IIM Lucknow PGPWE
- Goalisb
- Apr 5
- 20 min read
The Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) at IIM Lucknow is tailored for mid-career professionals seeking a competitive edge in today’s dynamic business environment. Offered at the institute’s NOIDA campus, this two-year alternate weekend MBA equips participants with advanced managerial capabilities while allowing them to continue their full-time professional commitments.
This is an MBA for working professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders across sectors—corporate, government, NGOs, and startups—the PGPWE emphasizes a general management approach with opportunities to deepen expertise through electives. The program blends academic rigor with practical application, ensuring participants can immediately integrate learnings into their workplace.
One of the standout features of IIM Lucknow’s PGPWE is its flexible, immersive format. Students attend classes on alternate weekends, allowing them to maintain career momentum while earning an MBA. The curriculum is delivered through case studies, live projects, and leadership interactions, ensuring a hands-on experience that goes beyond textbooks.
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The diverse cohort—comprising professionals from medicine, engineering, civil services, defense, and more—creates a rich learning environment that promotes peer-to-peer learning and cross-functional insights. With a legacy of excellence and a strong alumni base, IIM Lucknow’s PGPWE continues to be a compelling choice for ambitious professionals aiming to elevate their leadership trajectory without pausing their careers.
In a rapidly changing global business landscape, the PGPWE provides the strategic acumen, analytical skills, and global exposure required to drive innovation and impact from within.
IIM Lucknow PGPWE Curriculum and Learning Experience
The IIM Lucknow PGPWE curriculum is structured to offer a robust foundation in management while allowing flexibility through electives and experiential modules. Delivered over seven terms across two years, the program combines rigorous academics with real-world relevance—ensuring participants evolve into strategic, future-ready leaders. You can also check the IIM Lucknow IPMX which is the full time one year MBA in India offered by IIM Lucknow.
Alternate Weekend Format
Designed specifically for working professionals, the program follows an alternate weekend format. Participants attend sessions from Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon, every other weekend, at the NOIDA campus. Each term includes approximately seven campus visits over three months, minimizing disruption to full-time employment while maximizing learning continuity.
Core Courses (Year 1)
The first year builds a strong foundation through core courses across functional areas such as:
Finance: Financial Reporting & Analysis, Financial Management
Marketing: Marketing Management I & II
Strategy & Economics: Managerial Economics, Macro-Economic Environment, Strategic Management I
Operations & Analytics: Operations Management I & II, Quantitative Analysis I & II
HR & Organizational Behavior: Human Resource Management, Designing Work Organization
Technology & Systems: Management Information Systems
Communication & Legal: Communication for Management, Legal Aspects in Management
Each subject is assigned credits, with one credit equaling 30 hours of classroom contact. Total credit requirement for core courses is 18.0 credits.
Advanced Learning (Year 2)
The second year offers:
Elective Courses (7.0 credits): A broad elective basket allows participants to align with their professional goals. Areas include Finance, Marketing, Strategy, HR, IT, General Management, and more.
Dissertation (2.0 credits): Students undertake a guided research project to address a real-world problem or explore a strategic interest.
Strategic Management II, Leadership, and Legal Aspects: Continue to build leadership acumen and decision-making skills.
International Immersion Module
The curriculum includes a 1-credit International Module—a 1–2 week study visit to a leading European business school. This immersion involves:
Academic courses
Industry visits
Cross-cultural workshops
Peer interaction with global cohortsThis component sharpens students’ global business perspectives and enhances cross-border leadership competencies.
Pedagogical Approach
IIM Lucknow integrates multiple teaching methods to maximize learning impact:
Case Study Method (Harvard-style)
Live Projects for hands-on exposure
Guest Lectures and Leadership Talk Series
Sustainability and Innovation Projects
Faculty Mentorship and Advisory Sessions
The result is a deeply engaging experience that transforms working professionals into strategic thinkers and effective leaders—capable of driving change in complex organizational settings.
