MBA Colleges Without CAT Exam: Pursuing an MBA is a significant step for individuals looking to enhance their management skills and career growth. While the Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most widely accepted entrance exams for MBA programs in India, not all top business schools require it. Many reputed institutions now offer alternative admission routes that don't rely on CAT scores.
This opens up new opportunities for candidates who may have missed the CAT exam or prefer other entrance exams or direct admission options. Candidates the top MBA colleges without CAT exam requirements and outline the steps to secure admission successfully.
MBA Colleges Without CAT Overview
Several reputed colleges across India offer MBA admissions without requiring a CAT score. These institutions provide alternative pathways for candidates through other entrance exams or direct admission options. Here's a curated list of the top 9 MBA colleges in India that accept students without the CAT exam.
| MBA Colleges Without CAT Overview |
| College |
Location |
Entrance Exam |
Specializations |
Noteworthy Features |
| XLRI Jamshedpur |
Jamshedpur, Jharkhand |
XAT |
HRM, BM, GM |
Rigorous academic curriculum, emphasis on ethical leadership, diverse programs, and a strong alumni network. |
| SIBM Pune |
Pune, Maharashtra |
SNAP |
Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Operations Management |
Innovative pedagogy, integration of practical exposure, diverse specializations, and a robust placement record. |
| NMIMS Mumbai |
Mumbai, Maharashtra |
NMAT |
Business Analytics, Pharmaceutical Management, Executive MBA |
Dynamic curriculum, emphasis on specialized programs, and collaborations with industry leaders. |
| SPJIMR Mumbai |
Mumbai, Maharashtra |
CAT , XAT, GMAT |
Global Fast Track (GFT), Finance, Operations, Marketing |
Global exposure, unique learning methodologies, and a comprehensive approach to candidate selection. |
| Xavier University |
Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
XAT, GD, PI |
Marketing, Finance, Human Resource Management |
Inclusive education, emphasis on cultural diversity, and a commitment to producing socially responsible leaders. |
| Indian School of Business |
Hyderabad, Telangana |
GMAT , ISBAT |
PGPM, Executive MBA |
Experiential learning and industry collaboration + Global exposure and diverse student community |
| IIFT Delhi |
New Delhi |
IIFT Entrance Exam |
International Business |
Focus on global trade and commerce, international collaborations, and alumni excelling in diverse sectors globally. |
| JBIMS Mumbai |
Mumbai, Maharashtra |
CAT, CMAT , MH-CET |
Master of Management Studies (MMS), Executive MBA |
Strong industry connections, practical learning, and a legacy of producing leaders and entrepreneurs. |
| BITS Pilani |
Pilani, Rajasthan |
BITS MBA Entrance Exam, GD, PI |
Business Analytics, Finance, Marketing, IT Management |
Integration of business and technology, emphasis on research and innovation, and a unique blend of management education. |
| Jamia Millia Islamia |
New Delhi |
JMI Entrance Test |
International Business, Entrepreneurship and Family Business, and Healthcare and Hospital Management |
Diverse specializations, strong placement opportunities, practical learning through internships, experienced faculty, and robust networking events. |
Top MBA Colleges Without CAT 2025
The pursuit of an MBA typically starts with the goal of clearing the CAT exam, which leading business schools in India widely accept. However, not all institutions follow this conventional route. Several prestigious MBA colleges have adopted alternative admission methods, evaluating candidates based on various criteria. There are over 25 MBA colleges in India that offer admission without requiring a CAT score. To help aspirants navigate their options, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 such institutions worth considering.
XLRI Jamshedpur
XLRI Jamshedpur, one of the oldest business schools in India, has consistently set high standards for management education. Established in 1949, XLRI has nurtured leaders and entrepreneurs through its rigorous academic programs and holistic approach to management education.
| XLRI Jamshedpur Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
XLRI Jamshedpur |
| Established |
1949 |
| Type |
Business School |
| Location |
Jamshedpur, India |
| Admission Process |
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) |
| Admission Criteria |
Analytical, quantitative, and verbal abilities; Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI) |
| Admission Cutoff (XAT 2023) |
93 percentile |
| Cutoff Significance |
Reflects the college's prestigious reputation and strong alumni network |
| Seat Requirements |
Exceptional performance in XAT, strong academic and professional background |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 32.7 LPA, Highest in 2023: 1.1 CPA |
| Major Recruiters |
McKinsey & Company, BCG, Morgan Stanley, Amazon |
| Placement Sectors |
Consulting, Finance, Marketing |
XLRI Jamshedpur Admission Process
Unlike admissions based solely on the CAT exam, XLRI uses the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) to assess candidates. This comprehensive test evaluates skills in areas such as analytical thinking, quantitative ability, and verbal reasoning. Beyond the written exam, XLRI also emphasizes a candidate’s performance in the Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) stages, aiming to gauge overall aptitude, communication skills, and management potential.
