Top 12 Executive MBA Colleges in India for Working Professionals
The Executive MBA program is meant for professionals with previous experience in a managing or directorial position. The course aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in key business functions, allowing them to take on senior management roles and effectively perform their responsibilities.
If you are an employed individual with over 5 years of professional experience, it is likely that you have considered pursuing an MBA or Executive MBA in India. Now, let’s explore into the topic and learn about the best Executive MBA colleges in India.
According to data from GMAC, as reported by India Today, more than 19% of employed people in India consider pursuing the Executive MBA program within the country. Approximately 73% of alumni have reported that their investment in this program offered far greater salary and career prospects.
India has nearly thirty or more top Executive MBA colleges. within these, 19 colleges are private, while 14 MBA colleges are owned by public. And these colleges accept entrance exams such as CAT, XAT, CMAT, and MAT to consider admission. There are of Top Colleges for EMBA including IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Calcutta, IIFT Delhi, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Indore, GLIM Chennai and IMT Ghaziabad
Executive MBA overview
There is often confusion between an MBA and an Executive MBA. While having similarity to the MBA program, this particular program is most suitable for senior managers and corporate executives. An Executive MBA, also known as EMBA, allows experienced executives with a minimum of 3 to 5 years of work experience to pursue an MBA degree while continuing to work. The program consists of a combination of evening and weekend sessions, online lectures, and workshops. The program is comparable to a regular MBA program, although its duration could differ.
The EMBA program is renowned for offering strict and specialized courses that enhance knowledge and strengthen expertise. The basic courses in this program resemble those of an MBA, including strategic management, operations management, finance and accounting, marketing, and human resources. Specialized options are the next courses in the sequence. Given the high cost of Executive MBAs, it is essential to evaluate your profile early to determine if it is beneficial in terms of both time and money. If you have significant experience as a senior professional, with a track record of more than 5 years, and your company requires you to obtain an MBA degree in order to be eligible for a promotion, or if you have aspirations of securing a leadership role, pursuing an Executive MBA (EMBA) program is highly beneficial and worthwhile.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements for the Executive MBA program can differ within various colleges. The basic criteria for pursuing an Executive MBA in India are listed below:
- As an essential criteria for the Executive MBA program, candidates must have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree in any field or its equivalent from a recognized university.
- The majority of institutes adhere to a minimum score requirement of 50 percent on average or a higher score for graduation. The majority of institutes do not have a minimum cutoff requirement for admission into the Executive MBA program.
- The applicant must have a minimum of two years of professional experience in a managerial or executive capacity.
- In addition to merit-based admission, several top Executive MBA colleges in India also consider scores from national- and state-level entrance exams such as GMAT, CMAT, MAT,CAT,MAH CET, XAT,NMAT, EMAT, ATMA,GRE etc., for MBA admissions.
List of Top Executive MBA Colleges in India
| Sl# | Name of the College | Duration | Programme Fee |
| 1 | IIM Ahmedabad | 1-Year | INR 31,50,000 |
| 2 | IIM Calcutta | 1 Year | INR 31,00,000 |
| 3 | Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi | ||
| 4 | University of Delhi | 2 Year | INR 1,02,000 |
| 5 | Symbiosis Institute of Business Management | 2 Year | INR 6,70,000 |
| 6 | Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai | 1 Year | INR 21,25,000 |
| 7 | IIM Indore | 1-Year | INR 22,11,800 |
| 8 | SP Jain School of Global Management | 1.5 Year | INR 14,86,800 |
| 9 | ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad | 21 Months | INR 5,25,000 |
| 10 | IIFT Delhi | ||
| 11 | IGNOU | 1.5 Year |
INR 1,42,000 – INR 2,12,440 (Depending on Specialisation)
|
| 12 | GIM – Goa Institute of Management: | 3 Year | INR 6,00,000 |
1. IIM Ahmedabad - Indian Institute of Management
IIM Ahmedabad is the highest-ranked famous university for business in India. The university offers a one-year, full-time Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives, also referred to as MBA-PGPX. The programme is specifically tailored for aspiring executives, offering them an opportunity to achieve their full career potential and prepare themselves for taking bigger responsibilities within a business organization. The program promotes innovative thinking and qualifies individuals for a dynamic global economy.
