Institute of Management Studies, commonly referred to as IMS BHU, is a premier public management institution established in 1968 and affiliated with Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The institute has earned recognition among India's leading business schools, securing a ranking of 28th by IIRF in 2025 and 41st by Times of India in 2024. IMS BHU is renowned for its rigorous MBA curriculum, affordable fee structure, and strong industry connections that facilitate consistent placement outcomes for its graduates.

The institution offers multiple MBA specializations including International Business, General Management, and Agribusiness, attracting students from across India through the Common Admission Test (CAT). With a sprawling campus spanning 1,300 acres and modern academic infrastructure, IMS BHU combines traditional academic excellence with contemporary business education. The institute's placement record demonstrates strong employer demand, with 172 students placed in 2025 across 89 recruiting organizations including KPMG, IBM, Infosys, Accenture, JS, Wipro, and Zydex.

IMS BHU Admission Dates 2026

The admission timeline for MBA programs at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University is structured to ensure a smooth and transparent selection process. Important dates and deadlines for the 2026-28 batch are provided in the table below. Candidates must adhere to these dates for application submission, shortlisting, and interview rounds.

Activity Date
Final Result Declaration First week of April 2026 (Tentative)
Academic Session Commencement 13 July 2026

Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm

IMS BHU Rankings 2025

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University has received recognition from multiple ranking agencies for its MBA programs. The institute's consistent performance reflects its commitment to academic excellence, industry relevance, and student outcomes. The following table presents the rankings awarded by different organizations in the management education category.

Ranking Agency Year Rank
IIRF 2025 28
Times of India 2024 41

IMS BHU Courses and Fees 2026

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University offers multiple postgraduate programs with competitive fee structures. The MBA program is the flagship offering, available in three specializations: General Management, International Business, and Agribusiness. Additional programs include a Post Graduate Diploma in Healthcare and Hospital Management and a Diploma course. The fee structure is designed to be accessible while maintaining educational quality. Hostel charges are separate from tuition fees and vary based on accommodation type and gender.

Program Total Tuition Fee Eligibility Hostel Fees (Per Semester)
MBA (Agribusiness) INR 2.2 Lakhs Bachelor's Degree with 50% + CAT INR 10,000 (Girls, New P.G. Hostel)
INR 6,000 (Girls, Triveni Complex)
INR 6,000 (Boys, Management Hostel)
MBA (General & International Business) INR 2.05 Lakhs Bachelor's Degree with 50% + CAT INR 10,000 (Girls, New P.G. Hostel)
INR 6,000 (Girls, Triveni Complex)
INR 6,000 (Boys, Management Hostel)
Post Graduate Diploma in Healthcare and Hospital Management INR 70,000 Bachelor's Degree Not Applicable
Diploma INR 15,000 Bachelor's Degree Not Applicable

Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm

MBA Fees for International Students 2026

Foreign nationals seeking admission to MBA programs at IMS BHU are required to pay additional fees beyond the standard tuition charges. The fee structure for international students varies based on their country of origin, with separate rates for SAARC and non-SAARC nationals. Processing charges are payable at the time of application submission.

Fee Component Amount Payment Timeline Remarks
Application Processing Charge USD 50 to USD 100 At Application Submission One-time Payment
Course Fee (Year 1) INR 60,000 First Year Same as Indian Students
Course Fee (Year 2) INR 60,000 Second Year Same as Indian Students
Additional Charge (SAARC Countries) INR 2.1 Lakhs Per Year Mandatory for SAARC Nationals
Additional Charge (Non-SAARC Countries) INR 3 Lakhs Per Year Mandatory for Other Foreign Nationals

Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm

IMS BHU Admission Process 2026

Admissions to MBA programs at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University are merit-based and conducted through a multi-stage selection process. The admission cycle for the 2026-28 batch is currently open, with applications accepted until 31 January 2026. Eligible candidates must appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT) conducted by IIMs, or GMAT for NRI applicants. Shortlisted candidates are then invited for Group Discussion and Personal Interview rounds. The final merit list is prepared using a weighted formula that combines CAT scores, academic records, and GD-PI performance.

Selection Criteria and Weightage

The selection process at IMS BHU follows a transparent merit-based approach with clearly defined weightage for each component. Candidates are evaluated on multiple parameters to ensure holistic assessment of their management potential and academic capability.