XLRI Jamshedpur Cutoff
- XAT 2024 - 93 percentile
- This is one of the highest cut-offs in India, reflecting the college's prestigious reputation and strong alumni network.
- Securing a seat requires exceptional performance in the XAT, along with a strong academic and professional background.
XLRI Jamshedpur Placement
- Average package - 32.7 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 1.1 CPA)
- Known for its excellent placement record, with major recruiters like McKinsey & Company, BCG, Morgan Stanley, and Amazon regularly participating.
- Strong focus on consulting, finance, and marketing sectors.
SIBM Pune
Established in 1978, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune, is widely recognized for its forward-thinking academic approach and international outlook. Over the years, it has maintained its reputation as one of India's premier business schools.
| SIBM Pune Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune |
| Established |
1978 |
| Type |
Business School |
| Location |
Pune, India |
| Admission Process |
Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) |
| Admission Criteria |
Quantitative, verbal, and analytical abilities; Past academic records; Work experience; Written Ability Test (WAT); Personal Interview (PI) |
| Admission Cutoff (SNAP 2023) |
99-100 percentile (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
Reflects the competitive nature of the MBA program |
| Seat Requirements |
Strong score in SNAP, good academic background, work experience |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 26.77 LPA, Highest in 2023: 35.5 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
FMCG, IT, BFSI, Consulting |
| Placement Sectors |
Strong placement across various sectors |
| Alumni Network |
Well-established and actively supports placement activities |
SIBM Pune Admission Process
SIBM Pune conducts the Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP), an entrance exam that evaluates candidates on quantitative, verbal, and analytical abilities. The institute places importance on past academic records, work experience, and performance in the Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds
SIBM Pune Cutoff
- SNAP 2024 - 99-100 percentile
- Another highly coveted MBA program with a competitive selection process.
- Requires a strong score in SNAP along with a good academic background and work experience.
SIBM Pune Placement
- Average package - 26.77 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 35.5 LPA)
- Strong placement across various sectors, including FMCG, IT, BFSI, and consulting.
- Alumni network is well-established and actively supports placement activities.
NMIMS Mumbai
Established in 1981 and situated in India's financial capital, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) stands out as one of the leading business schools in the country. Known for its adaptive and industry-relevant programs, NMIMS continually updates its curriculum to align with the evolving demands of the global business landscape.
| NMIMS Mumbai |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Mumbai |
| Established |
1981 |
| Type |
Business School |
| Location |
Mumbai, India |
| Admission Process |
NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT) |
| Admission Criteria |
Language, quantitative ability, logical reasoning; Work experience; Academic achievements; Case Discussion (CD); Personal Interview (PI) |
| Admission Cutoff (NMAT 2023) |
235-245 (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
Moderately competitive, accessible to a wider range of candidates |
| Seat Requirements |
Strong overall profile |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 26.63 LPA, Highest in 2023: 67.80 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
Finance, Marketing, IT, Operations |
| Placement Sectors |
Diversified placement across various sectors |
| Entrepreneurial Focus |
Yes |
| Alumni Network |
Strong alumni network in business and finance |
NMIMS Mumbai Admission Process
NMIMS conducts the NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT), a computer-based exam that assesses candidates' skills in language, quantitative ability, and logical reasoning. The institute also considers work experience, academic achievements, and performance in the Case Discussion (CD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds.
NMIMS Mumbai Cutoff
- NMAT by GMAC 2024 - 235-245 (Expected)
- A relatively moderate cutoff compared to other top colleges, making it accessible to a wider range of candidates.
- However, the program is still highly selective and requires a strong overall profile.
NMIMS Mumbai Placement
- Average package - 26.63 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 67.80LPA)
- Diversified placement across sectors like finance, marketing, IT, and operations.
- Known for its entrepreneurial focus and strong alumni network in business and finance.