IIM Ahmedabad uses a method of instruction centered around case studies to foster an engaging and stimulating learning environment. The institute’s faculty, who are internationally renowned, utilize their vast experiences to assist students in understanding the most current business practices and emerging trends. In addition, IIM Ahmedabad has established partnerships with several universities worldwide in order to offer students opportunities for learning abroad.
| Program Name | MBA-PGPX |
| Duration | 1-Year |
| Mode | Full-Time |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 31,00,000 |
Also read- 1year online mba in india
2. IIM Calcutta
IIM Calcutta also provides students with The Long Duration Programmes. These programs are designed for individuals who are employed in their respective fields. The students have the option to participate in the sessions during evening hours or on weekends. The Indian Institute of Management Calcutta conducts a range of educational events for students in partnership with national and international organizations and universities, as part of its Thought Leadership program. The college has established an international center of excellence in management education to facilitate global student exchange programs.
The college holds accreditation from AACSB and AMBA and is also a member of CEMS. Situated in Joka, Kolkata, this prestigious college is renowned for its flagship courses. The primary programs available are MBA/PGDM and Executive MBA/PGDM. The institute provides postgraduate, doctoral, and executive programs to the students. IIM Kolkata offers courses in the field of Management as well as other diverse disciplines.
| Program Name | (EMBA) |
| Duration | 1-Year |
| Mode | Full-Time |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 31,00,000 |
3. Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi
FMS Delhi, also known as Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi, was founded in 1954 at the Delhi School of Economics campus. The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has granted accreditation to it. The FMS New Delhi offers a comprehensive two-year full-time MBA program. In addition, FMS Delhi provides MBA Executive and MBA Executive (Health Care Management) programs at the postgraduate level. It is associated with the University of Delhi and is the original membership of the Association of Management Development Institutes in South Asia (AMDISA). Additionally, it actively contributes to diverse regional collaboration initiatives in the world of management.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Mode | Part Time-Classroom |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | ₹2 L |
4. University of Delhi
The University of Delhi’s Faculty of Management Studies provides a two-year Executive MBA program for business leaders seeking to adjust to the changing world of e-commerce. The program establishes a solid theoretical basis in all the essential aspects of business, while also offering students a considerable level of academic flexibility. The university offers a specialization in Healthcare Administration to enhance the understanding of this field.
All students at the Faculty of Management Studies have access to a wide range of study resources. Students have access to the library, as well as a range of digital resources including live archives and online articles. In addition, the university has a faculty that is widely recognized internationally. The institution also conducts a faculty development program in partnership with Harvard Business School to make sure that all faculty members remain up-to-date with current developments in the industry. The university also arranges regular seminars and workshops to provide students with practical experience from the business industry.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Mode | Evening Programme |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 1,02,000 |
5. Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune
SIBM Pune is an integral part of SIU Pune. SIBM offers a wide selection of full-time MBA programs. The institute also offers online courses in the areas of Marketing Analytics, Design Thinking, and Basics of Management. Additionally, a corporate program called PGDBM is available. The course selection process comprises an entrance examination, followed by a Personal Interview (PI) round. SIBM Pune provides scholarships to MBA and MBA (I&E) students, covering up to 50% of the academic fee.
The Symbiosis Institute of Business Management Executive MBA prepares young professionals for leadership roles. The institute offers specializations in Marketing, Analytics & IT, Finance, Human Resources, Finance, Operations & Supply Chain and Innovation & Entrepreneurship to help students develop business skills.
Students gain advanced knowledge, skills, and leadership. It improves their earning potential and career prospects by developing domain expertise. The institute has a well-stocked library and high-tech computer labs for students.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Mode | Weekend Programme |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 6,70Lakh |
6. Great Lakes Institute of Management Chennai
The Great Lakes Institute of Management provides full MBA program designed for executives, allowing them to enhance their skills in basic business areas including Operations, Finance, Technology, Marketing, and Human Resources Management. The course is demanding and includes full mentorship. It is delivered using modern approach that focuses on practical situations case studies.
