PGP Help Center

• What has been ISB’s response to the disruption of classes due to COVID 19?

 ISB has taken to this crisis situation as an opportunity and we have significantly modified the program structure. In a revolutionary new programme structure titled PGP 2.0, new elements have been incorporated through the use of blended learning. This new format will be a 52-week format and will include many new value-added elements such as a Digital Headstart Module (DHM), a dedicated career preparation week, study treks to international, national and domestic locations and more time for the ELP projects.

• What are the different components of Digital Headstart Module (DHM)?

DHM is a module which is a part of the curriculum and is conducted prior to the students joining campus through a specially customised digital platform. This consists of 4 parts:

1) Academic: Four core courses of the Term 1 are taught in DHM along with their evaluations and these are part of the credits that students need to complete

2) Independent Projects: These are the projects that students do in teams along with their peers and guided by a faculty member. These projects are themed around a  topic of national importance and Co21 are doing these projects around the theme of Jumpstart India: Reviving Indian economies post COVID-19. The results of these projects will be submitted to relevant authorities for implementation

3) Leadership Series and ISB Perspectives: These series expose the students to insights and talks by various Industry leaders, ISB Board Members, Corporate Leaders and alumni who share their insights with the Class. With the Digital format top industry leaders can share their insights with the students at ISB

4) Co-curricular Activities: In the new structure, the co-curricular activities begin digitally even before the students are on campus. providing them more opportunities to bond and pursue their interests outside academics

• What is the duration of Digital Headstart Module?

Digital Headstart Module for Co’21 is 10 weeks. However, it will evolve for future batches based on feedback and learnings over a period of time. 

• What are the benefits of DHM?

Enhanced learning opportunities through the synergies imparted by blended learning. Ease into the rigorous curriculum through pacing of the first term core courses. Opportunities for interaction with a wide spectrum of industry leaders

• Make a difference through independent projects under expert faculty members

Greater opportunities to know your peers

• What are study treks?

Students get an opportunity to be part of various corporate exposure trips through faculty-led/student-led treks. During these treks', participants are exposed to the various stakeholders and get to have a complete understanding of an industry/organisation. There are three types of study treks

International: Participants travel to organisations in international locations

Domestic: Participants travel to organisations in domestic locations

Social Sector: Participants visit an organisation in the government or social sector

• What is the purpose of the Career Week?

Career Week helps students prepare for their placement interviews and this week will comprise of various workshops to prepare students for the  interviews and for choosing their careers during the placement week. These would include interactions with key industry leaders, workshops on resume building etc.

• What is the PGP?

The Post Graduate Programme or PGP refers to ISB’s full-time one-year residential management programme. The PGP is comparable in rigor and content to a regular two-year full-time MBA programme offered by global business schools.

• Is the PGP similar to the Executive MBA programs offered by several business schools?

No, the Post Graduate Programme is similar in rigor and content to a regular two-year full-time MBA programme offered by global business schools.

• Does the PGP award an MBA degree?

No, only universities can award a degree in India. ISB PGP is neither a degree nor a diploma. 

• What are the concentrations being offered in the PGP?
  

The concentrations offered can be viewed on our website at  learning model

• How many students will be admitted for PGP?

Around 900. The class of 2020 recently graduated with 896 students across Hyderabad and Mohali campus.

• What is the criterion for admission to the ISB Post Graduate Programme?

The eligibility criteria are:

1) Students must possess an undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree)/post-graduate degree in any discipline.

2) A minimum of two years' full-time work experience (for the PGP regular admissions) and less than 24 months of full-time work experience (for a deferred admission through the Early Entry Option) is preferred.

3) A valid GMAT/ GRE score.

4) TOEFL/IELTS score is required for students from countries other than India, where English is not the primary language of instruction 

All short-listed applicants will be interviewed as a part of the selection process.

• Is there a cut-off score for the GMAT/GRE for PGP?

There is no cut-off score for the GMAT/GRE. However, the range of GMAT in the current class is 600 to 780 and the range of GRE is 311 to 335. 

• Is it mandatory to take the GMAT/GRE before applying to PGP?

Yes, the applicant has to take the GMAT/GRE and submit the score before sending in the application. 

• Can I apply with a Test Centre score report of the GMAT/GRE?

Yes, you can. The application can be submitted along with the test centre/unofficial score report. The official score report from Pearson VUE (GMAT) / ETS (GRE) should reach the Admissions Team within three weeks of application submission.

• Does ISB require the IR score for evaluation?