S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research Mumbai
Founded in 1981 and located in Mumbai, S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) has established a strong reputation in management education. The institute is known for its forward-thinking teaching methods and emphasis on global exposure, helping students develop both academic and practical business skills.
| S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research Mumbai |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai |
| Established |
1981 |
| Type |
Business School |
| Location |
Mumbai, India |
| Admission Process |
Profile-Based Shortlisting Process |
| Admission Criteria |
Academic background, work experience, extracurricular activities, achievements; Profile-Based Shortlisting Process includes psychometric test and personal interviews |
| Admission Cutoff (CAT 2023) |
97-99 percentile (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
One of the most prestigious and sought-after MBA programs in India |
| Seat Requirements |
Top score in CAT, stellar academic and professional background |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 33.02 LPA, Highest in 2023: 77.8 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, Boston Consulting Group |
| Placement Sectors |
Consulting, Finance, General Management |
| Innovative Pedagogy |
Yes |
| Global Perspective |
Yes |
SPJIMR Admission Process
SPJIMR follows a profile-based admission process, considering a candidate's academic background, work experience, extracurricular activities, and achievements. The institute conducts the Profile-Based Shortlisting Process, which involves multiple stages, including a psychometric test and personal interviews.
SPJIMR Cutoff
- CAT 2024 - 97-99 percentile
- Considered one of the most prestigious and sought-after MBA programs in India.
- Requires a top score in CAT along with a stellar academic and professional background.
SPJIMR Placement
- Average package - 33.02 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 77.8 LPA)
- Excellent placement record with major recruiters like McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, and Boston Consulting Group.
- Strong focus on consulting, finance, and general management sectors.
Xavier University Bhubaneswar
Established in 2013, Xavier University Bhubaneswar (XUB) is a young but rapidly rising presence in Indian business education. Despite its brief history, XUB has quickly distinguished itself through rigorous academics and a strong focus on holistic student development.
| Xavier University Bhubaneswar Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Xavier University Bhubaneswar (XUB) |
| Established |
2013 |
| Type |
University |
| Location |
Bhubaneswar, India |
| Admission Process |
Comprehensive admission process; Consideration of academic performance, work experience, performance in Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) or other recognized national-level management entrance exams; Inclusive admission policies for diversity |
| Admission Criteria |
Academic performance, work experience, performance in XAT or other recognized exams |
| Admission Cutoff (XAT 2023) |
95-97 percentile (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
Highly respected program with a focus on social entrepreneurship and ethics |
| Seat Requirements |
Good score in XAT, demonstrated commitment to social responsibility |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 20 LPA, Highest in 2023: 71 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
Healthcare, Education, Development, Sustainability |
| Placement Sectors |
Diverse placement across various sectors |
| Social Entrepreneurship Focus |
Yes |
| Alumni Network |
Strong in social impact and non-profit organizations |
Xavier University Bhubaneswar Admission Process
XUB follows a comprehensive admission process, considering various parameters such as academic performance, work experience, and performance in the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) or other recognized national-level management entrance exams. The institute's commitment to diversity is reflected in its inclusive admission policies.
Xavier University Bhubaneswar Cutoff
- XAT 2024 - 95-97 percentile
- A highly respected program with a strong focus on social entrepreneurship and ethics.
- Requires a good score in XAT along with a demonstrated commitment to social responsibility.
Xavier University Bhubaneswar Placement
- Average package - 20 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 71 LPA)
- Diverse placement across sectors like healthcare, education, development, and sustainability.
- Strong alumni network in social impact and non-profit organizations.
Indian School of Business Hyderabad
The Indian School of Business (ISB), based in Hyderabad, is a leading institution that has significantly transformed the landscape of management education in India. Since its inception in 2001, ISB has earned global recognition and consistently ranks among the world’s top business schools.
ISB Hyderabad Admission Process
ISB follows a unique admission process that considers a candidate's academic and professional background, leadership potential, and performance in the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Indian School of Business Aptitude Test (ISBAT). The school values diversity and actively seeks candidates with varied experiences.
| Indian School of Business Hyderabad Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad |
| Established |
2001 |
| Type |
Business School |
| Location |
Hyderabad, India |
| Admission Process |
Unique admission process; Consideration of academic and professional background, leadership potential, GMAT or ISBAT scores; Values diversity and varied experiences |
| Admission Criteria |
Academic and professional background, leadership potential, GMAT or ISBAT scores |
| Admission Cutoff (GMAT 2023) |
720-740 (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
One of the most globally recognized MBA programs in India |
| Seat Requirements |
High GMAT score, strong international profile, work experience |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 33.25 LPA, Highest in 2023: 66 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
International and Domestic Companies |
| Placement Sectors |
Diverse placement across various sectors |
| Global Recognition |
Yes |
| Alumni Network |
Strong in leading global organizations |
ISB Hyderabad Cutoff
- GMAT 2043 - 720-740
- One of the most globally recognized MBA programs in India.
