IIM Kozhikode
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Summary
What is IIM Kozhikode?
Explore IIM Kozhikode MBA admission 2026 details: fees, placements (₹28.18 LPA avg), CAT 2025 cutoffs, eligibility & application steps for top MBA in Kerala.
- Location
- Kozhikode, Kerala
- Total fees
- ₹23.5 L
- Average package
- ₹28.2 L
- Highest package
- ₹81 L
- NIRF rank
- #5
- Exams accepted
- CAT
Last updated
About IIM Kozhikode
Top Reasons to Join IIM Kozhikode in 2026
Known as the 'God’s Own Campus,' IIM Kozhikode has cemented its position as a global leader in management education. Ranked #3 by NIRF 2026 in the management category, the institute offers a unique blend of academic rigor and a serene learning environment. It is one of the few elite B-schools in India to hold the 'Triple Crown' accreditation—EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB—putting it in the top 1% of business schools worldwide NIRF 2026.
Exceptional Placements and ROI
The IIM Kozhikode placement track record remains a significant draw for MBA aspirants. For the most recent graduating batch, the institute achieved 100% placements with an average CTC of ₹28.18 LPA Placement Report 2025-26. With a total program fee of ₹23.50 Lakhs, the Return on Investment (ROI) is among the best in the country, especially considering the lifetime value of the brand name and the vast alumni network. The highest domestic package reached a staggering ₹81.00 LPA, highlighting the high demand for IIMK graduates in top-tier roles Placement Report 2025-26.
Diverse Peer Set and Specializations
IIM Kozhikode is a pioneer in promoting gender diversity, consistently maintaining one of the highest percentages of female students among the older IIMs. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and prepares you for multicultural corporate environments. Students can choose from various PGP programs, including the flagship PGP, PGP-Finance, and PGP-Liberal Studies and Management, which cater to evolving industry needs. Admission is strictly via the CAT exam, ensuring you study alongside the brightest minds in the nation.
Global Recognition and Recruiters
The institute maintains strong ties with industry giants across Consulting, BFSI, and IT/ITES sectors. Major recruiters like McKinsey & Company, BCG, Goldman Sachs, and Amazon are regular visitors during the IIM Kozhikode recruitment cycle Placement Report 2025-26. Furthermore, the entrepreneurial ecosystem at IIMK, supported by the LIVE incubation centre, provides an excellent platform for students looking to launch their own startups.
Why Join IIM Kozhikode?
Programme Portfolio8 programmes
| Programme | Duration | Exams | Specialisations | Eligibility | Seats | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) MBA Full-time | 2 years (full-time residential) | CAT GMAT GRE | FinanceMarketingOperations Management+3 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT 98-99+% · GMAT 720+ | 495 | ₹23.5 L 2025-2027 |
Post Graduate Programme in Human Resources Management (PGP-HRM) Sectoral MBA Full-time | 2 years (full-time residential) | CAT | Talent AcquisitionCompensation & BenefitsIndustrial Relations+3 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT 97+% | 40 | ₹23.5 L 2025-2027 |
Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGP-BA) Sectoral MBA Full-time | 2 years (full-time residential) | CAT | Predictive ModelingMarketing AnalyticsVisual Analytics+3 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT 98+% | 60 | ₹23.5 L 2025-2027 |
Post Graduate Programme in Finance (PGP-Finance) Sectoral MBA Full-time | 2 years (full-time residential) | CAT | Investment BankingFixed Income SecuritiesCorporate Valuation+2 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT 96+% | 40 | ₹23.5 L 2025-2027 |
Post Graduate Programme in Business Leadership (PGP-BL) 1-Year MBA Full-time | 1 year (full-time residential) | GMAT GRE | Global LeadershipInnovation ManagementCorporate Governance+2 | Grad ≥ 50% · GMAT 670+ · Work-ex ≥ 3y | 60 | ₹22.5 L 2025-2026 |
Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP) Executive MBA Hybrid | 2 years (interactive learning) | Profile-based | Strategic ManagementFinanceMarketing+3 | Grad ≥ 50% · Work-ex ≥ 3y | 500 | ₹14.7 L 2025-2027 |
