application-oriented Assessment


Also Read: NMIMS Online MBA Admission 2026 - Last Date, Application Link, Fees

Placements and Alumni Network

Unlike regular, on-campus MBA programmes, Online MBA colleges provide substantial placement assistance and career support.

FeatureSymbiosis Online MBANMIMS Online MBA

Placement Assistance

Provides career assistance services, Placement/interview preparation sessions (Twice every month)

Provides career services

Alumni Network

Access to strong alumni network

Access to global alumni network working in some of the top 8000+ corporate firms, SMBs & start-ups in India & overseas

Industry Connect

Strong corporate connections

High corporate acceptance, Access to 500+ hiring partners including MNCs, corporations and start-ups

Student Profile

90% working professionals

70% working professionals

Which is Better Between Symbiosis and NMIMS for Online MBA?

Deciding which is better heavily depends on the learner's affordability and career aspirations. While both Symbiosis Online MBA and NMIMS Online MBA are accredited and hold value, one can choose the best based on budget and specialisations offered. Symbiosis Online MBA offers nine specialisations whereas NMIMS Online MBA offers five specialisations.

There is no better option; the choice solely depends on the individual priorities. If someone is looking for a career in healthcare or agri-business, Symbiosis Online MBA can be the right choice. If someone wants to build professional competency in operations and data sciences, NMIMS Online MBA can be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are the Online MBA from Symbiosis and NMIMS equivalent to a regular, full-time MBA?
A:

Both Symbiosis and NMIMS Online MBA programmes are UGC-entiled and AICTE approved, which makes the degree legally recognised and equivalent to a full-time, on-campus MBA.

Q: Which is more affordable, Symbiosis Online MBA or NMIMS Online MBA?
A:

Symbiosis Online MBA costs Rs 3,15,000 while NMIMS Online MBA costs Rs 1,96,000 (if paid at one time).

Q: Is work experience mandatory for Symbiosis Online MBA admission?
A:

For Symbiosis Online MBA, work experience is usually not mandatory. However, having a certain year of experience may have added advantage.

Q: Which institute offers better placement support, Symbiosis or NMIMS?
A:

Both offer career assistance services. However, mostly working professionals pursue an online MBA from these institutes.

Q: Can I switch between Symbiosis and NMIMS mid-programme?
A:

No. Migration between two different universities during an ongoing programme is generally not permitted.

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