Top 30 Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Score: When aiming for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) often come to mind first. However, India boasts a wealth of other exceptional business schools that consistently deliver high-quality management education and impressive career opportunities. These non-IIM MBA colleges accept CAT 2025 scores and offer diverse programs, specializations, and strong placement records, making them excellent alternatives for aspiring business leaders. Some of the top MBA Colleges apart from IIMs include FMS, XLRI, SPJIMR, IIFT, MDI Gurgaon, and many more.
This blog explores the Top 30 MBA colleges in India that accept CAT scores, excluding the IIMs. Check out their offerings, including fees, programs, and key specializations, to help make an informed decision for your MBA journey.
- What is the CAT 2025 Exam?
- How Top MBA Colleges Use CAT Scores for Admissions?
- Why Consider A Non-IIM MBA Colleges Through CAT 2025?
- Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores
- Key Factors to Consider While Choosing a Non-IIM MBA College
- Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Admission Process Requirements
- Final Thoughts
What is the CAT 2025 Exam?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most important & commonly opted entrance exams for MBA admissions in India. The CAT Exam Pattern 2025 typically involves three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). It's a challenging exam designed to test candidates’ analytical and problem-solving skills. Effective CAT preparation is key to achieving a good CAT percentile.
How Top MBA Colleges Use CAT Scores for Admissions?
Top MBA Colleges use CAT scores as a primary measure for their admission process. Usually the colleges set their own CAT cutoffs, which are the minimum percentile scores required to be considered for admission. Beyond the overall percentile, some MBA colleges also have sectional cut-offs. The selection process through CAT 2025 usually involves shortlisting candidates based on their CAT score, followed by Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds, and sometimes a Written Ability Test (WAT).
Why Consider A Non-IIM MBA Colleges Through CAT 2025?
Choosing an MBA college through CAT 2025 is a big decision. While IIMs are fantastic, many other colleges offer great value. These non-IIM MBA colleges often provide unique benefits that might be a better fit for the career goals and personal preferences.
Diverse Specializations and Programs
Many non-IIM MBA colleges offer a wider range of specialized programs beyond general management. Candidates can find niche MBA programs in areas like business analytics, supply chain management, healthcare management, or rural management.
Strong Industry Connections and Placements
These Non-IIM MBA Colleges often have strong corporate partnerships and an active alumni network that can open doors to excellent MBA placements. They frequently invite industry leaders for guest lectures, workshops, and recruitment drives. Many of them boast impressive return on investment (ROI) due to their strong placement records and relatively lower fees compared to some top-tier institutions.
Affordable Fee Structures
One of the significant advantages of opting for a non-IIM MBACollege is the potentially more affordable MBA fees. While some are still premium, many offer high-quality education at a fraction of the cost, making management education more accessible. They also provide various scholarship opportunities to deserving students, further easing their financial burden.
Check CAT Score vs CAT Percentile: What’s the Major Difference Between Them?
Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores
Many top-tier business schools across India recognize the Common Admission Test (CAT) as a primary entrance examination for their MBA programs. These institutions are known for their excellent academics, experienced faculty, robust industry connections, and strong alumni networks. They provide a diverse range of specializations catering to various career aspirations. Here's a detailed section at some of the Best MBA colleges outside the IIM network:
Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting High CAT Scores (94-99+ Percentile)
These colleges are often considered on par with some of the older IIMs in terms of reputation, faculty, and placements. They typically require a very high CAT percentile of 94-99+. Each of these institutions offers distinct advantages, academic programs, and excellent career opportunities. Their faculty, curriculum, and industry connections contribute significantly to their high standing in the management education sector. Check out the following table for top-tier Non-IIMs MBA Colleges accepting CAT Scores 2025.