Doctoral Programme in Management (PhD) Fellow / Doctoral Full-time | 3-5 years (full-time) | CAT GRE | EconomicsFinance and AccountingInformation Systems+3 | Grad ≥ 55% · CAT NA% | 25 | — 2025-2026 |
PhD in Management (Doctoral Programme) Fellow / Doctoral Full-time | 3-5 years (full-time) | Profile-based | EconomicsFinance & AccountingSocial Science & Management+3 | Grad ≥ 60% | 20 | — 2025-2029 |
Admission Process
The IIM Kozhikode admission process for the 2026-2027 academic cycle is characterized by its rigor and emphasis on multifaceted diversity. As a premier Tier 1 IIM, the institute utilizes a multi-stage selection process to evaluate candidates on academic consistency, professional experience, and behavioral aptitude. For the flagship Post Graduate Programme (PGP), IIM Kozhikode uses the CAT exam as the primary screening tool, followed by a secondary shortlist based on sectional and overall percentiles. Admission Brochure 2026
During the current admission cycle, IIM Kozhikode maintains a Total Fee of ₹23,50,000 for its two-year residential programs. The shortlisting methodology is notably distinct, as it gives significant weight to gender and academic diversity to ensure a vibrant classroom environment. Prospective students must navigate three distinct phases: the preliminary online registration, the Writing Ability Test (WAT), and the Personal Interview (PI). IIMK Official Site 2026
Shortlisting Weightage and Selection Matrix
The final selection at IIM Kozhikode is determined by a composite score. While CAT scores remain critical, the institute rewards candidates with strong academic backgrounds in class 10th and 12th. The weightage distribution for the 2026-2027 batch is outlined below:
| Component | Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| CAT 2025 Index Score | 45 |
| Personal Interview (PI) | 35 |
| Writing Ability Test (WAT) | 10 |
| Resume Multiplier (Work Ex/Academic Diversity) | 10 |
Candidates scoring above the 97-98 percentile are typically considered competitive for the PGP shortlist, though lower percentiles may qualify for specialized programs like PGP-Finance or PGP-Liberal Studies and Management. IIM Kozhikode remains one of the few elite b-schools to have secured the "Triple Crown" accreditation from EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB, making its admission process globally recognized. IIMK Admission Policy 2026
Admission Steps
CAT Registration and Examination
Register and appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 held in November.
Preliminary Shortlist and Registration
Shortlisted candidates must register on the IIMK official portal after the CAT results are declared.
Document Submission and Verification
Submission of the Stage-1 online application form along with academic transcripts and work experience details.
Stage-2 Shortlisting for PI/WAT
Candidates are shortlisted based on a Composite Score (CS) derived from CAT scores and academic history.
WAT and Personal Interview Process
Shortlisted individuals must appear for the Writing Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) round.
Final Selection List Publication
The final merit list is generated based on PI performance, WAT quality, CAT scores, and diversity factors.
Acceptance Fee and Online Enrollment
Selected candidates must pay the admission acceptance fee of ₹1,00,000 to secure their seat.
Program Commencement and Reporting
Successful candidates attend the on-campus orientation and document verification at the Kozhikode campus in June 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA from a recognized university.
- For candidates belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories, the minimum required graduation score is 45%.
- Final year graduation students are eligible to apply, provided they complete all requirements by June 2026.
- A valid CAT 2025 score is mandatory for all domestic Indian applicants.
- GMAT or GRE scores are accepted for International applicants and for the PGP-BL (Business Leadership) program.
- Minimum sectional CAT cutoffs typically range between 75 to 80 percentile for General category students.
- Applicants for PGP-Finance must demonstrate proficiency in quantitative subjects during their undergraduate tenure.
- Working professionals applying for the Executive MBA (EPGP) must have a minimum of 3 years of post-qualification experience.