The institute has established an e-learning platform that includes various elements such as group and individual coaching, collaborative tasks, and 360-degree assessment. Furthermore, the students have a chance to engage in an advanced leadership growth program that primarily aims to facilitate student conversation and education with esteemed industry experts and influential ideas. Moreover, students acquire a fully engaging educational encounter through the utilization of exercises, practical examples from real-life situations, modern virtual classrooms that are globally connected,
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 1 years |
| Mode | Completely Residential |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 21,25,000 |
Also read– Top Online MBA Colleges in India
7. IIM Indore
The Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) at IIM Indore is a specialized course designed for helping employed individuals to enhance their knowledge and skills. It allows individuals to acquire the necessary skills and competence required to assume leadership roles in a business organization. The program showcases an upscale combination of different elements of business and general management, such as e-Commerce, marketing, BFSI, operations, and strategy.
The course has been recognized by prestigious accreditation bodies globally, such as the Association of MBAs (AMBA) in London (UK), the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) based in the US. This serves as testimony that the university has implemented an updated curriculum that is on par with global benchmarks. The institute utilizes a combination of case-based teaching methods, analytics workshops, global immersion programs, expert lectures, and business consulting modules to offer an entire educational experience to students.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 1 years |
| Mode | Completely Residential |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 22,11,800 |
8. SP Jain School of Global Management
The executive MBA programme at SP Jain School of Global Management combines various advanced technological tools that enhance the educational experience of students. Throughout the course, students engage in classroom-like activities such as speeches, quizzes, polls, group discussions, etc., which challenge them to make quick and intelligent choices. Moreover, the course facilitates the integration of individuals from various backgrounds, enabling them to learn from one another and acquire a wide range of perspectives. The course also provides an excellent opportunity to establish robust professional networks.
Through the utilization of various modern tools such as simulations, customized mentoring sessions, live case studies, and more, learners are given a chance to improve essential skills including analytical ability, decision-making skill, and critical thinking abilities. Students are also afforded the opportunity to partake in a global exposure program, during which they have the chance to spend one week at either SP Jain’s Dubai or Singapore campus. The hands-on programme offers students the opportunity to acquire knowledge from prominent international business figures, build a worldwide network, develop global business and leadership abilities, and discover new dimensions of the business world.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 1.5 years |
| Mode | Part Time |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 14,86,800 |
Also read- Distance MBA vs Online MBA
9. ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad
The ICFAI Business School utilizes a case-based teaching method to provide its executive MBA program. This facilitates the accomplishment of a unique mix of standard and modern forms of course delivery. Professionals are offered with a special chance to engage in studying and preparing for high-level leadership roles while still maintaining their current employment.
The course offers students a chance to acquire practical knowledge of the industrial world through engaging in focused projects. The project work allows students to acquire a thorough understanding of each topic, so improving the efficiency of their studies. In addition, students are provided with access to a globally recognized database, software, and other similar resources that will enable them to enhance their knowledge and maximize their learning experience.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 1.7 years |
| Mode | Weekend Programme |
| Eligibility | A Bachelor’s degree in any field |
| Fee | INR 5,25,000 |
10. IIFT Delhi
IIFT Delhi has been ranked 9th for MBA by Business Today in 2023, 27th in the Management category by NIRF in 2023, and 4th under the Management category by Times in 2023. The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade was founded in 1963 as an independent organization under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The University has received accreditation from AACSB and has been awarded an A Grade by NAAC. IIFT Delhi provides a wide range of courses, including postgraduate, doctorate, certificate, and other programs, to students through its numerous departments. The courses are available in the field of Management as well as in other diverse disciplines. IIFT College is affiliated with , the Academy of International Business, AMBA and EFMD.
The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade boasts a highly qualified and experienced faculty. Based in the Qutab Institutional Area in Delhi, this esteemed college organizes a range of guest speakers and seminars for both students and staff members. IIFT Delhi provides students with placement support. Prominent firms including Cipla, EY, Dabur, and others visit the university that has been recognized as a deemed-to-be university. The infrastructure of IIFT comprises an efficient library housing 84,000 books and memberships to 800 journals. IIFT Delhi is renowned for its MBA and MA programs.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Mode | Weekend Programme |
| Eligibility | Graduation (50%-60%) |
| Fee | 4.5 L – 4.8 L |
11. IGNOU
The Indira Gandhi National Open University offers an Executive MBA degree that is specifically tailored to meet the professional development goals of experienced working professionals. The curriculum offers students with the skills and knowledge they need to stay current with the latest innovations in the business. IGNOU provides a diverse range of specializations in its EMBA program, including Marketing, HR Management, IT Management, Finance Management, Hospitality Management, and others.
