Top ACAT Colleges 2026: Campus-Wise List, Fees, Courses & Admission

The Top ACAT Colleges 2026 primarily include MBA campuses operated by Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. ACAT, or the Amrita Common Aptitude Test, is conducted for candidates seeking admission to participating Amrita MBA programmes.

Unlike CAT, MAT or CMAT, ACAT is not accepted by a large independent group of unrelated management institutes. It is mainly an institutional-level MBA entrance examination for Amrita’s management campuses. Candidates should therefore understand that the term “ACAT colleges” usually refers to the participating Amrita campuses rather than hundreds of separate business schools.

The dedicated ACAT admission portal lists five participating locations:

• Coimbatore
• Bengaluru
• Amritapuri
• Kochi
• Mysuru

Amrita’s broader MBA admission page also lists Amaravati as an MBA campus. Candidates considering Amaravati should confirm whether ACAT is available for their chosen admission phase when filling out the application form.

This article explains what the top colleges accepting ACAT are, how their fees differ, what MBA courses and specialisations are available, why campus comparison matters and how the ACAT admission process works.

Top ACAT Colleges 2026: Quick Overview

The following table provides a campus-wise overview of the Amrita MBA options connected with the ACAT admission route.

ACAT college or campus	Location	Main programme	Approximate tuition fee	ACAT status
Amrita School of Business	Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu	MBA	Rs. 11.10 lakh	Listed on ACAT portal
Amrita School of Business	Bengaluru, Karnataka	MBA/MBA-MS option	Rs. 12 lakh	Listed on ACAT portal
Department of Management	Amritapuri, Kerala	MBA	Rs. 7.80 lakh	Listed on ACAT portal
Department of Management	Kochi, Kerala	MBA	Rs. 7.80 lakh	Listed on ACAT portal
Amrita MBA	Mysuru, Karnataka	MBA	Rs. 3.04 lakh	Listed on ACAT portal
Amrita MBA	Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh	MBA	Rs. 8.20 lakh	Confirm for active ACAT phase

The listed amounts mainly represent programme tuition and may not include hostel, mess, caution deposit, examination charges or other institutional expenses. Amrita currently indicates hostel expenses of approximately Rs. 1.20 lakh per year, subject to revision.

Candidates must verify the latest fee circular before paying any amount.

Which Colleges Accept ACAT Scores?

The colleges explicitly identified by the dedicated ACAT portal are:

1. Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore
2. Amrita School of Business, Bengaluru
3. Amrita MBA, Amritapuri
4. Amrita MBA, Kochi
5. Amrita MBA, Mysuru

Amaravati appears on the university’s broader MBA admission page, but applicants should confirm its availability within the ACAT application before treating it as an active ACAT campus for a particular round.

The participating campus list can change according to:

• Programme availability
• Admission phase
• Seat availability
• University policy
• Application-form options
• Campus-specific eligibility requirements

Applicants should treat the current application form and official admission communication as the final confirmation.

Why Should Candidates Compare ACAT Colleges?

Although the participating colleges belong to the same university system, their location, programme cost, learning environment and specialised opportunities may differ.

Candidates should compare ACAT colleges based on:

• Total programme fee
• Hostel and living expenses
• Available specialisations
• Campus location
• Industry exposure
• Internship opportunities
• Alumni network
• Placement support
• International exposure
• Class size
• Faculty profile
• Infrastructure
• Distance from home
• Personal career interests

Choosing a campus solely because its fee is lower may not be the best decision. Similarly, selecting the most expensive campus does not automatically guarantee that it is the right option for every student.

1. Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore

Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore, is the university’s established management campus and began its academic journey in 1996.

The Coimbatore campus is often considered the flagship Amrita business school because of its history, alumni network, institutional visibility and AACSB accreditation.

Key Features

• Established management school
• AACSB-accredited business education
• Industry-oriented MBA curriculum
• Strong alumni network
• Core and elective management courses
• Summer internship
• Business research projects
• Capstone business simulation
• Live projects and classroom discussions
• Dual-specialisation opportunities

Who Should Consider Coimbatore?