IIM Lucknow PGPWE Admission Process & Eligibility
The admission process for IIM Lucknow's PGPWE is designed to identify high-potential professionals with strong academic backgrounds and leadership potential. With a mix of standardized test scores, holistic profile evaluation, and a personal interview, the process ensures a well-rounded, competitive intake for each batch.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the PGPWE 2025–27, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
Educational Qualification
A Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA.
The degree must follow a 10+2+3 or 10+2+4 pattern of formal education.
If the university provides only CGPA, conversion to percentage must follow institutional norms. In absence of such a formula, IIML will apply a standard method.
Work Experience
Minimum 3 years of full-time post-qualification (after graduation) professional work experience as on March 31, 2025.
Internship, project-based, freelance, or curricular work experience is not considered.
Accepted Test Scores
Candidates can apply with any one of the following valid test scores:
Test Type | Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT / GMAT Focus | Test-center-based only; score must be valid till application deadline |
GRE | Test-center-based only; home-based scores not accepted |
CAT | Only scores from CAT 2022 or CAT 2023 accepted |
GATE | Only GATE 2023 or GATE 2024 scores valid |
PGPWE Entrance Exam | Conducted by IIM Lucknow in December 2024 at the NOIDA campus |
Note: Online/Take-home versions of GMAT, GRE, or GMAT Focus are not accepted.GMAT Code: J39-VT-47 | GRE Code: 4988
Application Submission
The application is online-only and involves:
Filling a detailed application form
Uploading scanned documents (marksheets, degrees, ID, work experience proof, photo)
Uploading valid test scorecard (unless appearing for the PGPWE Entrance Exam)
A non-refundable application fee of INR 1000 is payable online to complete submission.
Selection Process
Candidates are shortlisted based on test scores and overall profile. Shortlisted applicants must appear for:
Writing Ability Test (WAT)
Personal Interview (PI)
Final selection is based on the following weightage:
Component | Weightage |
Test Score | 30% |
Academic & Professional Profile | 30% |
Writing Ability Test | 10% |
Personal Interview | 30% |
The selection panel evaluates candidates on academic rigor, communication skills, work achievements, and leadership readiness.
IIM Lucknow PGPWE vs IIM Kozhikode EPGP
Feature | IIM Lucknow PGPWE | IIM Kozhikode EPGP |
Program Name | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) | Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) |
Degree Awarded | MBA Degree from IIM Lucknow | MBA Degree from IIM Kozhikode |
Duration | 2 Years (7 terms) | 2 Years (7 quarters) |
Delivery Format | Alternate weekends (Fri–Sun), in-person at NOIDA campus | Online via IL platform + 3 on-campus modules (1 week each) |
Class Timing Options | Fixed: Alternate weekends, Fri–Sun | Option 1: Weekend (Sat–Sun full day) Option 2: Weeknights + Sun |
Campus | NOIDA Campus | Online + Kochi or Kozhikode campus for immersion |
Total Fee | ₹11,00,000 + ₹10,000 (caution) + ₹5,000 (alumni) + taxes | ₹15,50,000 + ₹2,000 (SWF) + ₹10,000 (alumni) |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree + 3 years full-time work ex post-graduation | Bachelor’s degree + 3 years experience (post-graduation only) |
Accepted Tests | GMAT, GRE, CAT (2022/23), GATE (2023/24), or IIML Entrance Exam | EMAT, or GMAT (700+), GRE, CAT (75+ percentile) |
Selection Process | Test (30%) + Profile (30%) + WAT (10%) + PI (30%) | EMAT + PI or GMAT/GRE/CAT + PI |
International Module | Yes, 1–2 weeks at European B-school (1 credit) | No formal international module |
Campus Immersion | No fixed residential requirement; optional accommodation at IIML | Mandatory 3 on-campus modules (1 week each) |
Specializations / Electives | 10 areas incl. Strategy, Ops, Finance, HR, IT | Electives from 8+ domains incl. Econ, Humanities, Marketing, etc. |
Assessment Style | Case method, projects, exams | Quizzes, assignments, projects, exams; 13-grade scale (A+ to F) |
Alumni Status | Full IIM Lucknow alumni status | Full IIM Kozhikode alumni status |
Ranking | IIM Lucknow NIRF #6 (2023) | IIM Kozhikode NIRF #3 (2023), QS Global 151–200 (Mgmt) |
Learning Approach | Experiential, peer learning, leadership talks | Interactive Learning + Simulation + Business Projects |
Flexibility | Can extend program to 4 years under extenuating circumstances | Break allowed up to 1 year with rejoining option |
Batch Strength | ~65 students | Large cohort with 180+ participants |
PGPWE Entrance Exam Details
For applicants without valid GMAT, GRE, CAT, or GATE scores, IIM Lucknow offers a dedicated PGPWE Entrance Exam, conducted offline at the NOIDA campus. This test provides an additional pathway for professionals aiming to join the program and is structured to evaluate the core competencies essential for success in an executive MBA.
