IIMB’s debut UG programme draws 12,000 applications for 80 seats
Bengaluru: The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) has received 12,000 applications from across the country for the first batch of its undergraduate (UG) programme, the institute said on Thursday. The inaugural cohort, however, will accommodate only 80 students, making the selection process highly competitive.
The programme will commence on August 31 at the IIMB – Dorabji Tata School of Undergraduate Studies, which is being established with support from the Tata Trusts. According to an official release, the first batch comprises students with outstanding academic and personal profiles, selected through a rigorous evaluation process.
On August 21, IIMB’s Board of Governors Chairperson, Dr. Devi Shetty, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Noel Tata, Chairman of Tata Trusts. The MoU formalises the Trusts’ support for the establishment and initial development of the school’s academic infrastructure. The Trusts will also contribute to strategic direction, vision-setting, policy formulation, and governance oversight.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Noel Tata said, “For over a century, the Tata Trusts have seeded some of India’s most defining institutions that have influenced generations, and continue to serve public good long after the initial investment. India’s next phase of growth will require institutions that can be ranked amongst the best in the world. Our partnership with IIM Bangalore reflects that approach. Through the IIMB – Dorabji Tata School of Undergraduate Studies, we hope to support an institution that can set new benchmarks for undergraduate education and make a lasting contribution to the country.”
Dr. Devi Shetty expressed deep appreciation for the Trusts’ support. “Our partnership with the Tata Trusts will provide the IIMB – Dorabji Tata School of Undergraduate Studies with a strong foundation to develop an ambitious model of multidisciplinary education for a new generation of learners,” she said.
The launch of the undergraduate school marks a significant step for IIMB, which has traditionally been known for its postgraduate and doctoral programmes. The new school aims to offer multidisciplinary education, blending management principles with other disciplines to prepare students for a dynamic professional environment.
With only 80 seats available, the selection process included a national-level entrance test followed by personal interviews. The high volume of applications underscores the growing demand for quality undergraduate education in India, particularly from institutions with established academic reputations.
Analysts note that the entry of IIMs into undergraduate education reflects a broader trend among Indian institutions to diversify their offerings. While IIMs have historically focused on management education at the postgraduate level, the undergraduate programmes are seen as a way to nurture talent from an earlier stage.
The Tata Trusts’ involvement is expected to bring significant resources and expertise to the new school. The Trusts have a long history of supporting education and institution-building in India, including the establishment of the Indian Institute of Science and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences.
As the first batch prepares to begin classes, IIMB has said it will continue to focus on ensuring high academic standards and holistic development of students. Details on curriculum, faculty, and future admission cycles are expected to be announced in due course.