Selection Component Weightage
CAT Score 50%
Academic Records (10th, 12th, Graduation) 20%
Group Discussion 15%
Personal Interview 15%

Group Discussion Round Details

The Group Discussion round is conducted in a structured format with 8 to 12 candidates participating simultaneously. Topics are contemporary, practical, and India-focused, such as cashless economy readiness, work-from-home culture impacts, artificial intelligence effects on employment, and startup ecosystem trends. Candidates receive 1 minute to prepare notes before the discussion begins. The evaluation panel, consisting of 2 to 3 observers, assesses clarity of communication, logical reasoning, listening skills, body language, and leadership qualities without domination. Effective participation involves speaking 2 to 4 times, initiating with strong points when possible, respectfully disagreeing with others, incorporating data or examples, and summarizing key points if time permits. Candidates should avoid aggressive argumentation, interrupting others, or remaining silent throughout the discussion.

Personal Interview Round Details

The Personal Interview is conducted by a panel of 3 to 5 members, typically including faculty members and sometimes alumni. The interview environment is designed to be relaxed and conversational. The discussion typically begins with the standard question "Tell us about yourself," for which candidates should prepare a concise 1.5 to 2-minute response covering educational background, motivation for MBA, and key achievements. Subsequent questions often explore reasons for pursuing an MBA, specific interest in IMS BHU, academic background, internship or work experience, personal strengths and weaknesses with improvement strategies, hobbies and their relevance, and current affairs or economic topics. The panel is generally patient with candidates who pause or hesitate, often providing clarifications or hints to help candidates articulate their thoughts effectively.

Required Documents for GD-PI Round

Shortlisted candidates appearing for the Group Discussion and Personal Interview must carry the following documents:

  • Completed Registration Form
  • Photo Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card or PAN Card with self-attested copy)
  • Self-attested copy of CAT Scorecard
  • Self-attested Mark-sheets from Class 10, Class 12, and Graduation
  • Caste Certificate (for SC/ST/NC OBC candidates)
  • Income Certificate (for EWS category candidates)
  • Disability Certificate (for Divyang candidates, if applicable)
  • GD-PI Processing Fee Receipt (INR 2,000 or as specified in call letter, paid through SAMARTH portal)

IMS BHU CAT Cutoff 2026

The CAT cutoff for admission to MBA programs at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University is determined based on the number of applications, candidate quality, and available seats. The official cutoff for 2026 has not been released yet. However, based on historical trends and candidate discussions, the expected cutoff for General Category is 80 to 90 percentile. The overall CAT cutoff has remained consistent at 85 percentile for the past three years across all categories. Candidates from reserved categories may have different cutoff thresholds as per university norms.

CAT Cutoff by Category (Historical Data)

Category 2025 Cutoff (Percentile) 2024 Cutoff (Percentile) 2023 Cutoff (Percentile)
All Categories 85 85 85

Expected CAT Cutoff for MBA International Business 2026

The MBA International Business specialization does not have an officially published separate cutoff. However, based on candidate feedback and discussion forums, the expected cutoff ranges are as follows:

  • General Category: 85 to 95 percentile (safe target: 90 to 95+)
  • OBC Category: 75 to 90 percentile
  • EWS Category: 75 to 90 percentile
  • SC Category: 50 to 80 percentile
  • ST Category: 50 to 80 percentile

IMS BHU Placements 2025

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University successfully concluded its 2025 placement drive with strong outcomes across all MBA specializations. A total of 172 students secured placements through 89 recruiting organizations. The MBA and MBA International Business programs achieved a highest package of INR 19.8 LPA, average package of INR 10.1 LPA, and median package of INR 9.2 LPA. The MBA Agribusiness program recorded a highest package of INR 16 LPA. Top recruiting organizations included KPMG, IBM, Infosys, Accenture, JS, Wipro, and Zydex. The placement drive demonstrated strong employer demand for IMS BHU graduates across consulting, IT, BFSI, and management sectors.