Exam Format & Structure
Feature | Details |
Mode of Exam | Offline (in-person at NOIDA campus) |
Medium | English |
Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
Total Questions | 100 |
Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Date (Tentative) | December 15, 2024 |
Admit Card Release | Expected by December 5, 2024 via email |
Exam Sections
The PGPWE entrance exam is designed to assess aptitude in line with national-level MBA entrance standards (similar to CAT):
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Reading passages
Grammar and sentence correction
Vocabulary and para-jumbles
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Bar charts, pie charts, tables
Logical puzzles and caselets
Decision-making scenarios
Quantitative Ability (QA)
Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems
Word problems and data sufficiency
There is no disclosed negative marking policy, but candidates are advised to attempt all sections judiciously.
How to Prepare
Although IIM Lucknow does not publish an official syllabus, preparation strategies should mirror those used for exams like CAT or GMAT, with emphasis on:
Strengthening basics in Quant and Logical Reasoning
Improving reading speed and comprehension
Taking timed mock tests
Practicing data interpretation sets and puzzles
Who Should Take It?
The PGPWE Entrance Exam is ideal for:
Applicants who haven’t taken standardized tests in recent years
Professionals who want a test experience aligned with IIM Lucknow’s assessment model
Individuals seeking a localized, focused, and institution-specific route into the program.
IIM Lucknow PGPWE vs ISB PGPpro
Feature | IIM Lucknow PGPWE | ISB PGPpro |
Program Name | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Professionals (PGPpro) |
Degree Awarded | MBA Degree from IIM Lucknow | MBA-equivalent Certificate from ISB (not a degree, but globally recognized) |
Duration | 2 Years | 18 Months |
Delivery Format | In-person, alternate weekends (Fri–Sun) at NOIDA campus | Hybrid: Alternate weekend classes + 4 residencies (including global) |
Locations | NOIDA campus | Delhi (NCR) and Hyderabad |
Total Program Fee | ₹11,15,000 + taxes | ₹31,96,000 + 18% GST |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree + 3 years full-time work ex | Bachelor’s degree + 5+ years work experience |
Accepted Tests | GMAT, GRE, CAT, GATE, or PGPWE Entrance Exam | No test required; selection via application + profile evaluation |
International Module | Yes, 1–2 weeks at a top European B-school | Yes, immersive global residency included |
On-Campus Residencies | Optional (accommodation on request) | Mandatory campus residencies + international immersion |
Specialization/Electives | 10 functional areas | Marketing and Finance tracks; focus on Strategy, Innovation, Digital |
Average Work Experience | 6–12 years (no average disclosed) | 10.1 years (range: 5–20+ years) |
Class Size | ~65 participants per cohort | Larger cohorts; strong industry diversity |
Faculty | IIML full-time faculty + industry experts | Global faculty mix (ISB resident + visiting from Wharton, Kellogg etc.) |
Alumni Status | Full IIM Lucknow alumni | Full ISB alumni status (16,000+ alumni globally) |
Financial Aid / Scholarships | No scholarships; self-financed | Partial scholarships available (merit and need-based) + bank loans |
Career Services | Career advisory support, no placement | Profile enhancement + career support, no campus placements |
Program Focus | General management, peer learning, weekend flexibility | Leadership development, global vision, functional deep-dives |
Accreditation | AMBA, AACSB | Triple Crown (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA) |
Ranking / Recognition | NIRF Rank #6 (2023) |
IIM Lucknow PGPWE Fees, Financial Aid & Accommodation
Understanding the financial commitment for an Executive MBA is crucial for working professionals planning to invest in mid-career education. The IIM Lucknow PGPWE is a high-value program, designed to deliver long-term ROI, even though it does not offer scholarships or direct financial assistance.