- Requires a high GMAT score along with a strong international profile and work experience.
ISB Hyderabad Placement
- Average package - 33.25 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 66 LPA)
- Excellent placement in international and domestic companies across various sectors.
- Strong alumni network in leading global organizations.
IIFT Delhi
The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), located in Delhi, is a distinguished business school known for its focus on international trade and business. Founded in 1963, IIFT has played a key role in developing skilled professionals equipped to tackle global market dynamics.
| IIFT Delhi Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), Delhi |
| Established |
1963 |
| Type |
Business School |
| Location |
Delhi, India |
| Admission Process |
IIFT Entrance Exam; Assessment of English comprehension, general knowledge, logical reasoning, quantitative analysis; Followed by group discussion, essay writing, and personal interview |
| Admission Criteria |
Performance in IIFT Entrance Exam, Group Discussion, Essay Writing, Personal Interview |
| Admission Cutoff (CAT 2023) |
98-100 percentile (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
Highly competitive program focused on international trade and business |
| Seat Requirements |
Top score in CAT, strong academic background, interest in international affairs |
| Placement Record |
Average Package: 29.1 LPA, Highest in 2023: 76.5 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
International Trading Companies, Consultancies, Government Agencies |
| Placement Sectors |
Strong placement in international trade, consulting, and government sectors |
| International Business Focus |
Yes |
| Alumni Network |
Well-established in the international trade and business domain |
IIFT Delhi Admission Process
IIFT conducts its entrance exam, the IIFT Entrance Exam, which assesses candidates on topics like English comprehension, general knowledge, logical reasoning, and quantitative analysis. The exam is followed by a group discussion, essay writing, and a personal interview.
IIFT Delhi Cutoff
- CAT 2024 - 98-100 percentile
- Highly competitive program focused on international trade and business.
- Requires a top score in CAT along with a strong academic background and interest in international affairs.
IIFT Delhi Placement
- Average package - 29.1 LPA (Highest in 2024 - 76.5 LPA)
- Strong placement in international trading companies, consultancies, and government agencies.
- Alumni network is well-established in the international trade and business domain.
JBIMS Mumbai
Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) in Mumbai, affiliated with the University of Mumbai, is among the oldest business schools in India. Established in 1965, JBIMS has a rich legacy of producing business leaders and entrepreneurs. JBIMS is renowned for its strong industry connections and emphasis on practical learning. The institute offers a diverse range of programs, including the Master of Management Studies (MMS) and part-time Executive MBA programs.
| JBIMS Mumbai Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai |
| Established |
1965 |
| Type |
Business School (Affiliated with the University of Mumbai) |
| Location |
Mumbai, India |
| Admission Process |
Consideration of scores in common entrance exams (CAT, CMAT, MH-CET); Selection process includes group discussions and personal interviews |
| Admission Criteria |
Scores in common entrance exams, performance in group discussions and personal interviews |
| Admission Cutoff (CAT 2023) |
99.99 percentile (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
Renowned for its location and industry connections in Mumbai |
| Seat Requirements |
High percentile in CAT, CMAT, or MH-CET; Demonstrated academic and interpersonal skills |
| Programs Offered |
Master of Management Studies (MMS), Executive MBA programs |
| Placement Record |
2023 Batch: Average Package - 28.2 LPA, Top Package - 35.75 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
Finance, Marketing, Consulting |
| Placement Sectors |
Strong placement in finance, marketing, and consulting sectors |
JBIMS Mumbai Admission Process
JBIMS primarily considers the scores of common entrance exams like CAT, CMAT, and MH-CET. The selection process also includes group discussions and personal interviews, providing a comprehensive evaluation of candidates' academic and interpersonal skills.
JBIMS Mumbai Cutoff
- CAT 2023 (Expected): 99.99 percentile
- (Renowned for its location and industry connect in Mumbai)
JBIMS Mumbai Placement
- 2023 batch: Average package - 28.2 LPA (Top package - 35.75 LPA).
- Strong placement in finance, marketing, and consulting sectors. Focus on case studies and practical learning.