Overall Placement Statistics 2025

Metric 2025 2024
Highest Package INR 19.80 LPA (MBA & MBA IB)
INR 16 LPA (MBA AB)
INR 23.50 LPA (MBA & MBA IB)
INR 16.33 LPA (MBA AB)
Average Package INR 10.10 LPA (MBA & MBA IB)
INR 8.70 LPA (MBA AB)
INR 11.10 LPA (MBA & MBA IB)
INR 8.81 LPA (MBA AB)
Median Package INR 9.20 LPA (MBA & MBA IB)
INR 8.10 LPA (MBA AB)
INR 10.30 LPA (MBA & MBA IB)
INR 8.30 LPA (MBA AB)
Students Placed 172 (116 MBA & MBA IB + 56 MBA AB) 156
Total Students 187 168
Recruiting Organizations 89 (55 MBA & MBA IB + 34 MBA AB) 91

MBA and MBA International Business Placement Report 2025

The MBA and MBA International Business programs delivered strong placement outcomes with 116 students placed through 55 recruiting organizations. The highest package reached INR 19.8 LPA, with an average of INR 10.1 LPA and median of INR 9.2 LPA. The most sought-after roles were Consultant positions (36% of placements) and Assistant/Deputy Manager roles (18% of placements), reflecting strong demand for consulting and core management functions among MBA graduates.

Particulars Details
Students Placed 116
Recruiting Organizations 55
Highest CTC INR 19.8 LPA
Average CTC INR 10.1 LPA
Median CTC INR 9.2 LPA
Job Profiles Offered
Consultant 36%
Assistant / Deputy Manager 18%
Management Trainee 11%
Business Analyst 10%
Officer in Junior Management 7%
Project Manager 6%
Other Roles 12%

MBA Agribusiness Placement Report 2025

The MBA Agribusiness program achieved successful placements for 56 students through 34 recruiting organizations. The highest package was INR 16 LPA, with an average salary of INR 8.7 LPA and median of INR 8.1 LPA. The majority of placements (58%) were in Management Trainee roles, with additional opportunities in Deputy Manager, Executive/QC Executive, and Sales Officer positions, primarily in agribusiness, agri-input, and related sectors.

Particulars Details
Students Placed 56
Recruiting Organizations 34
Highest CTC INR 16 LPA
Average CTC INR 8.7 LPA
Median CTC INR 8.1 LPA
Job Profiles Offered
Management Trainee 58%
Deputy Manager 9%
Executive / QC Executive 7%
Sales Officer
Sales Officer 8%
Other Roles 12%

Three-Year Placement Trend Analysis

The placement data from 2023 to 2025 demonstrates the evolving career outcomes for IMS BHU graduates. The MBA and MBA International Business programs have maintained strong placement records, with highest packages ranging from INR 19.8 LPA to INR 38 LPA across the three-year period. Average packages have shown consistency, ranging from INR 10.1 LPA to INR 11.3 LPA. The MBA Agribusiness program has also demonstrated stable placement performance with highest packages between INR 15 LPA and INR 16.33 LPA.

Metric 2025 2024 2023
MBA & MBA International Business
Highest Package INR 19.80 LPA INR 23.50 LPA INR 38 LPA
Average Package INR 10.1 LPA INR 11.10 LPA INR 11.30 LPA
Median Package INR 9.2 LPA INR 10.30 LPA INR 10.40 LPA
MBA Agribusiness
Highest Package INR 16 LPA INR 16.33 LPA INR 15 LPA
Average Package INR 8.7 LPA INR 8.81 LPA INR 7.19 LPA
Median Package INR 8.1 LPA INR 8.30 LPA INR 7.50 LPA

Student Placement Statistics (2023-2025)

Metric 2025 2024 2023
Students Placed 172 (116 MBA & MBA IB + 56 MBA AB) 156 174
Total Students 187 168 175
Placement Rate 92% 93% 99%

IMS BHU Scholarships 2026

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University provides multiple scholarship schemes to support deserving students and recognize academic excellence. These financial aid programs are designed to assist economically disadvantaged students, reward top academic performers, and provide special support to students with disabilities. The scholarships aim to make quality management education accessible to talented candidates regardless of their financial background.

Scholarship Name Eligibility Criteria Benefit Amount
Blind Students Support (Annadaan Yojana) Visually impaired students enrolled at IMS BHU Free lunch and dinner + INR 5,000 per annum (20 students)
Merit Scholarship for Rank Holders Students securing 1st and 2nd rank in respective examinations INR 4,000 (1st rank) and INR 3,000 (2nd rank) per annum
Economic Assistance Scholarship 100 students from economically weaker sections INR 2,000 per annum
Pyare Lal Prem Vati Memorial Award MBA student with highest marks in first-year examinations INR 10,000 (one-time award)
S.N. Ranade Scholarship Top-performing student in MBA Agribusiness program As per university norms

IMS BHU Campus Facilities

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University is located within the sprawling 1,300-acre Banaras Hindu University campus in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The campus combines heritage architecture with modern infrastructure, featuring extensive green spaces and well-maintained facilities. The FMS department occupies its dedicated building within the larger university complex, equipped with contemporary academic and recreational amenities. The residential setup emphasizes a conducive learning environment with integrated access to university-wide facilities.

