How to Get Admission in IIM: Eligibility Criteria, WAT-PI Shortlist, CAT Cut Off

How to Get Admission in IIM: Getting admission in IIMs in 2025 involves a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, the CAT exam, and the selection process. Candidates must have at least 50% in graduation, with a good CAT 2025 score. Aiming for a high percentile is crucial as cutoff marks are generally above 95. The selection process includes WAT and PI rounds, where performance in these stages can significantly influence shortlisting. Those aiming for IIM admission should focus on CAT cutoffs, which are typically stringent, and prepare well for the Written Ability Test and Personal Interview to secure their place in top institutes.

How to Get Admission in IIM?

Shortlisting Based on CAT Scores

Enroll Now for MBA Online Course

WAT and PI Screening

Composite Score Calculation

IIM Eligibility Criteria

CAT and IIM eligibility requirements are almost similar. Candidates who fulfil the requirements for the CAT exam are also eligible to apply for IIM admission. However, they need to meet a few other requirements like CAT cut off, WAT and PI score cut off. Provided below are the notable IIM eligibility criteria:

• General category candidates must have a bachelor's degree with a minimum 50% aggregate score or equivalent CGPA. For ST, SC, and PwD categories, the minimum aggregate score requirement is 45%.
• UG final-year candidates are also eligible for CAT and IIM admissions. However, these candidates must submit their degree certificates at the time of admission.
• To receive a call letter for IIM WAT and PI, candidates must meet the IIM CAT cut off requirements.

IIM Eligibility Age Limit

Generally, there is no strict age limit for admission in most IIM programs. However, some executive or specialized courses may have upper age limits. For undergraduate integrated programs, candidates usually need to be within the typical college-going age range post 12th standard.​

How to Get Admission in IIM After 12th

Admission to IIM after 12th is possible through integrated programs like IPMAT offered by some IIMs. Candidates need to clear entrance exams specifically designed for these programs, followed by Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. These programs combine BBA and MBA courses over five years, thus opening the door for students right after class 12.

How to Get Admission in IIM in India

To get admission in an IIM in India, candidates must appear for the CAT exam, meet the eligibility criteria, and score above the cutoff. Shortlisting for WAT-PI is then done based on CAT percentile, academic records, and diversity factors. Final selection is merit-based on the composite score including CAT score and performance in WAT and PI.

How to Get Admission in IIM Ahmedabad

Admission in IIM Ahmedabad requires qualifying the CAT exam with a high percentile, followed by shortlisting for WAT and PI rounds. Candidates must meet the minimum eligibility, usually a graduation degree with at least 50% marks. IIM Ahmedabad values strong academic records and overall personality during the final selection.

IIM Eligibility Criteria 12th Marks

IIM eligibility criteria consider 12th marks as part of academic performance assessment during shortlisting. Typically, a minimum of 50% in higher secondary education is recommended though final selection weighs graduation and CAT scores more heavily. Good 12th marks can enhance chances during the overall screening process. 

How to Get Admission in IIM Ahmedabad Without CAT

Admission in IIM Ahmedabad without CAT is limited, mainly through special programs like executive MBA or through sponsored candidates in select situations. Most regular MBA programs require CAT scores, but some fellowships, research programs, or foreign nationals may get admission through alternate criteria.

How to Get Admission in IIM Without CAT
Getting admission in IIM without CAT is possible for certain courses like executive programs, fellowships, and direct admission schemes based on work experience or academic excellence. However, for most standard MBA programs, CAT is a mandatory requirement as the primary screening tool.

How to Get Admission in IIM for BBA

Admission to IIMs for BBA or integrated programs is through exams like IPMAT, JIPMAT, or other institute-based entrance tests. These programs allow students to join just after class 12, combining undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Candidates undergo tests, WAT, and personal interviews similar to MBA admissions.

Crucial Documents for IIM WAT/GD-PI Round 

• Class 10th, 12th, and graduation marksheets. Candidates must submit both original and self-attested photocopies of their mark sheets.
• Caste/Class/Disability Certificate (if applicable).
• Final year candidates must provide a certificate from the Principal/Registrar/Director of their university.

IIM CAT Cut Off

IIM Admission Key Points

Eligibility Requirements : Candidates must possess a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their undergraduate degree (or equivalent CGPA), with a slightly lower threshold of 45% for SC, ST, and PWD categories. Those in their final year of graduation are also eligible to apply, provided they meet the cut-off scores set by the IIMs for the Common Admission Test (CAT).

Selection Process : The selection process is divided into three main stages. The first stage involves shortlisting candidates based on their CAT scores, which will be conducted on November 24, 2024. Following this, shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in the Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI), which are crucial components of the selection process. The WAT assesses candidates' writing skills and ability to articulate their thoughts clearly, while the PI evaluates their confidence, communication skills, and overall personality.

Final Selection Criteria : The final selection is based on a composite score that includes various parameters such as CAT score, academic performance (including Class 10 and Class 12 marks), work experience, and performance in the WAT and PI. Additionally, factors like academic diversity and gender diversity are considered to ensure a well-rounded cohort.