Program Fees
While the official brochure for 2025–27 does not specify the total program cost, candidates are advised to refer to the official IIM Lucknow website – PGPWE Fees section for the most updated breakdown. Historically, Executive MBA programs at top IIMs have ranged from INR 13 to 20 lakhs, depending on duration, modules, and international components.
The fee typically includes:
Tuition
Course material
Library access
Computing facilities
Accommodation during weekend residencies (if opted)
However, international immersion costs, travel, and personal expenses may be charged separately.
Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of INR 1000 is applicable to all applicants.
Payment is accepted via online mode only and must be completed before the application deadline.
Scholarships:
No scholarships are offered for the PGPWE program.
As explicitly stated in the brochure, IIM Lucknow does not provide merit-based or need-based scholarships for this program. Candidates must be prepared to self-finance or arrange funding externally.
Bank Loan Support
No institute-facilitated loans.
IIM Lucknow does not process or endorse education loans on behalf of applicants. However, many nationalized and private banks in India offer education loans for Executive MBAs from premier institutions like IIMs. Candidates are encouraged to:
Approach their banks directly with an admission offer
Use the admission letter and fee schedule to initiate the loan process
Check if the loan covers tuition + living expenses during immersion
Accommodation at NOIDA Campus
The PGPWE program is non-residential, meaning participants are expected to manage their own accommodation.
That said, IIM Lucknow offers campus housing on a request basis:
Subject to availability
Chargeable at prevailing rates
Typically assigned for weekend sessions and immersion periods
This flexibility is especially helpful for outstation participants traveling to NOIDA every alternate weekend.
IIM Ahmedabad BPGP vs IIM Lucknow PGPWE
Feature | IIM Ahmedabad BPGP | IIM Lucknow PGPWE |
Program Name | Blended Post Graduate Programme in Management (BPGP) | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) |
Degree Type | MBA Degree from IIM Ahmedabad | MBA Degree from IIM Lucknow |
Duration | 2 Years (with option to extend to 3 years) | 2 Years (extendable up to 4 years) |
Mode of Delivery | Blended: Online live sessions + 1-week campus module each term | In-person: Alternate weekends (Fri–Sun) at NOIDA campus |
Start Month | September 2025 | April 2025 |
Class Schedule | 8 live sessions per week (Thu–Sun) + 6 campus modules | Alternate weekends (7 visits per term) |
Total Contact Hours | 900 hours (core, electives, projects) | Credit-based: 28 total credits |
Specializations / Electives | Finance, Marketing, Strategy, Ops, HR, IT, Decision Science | 10 functional areas including Leadership, Communication, General Mgmt |
Eligibility | Bachelor's degree + 3 years work ex (as on Mar 31, 2025); age ≥ 24 | Bachelor's degree + 3 years post-grad work ex (as on Mar 31, 2025) |
Accepted Exams | IAT (IIMA), CAT, GMAT, GRE (5 years valid) | CAT 2022/23, GMAT/GRE (test-center only), GATE, or IIML Entrance Exam |
Application Fee | ₹2,000 (CAT/GMAT) or ₹5,000 (IAT) | ₹1,000 |
Program Fee | ₹20,00,000 (excluding campus travel & lodging) | ₹11,00,000 + ₹15,000 (caution + alumni fee) + taxes |
Class Profile (Avg. Work Ex) | 8–9 years | 6–12 years |
Average Age | 32 years | Not specified, typical 30–38 |
Batch Size | ~138 (Class of 2024–26) | ~65 students |
International Module | No international module | 1–2 week international immersion in Europe (1 credit) |
On-Campus Requirement | 6 week-long residencies | Optional accommodation for weekend residencies |
Pedagogy | IIMA’s signature case-based learning, projects, simulations | Case method, live projects, leadership talks |
Alumni Status | Full IIM Ahmedabad alumni status | Full IIM Lucknow alumni status |
Career Services | No formal placements; career self-managed | Career advisory support; no placement |
Ranking (NIRF 2023) | #1 in India | #6 in India |
IIM Lucknow PGPWE Career Growth, ROI & Peer Network
For mid-career professionals aiming to move into strategic roles, pivot industries, or enhance their leadership trajectory, the PGPWE at IIM Lucknow offers a unique return on investment—both tangible and intangible. While the program does not include placement services, it is structured to accelerate career growth through skill enhancement, peer learning, and brand leverage.
