Getting admission in one of the top ranked management institutes is one of the most important decision of your academic career. International Management Institute (IMI), Delhi is one of the best business schools in India and that too for all the right reasons. With its industry-oriented curriculum, experienced faculty and strong placement record, it is indeed a competitive destination for the MBA and PGDM aspirants.
But the IMI Delhi admission process can be intimidating, especially when there is so much conflicting information on the internet about “direct admission in IMI Delhi”, eligibility criteria, fees etc.
Here’s a simple and practical guide to the IMI Delhi PGDM admission process. From how to plan your entrance exam strategy to what happens after you apply, and how ShikshaLeap can help you get your PGDM seat – this article explains every step, so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
International Management Institute: IMI New Delhi
Established in 1981, the International Management Institute (IMI) New Delhi, has rightfully earned its place among the top MBA colleges in Delhi NCR. It was the first B-School in India to have received international accreditation from AMBA (Association of MBAs, UK) – a unique distinction that speaks for its global academic standards.
IMI Delhi’s PGDM program is approved by AICTE, accredited by NBA and recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) as equivalent to an MBA degree.
IMI Delhi is located at Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi and attracts students from all over the country. The Institute is known for its strong industry connections, diverse student cohort and consistent placement success across sectors.
When the graduate students think of the options across the top MBA colleges in Delhi-NCR, IMI Delhi has a definite and clear position. It is not trying to be everything to everyone, it has built its reputation on a focused academic experience, research-oriented faculty and a corporate network that has been developed over four decades.
Courses offered at IMI Delhi
Here are some of the things that come up consistently when we talk to IMI alumni at ShikshaLeap: strong quality of the Finance faculty, consistently motivated peer group, and the Qutab Institutional Area location that gives students meaningful access to corporate Delhi throughout the programme — for guest lectures, live projects, and internship placements.
IMI is one among the best management institutes of Delhi at a realistic level. This is due to the variety of management courses offered at IMI Delhi, they are:
| Programme name | Type | Duration | Seat intake |
| PGDM (General Management) | Full-time residential PGDM | 2 years | 300 seats |
| PGDM (Human Resource Management) – PGDM (HRM) | Full-time residential PGDM | 2 years | 60 seats |
| PGDM (Banking & Financial Services) – PGDM (B&FS) | Full-time residential PGDM | 2 years | 60 seats |
| PGDM (for Experienced Professionals) – 18‑month PGDM | Full-time PGDM for working professionals | 18 months | Not publicly fixed in the main PGDM intake page; cohort size varies by batch |
| PGDM (Online) | Online / blended PGDM | Typically 2 years (varies) | Institute-defined per batch; not part of the standard 420-seat full-time intake |
| Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) | Doctoral / research programme | 4+ years (varies) | Limited research scholar intake (small cohorts) |
| Executive PGDM / Management Development Programmes (MDPs) | Executive education (short/medium term) | Varies (few weeks to months) | Batch-wise, programme-specific |
IMI Delhi Eligibility Criteria
Before applying make sure you meet the following requirements for IMI Delhi PGDM:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university, with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (or equivalent CGPA).
- Final-Year Students: Those who are appearing for the final year of graduation are also eligible to apply, subject to the minimum percentage requirement on completion of graduation.
- Entrance Exam: A valid score of CAT, XAT, or GMAT.
PGDM at IMI Delhi is open to fresh graduates with no work experience required. Regular admission. That said, work experience, particularly if it is in a field relevant to your target specialisation, does add positively to both the shortlisting composite and the PI evaluation.
IMI Delhi eligibility for Executive PGDM programme is different as it requires significant work experience. The criteria are different than mentioned above, in case you’re a working professional eyeing that route – get in touch with us at ShikshaLeap for programme-specific guidance.
Oh one more thing almost forgot, there is no upper age limit for IMI Delhi PGDM admissions.
What is Direct Admission in IMI Delhi?
