What Is IIM? The Complete List of Top IIMs in India (2026 Guide)

What Is IIM? The Complete List of Top IIMs in India (2026 Guide)

If you are planning a career in high-level management, the acronym IIM is likely at the top of your mind. Renowned for academic excellence, rigorous training, and record-breaking placement packages, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) act as the gateway to the corporate world's most prestigious roles.

But with 21 institutes across the country, how do you choose the right one? In this guide by TCM Education, we break down exactly what an IIM is, why they are globally valued, and provide a complete, updated list of IIMs in India including their fees and average packages.

What Is an IIM in India? Meaning, Role, and Importance

IIM stands for the Indian Institute of Management. These are a group of autonomous public business schools designated as "Institutions of National Importance" by the Government of India.

Unlike standard MBA colleges, IIMs were established with a specific vision: to produce world-class leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs. They are not just colleges; they are training grounds for the industry's elite.

Key Features of an IIM Education:

1. Case-Study Based Learning: A practical approach that puts you in the shoes of a decision-maker.
2. Rigorous Curriculum: Designed by top academicians and industry veterans.
3. Peer Learning: You study alongside the sharpest minds in the country.
4. Networking: Access to an exclusive, powerful alumni network spread across the globe.

Why Are IIMs the Top Choice for MBA Aspirants?

Why do lakhs of students appear for the CAT exam every year with the dream of entering an IIM? The answer lies in the Return on Investment (ROI) and career acceleration.

Here is why IIMs remain the gold standard for management education:

• Exceptional Placements: IIMs consistently record the highest starting salaries in India, with domestic packages often crossing ₹50 Lakhs and international offers going even higher.
• Global Recognition: An MBA or PGP (Post Graduate Programme) from an IIM is recognized internationally, opening doors to careers in the US, Europe, and Asia.
• Industry Integration: With frequent guest lectures, live projects, and internships, the gap between theory and practice is non-existent.
• Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Many IIMs have dedicated incubation centers to fund and support student startups.

Complete List of IIMs in India: Fees and Placements

Currently, there are 21 IIMs in India. They are generally categorized into three generations: the Old IIMs (BLACKI), the New IIMs, and the Baby IIMs.

Below is the comparative data regarding fees and average salary packages to help you assess the ROI.

Note: Fees and placement statistics vary annually. The "Average Package" reflects the mean salary offered during recent placement seasons.

Which Is the Best IIM in India?

While all IIMs carry the brand value of excellence, the "Holy Trinity" of Indian management education-often referred to as ABC-consistently ranks at the top:

• IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA): Known for its rigorous academics and heritage. It is frequently ranked as the best business school in India.
• IIM Bangalore (IIMB): Famous for its focus on technology, consulting, and entrepreneurship, located in the Silicon Valley of India.
• IIM Calcutta (IIMC): Renowned for its finance curriculum and being the oldest IIM in the country.

However, newer institutes like IIM Udaipur and IIM Trichy are rising rapidly, offering excellent infrastructure and growing placement records at a slightly lower competitive threshold than the top three. IIM Mumbai (formerly NITIE) is also a powerhouse, particularly for operations and supply chain management.

Courses Offered by IIMs

IIMs offer more than just the standard MBA. Their academic portfolio includes:

• MBA / PGP (Post Graduate Programme): The flagship two-year full-time residential program.
• Executive MBA (EPGP): Designed for professionals with significant work experience.
• IPM (Integrated Programme in Management): A 5-year dual degree course available at select IIMs (like Indore and Rohtak) for students directly after Class 12.
• FPM / PhD: Fellow Programme in Management for those interested in research and academia.

Final Thoughts: How to Get into an IIM?

Understanding the list of top IIMs in India is just the first step. Admission to these prestigious institutes is primarily through the Common Admission Test (CAT), followed by a Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI).

The journey is competitive, but the destination is life-changing.

Ready to start your management journey?

Start early, prepare smart, and let TCM Education support your journey to India’s best management institutes.