Best MBA Colleges in Kerala 2024: Ranking, Fees, Admissions, Courses, Placements: Collegedunias
MBA colleges in Kerala provide an excellent platform for aspiring business leaders to develop their managerial skills and advance their careers. Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is renowned for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Beyond its natural beauty, Kerala is also home to some of the finest educational institutions in India.
Among these, MBA colleges in Kerala hold a significant place, offering top-notch management education to aspiring business leaders.
With a combination of quality education, experienced faculty, modern infrastructure, and excellent placement opportunities, the MBA colleges in Kerala are well-equipped to help students achieve their professional goals.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, entrance exams, and frequently asked questions, prospective students can make informed decisions and experience a successful MBA journey in Kerala. This guide provides an in-depth look into MBA colleges in Kerala, covering eligibility criteria, entrance exams, and addressing frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know about MBA Colleges in Kerala
MBA colleges in Kerala stand out for several reasons:
Quality Education
The state is known for its high literacy rate and a strong educational framework, ensuring that MBA programs are detailed and of high quality.
Experienced Faculty
MBA colleges in Kerala attract experienced faculty members from across the country and abroad, providing students with valuable insights and knowledge.
Infrastructure
Many MBA colleges in Kerala are equipped with one of the best infrastructures in India, including modern classrooms, libraries, and labs.
Placement Opportunities
These colleges maintain strong industry connections, facilitating excellent placement opportunities for graduates.
Scenic Environment
Studying in Kerala offers a serene and apt environment for learning, with its picturesque landscapes and tranquil settings.
Top MBA Colleges in Kerala
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode
IIM Kozhikode is one of the premier MBA colleges in Kerala and is part of the prestigious IIM network. It offers a variety of management programs, including a flagship Post Graduate Program (PGP) in Management.
About the college
- The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK) spans approximately 112.5 acres and is situated on two hillocks in the Kunnamangalam area of Calicut, Kerala, offering a scenic and oxygen-rich environment.
- The campus of one of the best MBA colleges in Kerala, includes air-conditioned classrooms, guest care areas, and comprehensive LAN/WAN connectivity, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all residents.
- Managed by a dedicated administrative staff of 96, IIMK is renowned for its efficiency and effective stakeholder management.
- IIMK actively hosts numerous national and international conferences, with 15 held in the past five years, reflecting its commitment to the motto ‘Globalizing Indian Thought.’
- Additionally, the institute has ventured into consulting assignments, generating over Rs. 10 million in revenue by 2007.
- As a leading Centre for the Development of Digital Libraries, IIMK is at the forefront nationally and globally.
- The institute has also established an Incubation Centre for Excellence in collaboration with the Government of Kerala, aimed at supporting Scheduled Castes/tribes students in improving communication and personality skills.
- IIMK consistently meets the full quota for SC/ST candidates in its Postgraduate Programme and maintains an impressive job placement record.
Eligibility
- A bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA.
- CAT scores are mandatory for admission.
Entrance Exam
- CAT (Common Admission Test)
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) School of Management Studies
The School of Management Studies at CUSAT is one of the oldest MBA colleges in Kerala. It offers a comprehensive MBA program with specializations in Marketing, Finance, Human Resource Management, and more.
About the college
- Founded in 1964, the School of Management Studies (SMS) was initially part of the University of Kerala. It became an integral part of the University of Cochin, now known as Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), in 1971.
- SMS is renowned for producing highly skilled and forward-thinking professionals in the fields of management and business, making it one of the leading MBA colleges in Kerala.
- The institution supports the essence of diversity by welcoming students and research scholars from across the country and internationally.
- It ensures gender equity with a balanced male-to-female ratio and promotes various social and environmental causes.
- SMS supports economically disadvantaged students with fee waivers and merit scholarships, fulfilling its commitments towards the environment, society, and governance through transparency and democratization in decision-making.
- As one of the oldest and most prestigious MBA colleges in Kerala, SMS CUSAT was established through the vision of Professor Emeritus Padmabushan (Dr.) M.V. Pylee, the founder director, and is one of the first five premier business schools in India.
Eligibility
- A bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks.
- Valid scores in CAT, CMAT, or KMAT conducted by CEE, Government of Kerala.
Entrance Exam
- CAT, CMAT, KMAT
Kerala University Institute of Management in Kerala (IMK)
Affiliated with the University of Kerala, IMK offers MBA programs with a focus on practical and industry-relevant education.