When students are searching for the term “direct admission in IMI Delhi” it usually means one of the two things. The first is simply: “What is the official process to get admitted?” The second is: “Is there a way to get in without going through the standard evaluation?”
The answer to the first question is simple and we will go through that in the next section.
Second answer.
“IMI Delhi direct admission” usually means that there is a well-established structure: Entrance exam score, then shortlisting, then Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) at IMI Delhi campus.
ShikshaLeap assists students in this journey, from choosing the correct program, eligibility, interview preparation and filling out the application correctly.
Call us don’t wait up we will have a discussion whether your entrance exam score is good for IMI Delhi PGDM direct admission or not.
IMI Delhi Admission Process: Step by Step
Knowing the IMI Delhi admission process in detail helps you to plan your timeline and avoid any last minute mistakes. Here’s the way it is:
Step 1: Appear for a Valid Entrance Exam
IMI Delhi accepts CAT (Common Admission Test), XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) and GMAT scores. Most Indian applicants take either the CAT or the XAT. The GMAT is typically taken by international students or people who are already working professionals.
If you are aiming for IMI Delhi for PGDM admission then ideally you should take CAT, XAT or GMAT.
IMI Delhi exam Cutoff: The IMI Delhi does not have any official fixed cut offs. However, a general benchmark based on historical admission trends is the following percentile ranges:
| Exam | Approximate Cutoff Percentile |
| CAT | 85+ percentile |
| XAT | 80+ percentile |
| GMAT | 650+ score |
Remember that the cutoff is not the only consideration. Candidates with good performance in academics and Personal Interview have been offered admission at percentiles below these. Inside gossip, high scorers also have been waitlisted due to weak interview performance. This is precisely why interview preparation matters as much as your entrance exam strategy.
Step 2: Submit the Online Application
When the IMI Delhi application window is open (usually from October to January), apply through the official IMI Delhi website. The procedure includes:
- Filling personal, academic and professional details
- Upload required documents
- Choose your desired program (PGDM, PGDM HRM or PGDM B&FS)
- Payment of application fee of approximately ₹2,200.
ShikshaLeap counselors can review your application before you submit it to make sure that everything is correct and complete. Let’s talk!
Step 3: Shortlisting
After the application window closes, IMI Delhi shortlists candidates for the next round based on a composite score. This typically considers:
- Entrance test score (CAT/XAT/GMAT)
- Academic performance in 10th, 12th, and graduation
- Work experience (if any)
- Diversity factors
The candidates who have been shortlisted are called for the Individual Assessment Process.
Step 4: Individual Assessment Process
IAP is the last screening round in IMI Delhi. It contains:
- Essay Writing: A written task that tests your communication skills, analytical thinking and ability to structure arguments.
- Personal Interview: This is a detailed one-to-one interview to assess your career goals, academic background, domain knowledge and overall fit with the program.
A good performance in the PI can go a long way in increasing your chances of getting an admission offer even if your entrance exam score is average.
Step 5: Final Admission Offer
The candidates are judged thoroughly after clearing IAP and the final merit lists are prepared. Admission offers are given in rounds. The candidates who are selected will have to pay the confirmation fee before the stipulated deadline to confirm the seat.
Can I get admission in IMI Delhi without CAT score?
And this is one of the most common questions we get on IMI Delhi PGDM admission, and it deserves a straight answer.
Yes, but with conditions.
IMI Delhi accepts CAT along with XAT and GMAT scores. So if you have not appeared for CAT or did not perform as expected, you have the options with XAT and GMAT.
What you can’t do is get around the requirement of the entrance exam entirely. IMI Delhi does not admit students based solely on academic scores, work experience, or through management quota.
GMAT preparation is different from CAT and at ShikshaLeap we help candidates make that transition when the GMAT route makes more sense for their situation.