Placement Statistics
Sector-wise Placements
Top Recruiters
IIM Kozhikode Placement Highlights 2025
The latest placement season at IIM Kozhikode has once again demonstrated its standing as a premier global business school, achieving 100% placements for its graduating batch. The flagship PGP program, along with PGP-Finance and PGP-LSM, saw intense competition from top-tier recruiters despite global economic headwinds. The average package at IIM Kozhikode reached INR 28.18 LPA, while the median stood strong at INR 27.50 LPA Placement Report 2025.
Sectoral Insights and Role Distributions
Consulting remained the dominant force at IIM Kozhikode, attracting nearly one-third of the batch. This was closely followed by Finance and General Management roles. Top firms offered specialized profiles in Investment Banking, Product Management, and Strategy. Notably, the highest domestic package soared to INR 81.00 LPA, reflecting the high premium industry leaders place on "Kampus Konnect" talent Placement Report 2025. IIM Kozhikode also saw a significant rise in international offers, particularly from the Middle East and South East Asia.
Summer Internship Success
The summer internship drive for the 2024-2026 cohort at IIM Kozhikode concluded with record-breaking numbers. The highest stipend touched INR 7 Lakhs for a two-month duration, with an average stipend exceeding INR 2.5 Lakhs. Students interested in specialized tracks can use a College Shortlister to compare these outcomes with other top IIMs. The diversity of the batch continues to attract niche recruiters in ESG and Healthcare Consulting.
| Metric | Placement Statistics (2025) |
|---|---|
| Highest Domestic Package | INR 81.00 LPA |
| Average Package | INR 28.18 LPA |
| Median Package | INR 27.50 LPA |
| Top 5% Average | INR 52.60 LPA |
| Total Recruiters | 150+ |
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Cutoff Details
| Category | Exam | Year | Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | CAT | 2025 | 98.2 % |
| EWS | CAT | 2025 | 92.5 % |
| NC-OBC | CAT | 2025 | 91.0 % |
| SC | CAT | 2025 | 82.0 % |
| ST | CAT | 2025 | 72.0 % |
| PwD | CAT | 2025 | 70.0 % |
| General | CAT | 2024 | 97.8 % |
| NC-OBC | CAT | 2024 | 90.5 % |
| General | CAT | 2023 | 97.5 % |
| General | CAT | 2026 (Expected) | 85.0 % |
← Swipe to view all columns →
The IIM Kozhikode admission process for the 2026-2027 cycle involves a rigorous two-stage shortlisting procedure. For the flagship Post Graduate Programme (PGP), IIM Kozhikode exclusively accepts CAT exam scores for domestic candidates. The institute is known for its "Gender Diversity" push, often maintaining a higher percentage of female students compared to other top-tier IIMs through specific weightage in the preliminary shortlist.
CAT Sectional and Overall Cutoff Trends
While the official minimum eligibility for the General category at IIM Kozhikode is set at the 85th percentile, the actual calling cutoff for the Writing Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) typically hovers between 97 and 98.5 percentile for General candidates. This varies based on the candidate's academic profile and work experience. Over the last three cycles (2023-2025), sectional cutoffs have remained stable at 75 percentile across VARC, DILR, and QA for the General category to ensure a balanced skill set.
Factors Influencing Cutoff Shifts
The cutoffs at IIM Kozhikode have seen a marginal upward trend due to a significant increase in CAT applicants and the growing brand equity of the "God’s Own Campus." The introduction of specialized programs like PGP-Finance and PGP-Liberal Studies and Management (LSM) has also diversified the applicant pool. Category-wise relaxations are substantial, with NC-OBC candidates often receiving calls at the 90-92 percentile range, while SC/ST candidates may see calls starting from the 70-80 percentile bracket Shortlisting Criteria 2026.
| Category | Expected 2026 Cutoff Band | Primary Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| General | 97.5 - 98.5 %ile | CAT + High Academics | NC-OBC / EWS | 90 - 94 %ile | Sectional Consistency | SC / ST | 75 - 82 %ile | Category Minimums |
For the upcoming 2026-2027 intake, aspirants should target an overall percentile of 98+ to secure a comfortable buffer, especially if they do not have the "Academic Diversity" or "Gender Diversity" points. IIM Kozhikode continues to place high value on consistent performance across Class 10 and 12 IIMK Admission Policy 2026.