College Name | Flagship Programs | Key Specializations Offered | Expected CAT Cut-off (Percentile) |
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), University of Delhi, Delhi | MBA, Executive MBA | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Strategy | 98-99+ |
XLRI - Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur | PGDM (BM), PGDM (HRM) | Business Management, Human Resource Management | 96-97+ |
SPJIMR (S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research), Mumbai | PGDM, PGPM | Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Management, General Management, Analytics, Family Managed Business | 94-96+ |
MDI Gurgaon (Management Development Institute), Gurgaon | PGDM, PGDM-HRM, PGDM-IB | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Strategy, International Business, Business Analytics | 94-97+ |
IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade), Delhi | MBA (International Business), MBA (Business Analytics) | International Business, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Trade Analytics | 94-96+ |
NITIE (National Institute of Industrial Engineering) Mumbai (Now IIM Mumbai) | PGDM (Operations Management), PGDM (Supply Chain Management) | Operations Management, Supply Chain Management | 95-97+ |
Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores (80-98+ Percentile)
These colleges also maintain high academic standards, have good industry connections, and offer competitive placements, making them strong choices for MBA aspirants. These institutions consistently rank among the top choices for management education in India. They offer comprehensive curricula, experienced faculty, and active industry engagement, ensuring students are well-prepared for the corporate world. Their alumni networks are also robust, providing valuable career support. Check out the following table for tier 2 Top Non-IIMs MBA Colleges accepting CAT Scores.
College Name | Flagship Programs | Key Specializations Offered | Expected CAT Cut-off (Percentile) |
XIM University (Xavier Institute of Management), Bhubaneswar | MBA (Business Management), MBA (Human Resource Management), MBA (Rural Management), MBA (Sustainability Management), MBA (Urban Management & Governance) | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Business Analytics, Rural Management, Sustainability | 90-92+ |
SIBM Pune (Symbiosis Institute of Business Management), Pune | MBA, MBA (Innovation & Entrepreneurship) | Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Operations, Supply Chain Management | 97-98+ (SNAP Exam Primarily, but some programs accept CAT) |
NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies), Mumbai | MBA, MBA (HR), MBA (Business Analytics), MBA (Digital Transformation) | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Business Analytics, Digital Transformation, Entrepreneurship | 95-97+ (NMAT Exam Primarily, but some programs accept CAT) |
Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai | PGPM (1 Year), PGDM (2 Year) | Marketing, Finance, Operations, Analytics, Strategy, Data Science | 85-90+ |
IMI Delhi (International Management Institute), New Delhi | PGDM, PGDM (HRM), PGDM (Banking & Financial Services) | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Banking & Financial Services | 88-90+ |
IMT Ghaziabad (Institute of Management Technology), Ghaziabad | PGDM, PGDM (Marketing), PGDM (Finance), PGDM (HR) | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, International Business, Dual Country Program | 90-92+ |
FORE School of Management, New Delhi | PGDM, PGDM (International Business), PGDM (Financial Management) | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, International Business | 85-87+ |
TAPMI (T. A. Pai Management Institute), Manipal | MBA, MBA (Banking & Financial Services), MBA (Human Resources), MBA (Marketing), MBA (Operations & Supply Chain Management) | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Banking & Financial Services | 80-85+ |
K J Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai | MBA, MBA (Sports Management), MBA (Retail Management), MBA (Healthcare Management) | Finance, Marketing, Operations, HR, Analytics, Sports Management, Retail, Healthcare | 84-86+ |
GIM (Goa Institute of Management), Goa | PGDM, PGDM (Big Data Analytics), PGDM (Healthcare Management), PGDM (Banking, Financial Services & Insurance) | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Analytics, Healthcare, Banking & Financial Services | 85-89+ |
Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores (50-85+ Percentile)
These institutions are gaining recognition for their quality education, improving infrastructure, and evolving placement records. They offer good opportunities, especially for those with slightly lower CAT percentiles. These colleges are steadily building their reputation and are excellent choices for students seeking quality management education with a focus on specific industries or regions. They often have dedicated faculty and a growing network of alumni contributing to their rising prominence. Check out the following table for Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores between 50-85+ Percentile.