To enhance students’ learning experience, the university provides comprehensive study materials. Moreover, IGNOU uses an experiential learning method to enable its students to acquire practical knowledge and firsthand experience from the industry. In addition, the institution utilizes several multimedia platforms, including television, radio, internet-based audio, and online channels, to optimize learning possibilities.
| Program Name | Executive MBA |
| Duration | 1.5 Year |
| Mode | Part time Programme |
| Eligibility | Graduation Degree |
| Fee | INR 1,42L – INR 2,12L |
12. GIM - Goa Institute of Management:
GIM Goa has received approval from AICTE and AIU, and has been accredited by NBA and SAQS. The Goa Institute of Management is affiliated with reputable groups such as AACSB, EFMD Global, PRME, GBSN, United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and UN-Global Compact Network India. The Goa Institute of Management is ranked as one of the top four B-Schools in the world. GIM Goa was founded in 1993. GIM College has been placed second by Outlook-ICARE among the best private colleges in the western region. The Goa Institute of Management provides postgraduate and other educational programs to students in many fields such as Management, HRM, Accounting and other disciplines.
| Program Name | Executive MBA/PGDM |
| Duration | 36 Year |
| Mode | Full time Programme |
| Eligibility | Graduation Degree (50%-40%) |
| Fee | 4.8 L – 20.5 L |
Why choosing an Executive MBA will beneifical for you?
Here are a few compelling reasons why pursuing an Executive MBA can be beneficial for you:
Embrace the new business atmosphere and skills: Throughout the previous years, the market experienced major shifts. To such an extent that even experienced company leaders must broaden their perspectives.
Establish an experienced professional network: Given the extensive industrial expertise of all Executive MBA participants, this program offers an excellent opportunity to establish connections with experts from other industries, including those from different countries.
Learn entrepreneurship: An Executive MBA program is specifically designed to develop expertise in strategic management of company matters and to equip individuals with the skills necessary for leadership in entrepreneurship and self-employment.
High ROI: After reaching a senior-level post, the frequency of salary increments decreases. By adding Executive MBA degrees into your profile, you can elevate your salary range and assume more significant professional duties. Although an MBA can provide similar advantages, its course content may not be tailored to your level of experience.
Career Scope for Executive MBA degree Holders
Given that it is not a regular degree such as an MBA, the candidates are currently employed in management or executive positions within their respective industries. They exclusively assume leadership roles within the current organization.because of its focus on improving the careers of high-ranking professionals, the Executive MBA program usually doesn’t involve campus placements. This particularly applies to the part-time Executive MBA (EMBA) courses, where students actively engage in their jobs as professionals. However, for full-time EMBA programs, the job placements can reach as high as 90 lpa. Prestigious companies such as PwC, Flipkart, and Amazon have been recruiting executive MBA graduates from IIMs.
| Job Roles | Average Salary |
| Global Operations Manager | INR 20.5 LPA |
| Brand Manager | INR 18 LPA |
| Entrepreneur | INR 17.6 LPA |
| Product Development Manager | INR 21.2 LPA |
| Marketing Director | INR 48.1 LPA |
| HR Director | INR 44.6 LPA |
| Chief Operating Officer | INR 49 LPA |
| Chief Financial Officer | INR 52 LPA |
The Executive MBA program is increasing popularity among professionals at the mid-senior or executive level who seek to enhance their professional qualifications. This course is designed to be highly industry-focused, emphasizing decision-making, strategic management, and case studies. The programme is offered in various formats, and each of the above colleges is well-known for its executive MBA degree in India. You have an opportunity to assess your profile and make a well-informed decision.
Frequent Asked Questions
Is pursuing an Executive MBA worth it?
Pursuing an executive MBA from a highly regarded business school allows you to maintain a competitive edge and propel your career to a higher echelon. An Executive MBA offers an impressive return on investment for mid-senior or senior professionals who work. The value of this is reliant on your professional profile and objective.
Is an Executive MBA degree valid?
Yes, an Executive MBA degree holds validity in India as long as it earned from an accredited college.
Is Executive MBA equal to regular MBA?
The curriculum of both degrees is mostly the same and they eventually add the same qualifications to your resume. However, they differ from various aspects. An Executive MBA program is not suitable for recent graduates as it requires a minimum of 5 years of full-time professional experience. Unlike to an MBA, work experience is not required.