IMI Delhi Fees Structure
1. IMI Delhi Self-Sponsored fees
The approximate total fee for IMI Delhi’s management programs on self-sponsored basis is as follows:
| Programme | Total Fees (approx.) |
| PGDM (General Management) | ₹23.54 lakh |
| PGDM (Human Resource Management) – PGDM (HRM) | ₹23.54 lakh |
| PGDM (Banking & Financial Services) – PGDM (B&FS) | ₹23.54 lakh |
| PGDM (for Experienced Professionals) – 18‑month PGDM | ₹14.96 lakh |
| PGDM (Online) | ₹4.38 lakh total programme fee |
| Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) | ₹11.27 lakh |
| Executive PGDM / Management Development Programmes (MDPs) | Programme-specific; not a single standard fee |
2. IMI Delhi Company-Sponsored fees
The approximate total fee for IMI Delhi Company sponsored seat is as follows:
| Programme | Total Fees (approx.) |
| PGDM (General Management) | ₹36.97 lakh |
| PGDM (Human Resource Management) – PGDM (HRM) | ₹36.97 lakh |
| PGDM (Banking & Financial Services) – PGDM (B&FS) | ₹36.97 lakh |
| PGDM (for Experienced Professionals) – 18‑month PGDM | ₹14.96 lakh |
| PGDM (Online) | ₹4.38 lakh total programme fee |
| Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) | ₹11.27 lakh |
| Executive PGDM / Management Development Programmes (MDPs) | Programme-specific; not a single standard fee |
3. IMI Delhi NRI Quota Fees
The approximate total fee for IMI Delhi NRI Quota Seats is as follows:
| Programme | Total Fees (USD approx.) |
| PGDM (General Management) | 26,720 |
| PGDM (Human Resource Management) – PGDM (HRM) | 26,720 |
| PGDM (Banking & Financial Services) – PGDM (B&FS) | 26,720 |
| PGDM (for Experienced Professionals) – 18‑month PGDM | 17,396 |
4. Hostel Fees & Mess Charges
IMI Delhi offers limited on campus hostel facility to students. The hostel features air-conditioning in all rooms. Hostel accommodation will be provided on a first-come-first-serve basis and at the discretion of the Institute.
Students admitted to the two-year PGDM programmes and availing hostel accommodation on the campus would have to pay the Hostel Fees as per the room allotted to them along with the Mess Fee.
- Hostel and mess charges for Indian students ranges from 3 to 4 lakhs depending on the room type.
- Hostel and mess charges for NRI students are around 4,653 USD.
IMI Delhi Placements Statistics
The consistent placement record of IMI Delhi is a reflection of its strong relationships with recruiters and an industry-aligned curriculum.
1. Overall Final Placement Highlights (Class of 2025)
The placement statistics for PGDM at IMI Delhi is as follows:

2. Program-Wise CTC Breakup (Class of 2025)
The program wise CTC breakup for PGDM at IMI Delhi is as follows:
| Academic Program | Average Package | Highest Package | Median Package |
| PGDM (General Management) | ₹17.60 LPA | ₹27.25 LPA | ₹16.60 LPA |
| PGDM (Banking & Financial Services – B&FS) | ₹20.90 LPA | ₹40.31 LPA | ₹19.20 LPA |
| PGDM (Human Resource Management – HRM) | ₹16.30 LPA | ₹25.00 LPA | ₹14.70 LPA |
3. Summer Internship Placement (SIP) Statistics:
The summer internship placement for PGDM at IMI Delhi is as follows:
| Internship Indicator | Metric Statistics | Operational Scope |
| Highest Stipend Offered | ₹3,50,000 | Cumulative total offered for a 2-month summer timeline. |
| Average Stipend Offered | ₹78,800 | Mean internship compensation across all specializations. |
| Median Stipend Offered | ₹60,000 | Standard benchmark for the mid-quartile internship intake. |
4. Sector-Wise Top Recruiters:
Top recruiters at IMI Delhi sector wise are as follows:
| Industry Sector | Primary Hires / Sector Share | Prominent Recruiters at Campus |
| BFSI & Financial Services | 28% – 50% Batch Share | JPMorgan Chase, American Express, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Barclays, HSBC, Wells Fargo, CRISIL. |
| Consulting & Analytics | 29% – 30% Batch Share | Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Capgemini, Gartner. |
| IT, ITES & Telecom | 4% – 14% Batch Share | Accenture, Cognizant, Infosys, Genpact, Tech Mahindra, Airtel, Adobe. |
| FMCG, FMCD & E-Commerce | 4% – 15% Batch Share | Flipkart, Swiggy, MakeMyTrip, Asian Paints, Berger Paints, Britannia. |
| Conglomerates & Manufacturing | 12% – 14% Batch Share | Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Reliance Industries, Adani Group, Shell Global, Vedanta Ltd.. |
How ShikshaLeap helps you secure IMI Delhi Admission?
