✅ Any candidate with a bachelor’s degree and the required percentage can apply for CAT, regardless of their age.
✅ Many IIMs have students from a wide range of age groups, from fresh graduates to professionals with 8–10 years of experience.
👉 Also Read: Admission Weightage Components in IIMs
IIMs value diversity in their student cohort, including diversity in age and work experience. A typical IIM batch consists of:
📌 Fresh graduates (22-24 years old) – Typically those who enter IIM right after completing their undergraduate degree.
📌 Candidates with 2-5 years of work experience (25-28 years old) – This group brings valuable corporate insights to classroom discussions.
📌 Older candidates (30+ years old) – Often from non-traditional backgrounds or seeking a career switch.
This mix of students enhances peer learning, offering multiple perspectives in case studies and class discussions.
👉 Also Read: Best MBA Colleges – Official NIRF Ranking
Placements at IIMs are driven primarily by skills, experience, and performance, rather than age. However, there are some nuances to consider:
🔹 For freshers (22-24 years old) – Companies typically offer entry-level roles in consulting, marketing, finance, and analytics.
🔹 For experienced professionals (25+ years old) – Candidates may be considered for mid-level managerial positions, depending on their past work experience.
🔹 For candidates aged 30+ – The placement process can be slightly different. While top recruiters do hire older candidates, they often prefer those with relevant industry experience. Some roles may require a strategic job switch rather than a traditional campus placement.
👉 Also Read: MBA Colleges for 80-90 percentile in CAT
❌ Age is NOT a barrier to pursuing an MBA at IIMs.
✅ Recruiters focus on skills and experience rather than age during placements.
📈 Older candidates should leverage their prior experience to target suitable managerial roles.
💡 Extracurricular activities and networking can help bridge any gaps and boost placement chances.
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