Share this post

Indian School of Business (ISB) has built its reputation of world-class excellence in education. Sustaining the environment of leadership at ISB demands a high standard of competence from everyone participating in it, especially from its incoming students. As a future alumnus, ISB Admission committee expects the students to excel in difficult economic landscape and competitive strategic challenges while having a fulfilling life. Therefore, ISB attempts to filter in their cohort only those profiles that will benefit the most from the career acceleration at the ISB PGP program. In that light, the onus of properly positioning their own profile shifts on to the applicant. As an applicant, you can take certain strategic measures to rise above the competition.

ISB clearly states that their admissions are highly competitive, demanding a holistic approach to showcasing academic excellence, professional achievements, and personal growth potential. ISB Admissions committee looks for well-rounded candidates who demonstrate exceptional potential across multiple dimensions. On one side are the hard factors such as your GPA and GMAT score, on the other hand are subjective evaluation of people and managerial skills. In fact, your admission profile must be portrayed better than just a collection of academic scores and work experiences – it has to be a narrative of your professional journey, leadership potential, and future aspirations.

Let’s talk about the key components of your profile that account for maximum impact during the ISB admissions process.

  1. Academic Credentials

    The Academic program at ISB PGP is rigorous. You must provide evidences that you can measure up to it. While the school considers candidates from diverse educational backgrounds, a strong academic foundation is essential. Consider the following approaches:

    • Maintain a competitive CGPA
    • Consider making real-world applications of your Academic learnings that have some impact
    • Take additional certification courses to demonstrate academic rigor
    • Highlight any academic achievements or research projects

    ISB Admission committee welcomes graduates of any and all backgrounds, including from CA. Diversity is celebrated rather than avoided on the campus.

  2. Professional Experience

    PGP is a program for professionals who have proven ability to succeed. As a part of that proof, ISB Admissions committee values quality of professional experience over mere quantity or number of years of work. Focus on:

    • Demonstrating progressive increase in responsibility in your career
    • Showcasing leadership experiences
    • Highlighting cross-functional project achievements
    • Quantifying your professional impact with numbers or key metrics

    You must have at least 2 years of experience to apply to ISB. The average work experience at ISB is about 5 years. Irrespective of that, ISB annually accepts more than 50 senior executives (10+ years of work experience). Note that ISB Admissions committee welcomes professionals from all backgrounds, and actively maintains a diverse cohort of various functions and industries. Since a significant portion of learning happens from peers, a cohort acts a strong positive reinforcement of the ISB education system.

  3. GMAT/GRE Exam Preparation

    The competition around the admissions to ISB PGP has inflated the GMAT scores required for the program. While the average GMAT score is 710 (Classic GMAT in 2024), you must understand that you can overcome a weak GPA or showcase your superior Analytical skills with help of a great GMAT score. A few strong recommendations include:

    Start preparation at least 4-6 months in advance

    • Take multiple mock tests
    • Make an Error Log and Focus on improving weak areas
    • Seek to understand the competition in different subsections
    • Seek qualified help as and when required
    • Prepare seriously and be done with GMAT even if you can’t apply this year (GMAT scores are valid for 5 years)
    • Take the Exam only at the Centre, not other formats

    Working professionals may consider the fact that while they cannot change their GPA/University but they may use GMAT/GRE to show that they are still able to handle rigorous academic programs. GRE scores are valued at equivalent percentiles levels. ISB itself does not make a significant distinction between the two, but GMAT has been the more popular test among the applicants of the program as GMAT has been valued more in the Management Consulting industry. Unlike the situation in standard counselling process of prestigious government supported schools, ISB Admissions are not entirely decided by the Test score. Students applying to ISB often distinguish themselves on the basis of GMAT scores. But the applicants must understand that ISB Admissions committee will happily accept someone with a varied experience at a much lower GMAT score than someone who is overrepresented in the class demographics. Therefore, it is important to gauge the level of competition in your specific demographic.

  4. Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

    ISB admission committees are liberal enough to consider your Leadership skills beyond professional achievements. Even outside of your workplace, they seek candidates who:

    • Demonstrate leadership potential by brining together people and resources and share credit for the outcome with your teammates
    • Show community involvement wherein you have worked to gain experience without any motives of financial gains
    • Engage in meaningful extracurricular activities that relate to your passions and aspirations
    • Exhibit potential for creating broader impact
  5. Goal Statement aka Statement of Purpose (SOP)

    ISB Admissions always wants to know the goals that you intend to achieve with help of the PGP program. This essay is perhaps the most critical element of your ISB admission submission. It is crucial that you portray a clear picture of what is the specific short term goal that you want to and can achieve. Further, it must show that you are prepared to take the ISB program with a clear plan of action that will propel you to reach your goals. At the very least, ensure that your SOP for ISB admission allows you to:

    • Tell a compelling personal narrative
    • Clearly articulate your career goals
    • Explain why ISB is the right platform for your aspirations
    • Demonstrate the Research that you have done that brought you to ISB
  6. Recommendation Letters

    A great recommendation can make or break your chance at ISB Admission. Choose recommenders who:

    • Know you professionally
    • Can provide specific examples of your achievements
    • Understand the ISB admission requirements
    • Can articulate your potential for leadership and growth

    Don’t get conflate this letter of recommendation (LOR) with either your Character certificate at School or the Appraisal letter at your work place. A letter of recommendation is an external validation of what you have been able to achieve with special emphasis on comparison with your peers and potential for growth. Ideally, the LOR must highlight the relevant managerial skills – support your good qualities and explains how you have worked on your weaknesses.

  7. Networking and Engagement

    ISB Admissions team recognises the alumni as the pride of the institution. Alumni are our best advocates and living examples of how to chart a successful career. You should pick the brains of those who have taken your desired path to understand the highs and lows of your career. They can alos help you understand the utility of a specific program. Here is how you can proactively engage with ISB’s ecosystem:

    • Attend ISB information sessions
    • Connect with alumni
    • Participate in webinars and workshops
    • Demonstrate genuine interest in the institution

Final Preparation Tips

  1. Start early and be systematic
  2. Be authentic in your application
  3. Showcase your unique strengths
  4. Demonstrate clear career vision
  5. Highlight your potential for creating impact

Want to Know More About ISB Admission?

Share this post

FAQs

While ISB doesn't have a strict work experience requirement, most successful candidates have 3-5 years of quality professional experience with demonstrable leadership potential.

The GMAT/GRE score is important but not the sole criterion. ISB takes a holistic approach, considering academic performance, professional achievements, and overall profile.

A lower GMAT score can be compensated by exceptional work experience, strong academic background, leadership achievements, and a compelling statement of purpose.

Crafting a standout ISB admission profile requires strategic planning, self-reflection, and continuous improvement. By focusing on these key areas, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing admission to this prestigious institution.