MBA Colleges in Chennai: Eligibility Criteria, Entrances, and FAQs : Collegedunias
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is not only a cultural and economic hub but also a prominent educational destination in India. Among many world-class educational opportunities it offers, pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) stands out as a highly chosen option. MBA Colleges in Chennai are renowned for their excellent academic programs, experienced faculty, and excellent placement records.
Pursuing an MBA in Chennai can be a transformative experience, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and network needed to excel in the business world. With a variety of programs, top-notch faculty, and strong industry connections, MBA Colleges in Chennai offer an excellent platform for aspiring managers and entrepreneurs.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, entrance exams, and selection process, you can make an informed decision and take the first step towards a successful career in management. This blog provides a detailed overview of the eligibility criteria, entrance exams, and frequently asked questions about MBA Colleges in Chennai.
All About MBA Colleges in Chennai
Chennai is home to some of the best MBA colleges in India, which attract students from across the country. The city offers a diverse range of MBA programs, catering to different interests and career aspirations. Whether you are looking for a general MBA, a specialized MBA, or an executive MBA, Chennai has institutions that can meet your needs.
Some of the top MBA Colleges in Chennai that we will explore in this blog include:
- Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)
- Great Lakes Institute of Management
- Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)
- Anna University
- SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Whether you aim to join a prestigious institution like IIT Madras or explore the innovative programs at Great Lakes Institute of Management, the opportunities are vast and varied in Chennai. Prepare diligently, choose wisely, and embark on a rewarding educational journey in one of India’s most dynamic cities.
Eligibility Criteria for MBA Colleges in Chennai
Before applying to MBA Colleges in Chennai, it is crucial to understand the eligibility criteria, which generally include academic qualifications, entrance exam scores, and sometimes work experience.
Below are the common eligibility criteria for most MBA programs in Chennai:
Academic Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Most colleges require a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate, though this can vary.
Final Year Students
- Students in the final year of their bachelor’s degree can also apply, provided they complete their degree requirements before the commencement of the MBA program.
Entrance Exams
Admission to MBA Colleges in Chennai typically requires a valid score from one of the standardized management entrance exams. Some of the most widely accepted exams include:
| Entrance Exams | Details |
|---|---|
|
CAT (Common Admission Test) |
Conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), CAT is one of the most popular entrance exams for MBA programs in India. |
|
XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) |
Conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, XAT scores are accepted by several MBA Colleges in Chennai. |
|
MAT (Management Aptitude Test) |
Conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA), MAT scores are also accepted by many institutions. |
|
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test) |
Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CMAT is another widely accepted exam |
|
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) |
Primarily used for international MBA programs, GMAT scores are also accepted by some Indian MBA colleges. |
|
TANCET (Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test) |
Conducted by Anna University, TANCET is a state-level entrance exam specifically for MBA programs in Tamil Nadu |
Work Experience
While not mandatory for most full-time MBA programs, work experience can be a significant advantage. Some executive MBA programs, however, require a minimum of 2-5 years of professional experience.
Personal Interview and Group Discussion
- In addition to academic qualifications and entrance exam scores, candidates are often required to participate in a personal interview (PI) and group discussion (GD) as part of the selection process.
- These assessments evaluate a candidate’s communication skills, leadership qualities, and overall suitability for the MBA program.
Entrance Exams for MBA Colleges in Chennai
Entrance exams play a pivotal role in the admission process for MBA Colleges in Chennai.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the major entrance exams:
Common Admission Test (CAT)
|
Conducting Body |
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) |
|
Eligibility |
Candidates must have a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) |
|
Exam Pattern |
The CAT exam includes sections on: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Quantitative Ability (QA). The duration of the test is 2 hours. |
|
Application Process |
Online Typically starts from August to September. |
|
Exam Date |
Usually conducted in November. |
Common Admission Test (CAT)
|
Conducting Body |
XLRI Jamshedpur |
|
Eligibility |
A bachelor's degree in any discipline is required. |
|
Exam Pattern |
The XAT exam includes sections on: 1. Decision Making 2. Verbal and Logical Ability 3. Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation 4. General Knowledge The duration of the test is 210 minutes. |
|
Application Process |
Online Typically starts from August till October. |
|
Exam Date |
Usually conducted in January. |
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
|
Conducting Body |
All India Management Association (AIMA) |
|
Eligibility |
A bachelor's degree in any discipline |
|
Exam Pattern |
The MAT exam includes five sections: Language Comprehension Mathematical Skills Data Analysis and Sufficiency Intelligence and Critical Reasoning Indian and Global Environment. The duration of the test is 2.5 hours. |
|
Application Process |
Online Exams are conducted four times a year (February, May, September, December). |
|
Exam Date |
Multiple dates throughout the year |
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
|
Conducting Body |
National Testing Agency (NTA) |
|
Eligibility |
A bachelor's degree in any discipline |
|
Exam Pattern |
The CMAT exam includes these sections: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation Logical Reasoning Language Comprehension, and General Awareness The duration of the test is 3 hours. |
|
Application Process |
Online Exams are conducted four times a year Between March and April |
|
Exam Date |
Usually conducted in May |
Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET)
|
Conducting Body |
Anna University |
|
Eligibility |
A bachelor's degree in any discipline |
|
Exam Pattern |
TANCET includes sections on: Business Situations Analysis Reading Comprehension Quantitative Ability, Data Sufficiency, and English Usage Total Duration of the test is 2 hours. |
|
Application Process |
Online Between January and February |
|
Exam Date |
Usually conducted in March |
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
|
Conducting Body |
Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
|
Eligibility |
A bachelor's degree in any discipline |
|
Exam Pattern |
GMAT includes sections on: Analytical Writing Assessment Integrated Reasoning Quantitative Verbal. Total Duration of the test is 3.5 hours. |
|
Application Process |
Online Available year-round |
|
Exam Date |
Flexible, can be scheduled as per candidate’s convenience. |
List of Top MBA Colleges in Chennai
Let’s explore some of the top MBA Colleges in Chennai:
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)
IIT Madras, one of the premier engineering and MBA colleges in Chennai, also offers a distinguished MBA program through its Department of Management Studies (DoMS). The program is designed to support analytical and leadership skills of students.
