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How to apply to ISB PGP YL?

The Indian School of Business, ISB has introduced a groundbreaking program designed to fast-track the careers of young professionals: the Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL). This innovative ISB program is reshaping the landscape of management education in India, offering a unique opportunity for early career individuals to accelerate their path to leadership roles.


There are quite a few questions however which a profile evaluation with GOALisB can help you answer.

  1. Should I apply for the ISB PGP YL or wait to apply for the ISB PGP in a year or so?

  2. Is the ISB PGP YL as good as the IIM 2 year MBA?

  3. Should I apply for ISB PGP YL or also apply to specialised Masters Degrees abroad?

  4. What is a good GMAT/ GRE/ CAT score to apply to ISB PGP YL?


These and many more questions will keep on coming up and we will try to bring in perspectives for you in this blog.


ISB PGP YL

What is the application deadline for ISB PGP YL?


The deadline for ISB PGP YL for Round 1 is 15 December 2024.


ISB PGP YL FAQs 2025 - 27 Intake


ISB PGP YL Eligibility


  1. What are the basic eligibility criteria for ISB PGP YL?


    The basic eligibility criteria for ISB PGP YL includes:


    • An undergraduate/bachelor's degree in any discipline, or CA/CA equivalent

    • Final year students of bachelor's/integrated degree are eligible if they complete the degree by June 15, 2025

    • Up to 24 months of full-time work experience as of June 15, 2025

    • A valid GMAT/GRE/CAT-2024 score

    • TOEFL/IELTS score if English was not the primary language of instruction for the bachelor's degree


For assistance on your ISB PGP YL application get in touch with an experienced ISB admission consultant at GOALisB.


  1. Can final year students apply to ISB PGP YL?


    Yes, final year students can apply if they complete their degree by June 15, 2025, and can produce the degree certificate/provisional certificate at the time of enrollment.


  2. Is there a work experience limit for ISB PGP YL?


    Yes, candidates should have up to 24 months of full-time work experience as of June 15, 2025. Those with more than 24 months of experience are not eligible.


GMAT Score For ISB PGP YL Application


  1. Is the GMAT score mandatory for ISB PGP YL?


    GMAT is one of the accepted test scores, along with GRE and CAT-2024. At least one of these test scores is mandatory.


  2. Are online GMAT scores accepted?


    No, only test center-based GMAT scores are accepted. Online or at-home test scores are not valid.


  3. What is the GMAT code for ISB for the ISB PGP YL Application?


    The GMAT code for ISB is N2D-J5-01.


  4. How long are GMAT scores valid?


    GMAT scores are valid for five years from the date of the test.


GRE Score Submission for the ISB PGP YL Application


  1. Is GRE accepted for ISB PGP YL?


    Yes, GRE is one of the accepted test scores along with GMAT and CAT-2024.


  2. Are online GRE scores accepted for ISB PGP YL Application?


    No, only test center-based GRE scores are accepted. Online or at-home test scores are not valid.


  3. What is the GRE code for ISB for the ISB PGP YL Application?


    The GRE code for ISB is 7892.


  4. How long are GRE scores valid?


    GRE scores are valid for five years from the date of the test.


CAT Score Submission for ISB PGP YL 2025:


  1. Is CAT-2024 accepted for ISB PGP YL?


    Yes, CAT-2024 is one of the accepted test scores along with GMAT and GRE.


  2. How do I submit my CAT score?


    You need to provide your CAT registration number and the name registered for writing CAT in your application. ISB will get the scores directly from the CAT testing authority.


  3. How do I provide my CAT information for the ISB PGP YL application?


    You need to provide the CAT registration number and the name registered for writing CAT in your application to the PGP-YL.


  4. Do I need to submit my CAT scores separately?


    No, post submission of the application, ISB will get the scores directly from the CAT testing authority.


  5. When was the registration deadline for CAT 2024?


    The closing date for the registration for CAT 2024 Examination was September 20, 2024. Candidates should follow the CAT advertisement/website for registration details.


  6. Does ISB collaborate with IIMs for the PGP YL selection process?


    No, ISB uses the CAT score independently for short-listing/selecting candidates for PGP YL. IIMs have no role in the selection process or the conduct of the programme.