Rankings & Accreditations
Accreditations
Student Reviews
Known as God’s Own Campus, IIM Kozhikode offers a breathtaking view that helps de-stress. The 'Globalizing Indian Thought' pedagogy is unique, and the focus on emotional intelligence alongside data-driven decision-making really sets the PGP program apart from other top-tier B-schools.
The academic rigor at IIM Kozhikode is intense, often leaving very little time for sleep during the first year. The hillock terrain is beautiful but can be physically exhausting to navigate between hostels and classrooms if you are running late for a 1.5-hour session.
IIM Kozhikode placements are stellar, with top consulting and BFSI firms visiting every year. The library (Business Museum) is world-class and arguably the best in India. The peer group is exceptionally diverse, and the 'Kampus' culture promotes collaborative learning over toxic competition.
The mess food is decent but can become repetitive for students from North India. Additionally, the competition for summer internships at IIM Kozhikode is cut-throat, which can be mentally taxing for freshers competing against peers with significant work experience in consulting.
The faculty at IIM Kozhikode are industry veterans who bring real-world cases into the classroom. The infrastructure is top-notch with high-speed Wi-Fi and modern Bloomberg terminals. The campus life, especially festivals like Backwaters, creates memories and networking opportunities that last a lifetime.
The 2026-2027 fee structure of INR 23.5 Lakhs is on the higher side, making ROI a concern if you don't land a high-paying role. Also, Kozhikode city is a bit far from the campus, so frequent outings are difficult during the hectic weekdays.
Placements at IIM Kozhikode consistently deliver high averages, with the median often crossing INR 27 LPA. Recruiters like McKinsey, BCG, and HUL are regulars here. The entrepreneurial ecosystem is also growing, thanks to the LIVE incubator which supports student-led startups.
The waitlist movement for IIM Kozhikode can be unpredictable, causing anxiety for aspirants. Within the campus, the humidity of Kerala can be quite draining during the summer months, though the monsoon transforms the hills into a lush green paradise.
The PGP-Finance and PGP-LSM tracks provide niche specializations that most other IIMs lack. Being an IIM Kozhikode student means access to an elite alumni network. The Triple Crown accreditation (EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB) ensures our degree is respected globally for international rotations.
The 100% attendance policy is strictly enforced at IIM Kozhikode, leaving no room for leniency. Sometimes the schedule for guest lectures is Released at the last minute, making it hard to plan personal engagements or hobby projects.
Campus Gallery
Scholarships
IIM Kozhikode Need-Based Financial Assistance (NBFA)
Full Tuition Fee WaiverThe IIM Kozhikode Need-Based Financial Assistance (NBFA) is designed to ensure that no deserving student drops out due to financial constraints. Eligibility depends on the applicant’s family income and their academic performance during the first year of the PGP program at IIM Kozhikode.
Criteria: Family income below INR 5-8 LPA and academic merit.
IIMK Merit Scholarship
INR 3,00,000 to INR 5,000,000This prestigious merit-based award is given to incoming PGP students at IIM Kozhikode who demonstrate exceptional performance in the CAT. The scholarship aims to attract the brightest national talent to the 'God’s Own Campus' by rewarding academic excellence and high entrance scores.
Criteria: Top 5-10 scorers in the CAT exam and overall profile.
IIMK Alumni Foundation Scholarship
INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,00,000This scholarship is awarded to students based on their performance in the first year of the MBA program at IIM Kozhikode. The top performers across different sections are recognized for their consistency and dedication to the rigorous residential curriculum.
Criteria: Academic performance in the first year of MBA.
IIMK Chairperson’s Merit Scholarship for Women
Up to INR 3,00,000In line with IIM Kozhikode's commitment to gender diversity, this scholarship supports high-achieving women in the PGP Batch. It encourages more women to take up leadership roles in the management sector by easing the financial burden of the INR 23,50,000 program fee.
