IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow are among the top choices for candidates pursuing MBA admissions. It holds a strong reputation for academic excellence, impressive placement records, and industry connections. The admission to these institutes is extremely competitive due to limited seats and a massive pool of applicants. IIMK and IIML offer Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Management courses to students from different academic fields. The duration of this particular course is two years. The eligibility for admission requires a valid CAT score and a graduation degree with the minimum qualifying marks. Moreover, MBA admission procedures at both institutes vary with respect to eligibility, selection criteria, fee structure, placements, and other parameters. In this article, we have discussed a comparative analysis of IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow and that highlights all elements of MBA admissions.
When comparing both IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow, candidates must also consider factors like campus life, diversity groups and location advantages. A well-informed decision based on the IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow comparison can help aspirants choose the institute that is best aligned with their career goals.
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IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow Highlights
Aspirants must be familiar with all the aspects of IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow to make the right career choices. This helps them decide which course and institute fit their career goals and interests. Both institutes admit students from all academic backgrounds to their Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Management. Here are important insights of IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow for candidates’ reference.
Here is the comparison table mentioned below between IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow in terms of when both the institutes established, what are the programs they are covering, eligibility to take admission to these institutes, complete course duration along with IIRF rankings.
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow Overview
| Particulars | IIM Kozhikode | IIM Lucknow |
| Established | 1996 | 1984 |
| Program Offered | Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Management | Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Management |
| Eligibility | Graduation and Valid CAT scores | Graduation and Valid CAT scores |
| Course Duration | 2 years | 2 years |
| Ranking (2025) | 1st (IIRF) | 1st (IIRF) |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | IIM Kozhikode | IIM Lucknow |
| Educational Qualification | A Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) with at least 60% marks for General category and 55% for SC/ST/PwD category. | A Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) with at least 50% marks for General category and 45% for SC/ST/PwD category. |
| Marks (10th & 12th) | Minimum 60% required in both Class 10th and 12th (General) and relaxations for reserved categories. | Not explicitly specified and selection depends more on CAT and composite score. |
| CAT 2024 Score (General) | Minimum 85 percentile overall, with 75 percentile in each section (VARC, DILR, QA). | Minimum 90 percentile overall, with 85 percentile in each section (VARC, DILR, QA). |
| Work Experience | Not mandatory, but work experience adds weight during final selection for your admission. | Not mandatory for PGP. PGP-SM requires at least 24 months of full-time work experience. |
| Accepted Exams | CAT, GMAT, or GRE scores accepted (especially for international/NRI candidates). | Only CAT is accepted for regular PGP admission. |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: Admission Process
The IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow MBA admission process depends on CAT scores, work experience, past academic performance, PI Score, WAT Score, and other parameters. It is crucial to satisfy all the eligibility conditions to move ahead in the further admission process. In brief, graduates with a minimum required mark in their degree and CAT scores can apply for PGP admission to these two institutes. However, the admission criteria for IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow vary in terms of various elements as shared below:
IIM Kozhikode MBA Admission Process
The IIM Kozhikode MBA admission process is divided into various stages as discussed below:
- Candidates who have secured at least 60% aggregate marks in their bachelor’s degree can apply. Those who don’t have a degree but have pursued professional courses like CA, CMA (ICWA), or CS with 50% marks or above can also apply.
- In stage 2, candidates who have registered for IIMK MBA admissions will be shortlisted for the Writing Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). They will be shortlisted based on entrance test scores (CAT), academic performance, Gender/Academic diversity, and professional experience.
- All the shortlisted aspirants will have to participate in the Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). The final scores will be computed based on the following components:
| Component | Weightage |
| CAT Index Score | 35% |
| PI Score | 35% |
| WAT Score | 20% |
| Resume Score | 10% |
IIM Lucknow MBA Admission Process
The IIM Lucknow MBA admission process is divided into multiple stages as discussed below:
- Applicants who have secured 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) or above in their graduation can apply.
- The final admission will be based on CAT scores, past academic records, work experience, and scores in the Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI).
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: Program Offered
IIMK and IIML offer a variety of academic courses in the field of management education. Both institutes offer a two-year full-time Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Management courses for graduates from all academic backgrounds. Along with PGP courses, these institutes also include management programs in different specialisations. Here is the list of courses offered by IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow:
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: Program Offered
| IIM Kozhikode | IIM Lucknow |
| Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in ManagementPost Graduate Programme in Finance (PGP Finance)Post Graduate Programme in Liberal Studies & Management (PGP LSM )Post Graduate Programme in Business Leadership (PGP BL) | Post Graduate Program (PGP)Post Graduate Programme in Agribusiness ManagementPost Graduate Programme in Sustainable Management |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: Batch Size
Factors like rankings, fees and placements often control the discussion but a crucial element that plays an important role in shaping a student’s B-School journey is the batch size and this is where IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow differ with each other.
IIM Lucknow has a larger batch size while IIM Kozhikode maintains a more intimate batch size. The difference has a direct impact on several phases of student life from classroom learning and networking opportunities to club participation and last is faculty management.
If you are someone who values a more personal and focused learning environment around you then IIM Kozhikode offers the advantage of smaller class size that enables deeper discussion, greater access to professors and a strong sense of community.
Students will find it easier to stand out in the community, competitions, and leadership roles.