  7. What CAT-related documents do I need to upload?


    Uploading the confirmed CAT registration letter, which must include the CAT ID/Registration number, is mandatory.


  8. Which CAT exam scores are accepted for ISB PGP YL?


    Only CAT 2024 scores will be accepted for PGP YL Co 2025-27.


ISB PGP YL Essays


  1. How many essays are required for the ISB PGP YL application?


    There are three essays required for the ISB PGP YL application.


  2. What are the ISB PGP YL essay topics and word limits?


    The essay topics and word limits are:

    1. Essay 1: Describe a leadership experience (400 words)

    2. Essay 2: Unique experiences and contributions to diversity (400 words)

    3. Essay 3: Post-PGP YL impact and career plans (250 words)


  3. How important are the essays in the ISB PGP YL Application process?


    Essays are a crucial part of the application as they allow you to showcase your experiences, perspectives, and goals. They contribute to ISB's holistic evaluation process.


Letter of Recommendation for ISB PGP YL Application


  1. How many recommendations are required?


    One recommendation is required for the ISB PGP YL application.


  2. Who should I choose as my recommender?


    The Admission Committee suggests choosing a direct supervisor from an internship, part-time job, full-time employment, or a faculty member who can comment on your work and potential.


  3. Can I submit a recommendation from an ISB alumnus?


    While you can, recommendations from ISB alumni do not receive any special consideration or priority. All recommendations are evaluated equally.


  4. How is the ISB PGP YL recommendation submitted?


    The recommender will receive a link via email to fill out an online recommendation form.


  5. What is the deadline for submitting the ISB PGP YL recommendation?


    The recommendation submission deadline (as per IST) is 9-Dec-2024.


ISB PGP YL Interview


  1. Is an interview part of the ISB PGP YL admission process?


    Yes, shortlisted applicants will be invited for a personal interview as part of the evaluation process.


  2. Can I choose my interview date and location for ISB PGP YL?


    Interview dates will be provided along with application timelines. While you can share your preferred interview location, ISB may not be able to accommodate requests for changes in interview location, date, or timing.


  3. What documents do I need for the ISB PGP YL interview?


    You need to present an original document as proof of identity (Passport / Driving License / PAN card / Aadhar Card) on the day of the interview.


  4. What are the available interview locations for the ISB PGP YL Application?


    Interview locations can be selected from Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Online.


Fees for the ISB PGP YL Application


  1. What is the application fee for ISB PGP YL?


    The application fee amount is INR 2500. However, it is mentioned that the application fee is non-refundable.


  2. What is the admission fee for ISB PGP YL?


    The admission fee is INR 2,00,000 plus applicable taxes (currently GST).



Professional Experience in the ISB PGP YL Application


  1. How should I list my professional experiences?


    List your current or most recent professional experience first. If you have multiple current professional experiences, list your primary role first.


  2. Will ISB verify my employment information?


    Yes, if you are selected, ISB will verify the employment information you provide. Ensure you accurately report the facts and recheck before submitting.


  3. Can I list two activities as full-time in the same period?


    No, you cannot enter two activities as full-time in the same or overlapping period. For example, if you studied full-time for an undergraduate degree, internships during that period cannot be listed as full-time.


  4. How should I list multiple concurrent work experiences?

    If you worked for an organization as an employee and simultaneously in your own startup, family business, or were self-employed, mark only one of the activities as full-time. Others should be marked as part-time.


  5. What if I worked part-time in multiple organizations?


    If you worked part-time in multiple organizations in the same period, and the total work hours add up to 40+ per week, mark one of the organizations as full-time and list the others as part-time.


  6. How should I enter the dates for my current work profile in the ISB PGP YL Application?


    Enter the 'from' date as per the facts. The 'to' date will be calculated according to the cut-off date: June 15, 2025. ISB will assume you would work in the same organization until a week before the start of the PGP YL classes.


  7. How is work experience calculated for those with a medical education background in the ISB PGP YL Application?


    If you hold a bachelor's medical degree (MBBS, BDS, or equivalent in physiotherapy), your one-year mandatory internship/house surgeon duty can be considered as full-time professional experience. For those with a master's degree in these fields, you can enter the degree as 'part-time' in the Education section, and the entire duration can be recorded as 'full-time' professional experience.


