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Best One-Year MBA Programs in India Without GMAT (2025 Updated)

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Top One-Year MBA Programs in India Without GMAT (2025 Updated)

In today‘s cut–throat professional world pursuing a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) can be seen as a must for achieving career advancement. However, many professionals either do not have the time for two full years of a traditional MBA program, or do not want to take GMAT test. The good news is that there are one  year MBA programs in India without GMAT that are not just time effective but also prestigious. These 1 year MBA programs are tailored to help working professionals wanting fast–tracked learning and career advancement.

Why Choose a One-Year MBA Without GMAT in India?

Many Indian institutions have realized that there is a demand for flexible, intensive management education without institutionalized entrance tests. One-year MBA programs provide a quick return on investment, tailored curriculum, and realistic exposure to industry. By removing GMAT requirements, these institutes are attempting to make management education more accessible to experienced professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs.
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Top Colleges Offering One-Year MBA in India Without GMAT (2025 List)

Here are some of the best institutions that offer one-year MBA programs in India without GMAT:

1. Indian School of Business (ISB) – PGP Program

  • Program Name: Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)

  • Duration: 1 Year

  • Location: Hyderabad & Mohali

  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 2+ years of work experience

  • Entrance: GMAT/GRE optional for alumni from partner institutions or candidates applying through the Early Entry Option

ISB’s PGP is India’s most prestigious one-year MBA program, globally ranked and ideal for experienced professionals. While it typically prefers GMAT, the Early Entry Option or LOR-based selections offer flexibility.

2. IIM Ahmedabad – MBA-PGPX

  • Program: Post Graduate Programme for Executives (PGPX)

  • Duration: 1 Year

  • Location: Ahmedabad

  • Eligibility: Minimum 4 years of work experience

  • Entrance: GMAT is preferred, but in certain cases, alternative evaluation methods are applied

Although GMAT is usually a part of the process, many working professionals have reported being selected through strong profiles and interviews alone.

3. SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) – PGPM

  • Duration: 15 months

  • Location: Mumbai

  • Eligibility: Minimum 5 years of work experience

  • Entrance: GMAT/GRE scores optional; institute also considers internal evaluation

SPJIMR’s PGPM is known for its leadership focus and international immersions, with flexibility for non-GMAT applicants based on profile strength.

4. XLRI Jamshedpur – PGDM (General Management)

  • Duration: 15 months

  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 5 years of experience

  • Entrance: GMAT not mandatory; XAT or institute’s internal test accepted

This program focuses on managerial excellence and has strong corporate linkages, ideal for career advancement without GMAT constraints.

5. Great Lakes Institute of Management – PGPM

  • Location: Chennai & Gurgaon

  • Duration: 1 Year

  • Eligibility: 2+ years of work experience

  • Entrance: Accepts CAT/XAT/CMAT; GMAT optional

Great Lakes offers one of the most cost-effective one-year MBA programs in India without GMAT, tailored for professionals looking for leadership roles.

6. SOIL Institute of Management – One-Year PGPM

  • Duration: 1 Year

  • Location: Gurgaon

  • Eligibility: Graduate with 2+ years of experience

  • Entrance: No GMAT required

SOIL provides a purpose-driven curriculum with leadership development and career coaching, making it a strong option without the GMAT.

7. NMIMS – Executive MBA (Online & On-Campus Options)

  • Duration: 12-15 months

  • Location: Mumbai + Online mode

  • Eligibility: Graduate with minimum 3 years of experience

  • Entrance: No GMAT/GRE required

This executive MBA is flexible, affordable, and allows you to learn while working. A perfect fit for managers seeking a degree without entrance exams.

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Top perks of a one-year MBA in India—no GMAT needed.

Key Benefits of Pursuing One-Year MBA Without GMAT in India

  • Time Efficiency: Complete your MBA in 12–15 months and return to the workforce quickly.

  • No Exam Stress: Save time and energy by avoiding GMAT preparation.

  • Career Progression: Many graduates secure mid to senior management roles after these programs.

  • Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Programs focus on real-world business problems and leadership development.

  • Networking Opportunities: Engage with experienced peers, faculty, and industry mentors.

Is a One-Year MBA Without GMAT Worth It?

Absolutely. If you have relevant work experience and a strong academic background, you can unlock premium MBA programs that focus on practical learning rather than test scores. Most programs also offer placement assistance, networking, and real-time projects with top corporates.

Final Thoughts

Selecting one of the best one-year MBA programs in India without GMAT is a valuable career decision for professionals who want to upskill without the hassle of taking entrance exams. One–year MBA programs provide maximum value in minimum time; they are perfect for professionals who are ready to lead, manage, and disrupt in a rapidly changing business landscape. If you are thinking about your MBA in 2025, you don‘t have to let the GMAT stand in your way. Check out these high-ROI options for MBA programs without GMAT and considered the next big jump in your career!

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