Career Progression & Advisory Support
Although the program is non-placement-based, IIM Lucknow provides structured career advisory services that include:
Guidance on career transitions and role elevation
Help in selecting electives that align with industry goals
Access to guest lectures, networking events, and leadership talks
Participants are encouraged to work on live projects and dissertations that align with their career vision, helping them directly apply insights at their workplace or build credibility in new domains.
Realistic ROI for Working Professionals
Since most students continue working during the program, there is no income disruption—a key differentiator from full-time MBA programs. ROI is realized through:
Faster promotions
Shift into general management roles
Lateral movements into leadership positions
Entrepreneurial ventures, bolstered by strategic and financial acumen
In many cases, alumni report significant salary jumps post-graduation, even though exact placement statistics are not published.
Peer Profile & Learning Environment
The PGPWE cohort is highly diverse, representing:
Private and public sectors
NGOs, PSUs, and government bodies
Professionals from engineering, medicine, law, defense, architecture, and civil services
This diversity enhances classroom discussions, enabling cross-functional perspectives and stronger managerial insights. It also fosters a close-knit peer network that extends well beyond the two-year program.
Alumni Status & Network
On completion, participants receive an MBA degree from IIM Lucknow and are conferred official alumni status—gaining lifelong access to the IIML alumni network. This opens doors to:
National and global networking events
Professional collaborations
Industry leadership opportunities
IIM Lucknow PGPWE vs IIM Bangalore PGPEM
Feature | IIM Lucknow PGPWE | IIM Bangalore PGPEM |
Full Program Name | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) | Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM) |
Degree Awarded | MBA from IIM Lucknow | MBA from IIM Bangalore |
Duration | 2 Years (7 terms) | 2 Years (8 terms) |
Program Start | April 2025 | July 2025 |
Delivery Format | In-person, alternate weekends (Fri–Sun) at NOIDA campus | In-person, every Friday afternoon and Saturday at IIMB campus |
Location | IIM Lucknow NOIDA Campus | IIM Bangalore Main Campus |
Work Experience Required | Minimum 3 years (as of March 31, 2025) | Minimum 4 years (as of March 31, 2025) |
Average Work Experience | 6–12 years (typical) | 12 years (range: 5–24 years) |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree with 50% minimum | Bachelor’s degree with 50% minimum |
Accepted Tests | GMAT, GRE, CAT, GATE, or PGPWE Entrance Exam | CAT, GMAT, GRE, or IIMB Test |
Program Fee | ₹11,15,000 + caution and alumni fee + taxes | ₹20,11,000 (PGPEM 2024–26) – likely revised for 2025 |
Scholarships | Not available | Scholarships available for deserving candidates |
International Exposure | 1–2 week immersion in a European B-school | International exposure via student exchange through GNAM |
Pedagogy | Case-based, experiential, leadership talks, dissertation | Case method, industry integration, NSRCEL (entrepreneurship hub) |
Flexibility | Can be extended to 4 years | Option to take break during 2nd year |
Campus Immersion | Weekend presence only; optional hostel stay | Fully on-campus every Fri–Sat for 2 years |
Class Profile Size | ~65 students | ~80 students |
Industry Representation | Broad – IT, public sector, entrepreneurship, consulting, etc. | Broad – IT, banking, retail, energy, aerospace, media, etc. |
Alumni Status | Full IIM Lucknow alumni status | Full IIM Bangalore alumni status |
Career Support | Advisory support; no formal placements | Advisory support; no formal placements |
Ranking & Reputation | IIM Lucknow: NIRF Rank #6 (2023) |
Why Choose IIM Lucknow PGPWE?