The Coimbatore campus may suit candidates who value:

• An established business-school identity
• AACSB accreditation
• A larger alumni base
• A structured residential MBA experience
• Strong campus-based academic exposure
• A broad selection of management electives

Candidates should compare the fee with their expected career goals and available financing before applying.

2. Amrita School of Business, Bengaluru

The Bengaluru campus offers an MBA option with access to a technology-driven business environment.

Its major distinguishing feature is the opportunity to pursue an additional MS degree in Business Analytics and Systems through collaboration with the University at Buffalo, State University of New York.

Key Features

• Location in Bengaluru’s business and technology ecosystem
• MBA curriculum with analytics exposure
• Optional MBA-MS dual-degree route
• International academic collaboration
• Business Analytics and Systems focus
• Industry-oriented learning
• Exposure to technology companies and startups

MBA and MBA-MS Programme

Candidates may pursue the Amrita MBA and, subject to eligibility, opt for the additional MS programme associated with the University at Buffalo.

On successful completion of the applicable requirements, students may receive:

• An MBA degree from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
• An MS degree in Business Analytics and Systems from the University at Buffalo

The additional MS route has separate academic and English-language requirements.

English Proficiency Requirement

Candidates opting for the MS component may need to submit a valid score from an examination such as:

• TOEFL
• IELTS
• PTE
• Duolingo English Test

Failure to satisfy the MS-specific requirement does not necessarily affect continuation in the regular Amrita MBA programme.

Who Should Consider Bengaluru?

The Bengaluru campus may suit candidates interested in:

• Business Analytics
• Technology management
• International academic exposure
• Bengaluru’s startup ecosystem
• A possible MBA-MS pathway
• Data-driven management roles

3. Amrita MBA, Amritapuri

The Amritapuri campus is located in Kerala and offers an MBA programme with an emphasis on management education, values and holistic development.

Key Features

• Peaceful campus environment
• Values-based management education
• MBA core courses
• Specialisation options
• Practical learning
• Personal development
• Internship and project exposure

Additional Accepted Examination

The Amritapuri management programme may also consider a valid KMAT score in addition to other accepted examinations.

Who Should Consider Amritapuri?

It may be suitable for candidates seeking:

• An MBA campus in Kerala
• A comparatively moderate tuition fee
• A residential academic environment
• Values-oriented management education
• A quieter learning setting

Candidates from Kerala may also find it convenient in terms of travel and regional familiarity.

4. Amrita MBA, Kochi

The Kochi campus offers an MBA programme in one of Kerala’s important commercial and urban centres.

Kochi provides access to businesses operating in logistics, tourism, banking, services, retail, technology and international trade.

Key Features

• Urban business location
• Exposure to Kerala’s commercial ecosystem
• Management education with practical orientation
• Internship opportunities
• Industry interaction
• Core and elective MBA subjects

Additional Accepted Examination

Kochi may accept valid KMAT scores along with ACAT and other recognised management entrance examinations.

Who Should Consider Kochi?

Kochi may be suitable for candidates who prefer:

• An urban campus environment
• Access to Kerala’s commercial hub
• A moderate tuition range
• Exposure to service-sector businesses
• Regional internship opportunities

Students should compare the campus experience, accommodation arrangements and programme structure before selecting Kochi.

5. Amrita MBA, Mysuru

The Mysuru campus offers a comparatively affordable MBA option within the Amrita system.

Key Features

• Lower listed tuition fee
• Location in Karnataka
• MBA foundation and management curriculum
• Access to a growing educational city
• Comparatively manageable programme cost
• Opportunities for students seeking an economical Amrita MBA route

Who Should Consider Mysuru?