Academic Infrastructure

The department building includes air-conditioned classrooms designed for interactive learning, seminar halls (approximately 4 air-conditioned spaces) for specialized discussions and presentations, computer laboratories with advanced IT infrastructure, and a dedicated departmental library supplemented by access to Banaras Hindu University's extensive central library collection. These facilities support both classroom instruction and independent research activities.

Hostel Accommodations

Male students reside in the Management Hostel, which accommodates approximately 70 students in twin-sharing rooms. The hostel provides high-speed LAN and Wi-Fi connectivity, television facilities, common recreational areas, gymnasium, sports room, washing machines, and an on-campus canteen. Female students are housed in Triveni Complex with twin-sharing rooms equipped with beds, study tables, chairs, cupboards, Wi-Fi access, laundry services, and daily cleaning. Both hostels are within walking distance from the department building, facilitating easy access to academic facilities.

Campus-Wide Facilities

Students have access to comprehensive university facilities including Wi-Fi coverage across most campus areas, multiple sports grounds and outdoor facilities, gymnasium and fitness centers, swimming pool, indoor stadium for recreational activities, 24-hour medical center at Sir Sunderlal Hospital, multiple canteens and dining options, and guest accommodations. The expansive campus provides a peaceful, green environment conducive to academic pursuits and personal development.

IMS BHU Alumni Network

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University has produced numerous accomplished professionals who have made significant contributions across various industries and sectors. The alumni network includes entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, academics, and social impact professionals. Notable alumni have founded organizations, led major corporations, and held senior management positions in prestigious companies. The strong alumni presence across India and globally reflects the institute's success in preparing graduates for diverse career paths.

Alumni Name Position/Role Organization
B.S. Nagesh Founder Trust for Retailers & Retail Associates of India (TRRAIN)
Rajiv Gujral Director Peerless Hospital & La Opala
Animesh Saxena Managing Director Neetee Clothing
Prof. VK Nangia Former Dean Department of Management Studies, IIT Roorkee
Rakesh Kohli Chief Executive Officer Stag International
Sudip Ghosh Commercial Unit Head Syngenta India
Kunal Kirti Executive Director & Head HR for APAC Tenneco PT

IMS BHU vs Other Institutions

Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University compares favorably with other premier management institutions in India. While some institutions may have higher brand recognition or different placement profiles, IMS BHU distinguishes itself through affordable fees, strong academic reputation, and consistent placement outcomes. The following comparison highlights key differences between IMS BHU, Faculty of Management Studies Delhi, and University Business School Chandigarh.

Parameter IMS BHU FMS Delhi UBS Chandigarh
Year of Establishment 1968 1954 1995
IIRF Ranking 2025 28 Not Available Not Available
Primary Program MBA MBA MBA
Total Tuition Fees INR 2.2 Lakhs (Agribusiness) INR 2.43 Lakhs INR 55,000
Highest Package (Recent) INR 19.8 LPA (2025) INR 1.23 Crore (2023) INR 24 LPA (2025)
Average Package (Recent) INR 10.1 LPA (2025) INR 34.1 LPA (2023) INR 12.43 LPA (2025)
Campus Size 1,300+ Acres 7 Acres 550 Acres

IMS BHU FAQs 2026

Ques. What are the key steps involved in the MBA admission process at IMS BHU?

Ans. The MBA admission process at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University follows a structured merit-based approach. Candidates must first appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT) conducted by IIMs or GMAT for NRI applicants. Based on CAT scores, eligible candidates are shortlisted for the next phase. The final merit list is prepared using a weighted formula: CAT score (50%), academic records from 10th, 12th, and graduation (20%), Group Discussion performance (15%), and Personal Interview performance (15%). Shortlisted candidates participate in Group Discussion and Personal Interview rounds conducted on campus. The entire process is transparent and merit-driven, ensuring fair evaluation of all applicants.

Ques. How many MBA seats are available at IMS BHU, and what are the reservation policies?