In a saturated market of executive MBA options, the PGPWE from IIM Lucknow stands out as a strategically structured program that blends flexibility, academic excellence, and brand prestige. Designed specifically for professionals with demanding work schedules, it offers a transformational experience without the need to step away from your career.
1. IIM Lucknow Brand Advantage
As one of India’s top IIMs, IIM Lucknow enjoys immense credibility and recognition across industries and geographies. The institute is AACSB and AMBA accredited, and its alumni occupy leadership positions globally. Graduating from IIM Lucknow offers:
A globally respected MBA degree
Strong career signaling to employers
Lifelong access to the IIML alumni ecosystem
2. Executive-Friendly Format
The alternate weekend format is tailor-made for busy professionals. With sessions scheduled from Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon, the structure ensures:
Minimal work-life disruption
Consistent learning without long sabbaticals
Immediate application of classroom insights in the workplace
This delivery model is especially valuable for mid-level managers and entrepreneurs who cannot afford to pause their careers.
3. International Immersion in Europe
The 1–2 week International Module is more than a study tour—it is a deep dive into global business environments through:
Academic sessions at a leading European business school
Industry interactions and workshops
Cross-cultural engagement
This experience enhances your global leadership quotient, a key differentiator in today’s interconnected economy.
4. Learning from a Diverse Peer Group
The PGPWE classroom includes:
Civil servants, doctors, engineers, lawyers, and startup founders
Professionals from the private sector, public sector, and social enterprises
Participants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds
This rich peer mix creates an environment for powerful peer learning, broadens perspectives, and builds lasting professional connections.
5. World-Class Faculty and Infrastructure
IIM Lucknow’s NOIDA campus is equipped with:
State-of-the-art classrooms, digital library, and Wi-Fi-enabled spaces
Accommodation facilities (on request)
Recreational amenities for weekend engagement
The program is taught by IIML’s renowned full-time faculty, many of whom have global academic and consulting experience.
FAQs for IIM Lucknow PGPWE:
1. What is the PGPWE program of IIM Lucknow?
The PGPWE is a two-year, part-time MBA offered by IIM Lucknow at its NOIDA campus, designed for working executives with at least 3 years of experience. It follows an alternate weekend format and includes an international immersion module.
2. What is the fee for IIM PGPWE?
The fee for IIM Lucknow’s PGPWE 2025–27 is INR 11,00,000 plus a refundable caution deposit of INR 10,000, alumni membership fee of INR 5,000, and applicable taxes. The fee covers tuition, library, computing, and instructional resources.
3. Is IIM Lucknow a Tier 1 college?
Yes, IIM Lucknow is widely recognized as a Tier 1 MBA college in India, alongside IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta. It consistently ranks among the top management institutes in national and international rankings.
4. What is PGP SM in IIM Lucknow?
PGP-SM (Post Graduate Programme in Sustainable Management) is a full-time two-year MBA offered at IIM Lucknow's NOIDA campus. It focuses on sustainable business practices and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges.
5. Why are IIM fees so high?
IIMs are autonomous institutes that self-finance their operations. High fees account for top-tier faculty, global case materials, advanced infrastructure, and independent research—all contributing to their world-class education standards.
6. What are the requirements for PGPWE?
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks and a minimum of 3 years of full-time post-qualification work experience by March 31, 2025. Valid scores from GMAT, GRE, CAT, GATE, or the PGPWE entrance exam are required.
More FAQs for IIM Lucknow PGPWE:
1. What is IIM Lucknow's PGPWE program?
IIM Lucknow’s PGPWE is a two-year MBA program for working professionals, delivered on alternate weekends at the NOIDA campus. It enables mid-career executives to earn an MBA without leaving their full-time jobs.
2. Who is eligible to apply for PGPWE at IIM Lucknow?
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks and have a minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience post-graduation as of March 31, 2025.
3. What is the duration and format of the PGPWE program?
The program spans two years, with classes held on alternate weekends from Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon, at IIM Lucknow's NOIDA campus.