About the college
- Department of Management studies (DoMS)’s management programs are internationally recognized.
- Visiting scholars from Europe and the USA frequently collaborate with DoMS faculty.
- Active student exchange programs enhance graduate studies.
- DoMS aims to be a globally unique and valuable source of management knowledge and expertise.
- The institute leads IIT Madras in international student and institutional exchanges.
Programs Offered
Following are the programs offered by IIT Madras:
- MBA
- EMBA
- MS in Management
- Ph.D
Eligibility
- AT score required for admission to Indian Institutes of Management.
- Graduates need first class or 60% marks (55% for specific categories) from recognized universities.
- Final year students eligible with provisional admission, pending degree completion.
- IIT graduates with CGPA of 8 and above are exempted from CAT score requirement.
- Provisional certificate of completion required within two months of program commencement
Entrance Exam and Selection Criteria
- A composite score will be computed, considering CAT score, past academic performance, work experience, academic diversity, and gender with appropriate weights.
- Shortlisted candidates from all categories will undergo a Personal Interview based on their composite score.
- Final selection criteria include Reflective Writing, Personal Interview, and Composite Score, each weighted accordingly.
- Other achievements will also be taken into account during the final selection process.
Great Lakes Institute of Management
Great Lakes Institute of Management is known among other MBA colleges in Chennai for its innovative curriculum and strong industry connections. It offers a one-year PGPM for experienced professionals and a two-year PGDM for fresh graduates.
About the college
- Founded in 2004 by Dr. Bala V Balachandran, a Padmashree awardee and Kellogg School of Management Professor Emeritus, Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, ranks among India’s premier business schools.
- Backed by a distinguished faculty and guided by a remarkable advisory council, Great Lakes has quickly risen to prominence.
- Through international partnerships, Great Lakes has firmed its position as a top-tier business school in India.
- Its 30-acre green campus, awarded platinum rating, was opened in April 2009 in Manamai, just 8 kilometers from the UNESCO Heritage site ‘Mahabalipuram’.
Programs Offered
Following are the programs offered by Great Lakes Institute of Management:
- Executive MBA Programs ( PGPM FLEX and PGXPM)
- Full time PGPM and PGDM
- Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
Eligibility
- Applicants wishing to take admission in the institute must take GMAT/CAT/XAT/CMAT before applying.
- For PGDM 2024 intake, Great Lakes accepts GMAT scores from January 1, 2021, CAT from 2022/2023, XAT from 2023/2024, or CMAT from 2023 (CMAT 2024 only if results are before the deadline).
- Bachelor’s degree with 60% across 10th/12th/Undergraduation is required. Freshers or <36 months work experience by June 30, 2024, are eligible.
- Candidates with 2-3 years work experience by April 30, 2024, can apply for One Year Flagship PGPM or Two Year PGDM.
- Applicants can apply for both programs but must fill separate forms.
Entrance Exam and Selection Criteria
- Applicants are assessed based on GMAT/CAT/XAT/CMAT scores, academic history, essays, work experience, and personal interviews.
- The selection criteria prioritize candidates with strong academic backgrounds and the ability to handle pressure.
- Preference is given to college/university rank holders.
Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)
LIBA is one of the premier MBA colleges in Chennai known for its strong values-based education. It offers a variety of MBA programs focusing on ethics and excellence.
About the college
- LIBA offers a two-year PGDM course approved by AICTE and recognized by AIU, alongside weekend PGDM, Ph.D., and executive diploma programs.
- Its Management Development Centre (MDC) provides customized skill development programs for industries.
