The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has opened admissions for the 2027–29 batch of its two-year Blended MBA Programme in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (BPGP: BA & AI). The programme is designed for working professionals and entrepreneurs who want to strengthen their management capabilities while developing expertise in business analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making.

The programme combines management education with analytical and technological skills to prepare professionals for leadership roles in organisations increasingly dependent on data and AI. Unlike a conventional full-time residential MBA, the blended format allows participants to continue working while attending live online classes and scheduled on-campus modules.

The last date to apply in Round 1 is November 2, 2026. Candidates can apply using a valid CAT, GMAT or GRE score obtained on or after January 1, 2022, or appear for the institute's admission test specifically conducted for the programme.

The total programme fee is ₹21 lakh, payable in instalments. Applicants should also account for travel and accommodation expenses for the on-campus modules, which are not included in the programme fee.

IIM Ahmedabad Blended MBA 2027–29: Key Highlights

IIM Ahmedabad MBA in Business Analytics and AI: Important Dates

Applicants should note the application deadlines and selection milestones for both admission rounds.

Candidates applying through CAT, GMAT or GRE should follow the instructions applicable to their chosen test route. Applicants taking the IIMA Admission Test should ensure that they complete the application and test-related formalities within the prescribed timelines.

Applicants are advised to submit their applications well before the deadline to allow sufficient time to review their details, arrange supporting documents and complete payment.

What Is the BPGP: BA & AI Programme?

The Blended MBA in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence is a management degree programme that combines business fundamentals with analytical methods and emerging AI technologies.

The programme aims to help professionals understand how data can be used to solve organisational problems, improve operational efficiency, evaluate business opportunities and support strategic decisions.

Its curriculum combines technical subjects such as statistics, programming, analytical modelling, machine learning and advanced AI with management disciplines including finance, strategy, marketing and operations.

The programme is intended for professionals who want to move beyond simply using analytical tools and develop the ability to interpret results, assess business implications and lead data-informed decisions.

Major features of the programme

• Two-year MBA degree: The programme is structured across six terms.

• Blended learning format: Live online classes are combined with in-person campus modules.

• Management and technology integration: The curriculum covers business administration alongside analytics and AI.

• Practical learning: Case discussions, simulations, capstone assignments and action-learning projects connect theory with business applications.

• Flexible learning: The format is designed to accommodate working professionals and entrepreneurs.

• One-year exit option: Eligible participants who leave after the first year can receive a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analytics and AI, subject to programme rules.

• Alumni network: Participants who complete the full MBA can join IIMA's global alumni network.

IIM Ahmedabad MBA Eligibility Criteria 2027–29

Applicants must satisfy the academic and work experience requirements prescribed for the programme.

1. Educational qualification

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree or an accepted equivalent qualification from a recognised university or institution.

The eligible qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in any discipline.

• Chartered Accountant (CA).

• Company Secretary (CS).

• ICWA or CMA qualification.

• Another qualification accepted as equivalent under the programme's admission rules.

Applicants must have secured at least 50% aggregate marks or an equivalent CGPA.

Candidates should check the official admission criteria for any specific rules concerning equivalent qualifications, grading systems or supporting documents.

2. Work experience requirement

The programme is designed for professionals and entrepreneurs with relevant work experience. The minimum requirement depends on the duration of the undergraduate degree.

The experience requirement is calculated as of March 31, 2027.

For candidates with a three-year undergraduate degree, the prescribed experience must have been acquired after completing that degree. Candidates with a four-year undergraduate degree must meet the corresponding two-year requirement.

Applicants should review the official definition of eligible work experience and ensure that their employment details can be verified through appropriate documentation.

3. Entrance examination requirement

Candidates must satisfy the programme's admission assessment requirement through one of the accepted routes:

• A valid CAT score.

• A valid GMAT score.

• A valid GRE score.

• The IIMA Admission Test conducted for BPGP: BA & AI.

For CAT, GMAT and GRE, the score must have been obtained on or after January 1, 2022, according to the announced eligibility conditions.

Applicants should verify the accepted score-reporting requirements and ensure that their chosen examination result meets the programme's validity criteria.