4. What test scores are accepted for PGPWE admission?
Valid scores from GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, GRE, CAT (2022 or 2023), GATE (2023 or 2024), or the IIM Lucknow PGPWE Entrance Exam are accepted.
5. Is there an entrance exam for PGPWE?
Yes, IIM Lucknow conducts its own entrance exam for applicants without valid GMAT, GRE, CAT, or GATE scores. It is held offline in December at the NOIDA campus.
6. What is the fee for the IIM Lucknow PGPWE 2025–27?
The total program fee is ₹11,00,000 plus ₹10,000 refundable caution money and ₹5,000 alumni membership fee, excluding applicable taxes.
7. Does IIM Lucknow offer scholarships for PGPWE?
No, the institute does not offer scholarships or financial aid for the PGPWE program.
8. Can students avail education loans for the program?
Yes, but IIM Lucknow does not facilitate the loan process. Students must approach banks independently using the offer letter.
9. What is the structure of the PGPWE curriculum?
The curriculum includes core courses in year one and electives, a dissertation, and an international immersion module in year two, totaling 28 credits.
10. Is there an international component in the PGPWE?
Yes, a 1–2 week international immersion module at a top European business school is part of the curriculum, offering global exposure.
11. Does the PGPWE program offer campus placements?
No, there are no formal placement services, but career advisory support is provided to help students with role transitions and leadership growth.
12. Is IIM Lucknow’s PGPWE program residential?
No, the program is non-residential. However, accommodation is available on request during campus visits, based on availability.
13. What is the application fee for PGPWE?
The application fee is ₹1,000 and is non-refundable. It must be paid online while submitting the application.
14. What is the selection process for IIM Lucknow PGPWE?
Shortlisted candidates are evaluated on test score (30%), profile (30%), WAT (10%), and personal interview (30%).
15. How many seats are available for PGPWE 2025–27?
The intake for the 2025–27 batch is approximately 65 students.
16. Will participants get alumni status after graduation?
Yes, graduates of the PGPWE program are conferred IIM Lucknow alumni status.
17. Is there an upper age limit for PGPWE admission?
No, there is no upper age limit to apply for the program.
18. Where is the PGPWE program conducted?
The program is held at IIM Lucknow’s NOIDA campus, located in Sector 62.
19. What kind of peer profile joins PGPWE?
Participants come from diverse sectors including IT, government, healthcare, consulting, civil services, and entrepreneurship.
20. What is the academic load like in PGPWE?
Each credit equals 30 classroom hours. With 28 credits in total, the program demands rigorous academic engagement over weekends.
21. Can I apply to IIM Lucknow PGPWE without a GMAT or CAT score?
Yes, you can appear for the IIM Lucknow PGPWE Entrance Exam if you don’t have valid GMAT, GRE, CAT, or GATE scores.
22. What is covered in the PGPWE entrance exam?
The test includes Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA), with 100 multiple-choice questions over 120 minutes.
23. Is the IIM Lucknow PGPWE equivalent to a regular MBA?
Yes, graduates receive a full MBA degree from IIM Lucknow upon successful completion of the PGPWE program.
24. Can overseas candidates apply to IIM Lucknow PGPWE?
Yes, overseas applicants are eligible and may attend interviews via video conferencing. Final document verification must be done on campus if selected.
25. What documents are needed for the PGPWE application?
Applicants must upload academic certificates, marksheets, test scores, a photo, and work experience proofs like salary slips or relieving letters.
26. Can the admission be deferred to the next academic year?
Deferment is allowed only in exceptional cases, and the final decision is made post program commencement.
27. What happens if I can’t complete PGPWE in two years?
Students unable to complete the program within two years may be allowed up to two additional years, subject to approval.
28. Are company-sponsored candidates treated differently?
No, the admission process is the same for company-sponsored and self-funded applicants.
29. Are there weekend accommodations for PGPWE students?
Yes, accommodations can be arranged on a case-by-case basis, subject to availability and payment.