About the college
- Established in 1991, the Institute of Management in Kerala operates under the University of Kerala’s guidance.
- The Institute is situated near Kerala’s international business hub, Techno Park, along National Highway 47, within the lush Kariavattom University Campus.
- It is part of the newly created School of Business Management and Legal Studies at the University of Kerala.
- Historically, Kariavattom, meaning “The circle of debates and discussions,” was the strategic planning center of the Travancore royal administration.
- Fittingly, this historic center of royal strategic thought is now a modern hub for managerial discussions and debates, ranking the best among the top MBA colleges in Kerala.
Eligibility
- Graduation in any discipline with at least 50% marks.
- Entrance exam scores such as CAT, CMAT, or KMAT are required.
Entrance Exam
- CAT, CMAT, KMAT
SCMS Cochin School of Business
SCMS Cochin is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and excellent placement records. Ths one of the most applauded MBA colleges in Kerala offers a full-time MBA program with various specializations.
About the college
- As part of the SCMS Group of Educational Institutions, SCMS is a national leader in higher education, particularly in management, engineering, and technology, driven by the value-based educational vision of its founder, Dr. G.P.C. Nayar.
- SCMS has been offering the PGDM program since 1993, making it the first business school in Kerala to do so.
- The institution has over 47 years of excellence in academia.
- It is the first business school in India to receive ISO certification for quality teaching.
- More than 60 major corporations visit the SCMS campus annually for recruitment, making it a top choice of MBA aspirants for MBA colleges in Kerala.
Eligibility
- A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks.
- Scores from entrance exams like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or KMAT.
Entrance Exam
- CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, KMAT
Rajagiri Centre for Business Studies (RCBS)
RCBS, part of the Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, offers an MBA program designed to develop leadership and management skills. It is one of the premier MBA colleges in Kerala.
About the college
- RCBS, a brand of Rajagiri, offers MBA and MA (HRM) programs through the School of Management at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, and PGDM and FPM programs through Rajagiri Business School.
- The School of Management at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences offers autonomous MBA and MA (HRM) programs, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam.
- Rajagiri Business School’s PGDM and FPM programs are approved by the AICTE.
- The PGDM program at Rajagiri Business School is recognized as equivalent to an MBA degree by the Association of Indian Universities.
- The MBA, MA (HRM), and PGDM programs are internationally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) in the USA.
Eligibility
- Graduation in any field with at least 50% marks.
- Entrance exam scores from CAT, MAT, CMAT, or KMAT are considered.
Entrance Exam
- CAT, MAT, CMAT, KMAT
Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME) Kochi
About the college
- XIME has nurtured nearly 4000 alumni who are now in managerial roles across various business sectors. The institute, which started modestly, has rapidly grown to become one of the top 1% business schools in India.
- From its initial days operating out of a 3000 sq.ft. asbestos shed at St. Martha’s Hospital in Bangalore, XIME now has three expansive campuses:
- Electronics City in Bangalore (1.65 lakh sq.ft.)
- KINFRA Tech Park in Kochi (1.17 lakh sq.ft.)
- Oragadam in Chennai (1.15 lakh sq.ft.).
- Starting with just 60 seats, XIME now has a total sanctioned strength of 570 seats across its campuses:
- 300 in Bangalore
- 120 in Kochi
- 150 in Chennai
Making it the largest private sector MBA colleges in Kerala and in South India.
- The institute’s faculty has grown from 5 to 52 members, including top professionals. XIME attracts a geographically diverse student body from almost all Indian states, with a significant proportion of female students (up to 56%), engineers (65%), and those with work experience (nearly 40%).
- XIME students have excelled in national competitions and maintain a strong placement record, with 96% placed in 2023 at an average salary of Rs. 10.85 lakhs p.a.
- Unique partnerships with industry and philanthropists have also contributed to its ranking as one of the top MBA colleges in Kerala, including support from the Dorabji Tata Trust, The Oberoi Group, and Biocon.
Eligibility
- A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks.
- Scores from CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, or ATMA.
Entrance Exam
- CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, ATMA
DC School of Management and Technology (DCSMAT)
DCSMAT offers an MBA program that focuses on experiential learning and industry exposure.
About the college
- DCSMAT Institutions are promoted by the DC Kizhakemuri Foundation, drawing inspiration from the innovative leadership of the late DC Kizhakemuri.
