Choosing between IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) and IIM Bangalore (IIMB) is a common dilemma for MBA aspirants in India. Both institutions are globally recognized and consistently ranked among the top business schools in India.
However, recent data from the Financial Times Global MBA Rankings 2025 provides key insights into how these two institutes compare across different parameters.
This article breaks down the rankings, salary statistics, and career outcomes to help prospective students make an informed decision.
1. Global MBA Rankings: IIMA vs. IIMB
Metric | IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) | IIM Bangalore (IIMB) |
FT Global Rank (2025) | 31 | 57 |
Weighted Salary (US$) | 219,467 | 179,422 |
Salary Increase (%) | 82% | 85% |
Career Progress Rank | 1 | 3 |
Employed at 3 Months (%) | 96% | 100% |
Value for Money Rank | 20 | 40 |
Key Takeaways:
Overall Ranking: IIMA is ranked higher (31st) than IIMB (57th) in the FT Global MBA Rankings 2025.
Salary Outcomes: IIMA graduates command a higher weighted salary ($219,467) compared to IIMB ($179,422).
Salary Growth: While IIMB has a slightly higher salary increase percentage (85%), IIMA maintains a higher absolute salary figure.
Career Progression: IIMA is ranked Rank 1 globally in Career Progression, meaning its alumni move up the corporate ladder faster.
Employment Rate: IIMB has an impressive 100% employment rate within three months, slightly ahead of IIMA (96%).
ROI (Return on Investment): IIMA ranks better for value-for-money (20th vs. 40th), indicating a stronger return on investment.
2. Salary Comparison: IIM Ahmedabad vs. IIM Bangalore
Salary Trends in India and Abroad
Graduates from both institutes secure top roles in consulting, finance, and technology across India and globally. However, salary variations exist:
Parameter | IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) | IIM Bangalore (IIMB) |
Average Domestic Salary (INR) | ₹35-40 LPA | ₹32-37 LPA |
Highest International Salary (USD) | $200,000+ | $180,000+ |
Consulting Median Salary (INR) | ₹36-40 LPA | ₹34-38 LPA |
Finance Median Salary (INR) | ₹38-42 LPA | ₹36-40 LPA |
Technology Median Salary (INR) | ₹32-36 LPA | ₹30-34 LPA |
In addition to high salaries, both IIMs offer exceptional alumni networks, which play a crucial role in career growth, providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to high-level leadership roles.
3. One-Year MBA vs. Two-Year MBA: IIM Ahmedabad vs. IIM Bangalore
One-Year MBA: IIMA PGPX vs. IIMB EPGP
Metric | IIM Ahmedabad (PGPX) | IIM Bangalore (EPGP) |
Global FT Ranking | Rank 1 in Career Progression | Rank 47 globally |
Average Work Experience | 7.5 years | 7 years |
Batch Size | 158 students | 82 students |
Gender Ratio | 26% female | 27% female |
International Exposure | 32% | 21% |
Top Recruiters | McKinsey, Amazon, Goldman Sachs | BCG, Microsoft, Citi |
Two-Year MBA: IIMA PGP vs. IIMB PGP
Metric | IIM Ahmedabad (PGP) | IIM Bangalore (PGP) |
Batch Size | 406 students | 610 students |
Average Work Experience | 20.8 months | 24-26 months |
Gender Ratio | 25% female | 37% female |
Electives | 140+ domain-specific | 140+ domain-specific |
Top Recruiters | Amazon, Barclays, BCG | McKinsey, Flipkart, Deloitte |
Comparison of Learning Experience and Pedagogy IIMA vs IIMB
The learning environment at IIMA and IIMB differs significantly:
IIMA follows a case-based learning approach, encouraging students to develop decision-making skills by analyzing real-world business scenarios.
IIMB emphasizes interactive classroom discussions and experiential learning, with a focus on leadership and strategy.
Career outcomes differ as well:
IIMA’s PGPX focuses on fast-tracking senior professionals into leadership roles, making it an attractive option for experienced candidates.
IIMB’s EPGP provides a structured pathway for career advancement, particularly in consulting, technology, and management roles.
Final Verdict: Which IIM Should You Choose?
Both IIMA and IIMB offer world-class education, but the right choice depends on your career goals, work experience, and preferred learning style.
Choose IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) if:
You want a globally recognized MBA with better international placements.
You are aiming for higher absolute salary packages.
You prefer fast career growth and top consulting/finance roles.
You value better ROI and career progression.
You seek a case-based learning approach that enhances decision-making skills.
Choose IIM Bangalore (IIMB) if:
You are targeting 100% placement rates and leadership roles in India.
You want a higher salary percentage increase (85%).
You are focused on technology, product management, and Indian conglomerates.
You prefer a more balanced cost-to-ROI ratio.
You value interactive and peer-learning methodologies
Both IIMA and IIMB are excellent institutions, and the choice depends on your career aspirations and industry preferences. If you need guidance on which MBA is right for you, reach out to GOALisB for a personalized consultation! 🚀
Guide for IIM admissions, including IIM PGPX, EPGP, and Executive MBA programs across multiple campuses.
1. General IIM Admission Guidance
2. IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA) PGPX Resources
General Overview:
Admissions & Course Structure:
Placements & Career Outcomes:
Success Stories:
Program Evaluation:
3. IIM Bangalore (IIMB) EPGP Resources
General Overview:
Placements & Career Outcomes:
Program Insights:
Alternative Programs:
4. IIM Calcutta (IIMC) MBAEX Resources
General Overview:
5. IIM Lucknow (IIML) IPMX Resources
General Overview:
6. IIM Kozhikode (IIMK) PGP-BL Resources
General Overview: