The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), one of India’s most prestigious business schools, has opened applications for the second cohort of its Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Business and Entrepreneurship (BBA DBE) program. This innovative undergraduate program, launched in 2024, is designed to nurture the next generation of digital entrepreneurs and business leaders.
In this detailed guide, we explore the structure of the program, eligibility criteria, application process, and why the BBA DBE at IIM Bangalore is fast becoming a top choice for aspiring undergraduates.
About IIM Bangalore BBA DBE 2025
The BBA DBE is a three-year online-first undergraduate program that emphasizes digital fluency, entrepreneurship, and business leadership. IIM Bangalore’s vision for this program is to prepare students for the digital economy through a combination of rigorous academics and practical experience, including:
- Hybrid Learning Structure: While the program is primarily delivered online, it includes offline components such as city meetups and immersive experiences at the IIMB campus
- Multi-Level Exit Options: Students can exit the program at various stages—earning a certificate after the first year, a diploma after the second, and a full degree upon completion of all three years
- Learning Pods: The program includes a structured support system through Learning Pods, small peer groups designed to facilitate interaction, teamwork, and mentorship
- Global Exposure: Through partnerships such as the AGILE COIL initiative with Hiroshima University, students benefit from cross-cultural learning and global academic engagement
- Practical Experience: From the “Rs. 250 Venture” to live business projects, the curriculum offers immersive experiences where students learn to build and pitch ventures
Important Dates for BBA DBE 2025 Admissions
- Applications Open: April 29, 2025
- Last Date to Apply: June 17, 2025
- Entrance Test (DBE 2025): Tentatively scheduled for August 2025
- Result Declaration: Likely in September 2025 (subject to IIMB announcements)
- Program Commencement: Expected in October 2025
Applicants are advised to regularly check the official website for any updates or changes to the schedule
IIM Bangalore BBA DBE 2025 Eligibility Criteria
The BBA DBE program is open to Indian nationals who meet the following academic qualifications:
- Class 10 Pass: From a recognized board
- Class 12 Pass:
- Minimum 60% marks or equivalent CGPA for candidates from General, NC-OBC, and EWS categories
- Minimum 55% marks or equivalent CGPA for candidates from SC, ST, and PwD (with at least 40% disability) categories. Candidates can apply while awaiting Class 12 results, but admission will be conditional upon meeting the required academic criteria.
- Minimum 60% marks or equivalent CGPA for candidates from General, NC-OBC, and EWS categories
IIM Bangalore BBA DBE 2025 Admission Process
1. IIMB DBE Entrance Test 2025
IIM Bangalore conducts its own entrance examination specifically for the BBA DBE program. This test aims to evaluate a student’s aptitude for business education in the digital age. It will be tentatively held in August 2025. It is a 90-minute computer-based test covering:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
- Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation
- Logical and Analytical Reasoning
- General Awareness
2. National Level Entrance Exams
Applicants may also apply using valid scores from the following national exams. IIMB accepts the best available score from these exams. There is no interview or group discussion round in the selection process, making this one of the more accessible IIM programs for undergraduates:
- CUET UG (Section III – General Test) from the years 2023, 2024, or 2025
- JEE Main from 2023, 2024, or 2025
IIM Bangalore BBA DBE 2025 Application Process
Applications opened on April 29, 2025, and the last date to apply is June 17, 2025. The process is completely online and consists of the following steps:
Step 1: Registration
Visit the official portal at https://dbe.iimb.ac.in and create an account. Once registered, candidates will receive a login ID and password
Step 2: Fee Payment
Application fees must be paid online, and a payment receipt must be uploaded with the application:
- ₹3,000 for candidates from General, NC-OBC, and EWS categories
- ₹1,500 for SC, ST, and PwD candidates
Step 3: Filling the Application Form
- Fill in personal and academic details
- Choose the preferred mode of admission (DBE Test or National Exam Score)
- Upload necessary documents like:
- Government-issued photo ID with address
- Category certificates (if applicable)
- Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets and certificates
- Payment receipt
- Scorecard (if applying via CUET or JEE)
IIM Bangalore BBA DBE 2025 Key Features
The BBA DBE program stands out for its entrepreneurial orientation and digital-first curriculum. Unlike conventional BBA programs, this course is designed around innovation, sustainability, and the integration of business with emerging technology like:
- Hands-on Entrepreneurial Projects: Students work on real startup ideas, building problem-solving skills and pitching ventures to mentors and faculty
- Industry-Academic Collaboration: Access to guest lectures, masterclasses, and projects with industry experts ensures alignment with market realities
- Start-Up Ecosystem Exposure: The first batch saw more than 78 students starting their own ventures in sectors such as ed-tech, AI, consulting, and sustainability
- Flexible Learning: The online format allows students across India to access high-quality business education without relocating.
Career After IIM Bangalore BBA DBE
- Entrepreneurial ventures and start-up creation
- Roles in digital marketing, e-commerce, product management, and business analysis
- Higher studies in management, both in India and abroad
In a rapidly transforming global economy, business leaders must be agile, digitally literate, and entrepreneurial in their approach. IIM Bangalore’s BBA DBE program offers a timely and well-structured path for ambitious young minds to explore, experiment, and excel.
With a blend of academic rigor, experiential learning, and real-world relevance, this program redefines what undergraduate business education can be. For ambitious students with a passion for leadership, innovation, and problem-solving, this program offers not just a degree but a launchpad into a future of possibilities. If you’re preparing for this entrance exam, you can also check out iQuanta’s YouTube channel for free resources, marathons, and important update to boost your preparation!