The Mysuru campus may appeal to candidates who prioritise:

• Affordability
• Lower education cost
• An MBA option in Karnataka
• A relatively calm city
• Reduced financial burden

Candidates should still evaluate faculty, electives, industry interaction, placements and campus resources instead of choosing only on the basis of fee.

6. Amrita MBA, Amaravati

Amaravati is one of Amrita’s newer campuses and is located in Andhra Pradesh.

The broader university MBA page lists an MBA programme at Amaravati, but the dedicated ACAT portal currently identifies five campuses and does not include Amaravati in its main ACAT campus list. Candidates should therefore confirm the active admission route directly through the current form or admission office.

Key Features

• Newer Amrita campus
• Location in Andhra Pradesh
• Emerging academic infrastructure
• MBA programme within the Amrita university system
• Potential access for students from Andhra Pradesh and nearby states

Who Should Consider Amaravati?

It may suit candidates seeking:

• An Amrita MBA option in Andhra Pradesh
• A newer campus environment
• Regional accessibility
• A mid-range tuition structure

Applicants must confirm whether ACAT is accepted at Amaravati for the relevant admission phase before applying.

Top ACAT Colleges: Fee Comparison

Campus	Approximate tuition fee	Additional caution deposit	Hostel and living cost
Coimbatore	Rs. 11.10 lakh	Around Rs. 10,000	Additional
Bengaluru	Rs. 12 lakh	Around Rs. 10,000	Additional
Amritapuri	Rs. 7.80 lakh	Verify officially	Additional
Kochi	Rs. 7.80 lakh	Verify officially	Additional
Mysuru	Rs. 3.04 lakh	Verify officially	Additional
Amaravati	Rs. 8.20 lakh	Verify officially	Additional

The lowest fee does not necessarily represent the lowest total cost. Students should calculate:

• Tuition fee
• Hostel rent
• Mess charges
• Refundable deposits
• Examination fees
• Laptop or learning-resource expenses
• Local transportation
• Travel to the home city
• International expenses for optional overseas programmes
• Personal living expenses

This calculation gives a more realistic understanding of MBA affordability.

ACAT Colleges Eligibility Criteria 2026

The general eligibility criteria for Amrita MBA admission include:

• A recognised undergraduate degree under the 10+2+3 pattern
• The degree should be recognised by the Association of Indian Universities
• Minimum 60% aggregate in Class 10
• Minimum 60% aggregate in Class 12
• Minimum 60% aggregate in graduation
• A valid ACAT rank or accepted entrance-examination score
• Completion of required documents and admission formalities

Final-year graduation students may apply using their latest completed-semester results. They must complete their degree requirements within the timeline prescribed by the university.

How to Apply to Top ACAT Colleges

The MBA application process is completed online.

Candidates can follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Amrita MBA admission portal.
2. Create a new applicant account.
3. Verify the registered email address.
4. Fill in personal and contact details.
5. Enter Class 10, Class 12 and graduation information.
6. Select the preferred MBA campus or campuses.
7. Choose ACAT or another accepted test.
8. Upload the required documents.
9. Pay the application fee.
10. Submit the form.
11. Save the acknowledgement.
12. Check the dashboard for shortlisting updates.

The official application fee is Rs. 1,880, inclusive of GST

Candidates should use an active email address and mobile number because personal-interview and offer-letter communication may be sent electronically.

ACAT Colleges Admission Process 2026

The general selection process includes:

1. Online Application

2. Entrance Examination

3. Shortlisting

4. Personal Interview

5. Final Offer

6. Fee Payment

Is There an ACAT Cutoff for Every College?

A fixed campus-wise ACAT cutoff may not always be publicly displayed in the same way as cutoffs for large national entrance examinations.

Shortlisting can depend on:

• ACAT performance
• Academic record
• Number of applicants
• Campus preference
• Seat availability
• Personal-interview performance
• Overall candidate profile

Candidates should aim for the strongest possible ACAT score rather than relying on an assumed minimum cutoff.