College Name | Flagship Programs | Key Specializations Offered | Expected CAT Cut-off (Percentile) |
LBSIM Delhi (Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management), Delhi | PGDM, PGDM (Financial Management), PGDM (Research & Business Analytics) | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 80-85+ |
IRMA (Institute of Rural Management Anand), Anand | PGDM (Rural Management) | Rural Management, Agribusiness, Development Management | 80-85+ |
Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research (WeSchool), Mumbai | PGDM, PGDM (Business Design), PGDM (Retail Management), PGDM (Media & Entertainment Management) | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Business Analytics, Retail, Media & Entertainment, Rural Management | 70-80+ |
BIMTECH (Birla Institute of Management Technology), Noida | PGDM, PGDM (International Business), PGDM (Retail Management), PGDM (Insurance Business Management) | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, International Business, Retail, Insurance | 75-80+ |
IFMR GSB (IFMR Graduate School of Business), Krea University, Chennai | MBA | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Business Analytics, Supply Chain Management | 75-80+ |
LIBA (Loyola Institute of Business Administration), Chennai | PGDM | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 70-75+ |
Jaipuria Institute of Management (Multiple Campuses: Noida, Lucknow, Jaipur, Indore) | PGDM | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 65-75+ |
SRM University, Chennai | MBA | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 60-70+ |
Amity Business School, Noida | MBA | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, International Business, Entrepreneurship, Digital Marketing | 60-70+ |
UPES Dehradun, Dehradun | MBA (Oil & Gas, Power Management, Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, HR) | Energy Management, Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Digital Business | 50-60+ |
LPU (Lovely Professional University), Phagwara | MBA | Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 50-60+ |
Chandigarh University, Mohali | MBA | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 50-60+ |
Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad | MBA | Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, Business Analytics | 50-60+ |
Key Factors to Consider While Choosing a Non-IIM MBA College
Selecting the right MBA program in a Top MBA College apart from IIMs is an important decision. Beyond CAT scores and fees, several other factors play a significant role in determining the quality of learning experience and future career prospects. Check out some of the key factors to consider while choosing from a Top Non-IIM MBA College.
- CAT Cutoffs: CAT cutoffs can vary year to year based on the difficulty of the exam, the number of applicants, and the institute's admission policy. It's important to check the official website of each college for the most up-to-date information.
- Programs and Specializations: Many colleges offer specialized MBA programs beyond the general management degree. Candidates should consider alongside their career goals and choose a program that aligns with their interests.
- Fees: MBA education in India can be a significant investment. The program fees always differ as per specializations of the MBA Program and the institution chosen. Always check the official college websites for the most accurate and current fee structures.
- Placement Statistics: While average placement packages are a good indicator, also look at the types of companies that recruit, the roles offered, and the industry sectors. Always check through the previous year highest and average salary package statistics.
- Alumni Network: A strong and active alumni network can be invaluable for career guidance, networking, and job opportunities. Research the alumni base of the colleges one is considering.
- Faculty and Infrastructure: The quality of faculty and the learning environment play a crucial role in the MBA experience. Look for experienced faculty, modern infrastructure, well-equipped libraries, and advanced learning resources.
- Admissions Process: Beyond CAT scores, most colleges have a multi-stage admission process that includes Group Discussions (GD), Written Ability Tests (WAT), and Personal Interviews (PI). Some colleges also give weightage to academic performance, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
Check CAT Percentile Calculation 2025: Raw & Scaled Score, Normalisation
Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Admission Process Requirements
The admission process for non-IIM MBA colleges can be quite competitive. Being well-prepared for each stage will increase your chances of securing a seat. Check out the following outlined section for the admission process involved in Top Non-IIM MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores.
Application Requirements
Candidates must ensure to meet all admission requirements, which typically include a bachelor's degree, a valid CAT score, and sometimes work experience. Prepare a compelling statement of purpose (SOP) and arrange for strong letters of recommendation (LOR).
Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) Preparation
Most colleges conduct Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds for selecting deserving candidates. For GD, practice speaking clearly and concisely, contributing meaningfully to the discussion. For PI, be ready to discuss the past academic background, career goals, and why one wants to pursue an MBA from that particular institution. Focus on showcasing your communication skills and leadership quality.
Curate a Strong Application
Beyond test scores, candidates’ overall profile will matter the most during the admission process. Pay attention to resume building, highlight achievements and work experience. Focus on profile enhancement by taking up online courses, volunteering, or participating in relevant projects.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right MBA college is an important step in your career. While IIMs are highly sought after, the non-IIM MBA Colleges also offer a plethora of excellent options that can provide candidates with a high-quality management education and a strong foundation for a successful career. By considering factors like CAT scores, programs, fees, and placements, aspirants can find the perfect fit for their aspirations.
