ISB EFPM
About EFPM
The Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM) is a cornerstone of ISB’s research ecosystem. Executive Fellow Programme in Management is tailored for senior professionals seeking to bridge business theory and practice. Delivered in an executive format, EFPM equips leaders with advanced research skills to address real-world challenges through evidence-based insights. Spanning disciplines, it prepares participants to lead as scholar-practitioners and informed decision-makers in a dynamic business landscape.
| Mode: | Blended |
| Duration: | 3 years |
| Work experience: | 8+ years |
| Location: | Hyderabad |
Application Deadline
Admissions for 2025 intake is closed
Ideal Candidate Profile
The Executive FPM is tailored for experienced business leaders and faculty who have not pursued a terminal degree but possess the passion and intellectual curiosity for advanced research. It is ideal for senior professionals with significant industry experience who wish to explore business theory and apply it to real-world challenges - without pausing their careers. Many join to transition into academia, consulting, or to enhance their impact as research-driven practitioners.
The EFPM Edge
Advanced business education options beyond the MBA are limited, especially for working professionals. As business challenges grow more complex, senior leaders need research-driven insights to stay ahead.
EFPM equips experienced professionals to apply rigorous research in real-world contexts - enhancing their impact in industry, consulting, or academia. It also addresses the global shortage of qualified business faculty by preparing practitioners to contribute meaningfully to management education.
Admissions
ISB’s EFPM is designed for senior executives who seek to strengthen their research acumen and apply it to solve complex challenges in today’s dynamic business environment. Ideal candidates bring strong academic credentials, demonstrated intellectual depth, and exceptional communication skills. They are driven by a passion for applied research and a commitment to evidence-based problem-solving in their professional domain.
The ISB Executive FPM is designed for senior professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of research methods and apply them to real-world business challenges. Candidates typically possess strong academic backgrounds, demonstrated intellectual curiosity, and excellent communication skills. A keen interest in applied research and evidence-based problem-solving is essential.
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum 8 years of professional experience
- Bachelor’s degree (MBA or business master’s preferred, not mandatory)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Interest in connecting theory to practice through research
Note: GMAT or GRE scores are not required due to the programme’s executive format and experience-based focus.
The online application for the Class of 2025 is now open. Click on the “Apply” button to begin your application.
The EFPM Office accepts only online submissions, and the application can be completed in multiple sessions. You may save your progress and review all information before final submission.
A complete application must include:
- Scanned copy of your passport
- Recent colour photograph
- Bachelor’s degree certificates and transcripts (all semesters/years)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of income
- Application fee (as per instructions in the online form)
Letters of Recommendation:
Applicants must submit two recommendations that speak to their potential as engaged, successful participants in the EFPM. Recommenders should be individuals familiar with your academic or professional capabilities.
| Application Round | Deadline | Application Fee |
| Round I | February 28, 2025 | 5,000 |
| Round II | May 30, 2025 | 10,000 |
- A non-refundable application fee is to be paid for applying to the EFPM.
- Payments can be made online.
- The application fee includes taxes.
Fees and Scholarships
Programme fee for the academic year commencing in September 2025 is ₹47,00,000 plus taxes. The fee includes admission fee, tuition fee, boarding and lodging expenses for the residencies. Admitted students are required to pay a non-refundable admission fee in order to secure a seat in the class.
EFPM Cohort
The Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM) at ISB attracts a distinguished group of senior executives, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from diverse industries, including IT, consulting, financial services, and manufacturing.
EFPM Alumni
The EFPM alumni represent a distinguished network of accomplished professionals who seamlessly blend research excellence with real-world application.
Programme Overview
The Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM) is designed for senior professionals seeking to address complex business challenges through interdisciplinary, research-based approaches.
Curriculum
The coursework in the comprehensively designed curriculum includes various courses, Doc-Ed Series, Dissertation Seminars, Presentation, Case Study, Research Paper Presentatio and Dissertation Thesis.
Academic Progression
To ensure minimal leave requirements for participants, classes will be held Friday through Sunday every month. Each residency will focus on a particular course offering.
International Immersion
International immersion offers participants the opportunity to study or conduct research abroad, gaining global perspectives, expanding networks, and building cross-cultural competencies.
Join our webinars and info-sessions to gain insights into the EFPM programme. Hear from current students, ISB alumni, faculty, and the admissions team about their experiences and what the programme can offer you.
Campuses
The residencies of the EFPM will be held at either Hyderabad or Mohali campus. The campus where the residencies are to be held will be communicated to the students 2-3 months in advance.
The EFPM is a doctoral-level programme for business professionals seeking to integrate advanced business theory into their ongoing careers. The FPM, on the other hand, is a full-time programme that prepares individuals for academic careers.
EFPM is designed for senior professionals who want to continue working while earning a doctoral-level degree. The programme ideal for those aiming to deepen their business knowledge, improve research skills, and tackle modern business challenges.
Expect a richer understanding of management, improved problem-solving abilities, and valuable networking opportunities with senior executives, faculty, and industry leaders.
Yes, attendance is mandatory for all residencies.
EFPM classes are organized in the second or the third week of the month spreading over 3 days. Typically the classes are held on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM IST to 05:00 PM IST