Getting into a top management institute is not just about a good entrance score. It takes a well-made application, a compelling story for your Personal Interview, and a good understanding of the process.
What Does ShikshaLeap Provide to IMI Delhi PGDM Aspirants? Complete IMI Delhi Admission Assistance including:
- Eligibility Evaluation
- Help with your application
- PI and Essay Preparation
- Help with Document Verification
- Ongoing Guidance
We have helped hundreds of students to get admission in top B-Schools across India. If you’re considering IMI Delhi, we’d like to help you put your best foot forward.
Your MBA Future at IMI Delhi
IMI Delhi is a very good institution, not just on paper but in terms of what it delivers for students who go there prepared and with clear intent. Admission process is merit-based and transparent and competitive. There are no shortcuts, but there’s a clear way.
If you are aiming for IMI Delhi PGDM admission, it is time to start. Pick an entrance exam, evaluate your profile and start devising a focused application strategy.
ShikshaLeap will guide you through every step from understanding your eligibility to preparing for the Personal Interview. Book a free counseling session with our team and take your first step towards IMI Delhi admission.
ShikshaLeap — One Leap Today, A Lifetime of Progress!!
➡️ Start your IMI Delhi journey with confidence — Let ShikshaLeap guide you every step of the way!
ShikshaLeap wishes each and every Aspirant, best of Luck for your Journey! You already won the day to decide to go for it so let not anything stop you from achieving your goal and if you have any doubt regarding anything maybe it is the entrance exam, interview prep or profile building we are there as your Friend, Philosopher & Guide!
Let’s TALK @ 9980453099
FAQs: IMI Delhi PGDM Direct Admission
1. What is the direct admission process for IMI Delhi? Direct admission in IMI Delhi means applying directly through IMI Delhi’s official portal using your CAT, XAT, or GMAT score. The process includes shortlisting based on entrance exam scores and academics, followed by an Essay Writing and Personal Interview round.
2. What is the minimum CAT percentile required for IMI Delhi admission? IMI Delhi does not publish a fixed cutoff, but historical trends suggest a CAT percentile of 85–90 is generally competitive. Candidates with lower scores may still receive shortlisting calls if their academic record and work experience are strong.
3. Can I apply to IMI Delhi without a CAT score? Yes. IMI Delhi also accepts XAT and GMAT scores. GMAT is particularly suitable for working professionals and candidates with international exposure.
4. Is work experience mandatory for IMI Delhi PGDM admission? Work experience is not mandatory. Fresh graduates are eligible to apply for all three PGDM programs. However, relevant work experience can strengthen your profile during the Personal Interview.
5. What is the total fee for IMI Delhi’s PGDM program? The approximate total fee for IMI Delhi’s two-year PGDM program is ₹19–21 lakhs. This figure is subject to annual revision, so always verify the current fee on the official IMI Delhi website.
6. How does ShikshaLeap help with IMI Delhi MBA admission? ShikshaLeap provides comprehensive IMI Delhi admission guidance, including eligibility assessment, application support, Statement of Purpose drafting, mock Personal Interviews, and document assistance. The goal is to help you present the strongest possible application.
7. What are the specializations available in IMI Delhi’s PGDM program? IMI Delhi offers specializations in Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Operations & Supply Chain, Business Analytics, International Business, and Information Technology. Specializations are typically chosen at the end of the first year.
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