BITS Pilani
The Department of Management at Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani upholds the institute’s strong foundation in technological education while delivering cutting-edge MBA programs. These management courses are thoughtfully designed to address the dynamic demands of industries driven by technology. BITS Pilani offers a distinctive curriculum that seamlessly blends business acumen with technological proficiency, preparing students to lead in tech-centric business environments.
| BITS Pilani Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani |
| Established |
- |
| Type |
Institute of Higher Education |
| Location |
Pilani, India |
| Department |
Department of Management |
| Emphasis |
Technological Education, Integration of Business and Technology |
| MBA Programs |
MBA with a focus on Business and Technology |
| Admission Process |
Entrance Exam, Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI) |
| Admission Criteria |
Performance in Entrance Exam, GD, PI |
| Entrance Exam Content |
Logical Reasoning, Language Proficiency, Quantitative Skills, General Awareness |
| Admission Cutoff (CMAT 2023) |
90-95 percentile (Expected) |
| Cutoff Significance |
Good value for money compared to other top colleges |
| Seat Requirements |
Competitive Performance in Entrance Exam, GD, PI |
| Placement Record |
2023 Batch: Average Package - 17.36 LPA, Top Package - 27 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
IT, Manufacturing, Infrastructure |
| Placement Sectors |
Strong placement in IT, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors |
BITS Pilani Admission Process
Admission to the MBA program at BITS Pilani is based on the performance in the institute's own entrance exam, GD (Group Discussion), and PI (Personal Interview). The exam assesses candidates on logical reasoning, language proficiency, quantitative skills, and general awareness.
BITS Pilani Cutoff
- CMAT 2024 - 90-95 percentile (Expected)
- (Good value for money compared to other top colleges)
BITS Pilani Placement
- 2024 batch: Average package - 17.36 LPA (Top package - 27 LPA)
- Strong placement in IT, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. Focus on entrepreneurship and innovation through incubation centers.
Jamia Millia Islamia
Jamia Millia Islamia offers a two-year postgraduate MBA program with admissions based on a university-conducted entrance examination. Alongside the general MBA, the university also provides specialized programs in areas such as International Business, Entrepreneurship and Family Business, and Healthcare and Hospital Management. These courses are structured to develop advanced managerial skills and prepare students for leadership roles across diverse sectors.
| Jamia Millia Islamia Highlights |
| Aspect |
Details |
| Name |
Jamia Millia Islamia |
| Established |
1920 |
| Type |
Univeristy |
| Location |
Delhi, India |
| Department |
Department of Management |
| Emphasis |
Blend of theoretical concepts and practical exposure, focusing on entrepreneurial initiatives |
| MBA Programs |
Full-Time MBA, MBA in International Business, MBA in Tourism and Travel (Executive), MBA in Entrepreneurship & Family Business |
| Admission Process |
Entrance exam followed by Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) |
| Admission Criteria |
Bachelor's degree in any stream with at least 50% aggregate |
| Entrance Exam Content |
JMI Entrance Test covering various management-related topics |
| Admission Cutoff (CMAT 2023) |
Not specified in the search results; typically varies each year |
| Cutoff Significance |
Determines eligibility for GD and PI rounds |
| Seat Requirements |
Over 200 seats available across various MBA specializations |
| Placement Record |
70-90% placement rate; median salary package around INR 8-9 LPA |
| Major Recruiters |
Accenture, Wipro, IBM, Tata, Honda |
| Placement Sectors |
Consulting, IT, Finance, Marketing, Healthcare |
Jamia Millia Islamia Admission Process
Admission to the MBA program at Jamia Millia Islamia is entirely based on an entrance exam conducted by the university. At the postgraduate level, Jamia offers a variety of MBA and E-MBA programs tailored for students pursuing careers in Management. This two-year program is available as a General MBA and includes specializations such as International Business, Entrepreneurship and Family Business, and Healthcare and Hospital Management, among others.
Jamia Millia Islamia Cut Off
The cutoff for the MBA program at Jamia Millia Islamia is generally around 45-50 marks in the JMI Entrance Exam, with specific cutoffs varying each year based on factors such as exam difficulty, number of test-takers, and available seats.
Jamia Millia Islamia Placement
The key highlights of Jamia Millia Islamia placements 2024 are:
- The highest package offered was INR 25 LPA.
- Over 45 companies participated in the placement drive.
- Top recruiters included KPMG, Accenture, and ICICI.
Pursuing an MBA doesn’t have to revolve around just one entrance exam. The institutions highlighted in this blog provide a range of opportunities for future business professionals. When selecting an MBA college, it's essential to consider your aspirations, career objectives, and individual preferences. Every institute offers distinct advantages, and understanding these can help you make a well-informed choice. Aspiring candidates should explore various options, evaluate all relevant factors, and select a program that best aligns with their long-term personal and professional development goals.
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