30. Do I need to inform GMAC or ETS after submitting my test scores?
Yes, applicants must send official scores via GMAC (GMAT) or ETS (GRE) using IIM Lucknow's codes: GMAT – J39-VT-47, GRE – 4988.
31. Is the PGPWE program suitable for entrepreneurs?
Yes, the program is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking structured learning in strategy, operations, finance, and leadership while continuing to run their ventures.
32. Are working professionals allowed to change jobs during the program?
Yes, participants may change roles or employers during the program, provided they can meet attendance and coursework requirements.
33. Is PGPWE approved by AICTE or UGC?
As an IIM program, PGPWE falls under the Indian Institutes of Management Act, and does not require separate AICTE or UGC approval.
34. How often do classes take place in PGPWE?
Classes occur on alternate weekends—Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon—approximately seven times per term.
35. What’s the benefit of choosing IIM Lucknow over other executive MBA programs?
IIM Lucknow offers a top-ranked faculty, brand credibility, an international module, flexible scheduling, and a strong alumni network—all without pausing your career.
36. How can I join the IIM Lucknow weekend MBA program without leaving my job?
You can apply to IIM Lucknow’s PGPWE, a two-year weekend MBA program held on alternate weekends at the NOIDA campus. It’s specifically designed for working professionals who want to upskill without taking a career break.
37. What kind of career growth can I expect after completing PGPWE from IIM Lucknow?
Most participants experience role elevation, expanded responsibilities, or transition into general management. While there’s no placement service, the program supports career growth through leadership training, peer learning, and advisory support.
38. Does IIM Lucknow offer any executive MBA that includes global exposure?
Yes, the PGPWE program includes a one- to two-week international module at a European business school, covering global business strategy, workshops, and industry visits.
39. Is the IIM Lucknow PGPWE degree valid for international opportunities?
Yes, PGPWE awards a full MBA degree from IIM Lucknow, a globally recognized brand, enhancing international mobility and employability.
40. Can I attend the PGPWE entrance exam if I don’t have a GMAT score?
Yes, you can take the PGPWE entrance exam conducted by IIM Lucknow if you haven’t taken GMAT, GRE, CAT, or GATE. The exam is offline and held at the NOIDA campus.
41. What does a typical weekend look like in IIM Lucknow PGPWE?
Students arrive Friday afternoon and attend classes until Sunday afternoon on alternate weekends. Each term includes around seven campus visits over three months.
42. How do I know if I’m shortlisted for IIM Lucknow PGPWE?
Shortlisted candidates will receive email notifications with dates for the Written Ability Test and Personal Interview. The final list is released in February.
43. What types of electives are available in the PGPWE program?
Electives are offered across areas like Finance, Marketing, Operations, Strategy, HR, IT, Decision Sciences, and General Management to suit varied career paths.
44. Is it worth doing PGPWE from IIM Lucknow for mid-level professionals?
Yes, PGPWE offers excellent ROI for professionals with 3+ years of experience who seek leadership growth, functional switch, or global exposure while continuing their careers.
45. Does IIM Lucknow PGPWE require relocation?
No. The program is non-residential and designed for professionals living in or near the NCR. Weekend accommodation can be arranged on request.
46. What happens if I miss a few weekend classes at IIM Lucknow?
The program has a minimum attendance requirement. However, if missed classes are due to valid reasons, the PGPWE Committee may allow additional time to complete the program—up to a max of 4 years.
47. Do IIM Lucknow PGPWE students get access to alumni events and networks?
Yes. Graduates receive full alumni status and gain access to IIML’s extensive alumni network, events, and lifelong learning opportunities.
48. How early should I apply for the IIM Lucknow PGPWE 2025 batch?
The application window opens on September 1, 2024 and closes on November 20, 2024. Applying early helps ensure documentation and test scheduling are in order.
49. Can IIM Lucknow PGPWE help me shift from technical to managerial roles?
Absolutely. With a general management focus and electives in strategy, leadership, and operations, the program is ideal for tech professionals aiming to move into business leadership.
50. Does the PGPWE program offer guidance on entrepreneurship?
Yes, entrepreneurial learning is embedded through electives, live projects, peer networks, and exposure to real-world business challenges.