Frequently Asked Questions About Top ACAT Colleges 2026

What are the top ACAT colleges in 2026?

The main colleges accepting ACAT include Amrita’s MBA campuses at Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Amritapuri, Kochi and Mysuru. Amaravati should be confirmed for the active admission phase.

Which colleges accept ACAT scores?

ACAT is primarily accepted by participating Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham MBA campuses.

How many colleges accept ACAT?

The dedicated ACAT portal lists five participating campuses. The broader MBA page also lists Amaravati, but its ACAT availability should be verified for the current round.

Is ACAT accepted outside Amrita University?

ACAT is mainly an institutional entrance examination for Amrita MBA admission and should not be treated like a widely accepted national test unless another institute officially confirms acceptance.

Which ACAT college has the lowest fee?

Based on the listed tuition amounts, Mysuru has the lowest approximate fee at Rs. 3.04 lakh.

Which ACAT campus is the flagship business school?

Coimbatore is generally regarded as Amrita’s established flagship business-school campus and holds AACSB accreditation.

Which ACAT college offers an MBA-MS programme?

The Bengaluru campus offers an MBA programme with an additional MS pathway in collaboration with the University at Buffalo, subject to eligibility.

What is the fee for Amrita MBA Coimbatore?

The official admission page lists an approximate tuition fee of Rs. 11.10 lakh, plus a caution deposit.

What is the Bengaluru MBA fee?

The listed tuition fee is approximately Rs. 12 lakh, excluding additional deposits and living costs.

What is the fee for Amritapuri and Kochi?

The listed tuition fee for each is approximately Rs. 7.80 lakh.

Does Amaravati accept ACAT?

Amaravati is listed as an MBA campus on Amrita’s broader page, but candidates should confirm its ACAT availability for their particular admission round.

What is the ACAT application fee?

The MBA application fee is Rs. 1,880, inclusive of GST.

What are the eligibility criteria for ACAT colleges?

Candidates generally need a recognised bachelor’s degree and at least 60% aggregate in Class 10, Class 12 and graduation.

Can final-year students apply?

Yes. Final-year students may apply using their latest available semester results, subject to completing the degree within the prescribed deadline.

Is ACAT compulsory for Amrita MBA admission?

No. Candidates may also use accepted scores from examinations such as CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, GMAT or GRE. Campus-specific acceptance may include NMAT or KMAT.

How are candidates selected?

Selection generally involves application review, entrance-test performance, academic shortlisting, a personal interview and final offer.

Is there a common ACAT counselling process?

Admissions are managed through Amrita’s MBA application and selection system rather than a large centralised counselling system involving unrelated colleges.

Which campus is best for Business Analytics?

Bengaluru may appeal to candidates interested in Business Analytics because of its MBA-MS pathway. Coimbatore may also offer analytics-related electives or specialisation options.

How should candidates compare ACAT colleges?

Compare fees, specialisations, placement reports, location, alumni network, international opportunities, infrastructure and total living costs.

Are scholarships available through ACAT?

Merit-based tuition waivers may be available to eligible candidates based on entrance performance, academics and university conditions.

Final Words

The Top ACAT Colleges 2026 are primarily Amrita MBA campuses located at Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Amritapuri, Kochi and Mysuru. Amaravati is also listed as an Amrita MBA location, although candidates should verify whether it is available through ACAT for their active admission phase.

Coimbatore may suit students seeking an established AACSB-accredited business school, while Bengaluru may appeal to candidates interested in Business Analytics and international academic exposure. Amritapuri and Kochi offer comparatively moderate fees in Kerala, while Mysuru provides the lowest listed tuition among the available options.

The best ACAT college is not the same for every candidate. The right choice depends on budget, specialisation, location, learning preferences, programme format and career objectives.

Before applying, candidates should verify the latest fee structure, ACAT acceptance, programme availability, scholarship conditions and campus-specific placement information. For further updates on ACAT registration, syllabus, preparation, results and MBA colleges, students can explore My College Route.