Batch Size at IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow
| College | Program | Batch Size |
| IIM Kozhikode | PGP Program | 489 |
| IIM Lucknow | PGP (Post Graduate Program) | 576 (Approx) |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: NIRF and IIRF Rankings
When comparing IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow, rankings give a clear picture of their academic status and reputation. As per the NIRF 2024 rankings, IIM Kozhikode is ranked 3rd whereas IIM Lucknow stands at 7th among the top management institutes in India.
Similarly we have also compared the IIRF 2024 rankings, IIM Kozhikode holds 5th position whereas IIM Lucknow holds 6th position.
These rankings reflect IIM Kozhikode’s popularity and strong industry connect, while IIM Lucknow continues to maintain its position as a consistent performer in a management education.
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow – Rankings
| College | NIRF Ranking 2024 | IIRF Ranking 2024 |
| IIM Kozhikode | 3rd | 5th |
| IIM Lucknow | 7th | 6th |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: MBA Fees
Candidates seeking MBA admissions must stay updated with the fee structure of these two institutes to avoid any disappointment later. It helps you in financial management and ensures a hassle-free admission process. The fee structure includes various components like tuition fee, admission fee, infrastructure fee, and other expenses. Typically, the IIMK PGP fees are Rs 23,50,000 for 2 years, whereas IIML PGP fees for 2 years will be Rs 20 Lakhs, approximately. Check the IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow in terms of PGP admission fees shared below:
IIM Kozhikode MBA Fees
| Term | First Year (in Rs.) | Second Year (in Rs.) |
| I/IV | 4,75,000 | 4,75,000 |
| II/V | 3,50,000 | 3,50,000 |
| III/VI | 3,50,000 | 3,50,000 |
IIM Lucknow MBA Fees
| Particulars | 1st Year (Total) | 2nd Year (Total) |
| Admission Fees | INR 100000 | – |
| Tuition Fees | INR 630000 | INR 630000 |
| Infrastructure Fees | INR 345000 | INR 345000 |
| Total | INR 1075000 | INR 975000 |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: How To Choose?
| Criteria | IIM Kozhikode | IIM Lucknow |
| Established | 1996 | 1984 |
| NIRF 2024 Rank | 3rd | 7th |
| IIRF 2024 Rank | 5th | 6th |
| PGP Fees (2 years) | 23.5 Lakhs | 20 Lakhs |
| Average Package (2024) | 28.05 LPA | 32.3 LPA |
| Highest Package (2024) | 72.02 LPA | 75 LPA |
| Batch Size (Approx.) | 489 | 576 |
| Selection Focus | Diversity (gender/academic), WAT & PI | CAT Score, Work Experience, Academics |
| Campus Environment | Scenic hilltop campus, serene atmosphere | Large campus with strong research facilities |
| Unique Courses | PGP-LSM, PGP-BL, PGP Finance | PGP-SM, Agribusiness Management |
| Ideal For | Candidates seeking personalized learning & niche specializations | Candidates focused on placements, ROI, and large-scale opportunities |
IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow: Placement Statistics
Aspirants must also check the placement track record of IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow before applying for admissions. These help them understand the popularity, industry connections, career growth opportunities, and academic quality of the particular institutes. IIML has consistently achieved 100% placements for its MBA/PGP batch. In the 2025 placement drive, the institute recorded an average package of INR 32.3 LPA, with the highest package reaching INR 75 LPA. Similarly, IIM Kozhikode has gained immense popularity due to its strong placement track record. Check the comparison of IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow with respect to PGP placement statistics shared below:
IIM Kozhikode MBA Placement Statistics
| Year | Average Package | Median Package | Highest Salary |
| 2024 | INR 28.05 LPA | INR 27 LPA | INR 72.02 LPA |
| 2023 | INR 31.02 LPA | INR 27 LPA | INR 67.02 LPA |
| 2022 | INR 29.5 LPA | INR 26.5 LPA | INR 61.5 LPA |
IIM Lucknow MBA Placement Statistics
| Year | Average Salary | Median Salary | Highest Salary |
| 2025 | INR 32.3 LPA | INR 31 LPA | INR 75 LPA |
| 2024 | INR 30 LPA | INR 27 LPA | INR 1.23 Crore Per Annum |
| 2023 | INR 32.23 LPA | INR 30 LPA | INR 1 Crore Per Annum |
| 2022 | INR 31.03 LPA | INR 29 LPA | INR 58 LPA |
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IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow FAQs
IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow are among the top preferences for MBA aspirants. However, the selection criteria of both institutes vary in terms of different parameters. Get the detailed comparative analysis on this page above.
The eligibility for MBA admission in these two institutes requires a valid CAT score and a graduation degree with the minimum qualifying marks.
The IIMK PGP fees are Rs 23,50,000 for 2 years, whereas IIML PGP fees for 2 years will be Rs 20 Lakhs, approximately.
Both IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow accept the CAT exam. IIM Kozhikode gives more weight to academic diversity and gender diversity whereas IIM Lucknow gives more weight to CAT score, academics and work experience. Both conduct WAT and PI for final selection.
IIM Kozhikode is better known for its scenic hilltop campus along with modern facilities whereas IIM Lucknow has a larger, well-established campus with a strong research ecosystem. Both colleges are offering excellent infrastructure and student facilities.
As per the reports, the average package for IIM Lucknow MBA in 2024 is 30 LPA and for IIM Kozhikode it is 28.05 LPA
Well IIM Kozhikode gives more weightage to academics and gender diversity along with the CAT score whereas IIM Lucknow focuses more on the CAT performance.