IIM Ahmedabad MBA Admission Test 2026–27

Candidates who do not intend to apply through an eligible CAT, GMAT or GRE score can consider the institute's admission test route.

The admission test is scheduled as follows:

• Round 1: November 22, 2026.

• Round 2: January 10, 2027.

Candidates opting for this route should check the official instructions concerning test registration, format, duration, syllabus, examination arrangements and any applicable requirements.

The admission test is part of the selection process, but applicants should not assume that a test score alone guarantees admission. Shortlisting and final selection also involve further evaluation.

IIM Ahmedabad BPGP: BA & AI Application Fee

The application fee depends on the entrance assessment route selected by the candidate.

Applicants should confirm the applicable fee and payment instructions on the official application portal before submitting their forms. They should retain the payment confirmation and application acknowledgement for future reference.

The application fee is separate from the total programme fee payable by candidates who secure admission.

IIM Ahmedabad Blended MBA Fees: ₹21 Lakh

The total fee for the 2027–29 Blended MBA in Business Analytics and AI is ₹21 lakh.

The programme fee is payable in six instalments. Applicants should review the official fee schedule to understand the payment deadlines and any conditions attached to each instalment.

Candidates should also note that the programme fee does not cover travel and accommodation for the three on-campus modules. These additional expenses should be included when assessing the overall cost of participation.

Applicants should check the latest programme brochure for the precise instalment amounts, payment deadlines, refund conditions and other financial terms.

Programme Structure: Six Terms Over Two Years

The programme is organised into six terms, broadly divided between the first and second years.

The first year builds foundational analytical capabilities and demonstrates how data can be applied across business functions. The second year focuses on leadership, strategic transformation, responsible use of AI and advanced applications.

First year: Core foundations

The initial terms focus on analytical thinking, business fundamentals and the ability to use data in organisational settings.

Areas covered include:

• Probability and statistics.

• Programming for analytics using R and Python.

• Data management.

• Optimisation and decision models.

• Business analytics and artificial intelligence.

• Digital transformation.

• Economics.

• Finance and accounting.

• Integrating data insights across business functions.

• Collaboration and data-informed teamwork.

These subjects provide the foundation for understanding analytical methods and applying them to practical management problems.

Second year: Advanced applications and leadership

The later terms focus on using analytics and AI to support organisational strategy, innovation and responsible decision-making.

Key areas include:

• Predictive and prescriptive analytics.

• Product management.

• Finance and risk management.

• Human–AI collaboration and change management.

• AI ethics, policy and regulation.

• Supply chain digitisation.

• Generative AI.

• Agentic AI.

• Strategic transformation and applied research.

The programme also uses cases, simulations and project work to help participants connect technical concepts with business decisions.

The precise selection of electives and course availability should be confirmed through the official curriculum and programme brochure.

Blended Learning: How Will Classes Be Conducted?

The programme combines live online instruction with three on-campus modules at IIM Ahmedabad.

This structure is intended to make the MBA accessible to professionals who cannot leave their jobs for a conventional two-year residential programme. Participants can attend live classes remotely while also engaging in campus-based learning and interaction.

The online component is supported by live teaching and collaborative learning. On-campus modules provide opportunities for face-to-face academic engagement, peer interaction and exposure to the institute's learning environment.

Participants may also have remote access to academic and research resources, including library resources, computing infrastructure and databases, subject to the programme's applicable access rules.

Applicants should consider the time commitment required for live classes, assignments, group work, projects and campus visits before deciding whether the programme fits their professional and personal responsibilities.

Selection Process for IIM Ahmedabad MBA in Business Analytics and AI

The selection process involves an assessment of candidates' aptitude, educational background, work experience and professional potential.

The broad stages are as follows.

Stage 1: Application submission

Candidates complete the online application, provide academic and professional information, and submit the required entrance test details or select the IIMA Admission Test route.

Stage 2: Entrance assessment

Applicants are evaluated through an accepted CAT, GMAT or GRE score, or the institute's admission test, as applicable.