  8. How should CAs report their articleship/internship in the ISB PGP YL Application?


    CA articleship/internship of a minimum of three years is a mandatory requirement for obtaining the CA qualification. In the Education section, enter that period as 'part-time'. In Professional Experience, enter that same period as 'full-time'. However, CA articleship will not be considered towards work experience while determining eligibility.



ISB PGP YL Program Overview

ISB PGP YL Duration and Location

  • Duration: 20 months

  • Location: ISB's Hyderabad campus


ISB PGP YL Target Audience

  • Fresh graduates and early career professionals

  • 0-24 months of work experience


Key Objectives

  • Prepare high-potential aspirants for accelerated management careers

  • Develop future-ready leaders equipped with cutting-edge business skills


ISB PGP YL Curriculum Highlights


Core Components

  1. Analytical Foundations: Business theory, critical thinking, data science

  2. Functional Expertise: In-depth management courses integrated with technology and analytics

  3. Leadership Development: Communication, team management, workplace dynamics

  4. Customized Learning Pathways: Electives aligned with industry demands


Innovative Learning Approaches

  • iDEAS (Innovation through Design Exploration and Actionable Solutions): Real-world business challenges

  • Mandatory Summer Internship: 8-10 weeks of industry immersion

  • PiVOT (Platform for Innovation and Venture Oriented Thinking): Entrepreneurial skill development


Global Perspective

  • International faculty from top global business schools

  • Exposure to global business practices

  • Cross-cultural competencies development


Career Acceleration


5.1 Career Development Track

  1. Exploration and Foundation: Understanding various industries and roles

  2. Excelling at Workplace: Practical skills workshops and coaching

  3. Career Mastery: In-depth preparation for chosen career paths


5.2 Placement Support

  • Assistance with summer internship placements

  • Support for final placements


ISB PGP YL Program Fees and Financial Aid


ISB PGP YL Fee Structure (2025-27 Academic Year)

  • Program fee: INR 21,65,000 + 18% GST

  • Accommodation fee: INR 3,95,000


ISB PGP YL Scholarships

  • Merit-based scholarships (up to 100%)

  • Need-cum-merit scholarships

  • ISB Develop India Scholarship





Need more help with your ISB PGP YL 2025 application or ISB Essay? Get in touch with our ISB admission consultant or write to us at contact@goalisb.com or call us at +91 7719497187.


Comprehensive ISB Resource Guide


  1. ISB Essays: Crafting a Winning Application - Learn how to craft a standout ISB essay that effectively showcases your unique strengths and career goals.

  2. Navigating the ISB Admission Process - A step-by-step guide to understanding ISB’s admission process, from application to acceptance.

  3. Executive MBA from ISB Hyderabad - Discover how ISB’s Executive MBA can enhance your career without interrupting your professional path.

  4. ISB Interview Preparation - Get insights on the evolving ISB interview process and tips for showcasing your profile effectively.

  5. Applying to ISB PGP YL - For early-career applicants, ISB’s Young Leaders program offers a tailored path to career growth.

  6. ISB Hyderabad MBA Overview - Explore the unique opportunities and faculty expertise that make the ISB Hyderabad MBA program distinctive.

  7. ISB PGPpro: A Part-Time MBA for Professionals - A flexible option for working professionals, ISB’s PGPpro offers growth without career disruption.

  8. ISB PGPpro Login Access - Stay connected to ISB PGPpro resources and updates through the official login portal.

  9. Tips from Alumni for ISB Hyderabad Admissions - Hear from alumni like Mohini on navigating the competitive ISB Hyderabad admission process.

  10. Your Guide to the ISB Application Process - A full breakdown of the ISB application process to help you prepare a winning submission.

  11. FAQ: How to Get Admission in ISB - Get answers to common questions about securing admission to ISB and preparing a strong profile.

  12. ISB Scholarships and Financial Aid Options - Scholarships can make ISB more affordable—explore the options available to applicants.

  13. Is ISB a 1-Year or 2-Year MBA? - Discover why ISB’s unique one-year format is designed to maximize career growth.

  14. Comparing ISB with IIM - Understand the key differences between ISB and IIM to make an informed choice.

  15. ISB for Entrepreneurs - ISB’s entrepreneurial resources make it a top choice for applicants aiming to build or expand their businesses.

