The most common question among the would-be management students is: Is it possible to join IIM without CAT? The answer is yes though it depends on the program you are targeting. This is a step-by-step 2025 guide on alternative ways to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
Is CAT the only mode of entry into IIMs?
No, the most popular is Common Admission Test (CAT), yet it is not the only way. There are other IIMs offering several programs which do not have the CAT scores as a prerequisite. These include:
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IPM Integrated Program in Management
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(FPM/PhD) Fellow Program in Management
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Executive MBA (EPGP)
Read More: CAT Preparation Tips for Working Professionals
Which IIM colleges take non-CAT students?
The table below gives an overview of the IIM programs which can be admitted without CAT:
| Program Name | IIMs Offering | Alternate Exams/Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Program in Management (IPM) | IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak, IIM Ranchi | IPMAT, SAT |
| Executive Post Graduate Program (EPGP) | IIM Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad | GMAT / GRE + Work Experience + Interview |
| Fellowship Program in Management (FPM) | All major IIMs | GMAT / GRE / GATE / UGC-NET / IIM Test |
| Online/Blended Certificate Programs | IIM Kozhikode, IIM Calcutta | Work Experience, Statement of Purpose |
Can it be possible to enter IIM after 12th without CAT?
Yes, after 12th grade, students can apply to the 5-Year Integrated Program in Management (IPM). To do this, you have to pass IPMAT (IIM Indore/Rohtak) or SAT (in certain programs). These are meant to suit young minds that are interested in taking management education immediately after school.
Although CAT is not a mandatory requirement of IPM, it is recommended that the aspirants should start learning the CAT pattern early. Solving CAT previous years question papers would allow one to develop a sense of familiarity with logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude and verbal ability.
What should I do in preparation in case I intend to join later either through CAT or non-CAT route?
When you are aiming at joining IIM in the future, particularly by joining EPGP or IPM, you must continue practicing. Focus on:
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Enhancing verbal skill with the help of CAT VARC mock test materials.
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Rewards in terms of concepts being revised on a regular basis with the help of CAT books to gain the basic clarity.
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These resources may be very helpful even when you are not doing CAT but some other similar exam such as IPMAT or GMAT.
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Conclusion
Yes, one can get in IIM without CAT, particularly in 2025. Whether it is IPMAT, GMAT, GRE, or any other entrance test, a number of high-ranking IIM programs accept students with different backgrounds. Though you might not be in CAT preparation, doing CAT books, reading CAT previous years question papers, and doing CAT mock test papers, especially CAT VARC mock test papers, will be quite helpful in developing your skills and improving your confidence.
