ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: ISB Hyderabad and IIM Ahmedabad are leading B-schools in India. Both institutes offer good academic exposure and promising opportunities. ISB offers a 1-year PGP program to candidates with work experience. While IIM Ahmedabad offers a two-year MBA programme to graduates with or without work experience. The batch size of ISB is large with a strong alumni base in senior roles at companies, which might help students with placements and career moves. But with IIMA, you get associated with a brand that comes with industry connections globally. Read ahead for the detailed comparison of ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad. This includes eligibility, admission, placements, etc.
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ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Which is better?
Many of you ask which is better: ISB Hyderabad or IIM Ahmedabad? The answer is not simple. ISB holds the top spot in the global MBA ranking. On the other hand, IIMA leads in the NIRF ranking. Both institutes offer management programmes with different durations. Placement records are excellent at both campuses. But ISB recorded a slightly higher salary package. ISB is preferred by experienced candidates aiming for faster growth. And the IIM MBA program is open for freshers and those with work experience. Candidates should consider factors like location, budget and ROI before arriving at any decision. Learn more about ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad on this page.
ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Eligibility
Eligibility plays an important role when choosing between IIMA and ISB. It helps you know whether you can apply for the MBA admissions. Talking about the required qualification, you must have a bachelor’s degree from any recognised University. ISB PGP is designed for students who have full-time work experience of at least 24 months, while IIMA does not mandatorily require students to have work experience for the MBA. Check ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad eligibility below:
| Parameters | ISB Hyderabad | IIM Ahmedabad |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification | Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD). Final Year students can apply. |
| Work Experience | 24+ months of work experience | Not mandatory. |
| Accepted Entrance Exam | GMAT/GRE Test | CAT Exam |
ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Admission Process
Knowing the admission process can help you decide better. This lets you avoid any confusion at any stage. ISB mainly accepts GMAT/GRE test scores, while IIMA accepts CAT scores. Check ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad admissions below:
| Parameters | ISB Hyderabad | IIM Ahmedabad |
| Final Selection depends on | Academics Relevant test scores Professional experience Extracurricular activities Essays Awards and recognitions Recommendations. | CAT scores Performance in AWT & PI Academic records Co-curricular and extracurricular achievements Work experience, etc. |
ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Batch Size
You should also compare the batch size of both institutes. It helps you understand the peer learning opportunities. ISB Hyderabad has a larger batch size than IIM Ahmedabad. The ISB PGP batch usually has more than 800 students. IIM Ahmedabad’s PGP batch has around 400+ students. ISB’s larger batch offers a bigger peer and alumni network. IIMA’s smaller batch allows better personalised attention. Check batch size of both institutes:
| Institute | Batch Size |
| ISB Hyderabad | 839 |
| IIM Ahmedabad | 414 |
ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Programs Offered
Candidates should check and compare the programs offered by these two institutes before applying for admission. Along with full-time MBA, these colleges offer management courses in different specialisations. Check the ISB Hyderabad vs the IIM Ahmedabad program offered below:
| Parameters | ISB Hyderabad | IIM Ahmedabad |
| Programs Offered | PGP PGP PRO PGP MAX PGP MFAB PGP YL | MBA MBA-FABM MBA-PGPX MBA-BPGP MBA-BPGP: BA & AI |
ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Fee Structure
Knowing the fee structure of both institutes is crucial. It helps you identify whether the overall investment aligns with your budget. With this, you will get sufficient time to explore bank loans and scholarship options. The ISB PGP fee for 2026-27 was INR 38,67,160. This includes admission, commitment, and tuition fees. On the other hand, the IIMA PGP fee is INR 27,50,000 for the 2025-27 Batch. It does not cover personal expenses on boarding, laptop computer, travel, clothes, stationery, laundry, etc. The IIMA MBA program is more affordable compared to the ISB programs. Check the ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad fee structure below:
| Parameters | ISB Hyderabad | IIM Ahmedabad |
| PGP Fees | INR 38,67,160 (including GST) | INR 27,50,000 (inclusive of tuition fees of INR 20,10,000). |
ISB Hyderabad vs IIM Ahmedabad: Placement Statistics
Placements are an important part of your MBA career decision. It gives you an idea of salary trends and ROI. You will understand total offers, participating recruiters, etc. The IIMA average package stood at INR 35.22 LPA. On the other hand, the ISB average package was INR 37.29 LPA. You can find the detailed comparison below:
ISB Hyderabad Placements
| Year | PGP Class of 2026 |
| Average Package | INR 37.29 LPA |
| Highest Package | INR 1.56 crore per annum |
| Total job offers | 1,117 |
IIM Ahmedabad Placements
| Year | Average Package | Highest Package |
| 2025 | INR 35.22 LPA | INR 1.10 crore per annum |
| 2024 | INR 33.23 LPA | INR 56 LPA |
| 2023 | INR 34.45 LPA | INR 1.46 crore per annum |
Wrapping up
ISB Hyderabad and IIM Ahmedabad are the top choices for an MBA. But you must consider certain factors before making any decision. This includes your career goals, work experience and budget. ISB Hyderabad can be ideal for you if you have work experience and want faster growth. At the same time, IIM Ahmedabad is suitable for all those who prefer a brand tag and industry connections.