No, The Integrated Reasoning (IR) scores will not be considered for your application evaluation. 

• What is the validity period for a GMAT/GRE score?

GMAT/GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the date the exam was taken. Please ensure that your score is valid as on the deadline date of the round in which you apply. 

• If I submit more than one GMAT/GRE score, which score will be considered by ISB?

The higher score would be considered, provided it is within the validity period of five years.

• How long does it take for the Official GMAT/GRE scores to reach ISB?

Once you report the scores, it takes up to three weeks for the official scores to reach us.

• Will I be considered for the deadline if I send my GMAT/GRE scores later?

You will not be allowed to submit your application without a valid GMAT/GRE score. However, you can submit the application with your test center score report.

• Can the GMAT / GRE requirement be waived under exceptional circumstances?

No

• Does ISB require a test to prove proficiency in English?

A TOEFL/IELTS score is required for non-Indian students who did not have English as the primary language of instruction during their undergraduate studies

• Where would we get more information about TOEFL?

Please visit the official  TOFEL website or write to toefl@ets.org

• What is IELTS?

IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. To know more about IELTS, please visit their official website

• Where do I get a copy of the application form?

ISB’s entire application process is available online and therefore, no printed copy of the form is available/accepted. You will need access to an internet-enabled computer to apply to the program. You will also need to scan some documents to be uploaded and will need access to a scanner.

• Does the entire application need to be completed within one session?

No, you can complete the online application in multiple sessions and have the option to save parts of the application as you proceed.

• Which deadline is better to apply - Cycle 1 or Cycle 2?

We encourage everyone to apply early as it helps candidates to plan work & relocation arrangements. However, applying in either cycle doesn't have any material impact on your chances of selection.

• What percentage of seats are offered in each of the deadlines?

About 50% of the seats are made available in each cycle.  However, the number of offers we make is at the discretion of the school.

• Do I also need to submit a printed copy of the application form once I have submitted it online?

No 

• How do I send in my academic transcripts/mark sheets, other documents, and photographs required as part of the application?

You may scan and upload the documents (photograph, passport, etc.) in the PDF format as part of the application.

• How will the evaluators submit their recommendation forms? 

Evaluators can submit the evaluation/recommendation in the online mode.  
Online evaluation requires you to update the evaluator’s current official email ID in your online application form. However, if your evaluator does not have an official email  ID, the personal email ID will be accepted. We will forward a questionnaire to your evaluator as a web link, which he/she would have to fill and submit online. Re-applicants also need to fill in the evaluator details afresh.

• How will ISB verify my transcripts/documents?

At the time of joining the programme, you will need to bring all the original documents with which we will verify the photocopies/scans with these originals. 
In addition, we also undertake background verification through an external vendor, once the offer is accepted by the applicant.

• Can I reapply?

Yes, you can reapply. Please note that you cannot reapply within the same academic year. You have to submit a fresh online application along with the application fee and essays next year. 

• Can I request for feedback on my previous application?

ISB doesn't provide individual feedback on applications. 

• Do you acknowledge receipt of the application by mail?

We convey the status of your application online. Do remember to check your application status.

• How do I submit a resume as a part of the application?

There is no need for submitting a separate resume.  The online application module will generate a resume in the required format with the details you have filled as part of the application.  It includes your Academic details, Employment details (along with responsibilities/achievements) and awards & activities.

• Do you have a GD/Personal Interview as part of the admission criteria?

As a part of the admissions process, all shortlisted candidates will be interviewed. There is no group discussion.

• How many applicants are called for interview in each cycle and how many selected?

There is no fixed percentage of students being called by ISB either for interviews or for admission.

• What will be the mode of my interview if I am overseas at the time of the interview?

You will be interviewed over telephone & Skype call. You have to call the telephone number given in the interview mail sent to you and connect to the Skype ID given.

Are there different fee structures for Indian and International students?

No, the fee structure is the same for all students.

• How do I accept the offer of admission?

You may accept the offer made by remitting a non-refundable admission fee of INR 250,000/- plus taxes within the deadline specified in the offer email. If the amount has not been paid within the deadline, it will be assumed that you are not interested in joining the program and the offer will be withdrawn.

• Is the admission fee separate from the overall academic fee?

No, the Admission fee is part of the Academic fee. On accepting the admission offer, the admit is initially required to pay a non-refundable sum of Rs. 250,000/- plus taxes as admission fee. Please note that the admission fee is non-refundable 
 
I have paid the admission fee but due to unavoidable circumstances, I will not be able to join the program. Will the admission fee be refunded to me?