- The CK Prahalad Centre for Emerging India focuses on empowering rural youth, women, and entrepreneurs through incubation programs.
- LIBA emphasizes holistic student development, including intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
Programs Offered
Following are the programs offered by LIBA:
- PGDM Weekend (AICTE Approved) – Two Years,
- Executive Diploma programmes- One Year,
- PGP In Logistics (Industry Partner – Kerry Indev Logistics),
- Ph.D. (Affiliated to the University of Madras & XIM University), and
- DBA (from Binary University – Malaysia).
Eligibility
- An Undergraduate Degree with 50% aggregate is required.
- Candidate must have his/her 10+2 marksheet with an aggregate score of 60% .
Entrance Exam and Selection Criteria
- Admissions will be provided on the basis of CAT and XAT.
- Selection Process will be based on entrance exam score, followed by PI and GD.
Anna University
Anna University’s Department of Management Studies offers a detailed MBA program with a focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of management.
About the college
- Anna University, a renowned institution among other MBA colleges in Chennai, nurtures professionals equipped with technical expertise, professional aptitude, and ethical principles.
- It facilitates collaboration between academia and industry while emphasizing research and knowledge dissemination.
- The university contributes to economic and social progress by producing skilled manpower through top-notch teaching, research, and consultancy.
- Since 2007, Anna University has been offering MBA, MCA, and M.Sc. (Computer Science) programs through distance education, aiming to enhance technological and managerial skills.
- Its mission revolves around advancing knowledge and fostering competence among professionals, thereby contributing to societal development.
Programs Offered
Following are the programs offered by Anna University:
- MBA ( Business Analytics)
- MBA ( General Management)
Eligibility
- Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized Indian or foreign board after completing 10+2 or equivalent.
- The Bachelor’s degree could be a three-year or four-year program.
- Foreign board applicants can qualify with either an 8+4 or 9+3 educational background.
- MBA program aspirants must pass the Online Education Entrance Test (OEET) administered by Anna University.
Entrance Exam and Selection Criteria
- Admissions will be provided on the basis of TANCET Score.
- Selection Process will be based on entrance exam score, followed by PI.
SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Ranking among the top MBA colleges in Chennai, SRM offers a dynamic MBA program designed to equip students with the skills needed for the global business environment.
About the college
- SRM’s B-Schools earn top ranks in prestigious publications including Outlook ICARE, Business India, Business Today, Competition Success Review, and Global HR Development Center for 2022-23.
- Students benefit from practitioner-led programs such as the CXO Protégé Program and engaging interactions with entrepreneurs through CXO talks.
- SRM’s B-Schools achieved an All India Ranking of 105 in 2022 according to Business Today-MDRA, and boast collaborations with 62 international universities for global learning opportunities.
- MBA graduates from SRM secure placements in leading corporations across various sectors such as Banking, Retail, Consulting, IT, Marketing, HR, and Healthcare, offering competitive salaries and coveted job profiles. For more details click here MBA in India
Programs Offered
Following are the programs offered by SRM are:
- MBA
- MBA Executive
Eligibility
- A Bachelor’s degree with minimum aggregate of 60%
Entrance Exam and Selection Criteria
- Admission will be done through SRM Joint Entrance Examination for Management (SRMJEEM) followed by a Personal Interview.
- Students with eligible entrance scores in CAT/SAT/MAT/GMAT/NMAT/CMAT/TANCET may also apply.
- Preference would be given to candidates with work experience. You can check our trusted education portal Collegedunias
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The eligibility criteria for MBA Colleges in Chennai generally include holding a bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum aggregate score (usually 50%), a valid score from an accepted entrance exam (CAT, XAT, MAT, etc.), and sometimes work experience. Final year students can also apply.
MBA Colleges in Chennai accept scores from various entrance exams including CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, GMAT, and TANCET. The specific exams accepted can vary by institution, so it’s important to check the requirements of each college.
Yes, many MBA Colleges in Chennai accept candidates with a distance learning degree as long as the degree is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) or equivalent authority. However, it’s advisable to check specific eligibility criteria with the institution you are applying to.
The selection process typically involves evaluating the entrance exam score, followed by a group discussion (GD) and personal interview (PI). Some colleges may also consider academic performance, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
Yes, many MBA Colleges in Chennai offer scholarships based on merit, entrance exam scores, academic performance, or financial need. Some colleges also have scholarships specifically for minority groups or students from economically weaker sections.
Yes, several MBA Colleges in Chennai offer part-time or executive MBA programs designed for working professionals. These programs often have flexible schedules and are tailored to accommodate the needs of those who cannot commit to a full-time program.
MBA Colleges in Chennai have strong placement records with many top companies visiting campuses for recruitment. Placement cells in these colleges provide training and career support, helping students secure lucrative job offers in various sectors such as finance, marketing, consulting, IT, and more.