  16. Eligibility for ISB MBA - Find out if you meet the criteria to apply for ISB’s prestigious MBA program.

  17. ISB Admissions 2025: Key Deadlines and Details - With the 2025 admission cycle approaching, keep track of essential requirements and dates.

  18. Evolution of the ISB Essay - ISB’s essay prompts reflect evolving business trends—learn how they’ve changed over the years.

  19. ISB vs. Wharton MBA - A comparison of ISB and Wharton, focusing on curriculum, networking, and career outcomes.

  20. ISB Application Process for Oil and Gas Professionals - Specialized insights for oil and gas professionals applying to ISB’s MBA program.

  21. ISB PGPpro vs IIMB PGPEM: A Comparative Guide - Compare ISB’s PGPpro with IIM Bangalore’s PGPEM for executive-level education.

  22. Application Tips for Infrastructure Professionals - Infrastructure professionals bring valuable perspectives to ISB—here’s how to stand out.

  23. Who Gets Selected to ISB - A look at the qualities and achievements common to successful ISB admits.

  24. Product Management Careers after ISB - How ISB’s MBA program prepares graduates for thriving careers in product management.

  25. Consulting Careers Post-ISB MBA - Discover the paths ISB graduates take into consulting and how to prepare for this career.

  26. Building a Profile for ISB Admission - Insights into crafting a profile that aligns with ISB’s selection criteria.

  27. ISB for E-commerce Professionals - E-commerce applicants bring a unique edge to ISB’s MBA program—here’s how to apply effectively.

  28. Healthcare Professionals: ISB Application StrategiesTailored strategies for healthcare professionals applying to ISB.

  29. Transitioning from Banking to ISB - A roadmap for banking professionals aiming to transition to ISB or other top MBAs.

  30. Is ISB Worth the Investment? - Evaluating the return on investment of an ISB MBA.

  31. ISB vs NUSA deep dive into the differences between ISB and NUS.

  32. Engineering to ISB MBA - Engineers bring valuable skills to ISB—explore the journey from engineering to ISB.

  33. GMAT Score Requirements for ISB - Understanding the GMAT score expectations for ISB applicants.

  34. Reapplying to ISB - Many successful applicants reapply to ISB with an improved profile.

  35. ISB MFAB Program - ISB’s MFAB is designed for family business leaders looking to expand their knowledge.

  36. Benefits of the ISB MBA - Explore the transformative benefits of an ISB MBA.

  37. Life at ISB - Get a glimpse into campus life and culture at ISB.

  38. ISB MBA Fees - Understanding the tuition fees for an MBA at ISB.

  39. ISB Hyderabad Campus - Discover the dynamic environment of ISB’s Hyderabad campus.

  40. ISB Rankings - Learn about ISB’s position in global rankings.

  41. IIMA vs ISB - A comparative look at IIMA and ISB for MBA aspirants.

  42. ISB PGPpro vs PGPmax - A detailed comparison of ISB’s PGPpro and PGPmax programs.

  43. ISB vs INSEADInsights into choosing between ISB and INSEAD for your MBA.

  44. Life After ISBThe post-MBA career trajectories of ISB graduates.

  45. ISB Admission Consultants - How expert consultants can guide you through ISB’s admission journey.

  46. ISB Interview Preparation - Prepare for the ISB interview with insights on expectations and strategy.

  47. ISB MBA Program Overview - An overview of the core elements of ISB’s MBA program.

  48. ISB PGPpro Application Guide - Key steps for applying to ISB’s PGPpro program.

  49. ISB PGPMAX for Senior Executives - Designed for senior professionals, ISB’s PGPMAX offers executive-level growth.

  50. Young Leaders Program (ISB PGP YL) - A program for young, high-potential applicants aiming to enter ISB.

  51. Family Business Leadership: ISB MFAB - The ISB MFAB program equips family business professionals with modern skills.

  52. ISB Placements and Career Outcomes - Explore ISB’s career services and impressive placement statistics.

  53. ISB Executive MBA Options - ISB’s Executive MBA offers advanced management education for working professionals.


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