Stage 3: Shortlisting

Candidates who meet the prescribed criteria may be shortlisted for the next stage. The Round 1 shortlist is scheduled for November 30, 2026.

Stage 4: Personal interview

Shortlisted applicants are interviewed by IIMA faculty members. The interview helps assess the candidate's analytical ability, educational background, professional experience, motivation and potential to contribute to the programme.

Stage 5: Final selection

The institute makes the final admission decision based on its prescribed evaluation criteria. Round 1 final selection is scheduled for December 21, 2026, while Round 2 final selection is scheduled for February 10, 2027.

Candidates should refer to the official admission guidelines for the detailed selection methodology and any additional requirements.

One-Year Exit Option: Postgraduate Diploma

The programme provides an exit pathway for participants who complete the first year but do not continue through the full two-year MBA.

Eligible participants leaving after the first year can receive a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analytics and AI, subject to the programme's academic and exit requirements.

Participants who complete the full two-year programme receive the MBA degree.

This option provides flexibility, but candidates should review the official rules regarding academic requirements, exit procedures and the possibility of returning later to complete the programme.

Who Should Consider This Programme?

The Blended MBA in Business Analytics and AI may be suitable for professionals who want to combine management experience with stronger analytical and AI capabilities.

Potential applicants include:

• Working professionals seeking to progress into leadership or management roles.

• Entrepreneurs who want to use data and AI to improve business decisions.

• Managers responsible for digital transformation or analytics-driven projects.

• Business professionals seeking a stronger understanding of machine learning and AI applications.

• Professionals in finance, marketing, operations, logistics, supply chain, IT or HR who want to incorporate analytical methods into their work.

• Experienced graduates who meet the academic and work experience criteria and want to advance their careers without taking a conventional full-time study break.

The programme may be less suitable for applicants seeking a traditional full-time residential MBA or those who cannot commit to the live learning schedule, campus visits and substantial programme fee.

How to Apply for IIM Ahmedabad Blended MBA 2027–29

Eligible candidates can follow these general steps to apply.

1.    Visit the official IIM Ahmedabad website.

2.    Open the dedicated Blended MBA in Business Analytics and AI programme page.

3.    Review the eligibility requirements, admission schedule, fee structure and programme brochure.

4.    Choose the appropriate assessment route: CAT, GMAT, GRE or IIMA Admission Test.

5.    Complete the online application form with accurate personal, academic and employment details.

6.    Enter the relevant entrance test information or complete the test-route requirements.

7.    Upload the documents requested by the application portal.

8.    Pay the applicable application fee.

9.    Review the form carefully before final submission.

10.                   Save the application confirmation and monitor the portal for updates about shortlisting, interviews and final selection.

Round 1 applications close on November 2, 2026. Candidates who intend to apply in the first round should complete their submissions before the deadline.

Important Advice for Applicants

Before applying, candidates should carefully consider the following points:

• Check the work experience calculation: The relevant experience is assessed as of March 31, 2027.

• Confirm score validity: CAT, GMAT or GRE results must satisfy the stated date requirement.

• Choose the correct admission route: Compare the accepted score option with the institute's admission test route.

• Plan the overall cost: Include the ₹21 lakh programme fee and additional campus travel and accommodation expenses.

• Review the learning commitment: Live classes, assignments, projects and campus modules require time alongside professional responsibilities.

• Prepare for the interview: Be ready to explain how business analytics and AI relate to your career goals and professional experience.

• Read the official terms: Check the latest brochure for payment schedules, refunds, academic requirements and exit conditions.

Conclusion

IIM Ahmedabad's Blended MBA in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence offers working professionals and entrepreneurs an opportunity to develop management expertise alongside skills in analytics, machine learning and emerging AI technologies.

The two-year programme combines live online learning with campus-based modules and covers both business fundamentals and advanced analytical applications. Its flexible structure and one-year exit option may appeal to professionals seeking to strengthen their capabilities without stepping away from their careers.

The Round 1 application deadline is November 2, 2026, and the total programme fee is ₹21 lakh, excluding travel and accommodation for campus modules. Interested candidates should review the official admission criteria, select an eligible entrance assessment route and submit their applications well before the deadline.