Is GMAT Tough? How Hard is GMAT to Crack in 2025

Hello Divya,

Yes, candidates with an online BBA can sit for both CAT and GMAT provided that the degree is from a recognized (UGC approved in India or accredited abroad) institution. The leading B-schools in both India and abroad do not look down upon online degrees as long as the degree is from a recognized body, they will mostly be looking at your test scores, academic performance, work experience, and profile holistically. What matters is the legitimacy of the institution and how you showcase your abilities, not whether your degree was obtained online or in-person.

Yes, someone with an online BBA can sit for both CAT and GMAT, provided the degree is from a UGC recognized university. Top B-schools in India (like IIMs) and abroad generally accept online degrees if they are valid, and you won’t be marked down just because it’s online. What matters more is your entrance exam score, academic record, work experience, and overall profile.

Hii,

No, not all MBA programs require these tests. These are merely entrance exams that are accepted by a lot of universities. Depending on the college you wish to attend, you can take any of them (such as MAH CET, MAT, XAT, GMAT, CMAT, or ATMA).

Additionally, some universities have entrance exams of their own. Therefore, for the majority of MBA admissions, you only need to take one appropriate exam. To find out which tests the college accepts, always visit their website.

No, IIMs or Indian Institutes of Management and IITs or Indian Institutes of Technology generally do not accept GMAT scores for admission to their flagship two-year MBA programs for fresh graduates with Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degrees. IIMs primarily consider the Common Admission Test (CAT) for admission to their flagship MBA programs. IITs also primarily consider the CAT for admission to their management programs.

However some IIMs in India do accept GMAT scores for admission to their flagship MBA programs, primarily for the foreign students.

• IIM Ahmedabad
• IIM Bangalore
• IIM Calcutta
• IIM Indore
• IIM Kozhikode
• IIM Lucknow

All the very best

That’s a great question and shows you’re thinking carefully about your future. It's important to consider both options carefully, especially with your background. When considering whether to pursue an MBA abroad or in India, especially with poor academics and no work experience, the decision requires careful evaluation of your goals, financial situation, and career aspirations.

When comparing an MBA in India versus one abroad, there's no definitive winner—it ultimately depends on a student’s aspirations and willingness to invest financially for potentially greater returns. Each option offers its own distinct benefits, which can be better understood through a detailed discussion. Both options have their merits and challenges. Let’s break it down to help you make an informed decision.

What Is the Purpose of an MBA?

An MBA (Master of Business Administration) equips students with:

• Leadership and management skills: To lead teams and organizations effectively.

• Strategic thinking abilities : To solve complex business problems.

• Career advancement opportunities : To secure roles in management, consulting, or entrepreneurship.

• Networking: To build connections with industry professionals and peers.

The value of an MBA depends heavily on the program's quality, your goals, and the level of effort you put into leveraging its benefits.

MBA Abroad vs. MBA in India: A Comparison

MBA Abroad

Pros:

1. Global Exposure: Study in a multicultural environment and gain insights into international markets.

2. Top-Quality Education: Renowned universities provide cutting-edge curriculum and resources.

3. Networking Opportunities: Build a global professional network.

4. Higher Earning Potential: Graduates from top programs often secure higher salaries, particularly in developed economies.

5. Prestige: Degrees from institutions like Harvard, INSEAD, or Wharton carry global recognition and respect.

Cons:

1. High Cost: Tuition fees and living expenses are substantial. Scholarships are competitive.

2. Work Visa Challenges: Securing post-MBA work permits can be difficult in some countries.

3. Work Experience Requirement: Most top MBA programs abroad require 2-5 years of professional experience.

4. Risk: Without a strong profile, you may not gain admission to top schools, reducing the ROI (return on investment).

Who Is It For?

• Candidates with strong financial resources.

• Those aiming for international roles or exposure to global markets.

• Students with a clear plan for their post-MBA career .

MBA in India

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Tuition fees and living costs are significantly lower than in most foreign programs.

2. Reputed Institutions: Top Indian MBA programs (e.g., IIMs, ISB, XLRI) are highly regarded, especially for roles in Indian and Asian markets.

3. Local Relevance: Focus on Indian business contexts and networks.

4. Shorter Duration: Many MBA programs in India are completed in 1-2 years.

5. Flexible Entry: Some private universities and tier-2 colleges accept candidates with weaker academics or no work experience.

Cons:

1. Less Global Exposure: International experience and networks may be limited.

2. High Competition: Admission to top-tier institutes like IIMs is extremely competitive and requires strong CAT/GMAT scores.

3. Brand Value: While prestigious in India, Indian MBA degrees may lack global recognition compared to programs abroad.

Who Is It For?

• Candidates targeting the Indian job market or local companies.

• Students looking for a cost-effective education with high-quality outcomes.

• Fresh graduates or those who prefer programs without stringent entry requirements.

Since you mentioned having poor academics and no work experience, both options have specific challenges:

MBA Abroad Challenges :

• Admission Requirements: Most top-tier schools abroad require a strong academic record and work experience. Without these, securing admission to a reputed institution can be difficult.

• Cost and ROI: The financial investment is high. Without admission to a top program or a clear plan for career advancement, it may not provide a good return.

MBA in India Challenges

• Limited Opportunities in Top Programs: Schools like IIMs and ISB value academic consistency and work experience.

• Lower Exposure: Compared to studying abroad, Indian MBAs may not offer the same level of global exposure.

Conclusion: Based on your current situation, a good approach may be to gain some work experience, improve your academic profile, and then decide whether to pursue an MBA in India or abroad.

Focus on Skills: Irrespective of the choice, focus on acquiring key skills such as leadership, communication, and analytical thinking, which are crucial for a successful career in business.

An MBA is a significant investment in your future, and careful consideration of these factors will help you make an informed decision.

Feel free to reach out if you need further guidance or have more questions!