No, the admission fee once remitted is not refundable. 

• How much time do I have to accept or decline an admission offer?

ISB should receive your acceptance decision within 10 days from the date of the admission offer. For candidates who have been made an offer after being put on the waitlist, need to pay the admission fee by the date mentioned in the offer letter.

• How can I pay the application fee?

You may remit the application fee using any Master/Visa/credit card or through net banking.

• Can the admission offer acceptance date be extended?

No, the acceptance dates are fixed by the Admissions Committee. If the acceptance amount is not received by the due date, it will be assumed that the applicant is not interested in the program and the offer made to the applicant will stand automatically withdrawn.

• I fulfill the eligibility criteria but cannot afford the full tuition fee. Can ISB help?

Financial Aid is provided to students in the form of tuition waivers, scholarships, and loans.  
 
Tuition Waivers & Scholarships: ISB awards both merit and need-based tuition waivers to qualifying applicants ranging from INR 3,00,000 to full tuition. Details of these waivers will be indicated in the admission offer where applicable. The details of the waivers/ scholarships are available on our website. Please visit the link for scholarship details.

Loans: Student loans are available through a few leading financial institutions. Please check the website for details

• What is the difference between tuition waivers and scholarships?

Tuition waivers are discounts on the tuition fee granted by ISB and communicated in the admission offer while scholarships are generally granted by other organizations and dependent on your performance in the programme.

• Does ISB offer financial aid to international students?
  

Yes, ISB offers financial aid to qualifying International students through tuition waivers  

• What kinds of profiles usually get selected for scholarships?
  

The selection criteria usually depend on the organization granting the scholarship. The qualifying process is highly competitive, and the selection criteria vary from year to year.

• How can an applicant apply for a tuition waiver?

While there is no application needed for applying for a merit waiver, the applicant must write the essay given in the application form and submit proof of income as detailed in the application.

• When can one apply for an educational loan?

Once the admission process has been completed, all admitted students will be informed of the loan application deadlines through a separate email.

Can I get a sponsorship from the company where I am working?

Yes, applicants are encouraged to get themselves sponsored by their employers.

Are there any other criteria to be fulfilled by the applicant for getting sponsorship from their employer?

No, there are no separate admission criteria for such candidates and the regular admission procedure will apply.

Is there a different fee structure for sponsored students?

No, the fee structure and the selection criteria are universally applicable.

How many students normally go on Exchange Programmes?

The number varies from year to year. 40+ Global business schools are a part of the ISB Exchange Network.

When do students go on Exchange Programmes?

Students go on an exchange programme depending upon the mutual schedules of ISB and the concerned exchanged partner school. This period can range from one to two ISB elective terms, most often terms 7 and 8 although some students do go in terms 5 and 6.

What are the selection criteria for the Exchange Programmes?

The students are allotted bidding points which they use to bid for their preferred exchange programme.

How does the bidding process work?

Each student is allotted an equal number of bidding points. Each term students must apply their points towards particular courses and the highest bidder is enrolled in each course. Normally most students get most of the courses that they bid for.

How do people manage possible time-clashes between the placement season and the Exchange Programme?

Most students return during placement week to participate, while others manage their placements from overseas.

Will all students admitted be allowed to participate in the exchange programmes?

Yes, for more details please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/international-exchange and http://www.isb.edu/pgp/learning-model/inter-campus-exchange

Is there a summer internship at ISB? If yes, how does it work?

As ISB's PGP is a one-year programme, a summer internship is not possible. However, ISB offers the Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) to benefit students interested in doing projects while on campus. For more on ELP, please visit http://www.isb.edu/for-organisations/recruit/student-projects/experiential-learning-programme

When do the Placements start?

Placements usually start in the second week of November/December every year. While a few international companies start coming in from October onwards, the placements continue till end of March.

Does ISB guarantee placements? What are the placements for graduates of ISB PGP likely to be?

No, ISB does not guarantee placements but every effort is made by the Career Advancement Services (CAS) Office to help students find and secure their ideal career opportunities.  However, placements are a function of demand and supply and the CAS helps students manage their career expectations realistically.

How was the placement scenario this year? Which are the companies that recruited this year? What was the average salary offered?

The details are on the website under the Placement highlights section. You can also download the Placement Report for this year from the website

Does ISB’s PGP enable career shifts across function & industry?

Yes, our PGP program enables career shifts across function & industry.

