IIM selection criteria 😨 What is safe percentile for dream MBA college

Summary

This video script discusses the selection criteria for Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), emphasizing that academic performance is not the sole determinant for admission. It highlights the importance of CAT percentile scores, especially for top IIMs, and provides insights into the varying selection processes of different IIMs. The script also offers advice on target percentiles for different categories of candidates, including general, OBC, SC, ST, and non-engineers, and touches on the unique selection approach of SP Jain, which values exceptional achievements outside academics.

Takeaways

• 📊 The selection criteria for IIMs primarily focus on the CAT percentile, with the exception of IIM Bodh Gaya and IIM Nagpur, which consider academic performance as well.
• 🎯 A general category candidate aiming for top IIMs should target a CAT percentile of 99.5 or higher to be safe, considering the competition and seat availability.
• 🏫 IIM Ahmedabad is highly competitive and requires a CAT percentile of 99.5 to 99.6 for candidates with a strong academic profile, while a percentile of 99.8 may be necessary for those with a slightly weaker profile.
• 📚 IIM Bangalore considers both CAT percentile and academic performance, with a preference for candidates with high CAT scores and strong academic records.
• 💼 Work experience can be advantageous for candidates with a lower CAT percentile, especially when applying to IIMs that value academic excellence.
• 🏦 IIM Kolkata focuses less on academic performance and more on CAT percentile, making it a good option for candidates with high percentile scores, even in non-traditional fields like finance.
• 🏛 IIM Indore places significant weight on academic performance, making it challenging for candidates with lower academic scores, even with high CAT percentiles.
• 🎓 IIM Lucknow is known for calling candidates with high CAT percentiles, even those with lower academic scores, but converting the call into selection can be difficult.
• 📈 IIM Kozhikode, similar to IIM Bangalore, values both CAT percentile and academic performance, with a preference for candidates who excel in both areas.
• 📘 FMS Delhi does not consider academic performance heavily and gives importance to verbal ability, with a CAT percentile target of 99.5 for selection.
• 🌟 SP Jain is unique in its selection process, focusing on exceptional profiles and achievements outside of academics, with a minimum CAT percentile requirement of 85.

Q & A

What is the significance of the numbers 999 and 887 in the context of the script?

The numbers 999 and 887 are used metaphorically to represent high academic performance or a strong profile for candidates applying to IIMs. A '999' profile is considered excellent, while '887' is slightly less but still strong.

What does the speaker mean by 'CAT percentile'?

The CAT (Common Admission Test) percentile refers to a candidate's performance in the CAT exam, which is a standardized test used for admission into IIMs. It is a key factor in the selection process for most IIMs, except for IIM Bodh Gaya and IIM Nagpur.

What is the safe percentile mentioned for admission into IIMs?

The speaker suggests that a CAT percentile of 94 or 93 is generally considered safe for admission into most IIMs, except for IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore, which may require higher percentiles.

How does IIM Ahmedabad's selection process differ from other IIMs?

IIM Ahmedabad's selection process is more stringent, requiring a very high CAT percentile, typically 99.5 or 99.6, for candidates with a '999' profile. It is suggested that even a small dip in percentile can affect the chances of selection.

What is the role of academics in the selection process of IIMs?

For most IIMs, the selection process is primarily based on the CAT percentile. However, IIM Indore, for example, gives significant weight to academics, which can impact the selection of candidates with lower CAT percentiles.

What is the speaker's view on the selection criteria of IIMs?

The speaker believes that selection should be based on entrance exam performance rather than overall academic performance since childhood, as it is more fair and reflects current capabilities.

What is the significance of a '999' profile for IIM Bangalore?

A '999' profile, indicating excellent academic performance, along with a high CAT percentile, significantly improves a candidate's chances of being shortlisted for IIM Bangalore.

How does work experience affect the chances of selection for IIMs?

Work experience can be beneficial, especially for candidates with a slightly lower CAT percentile. Freshers with a '999' profile may face more competition, but experienced candidates can leverage their work experience to their advantage.

What is the speaker's advice for candidates targeting top IIMs?

The speaker advises candidates to aim for a CAT percentile of at least 99.5 to be competitive for top IIMs, considering the high number of applicants and limited seats.

What are the speaker's thoughts on the selection process of SP Jain?

The speaker highlights that SP Jain has a profile-based selection process, where candidates with exceptional achievements outside academics can be shortlisted even with a minimum CAT percentile of 85.