- His persistent advocacy led the Travancore-Cochin Governor to abolish taxes on books. His efforts inspired the then Prime Minister to recommend the abolition of book taxes to all Indian states.
- The college has a beautifully designed and well-stocked library that is essential for enhancing knowledge and learning.
- Their campus is one of the best among other MBA colleges in Kerala, which offers a healthy and pollution-free environment, promoting overall wellness for students.
- DCSMAT Institutions prioritize the complete safety and security of everyone on both campuses.
- The hygienic and well-maintained cafeteria serves a variety of South-Indian and North-Indian cuisines to students and staff.
- The campus features a health club and multi-gym, dedicated activity center, amphitheater and auditoriums, design and innovation labs, entrepreneur incubation center, professional laundry services, and clubs and dance studio.
Eligibility
- A bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks.
- Entrance exam scores such as CAT, MAT, CMAT, or KMAT are required.
Entrance Exam
- CAT, MAT, CMAT, KMAT
Eligibility Criteria for MBA Colleges in Kerala
The eligibility criteria for MBA colleges in Kerala can vary slightly from one institution to another. However, the general requirements include:
Academic Qualifications
- Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- A minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the qualifying examination is typically required.
- Some colleges may have a relaxation of 5% for SC/ST candidates.
Entrance Exam Scores
- Valid scores from national or state-level management entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, KMAT, or ATMA are essential.
- Some colleges may accept scores from multiple exams, while others may specify a particular exam.
Work Experience
- While work experience is not mandatory for most MBA programs, some executive MBA programs may require relevant work experience.
Group Discussion and Personal Interview
- Shortlisted candidates based on entrance exam scores are often required to participate in group discussions (GD) and personal interviews (PI) as part of the selection process.
Entrance Exams for MBA Colleges in Kerala
Entrance exams are a critical component of the admission process for MBA colleges in Kerala. Here are the primary entrance exams accepted by these institutions:
Common Admission Test (CAT)
Overview
- CAT is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It is one of the most popular and widely accepted exams for admissions to MBA colleges in Kerala as well as across India.
Sections
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
Frequency
- Once in a year
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
Overview
- CMAT is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is a popular choice for many MBA aspirants across the country.
Sections
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
- Language Comprehension
- General Awareness
Frequency
- Once in a year
Kerala Management Admission Test (KMAT)
Overview
- KMAT is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS). It is specifically for admission to all MBA colleges in Kerala.
Sections
- English Language Usage and Reading Comprehension
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Data Sufficiency and Logical Reasoning
- General Knowledge and Contemporary Business Scenario
Frequency
- Twice a year
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
Overview
- MAT is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is accepted by many MBA colleges in Kerala.
Sections
- Language Comprehension
- Mathematical Skills
- Data Analysis and Sufficiency
- Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
- Indian and Global Environment
Frequency
- Four times a year
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
Overview
- XAT is conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur and is widely accepted by many MBA colleges in Kerala and across India.
Sections
- Verbal and Logical Ability
- Decision Making
- Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
- General Knowledge
Frequency
- Once in a year
AIMS Test for Management Admissions (ATMA)
Overview
- ATMA is conducted by the Association of Indian Management Schools (AIMS) and is another accepted entrance exam for admissions to management courses in many MBA colleges in Kerala.
Sections
- Analytical Reasoning Skills
- Verbal Skills
- Quantitative Skills
Frequency
- Multiple times a year
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When choosing an MBA college in Kerala, consider factors such as accreditation, faculty quality, placement records, infrastructure, industry connections, specialization options, and the overall reputation of the institution.
The average fee for MBA programs in Kerala can range from INR 1.5 lakhs to INR 12 lakhs for the entire course, depending on the college and the specific program.
Yes, many MBA colleges in Kerala offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, and specific criteria set by the institutions. Government and private scholarships are also available.
Entrance exam scores are crucial in the admission process as they are often the primary criterion for shortlisting candidates for further selection rounds such as GD and PI.
Yes, international students can apply for MBA programs in Kerala. They may need to meet additional requirements such as language proficiency tests and obtaining necessary visas.
Popular MBA specializations in Kerala include Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Operations Management, Information Technology, and International Business.
Graduates from MBA colleges in Kerala can pursue careers in various sectors such as finance, marketing, consulting, human resources, operations, IT, and entrepreneurship. Many colleges have strong placement cells that assist students in securing jobs with top companies.