•  As a first step, a student must be clear on what they seek. This comes from personal preferences, aspirations, research etc.

• When you join our PGP, our Career Advancement Services (CAS) gives you the necessary inputs through workshops, psychometric analysis and one-on-one discussions for furthering your career aspirations. You will work with our L&D (Learning & Development) team so you are able to make informed decisions and prepare for the career you would like to embark upon.

• The case-study classroom and peer group interactions are also designed so that you can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make the career transition you desire.

• It is crucial that the students take ownership of developing the required skills-set when employers come to recruit on campus. It is up to the students to convince the employer finally that they are the best fit for the roles they are applying.

What is the role of visiting faculty at ISB?

ISB invites faculty to teach a course during a term and they are available on campus throughout the term. Faculty from Wharton, Kellogg, London Business School, Stanford, Chicago, Duke, and Texas among others, have taught at ISB. For more details please visit http://www.isb.edu/faculty-research/faculty/directory

How accessible are the faculty to the students?

Faculty members are easily accessible to the students, as they stay on campus throughout the term.

Does AICTE/UGC recognize ISB’s Post Graduation Programme in Management?

ISB neither offers a diploma nor a degree. It is a certificate program for students with experience. Therefore, we have not sought recognition for our Post Graduate Programme in Management from either the AICTE or the UGC.  However, ISB's PGP is accredited by the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (EFMD Quality Improvement System).

Are all students required to live on campus?

Given the rigour of the course and ISB’s aim to build a small but highly interactive campus community, it is a fully residential programme for all students.

Do you provide accommodation for married students?

We offer fully serviced studio apartments with a preferential allotment to married students. However, your preferred type of accommodation cannot always be guaranteed, though every reasonable effort is made to address your specific requirements.

What all is provided in the accommodation?

Accommodation information can be found at  http://www.isb.edu/pgp/campuses

What is the procedure to visit the campus?

We encourage prospective applicants to visit the campus at Mohali/Hyderabad and have a look at our facilities. Campus tours are organized on Fridays during the office hours (2 pm to 4 pm).          
Kindly schedule a confirmed appointment for a mutually convenient slot by emailing your request with a copy of your updated Curriculum Vitae/Resume to Team Admissions at pgp@isb.edu preferably a week in advance.

What are the facilities provided on campus?  

ISB has the following facilities:

Subway, SipZ, Country oven and TFNK in Hyderabad, Juju’s Café and CCD in Mohali 
Canteen serviced by Green Park in Hyderabad and Sarovar in Mohali 
ICICI Bank in Hyderabad and Indian Bank in Mohali Campus 
ICICI and SBI ATMs in Hyderabad and Indian Bank ATM in Mohali Campus 
A full-fledged Post Office in Hyderabad 
Daily Needs store- Sampoorna in Hyderabad and MORE in Mohali 
Infirmary – Branch of Care in Hyderabad and Max Wellness Centre in Mohali 
Recreation Centre – Equipped with Squash, Swimming pool, Basketball ground, Tennis, Table Tennis, Gymnasium, Toddler’s room etc. 
House Keeping 
Washing machines in addition to laundry service 
Please check the website for further information http://www.isb.edu/about-isb/campuses  

Do you have any quotas for NRI'S/SC/ST/BC?

No. ISB doesn't give any reservations or quotas. However, we encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

Will Indian and foreign applicants be evaluated on the same basis?

Yes.

Do you have a deferral policy in ISB?

Yes, we have a deferral policy in place. However, it is approved only in extenuating situations on a case by case basis.

I have been offered Admission into PGP. However, I would like to defer my admission to the following year. How can I do that?

You may send in a request along with reasons (including supporting documents) by email and it will be referred to the Admissions Committee. A decision will be taken on a case by case basis and communicated to the applicant.

Is there an additional fee applicable, if I wish to defer my admission?

An additional interest-free deposit of INR 250,000/- needs to be remitted within 10 days from the date of deferral being communicated.

Can the deferred admission be deferred for a further year?

No, further deferral will not be possible.

What would be the tuition applicable to me, if I wish to defer my admission?

Tuition fee payable is  applicable as per the class you will be enrolling for.

Will the admission fee/additional deposit be refundable, if I fail to join the programme, even after getting my admission deferred?

The initial admission fee of INR 250,000 is non-refundable under any circumstances. However, the additional deposit is refundable.

Will part-time work experience be considered?

Work experience should be full-time. Part-time work experience will not be considered.

Is CA article-ship considered as work experience?