Criteria: Excellent academic record and female gender.
Aditya Birla Scholarship
INR 1,00,000This is one of the most coveted corporate scholarships at IIM Kozhikode. Awarded by the Aditya Birla Group, it recognizes students who excel in academics and possess strong leadership potential, usually covering a portion of the second-year tuition fee for the PGP program.
Criteria: Specific criteria set by the Aditya Birla Group.
OPJEMS Scholarship
Up to INR 2,00,000The OP Jindal Engineering and Management Scholarship (OPJEMS) is awarded to the top management students across the country. IIM Kozhikode students are eligible to participate in the selection process, which includes a test and a personal interview conducted by the foundation.
Criteria: Academic excellence and interview performance.
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Scholarships
Full Tuition and Living ExpensesThe Central Sector Scholarship Scheme for Top Class Education provides full financial support to students from marginalized communities at IIM Kozhikode. It covers the entire tuition fee, books, and living expenses, ensuring equitable access to premium management education for all selected candidates.
Criteria: Belonging to SC/ST categories with low family income.
Faculty Profiles
Prof. Debabrata Chatterjee
Economics
PhD, IIM Lucknow • 22 Years
Prof. Deepa Sethi
Marketing Management
PhD, DAVV Indore; Post-Doc, University of Calgary • 18 Years
Prof. Kulbhushan Balooni
Finance, Accounting and Control
PhD, RBI Endowment Fellow; IARI New Delhi • 25 Years
Prof. S. Subramanian
Strategic Management
PhD, IIM Ahmedabad • 15 Years
Prof. Animesh Bahadur
Information Systems and Analytics
PhD, IIT Kharagpur • 14 Years
Prof. Manoranjan Dhal
Organizational Behaviour & Human Resources
PhD, IIT Kharagpur • 19 Years
Prof. Atanu Rakshit
Marketing Management
PhD, IIM Calcutta • 12 Years
Prof. Shovick S. Roy
Quantitative Methods & Operations Management
PhD, IIM Bangalore • 11 Years
Prof. A.F. Mathew
Humanities & Liberal Arts in Management
PhD, TISS Mumbai • 16 Years
Prof. Sony Thomas
Finance, Accounting and Control
PhD, IIT Madras • 13 Years
Hostel & Campus Life
Campus Facilities
Life at the IIM Kozhikode Kampus in the Clouds
Living at IIM Kozhikode is often described as an experience in the 'Kampus in the Clouds.' Spread across two scenic hillocks in Kunnamangalam, the campus offers a breathtaking residential experience that blends naturally with the Western Ghats. For students enrolled in the 2026-2027 academic cycle, the IIM Kozhikode hostel life provides a perfect balance between rigorous management training and serene living conditions IIM Kozhikode Brochure 2026.
Residential Accommodation and Comfort
There are 19 well-designed student hostels within IIM Kozhikode. All PGP students are required to stay on campus to foster a collaborative culture. The rooms are largely single-occupancy, though some dual-occupancy options exist for certain batches. Each hostel block at IIM Kozhikode is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, washing machines, and geysers. The architecture reflects traditional Kerala styles, ensuring ample ventilation and natural light despite the heavy monsoon rains IIMK Infra Report 2025.
Dining and Recreational Facilities
The mess committees at IIM Kozhikode manage the dining halls, offering a mix of North Indian, South Indian, and Continental cuisines to cater to a diverse student body. Beyond academics, you can engage in various student-run clubs and committees that operate late into the night. Safety is a top priority at IIM Kozhikode, with 24/7 security personnel and CCTV surveillance ensuring a secure environment for all residents, particularly during late-night library sessions or group study meetings.
Sports and Wellness
The hilltop lifestyle encourages physical fitness. IIM Kozhikode features a state-of-the-art gymnasium, badminton courts, a football ground, and basketball facilities. For those looking to manage the stress of a Tier-1 MBA, the lush green walking trails around the campus serve as the ultimate rejuvenator. You can also utilize the various common rooms for indoor games like table tennis and carrom IIMK Campus Life 2026.
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