Great Lakes - PGDM & PGPM Admissions 2026
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The pursuit of an MBA can significantly enhance career prospects, but the financial burden of tuition fees can be daunting. Fortunately, many reputable colleges in India accept the Common Admission Test (CAT) scores and offer MBA programs at relatively low fees. This article provides a detailed overview of some of the top colleges that fit this criterion, highlighting their fee structures, expected CAT percentiles for admission, average placement packages, and other relevant details.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to various management programs in India, primarily at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). The exam assesses candidates on quantitative ability, verbal ability, and logical reasoning. A high CAT score can open doors to prestigious institutions; however, many colleges also accept lower scores, making them accessible to a wider range of students.
FMS is one of the premier management institutes in India, known for its rigorous academic curriculum and excellent placement record. The low fee structure combined with high average salary packages makes it highly sought after. Companies like Goldman Sachs, Hindustan Unilever, and IBM actively recruit from FMS.
JBIMS is affiliated with the University of Mumbai and offers a strong alumni network and industry connections. The college's focus on practical learning ensures that students are well-prepared for the corporate world.
IPE focuses on developing managerial skills through practical exposure and has strong ties with public sector enterprises, making it a great choice for students interested in this sector.
Christ University is known for its holistic approach to education and offers various specializations in its MBA program. The university has a vibrant campus life and strong placement support from top companies like Accenture and Deloitte.
KJ Somaiya is recognized for its robust curriculum and industry-oriented programs that prepare students well for the corporate environment.
GIM emphasizes ethical leadership and social responsibility while providing a strong foundation in management principles.
XIME focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation, preparing students to tackle real-world business challenges effectively.
BITS Pilani is well-respected for its engineering programs but also offers quality management education with a focus on technology management.
DBS emphasizes experiential learning and has a diverse student body that enhances the learning experience through various perspectives.
SIMS offers affordable MBA programs focusing on developing leadership skills among students while being affiliated with Anna University.
IMS BHU provides a well-rounded MBA program with a focus on holistic development, making it an attractive option for students looking for affordable education.
CAT (Common Admission Test) is a computer-based national-level test which is conducted every year by IIMs. This is a qualifying exam to get short listed for the IIMs and other Top B-Schools. All the top management schools, like IIMs and non-IIMs, have their cut-offs, and students who are selected have to undergo other rounds of tests, which include the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI). However the cut offs for IIM and non IIM B-Schools depends each year and institutions.
Though prominent IIMs only accept the CAT scores, candidates can get into other B-Schools apart from IIMs without clearing CAT. There are several other ways to get into an MBA course without appearing for the CAT examination. They can get into the B-Schools either by direct admission or by clearing other admission tests. Clearing CAT or Commons Admission Test is regarded as one of the much talked about processes to get into the B-Schools for the MBA or PGDM courses. Getting into IIMs after clearing CAT not only enhances the chances to procure a good salary but at the same time when one clears CAT, the acceptance in institutions like IIMs also widens the network opportunity for a candidate. While not clearing CAT does not hamper the candidates chance to have an MBA degree, clearing CAT heightens the careers prospects in the longer term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A 70 percentile in the Common Admission Test (CAT) is considered a moderate score, and candidates can apply to Tier-2 and Tier-3. But it is not enough for the top-tier management institutes.
A 70 percentile in the Common Admission Test (CAT) is considered a moderate score, and candidates can apply to Tier-2 and Tier-3. But it is not enough for the top-tier management institutes.
Like any other competitive examination CAT is not a very easy exam to crack. However with dedication and proper guidance and training as well as preparations one can crack it.
The highest package in IIM varies from IIMs to IIMs and depending on the courses . However the couple of years witnessed the highest package going more than 100LPA in some of the IIMS.
Yes, according to the official brochures there has been 100% placement in some of the institutions after an MBA.
Yes, the Indian Institutes of Technologies (IIT) accept CAT scores for admission in MBA programs.
On Question asked by student community
Hello
As you said you by mistakenly done that, you don't need to get worry regarding that ,
Just inform the help desk and carry the correct certifications , the state certificate will not disqualify you .
The steps you can follow is -
1. You can check if the correction window is available or not
2. Contact the CAT desk immediately.
Hope this helps
In CAT registration, you cannot create a new user ID with the same mobile number, even if you use a different email ID. Each mobile number and email can be linked to only one account. If you already registered once, the system will not accept a duplicate with that number. To register again, you must use a new mobile number and new email ID. If you lost your old login, you can recover it through the forgot password/user ID option on the CAT portal.
Yes, you can fill the CAT form even if you currently have a backlog. CAT eligibility requires you to be in your final year of graduation or already graduated backlogs don’t stop you from applying.
While filling the form:
Enter the aggregate percentage/CGPA of marks you have obtained up to the latest semester for which results are declared (in your case till 4th semester).
There will be an option to mention that you have a backlog.
If you clear the backlog later, you’ll just need to show the updated marks during admission.
Hello Aspirant,
Yes, you can apply for the CAT exam as a final-year student. You must declare your backlog on the online application form. You do not write about it on the final-year student certificate; that document is to certify your enrollment status. You must clear all backlogs before the final admission process to any MBA college.
Hello,
Thank you for your question!
KL- MAT syllabus: Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English/Verbal Ability, and General Awareness (similar to MAT/CMAT pattern).
CAT scores are valid in many private universities including KL University, but always check the year’s admission notification.
CAT vs other exams: CAT is toughest (IIMs + top B-schools), while MAT/CMAT/ATMA are relatively easier and accepted by many mid-level private universities.
Hello it will clear your doubt!
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