Best PGDM Colleges in India with
Entrance Exam Requirements
Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) is one of the most sought-after programs for
students aspiring to build a career in management. Unlike traditional MBA programs, PGDM
courses are offered by autonomous institutes and are often updated to meet industry demands.
Choosing the right PGDM college in India is crucial for your career, and many top institutions
require students to clear competitive entrance exams for admission.
Here’s a guide to the best PGDM colleges in India and the entrance exams required for
admission.
1. Indian Institute of Management (IIM)
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Programs Offered: PGDM, Executive PGDM, and specialized PGDM courses.
Entrance Exam: Common Admission Test (CAT).
Why Choose IIM: The IIMs are among the most prestigious management institutions in
India and are globally recognized for their academic excellence. With highly experienced
faculty, robust industry connections, and exceptional placement records, IIMs offer a
top-tier PGDM program.
Top IIMs for PGDM:
○ IIM Ahmedabad
○ IIM Bangalore
○ IIM Calcutta
2. XLRI - Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
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Program Offered: PGDM in Business Management, PGDM in Human Resource
Management.
Entrance Exam: Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT).
Why Choose XLRI: XLRI is one of the oldest management institutes in India, known for
its exceptional HR program and highly ranked PGDM in Business Management. Its
rigorous curriculum, excellent placements, and strong alumni network make it one of the
best PGDM colleges in India.
3. SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai
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Program Offered: PGDM.
Entrance Exam: CAT/XAT/GMAT.
Why Choose SPJIMR: SPJIMR is renowned for its innovative teaching methods and
socially-driven approach to business management. With a focus on leadership and
entrepreneurship, SPJIMR offers a dynamic learning environment and strong placement
opportunities.
4. Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon
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Program Offered: PGDM, PGDM in International Business, PGDM in Human Resource
Management.
Entrance Exam: CAT.
Why Choose MDI: MDI Gurgaon is a top-ranked business school that provides a
diverse range of management courses with a global perspective. It is particularly known
for its robust industry interface and international exchange programs, making it one of
the leading PGDM colleges in India.
5. International Institute of Business Study (IIBS), Bangalore
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Program Offered: PGDM, PGDM in Marketing, PGDM in Finance.
Entrance Exam: CAT/XAT/GMAT.
Why Choose IMT: IIBS Bangalore offers a wide range of PGDM programs with a focus
on innovation and entrepreneurship. The institute’s strong corporate connections and
consistently high placement records make it a popular choice for PGDM aspirants.
6. T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal
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Program Offered: PGDM, PGDM in Healthcare Management, PGDM in Banking and
Financial Services.
Entrance Exam: CAT/XAT/GMAT.
Why Choose TAPMI: TAPMI is known for its industry-oriented curriculum and practical
approach to learning. The institute offers specialized PGDM courses, making it a strong
contender among the top PGDM colleges in India. TAPMI also has an excellent track
record in terms of placements and industry collaborations.
7. Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Mumbai
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Program Offered: PGDM.
Entrance Exam: NMAT by GMAC.
Why Choose NMIMS: NMIMS is a leading management school offering a
comprehensive PGDM program with a strong focus on finance, marketing, and business
analytics. The institute boasts excellent faculty and infrastructure, making it a top choice
for management aspirants.
8. Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune
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Program Offered: PGDM.
Entrance Exam: SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test
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Why Choose SIBM: SIBM Pune is one of the leading institutes under the Symbiosis
International University umbrella, offering an industry-relevant PGDM program. Known
for its excellent infrastructure, faculty, and campus placements, SIBM has become a
popular destination for students pursuing PGDM in India.
9. Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), Gujarat
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Program Offered: PGDM in Rural Management.
Entrance Exam: CAT/XAT/IRMA Social Awareness Test.
Why Choose IRMA: IRMA is a unique institute offering PGDM with a focus on rural
management. With a mission to address the managerial challenges faced by rural India,
IRMA prepares students for leadership roles in rural development, agribusiness, and
social entrepreneurship.
10. Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai
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Program Offered: PGDM.
Entrance Exam: CAT/XAT/GMAT/CMAT.
Why Choose Great Lakes: Great Lakes is renowned for its fast-paced and
industry-oriented PGDM program. The institute emphasizes data analytics, digital
marketing, and other modern management trends. With a highly qualified faculty and
excellent placement records, it’s one of the top choices for PGDM aspirants.
Key Entrance Exams for PGDM Programs in India
1. CAT (Common Admission Test): Conducted by the IIMs, CAT is the most popular
entrance exam for PGDM/MBA programs across the country.
2. XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test): Conducted by XLRI, XAT is accepted by several top
business schools for PGDM admissions.
3. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): Widely accepted by top Indian
business schools and international institutions for PGDM programs.
4. NMAT by GMAC: Conducted for admission to NMIMS and several other reputed
management schools.
5. IIBSAT (International Institute Of Business Study Aptitude Test): Required for
admission to IIBS offering PGDM.
6. CMAT (Common Management Admission Test): Conducted by the National Testing
Agency (NTA) and accepted by many management institutes in India.
Conclusion
Choosing the best PGDM college in India depends on several factors, including the entrance
exam scores, curriculum, faculty, and placement records. Top PGDM institutions like IIMs, XLRI,
SPJIMR, and others offer world-class education, preparing students to excel in the competitive
business world. With entrance exams like CAT, XAT, GMAT, and others serving as gateways to
these prestigious institutions, aspiring candidates should focus on preparing thoroughly to
secure admission into their dream PGDM program.