Top B-Schools Offering 1-Year MBA Programs in India

Are you a mid-career professional aiming for a fast-tracked business education that delivers maximum ROI with minimal time away from the workforce? A 1-year MBA program could be the perfect fit for your career goals.

In recent years, India’s top B-schools have developed highly respected 1-year full-time MBA programs tailored for experienced professionals. These programs offer international exposure, leadership grooming, and placements comparable to global MBAs—all at a fraction of the cost.

In this blog, we explore the top Indian B-schools offering 1-year MBA programs for the 2026–2027 intake, including details on fees, work experience requirements, application deadlines, accepted exams, and more.

What is a One Year MBA?

A one Year MBA (also known as Executive MBA or Accelerated MBA) is a full-time, residential program designed for professionals with significant work experience. Unlike part-time or distance executive courses, these programs are immersive, classroom-based, and culminate in the award of a formal MBA or PGDM degree.

Key Features:

• Duration: 12–15 months
• Minimum work experience: 2–5 years
• Entrance exams: GMAT, GRE, CAT, or XAT
• Strong focus on leadership, strategy, and global business
• Career support and high placement packages

Top B-Schools in India Offering 1-Year MBA Programs

Here’s a curated list of top Indian B-schools offering 1-year MBAs for the upcoming admissions cycle:

IIM Ahmedabad – PGPX

One of the most prestigious programs in India and globally ranked in the FT Executive MBA Rankings.

• Duration: 1 year full-time
• Diverse global cohort, leadership labs, and international immersion
• Placement: Top consulting, tech, and FMCG roles

IIM Bangalore – EPGP

Known for its rigorous curriculum, global exposure, and tech-industry links.

• Includes a 1-week international immersion
• Strong alumni network and leadership focus

IIM Calcutta – MBAEx

Ideal for professionals aiming at roles in consulting, finance, and strategic management.

• Campus known for its legacy and placement ecosystem
• Offers Capstone projects and international modules

ISB Hyderabad – PGP

India's top-ranked 1-year MBA as per many global rankings.

• Open to professionals with as little as 2 years of work experience
• Dual campuses: Hyderabad & Mohali, same curriculum

XLRI Jamshedpur – PGDM (GM)

One of the most affordable and well-regarded general management programs.

• Accepts XAT, GMAT, or GRE
• Strong industry interface and ROI

SPJIMR Mumbai – PGPM

Offers a modular structure with international exposure and great peer diversity.

• Corporate projects, value-based leadership, and high flexibility
• Accepts GMAT/CAT

IIM Lucknow – IPMX

Located at the Noida campus, designed for mid-senior professionals.

• Strong placement record in BFSI, consulting, and IT
• Global immersion module

IIM Kozhikode – EPGP (IIMK Kochi campus)

Growing rapidly in popularity for professionals in South India.

• Blends core management and leadership skills
• Hybrid format options available

IIM Indore – PGP-BL

A relatively new program focused on business leadership.

• Combines classroom rigor with executive learning
• High value for money and growing placement success

IIM Shillong – PGPEX

Located in Northeast India, great for those looking for low-cost, high-value MBAs.

• Accepts GMAT/CAT
• Emphasizes sustainability, ethics, and leadership

ROI and Career Prospects

One-year MBA programs in India offer excellent Return on Investment (ROI). Compared to global MBAs that cost Rs. 60–90 L and require relocation abroad, these programs:

• Cost Rs. 22–40 L
• Have top recruiters like McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Google, Microsoft, ICICI, Deloitte
• Enable mid-career transitions within 12–15 months

Average salaries post-program range from Rs. 25 LPA to Rs. 45 LPA, depending on prior experience and industry.

Exam & Application Tips

Most programs accept GMAT or GRE, while a few also accept CAT or XAT. Here’s how to plan:

• Start GMAT/GRE prep at least 4–6 months before deadlines
• Ensure your CV showcases leadership, achievements, and impact
• Work on a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) and LORs
• Shortlist 3–5 programs based on location, ROI, and placements

Pro Tip: Use tools like the Compare MBA Colleges feature on MyCollegeRoute.com to evaluate B-schools side-by-side.

Who Should Consider a 1-Year MBA?

• Working professionals with 3+ years of experience
• Aspirants aiming for career shifts (e.g., tech → consulting)
• Entrepreneurs seeking formal business training
• Professionals not willing to take a 2-year career break

A 1-year MBA packs the punch of an elite MBA within a condensed, immersive format—ideal for those who value time and efficiency.

How to Choose the Right 1-Year MBA Program?

Here’s a quick checklist to evaluate fit:

Conclusion: Simplify Your MBA Decision with MyCollegeRoute.com

Choosing the right 1-year MBA program is a career-defining decision—and MyCollegeRoute.com is here to make it easier.

Use our expert tools like:

• Compare MBA Colleges Tool
• Updated application deadlines & fee tracker
• Exam prep guidance & personalised counselling

Whether you’re targeting IIMs, ISB, XLRI, or SPJIMR, our platform helps you cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters—ROI, fit, and future growth.