While the article-ship will add value to the exposure, it will not be considered as work experience for admission.

Will Army service be considered as work experience?

Yes, your work experience will be viewed in the context of the responsibilities you have handled.

I have worked in my family owned business for the past three years – will this experience be considered?

If this experience is full-time and if you can support this with relevant documents in your application, you can apply. The quality and relevance of your experience in your business will be critical. You will still have to furnish recommendations. Recommendations from your father, friends and family will not be accepted. You should furnish recommendation from people with whom you have a strictly professional interaction such as your clients, vendors etc.

Do I need 16 years of formal education?

No, as long as you have been awarded a Bachelor's Degree from a recognised university, you are eligible to apply.

How important are extra-curricular activities in the application?

ISB would like to admit well-rounded students. Extra-curricular activities add that extra dimension to your personality. In the US, it is routine for people to do community service, which they can mention as an extra-curricular activity in their applications. But Indian conditions are different, so not having done such activities is understandable. However, you may have done things outside your academic pursuits that are worth a mention. Did you tutor a kid anytime, did you organize a festival in your apartment complex, did you volunteer your time in some campaign or raise funds for  a cause?  If you haven't done anything at all, it's never too late to start. Don't do it just to get your B-school admission, but do what interests you. If you are in the IT area, think of something related to IT that you can do after office hours. How about persuading your company to donate their obsolete computers to charity? The possibilities are endless.

Will I need to buy textbooks?

Although most study material is included in the course packs, you will need to buy textbooks for various courses periodically. The expenditure on textbooks for the programme is estimated at INR 15,000 - INR 20,000. 

Are there any schools for children in the vicinity of ISB?

Yes, there are several schools around ISB. More information is available upon request.

Having done an MBA, am I eligible for ISB's programme?

There is no restriction in applying to our programme, but you should demonstrate very good reasons in your application for wanting to do the PGP from ISB.

I hold a Master Mariner’s competency certificate. Will I be eligible for applying to ISB?

Yes, you will be. However, you will need to obtain a certificate from World Education Services (http://www.wes.org) to the effect that your certificate course is equivalent to a Degree.

I have completed a three-year diploma course but do not have an undergraduate degree. Am I eligible for the ISB Programme?

The eligibility criterion at ISB requires all students to have an undergraduate degree. If your diploma is equivalent to a degree by the appropriate authorities, it will be acceptable, otherwise not.

I have a CABM certification in addition to an Undergrad degree.  Is this going to be an added advantage in my application to ISB?

We recognise the CABM Credential as an additional qualification and could help with the shortlist for the interview.

What is the Early Entry Option?

The Early Entry Option is a deferred admission offer to the PGP. 

What is the criterion for admission to the Early Entry Option?

The eligibility criteria are:

• Students must possess an undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree)/Post-graduate degree in any discipline
• Less than 24 months of post qualification work experience by March 31
• A valid GMAT / GRE score 
• TOEFL/IELTS score is required for students from countries other than India, where English is not the primary language of instruction

All short-listed applicants will be interviewed as a part of the selection process

What percentage of seats are offered through EEO?

There is no minimum/fixed percentage.

I am a final year student or a recent graduate. Am I eligible to apply to the YLP?

Pre-final and final year undergraduate and post graduate college students are eligible to apply to the YLP. Graduates can apply directly to the PGP.

If I'm pursuing a 5-year degree, am I still eligible for the YLP?

Yes, students pursuing under graduate, post graduate or integrated programmes (Bachelor's + Master's) of any duration are eligible to apply.

If I apply to YLP and I'm not admitted, will it negatively affect my chances of acceptance to ISB in the future?

No, a rejection for the YLP has no bearing on your chances of acceptance in the future.

Will the YLP guarantee me a job after graduation?

The YLP is an entry route to the PGP at ISB. Placement support is provided to PGP students once they complete the PGP. No placement support is provided to YLP admits prior to their enrolment in the PGP through the YLP.

Once I come to ISB, will I and the other YLP admitted students be part of a separate programme?

YLP admits join the PGP cohort without any discrimination.

Which test scores does the YLP accept?

GMAT or GRE scores are required as a part of the Stage II evaluation process of YLP. You may choose to take either one. 

How many evaluations (recommendations) are required at each stage?

Only one evaluation (recommendation) is required in Stage II of the evaluation process.

How many rounds of application/interview do I need to go through prior to being selected?

The YLP evaluation process is spread across three stages. Each stage requires the candidate to provide additional information. For updated details, please refer to the YLP web pages.