The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur has announced it will not participate in the Common Admission Process (CAP) 2025, opting instead for an independent admissions process for its two-year MBA program. This strategic shift was made with the aim of providing potential candidates with a more streamlined and personalized application experience, thereby aligning with the institute's commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
Effective from January 2025, IIM Raipur's admissions process will directly evaluate candidates based on their Common Admission Test (CAT) scores followed by personal interviews. According to information from IIM Raipur, the short-listing of profiles is slated to begin during the second week of January 2025, with interviews planned to take place from February 10 to March 9, 2025.
The interviews will be conducted across eight major Indian cities: Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Bengaluru, New Delhi, Guwahati, and Raipur. This decision to broaden the geographical reach of the interviews is significant as it signifies IIM Raipur's intent to expand its social outreach, striving to connect with talent from various regions, including those less frequently represented.
“With this strategic shift, IIM Raipur aims to offer applicants a streamlined and personalized application experience,” noted the institute’s official statement. This organizational change reflects IIM Raipur’s commitment to fostering holistic development among its students by providing them opportunities to cultivate emotional intelligence, innovation, and entrepreneurial skills.
Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, the Director of IIM Raipur, elaborated on the motivation behind this decision, stating, “Our institute is committed to the holistic development of our students. Alongside academic excellence, we also present opportunities to develop cross-cultural and emotional intelligence, innovation, and to augment the entrepreneurial spirit.” He emphasized the importance of adding industry experts to the interview panels, indicating at least one expert will be included, assuring applicants receive valuable insights during the evaluation process.
The move to conduct independent admissions follows IIM Sambalpur's recent announcement to exit CAP 2025 as well, marking a trend among certain Indian Institutes of Management to reevaluate their admission strategies. This new independent approach allows both IIM Raipur and IIM Sambalpur more control over their admissions processes and aligns with their unique educational philosophies.
For potential candidates, the decision means they will have access to clear and direct information through the IIM Raipur Admissions Portal, where they can find detailed guidance on eligibility criteria, selection procedures, and application guidelines. This transparency is part of IIM Raipur's effort to provide prospective students with clarity and assurance throughout their application experience.
During the prior academic year (2022-2024), IIM Raipur attained impressive placement statistics, with the highest Cost to Company (CTC) reaching ₹42.29 lakhs per annum and the average CTC standing at ₹18.15 lakhs per annum. The institute attracted 116 recruiters during its last placement drive, which included 38 new companies, emphasizing its growing reputation among employers.
“This will also help us empower students to succeed globally,” added Prof. Kakani, highlighting the emphasis on creating opportunities for students to excel not just within India but across international platforms.
Lastly, by choosing to withdraw from the CAP, IIM Raipur reinforces its identity as a forward-thinking institution committed to nurturing leaders equipped to handle the business world's rapidly changing dynamics. The update not only serves current students but also positions IIM Raipur as a key player for incoming students preparing to enter the global marketplace.