Ans. Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University offers a total of 118 seats across its MBA and MBA International Business programs. The institute follows government reservation policies while allocating seats. The seat distribution includes: 15% for SC (Scheduled Caste) candidates, 7.5% for ST (Scheduled Tribe) candidates, 3% for PC (Persons with Disability) candidates on horizontal reservation basis, and 27% for OBC (Other Backward Classes) candidates. The remaining seats are allocated to General Category candidates. All reservations are implemented in accordance with government guidelines and university norms.

Ques. Is the MBA admission process at IMS BHU currently open for 2026-28 batch?

Ans. Yes, admissions for the 2026-28 MBA batch at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University are currently open. The application submission deadline is 31 January 2026. The institute offers multiple programs including MBA, MBA International Business, MBA Agribusiness, Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, and PhD in Management. Program durations range from 6 months to 2 years depending on the course. For MBA admission, candidates must appear for CAT and achieve a competitive percentile, typically around 85 percentile or higher for General Category to secure a seat. Interested candidates should visit the official BHU admissions portal to complete their applications before the deadline.

Ques. Is CAT examination mandatory for MBA admission at IMS BHU?

Ans. Yes, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is mandatory for MBA and MBA International Business admission at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University. The CAT score carries 50% weightage in the final selection criteria. Academic records from 10th, 12th, and graduation carry 20% weightage, while Group Discussion and Personal Interview together carry 30% weightage. According to 2025 admission statistics, candidates need to achieve an overall percentile of 85 or higher to qualify for the admission process. NRI candidates may use GMAT scores as an alternative to CAT. The entrance examination is a critical component of the merit-based selection process.

Ques. Does IMS BHU offer direct admission to any of its programs?

Ans. Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University does not provide direct admission to any of its programs. All admissions are strictly merit-based and conducted through entrance examinations and selection rounds. For MBA programs, candidates must appear for CAT (or GMAT for NRI applicants) and qualify the minimum cutoff percentile. Shortlisted candidates then participate in Group Discussion and Personal Interview rounds. This transparent and competitive admission process ensures that only qualified candidates who meet the institute's academic standards are selected. There are no provisions for direct admission, management quota, or sponsored seats.

Ques. What is the highest package offered during IMS BHU MBA placements, and how has it evolved over the years?

Ans. The highest package offered during Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University MBA placements has shown variation over the past three years. In 2025, the highest package for MBA and MBA International Business was INR 19.8 LPA, while MBA Agribusiness achieved INR 16 LPA. In 2024, the highest package for MBA and MBA IB was INR 23.5 LPA, and for MBA Agribusiness was INR 16.33 LPA. In 2023, the highest package for MBA and MBA IB reached INR 38 LPA, while MBA Agribusiness achieved INR 15 LPA. The variation in highest packages reflects market conditions and the quality of candidates in each batch. Average packages have remained more stable, ranging from INR 10.1 LPA to INR 11.3 LPA for MBA programs.

Ques. What documents must candidates carry for the GD-PI round at IMS BHU?

Ans. Candidates shortlisted for the Group Discussion and Personal Interview round at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University must carry the following documents: completed Registration Form, photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card or PAN Card with self-attested copy), self-attested copy of CAT Scorecard, self-attested mark-sheets from Class 10, Class 12, and Graduation, Caste Certificate (for SC/ST/NC OBC candidates), Income Certificate (for EWS category candidates), and Disability Certificate (for Divyang candidates if applicable). Additionally, candidates must pay the GD-PI processing fee of INR 2,000 (or the amount specified in the call letter) through the SAMARTH portal before appearing in the GD-PI round. All documents should be properly organized and readily available during the interview process.

Ques. What is the fee structure for international students seeking MBA admission at IMS BHU?

Ans. Foreign nationals applying for MBA programs at Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University are required to pay additional fees beyond the standard tuition charges. The fee structure for international students includes: Application Processing Charge of USD 50 to USD 100 (payable at application submission), Course Fee of INR 60,000 for Year 1 and INR 60,000 for Year 2 (same as Indian students), Additional Charge of INR 2.1 Lakhs per year for SAARC country nationals (mandatory), and Additional Charge of INR 3 Lakhs per year for non-SAARC country nationals (mandatory). The total cost for international students varies based on their country of origin. Interested international candidates should contact the admissions office for detailed fee breakdowns and payment procedures.

Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm