A One Year MBA is a quicker and more intense program designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers without taking a long break.
One year MBA programs in India are offered by top business schools like ISB, IIMs, and XLRI that are well-recognized and highly regarded by employers. Many top colleges in India now offer these programs, making them a great option for students in 2025.
In this blog, we’ll talk about what the One Year MBA is, who should consider it, how it’s different from a two-year MBA, and whether these programs are recognized in India.
What is One Year MBA Program?
A One Year MBA Program is a shorter, more intense version of the traditional two-year MBA. It’s designed for people who already have some work experience and want to improve their skills and boost their careers in just 12 months.
Instead of spending two years learning, you get the same core knowledge in a shorter time, making it perfect for those who want to learn fast and move forward in their careers without taking a long break from work.
Who Should Consider a 1 Year MBA Program
- Working professionals with experience: If you’ve been working for a few years and want to enhance your skills, a One Year MBA is ideal.
- Those aiming for leadership roles: If you’re looking to move into managerial or executive positions, this program can help sharpen your leadership abilities.
- People planning to switch industries: A 1 Year MBA can give you the business knowledge needed to make the transition.
- Entrepreneurs: If you’re planning to start your own business, the program equips you with the tools to manage and grow it successfully.
- Busy professionals: If you want to improve your qualifications without taking a long break from work, the One Year MBA is the perfect solution.
1-Year MBA vs. 2-Year MBA Program: Which One Is Good?
Aspect | One Year MBA | Two Year MBA |
Duration | 12 months | 24 months |
Target Audience | Professionals with work experience | Fresh graduates or those with limited work experience |
Course Intensity | More intensive, faster-paced | Slower pace, more time for deep learning |
Networking Opportunities | Quick, high-impact interactions | Deeper relationships over a longer period |
Are One-Year MBA Recognized in India?
Yes, One Year MBA programs are recognized and respected in India, especially when they are offered by top schools like IIMs, ISB, and XLRI.
Many working professionals prefer a One Year MBA over the traditional two-year program, as it allows them to return to their high-paying jobs quickly and advance in their careers.
In India, the demand for 1 Year Online Executive MBA programs has been rising, as they offer the flexibility to study from anywhere, at any time. Several top business schools, including prominent IIMs, now offer these 1 Year MBA courses.
List of 12 Popular One Year MBA Programs in India
Institution | Course Name | Course Fees (INR) |
IIM, Ahmedabad | MBA-PGPX | 36.20 Lakhs |
IIM, Calcutta | MBAEx Program | 33,50,000 |
XLRI, Jamshedpur | PGDM (General Management) | 24.20 Lakhs |
ISB, Hyderabad | PGP | 37,38,180 |
SP Jain Institute of Management and Research | PGPM | 21,00,000 |
Soil Institute of Management | PGPM | 15,33,226 |
IIM, Bangalore | EPGP | 33,96,000 |
Jindal Global Business School | 1 Year MBA | 1,80,000 |
IIM, Udaipur | 1 Year MBA | 22,95,000 |
Great Lakes Institute of Management | PGPM | 21,66,000 |
IIM, Lucknow | IPMX | 26,25,000 |
IIM, Indore | EPGP | 22,11,800 |
1. IIM, Ahmedabad- PGPX
The MBA-PGPX (One Year MBA) at IIM Ahmedabad is made for experienced professionals who want to take their careers to new heights. This program helps you develop the skills and confidence to take on higher-level roles, come up with innovative ideas, and adapt to the changing global business world.
For many students, the MBA-PGPX also serves as the perfect launchpad to start their own businesses or build global companies. With its focus on preparing, you for top management positions, the program has earned a top spot.
Course Name: | MBA-PGPX |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 36.20 Lakhs |
2. IIM, Calcutta- MBAEx
The MBA for Executives (MBAEx) at IIM Calcutta is a 1 Year Full-Time Residential Program designed for professionals with more than five years of work experience.
The MBAEx is recognized as a proper MBA by global accreditation organizations and is listed in prestigious global rankings like the Financial Times. It’s known worldwide for its high quality.
Course Name: | MBAEx program |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 33,50,000 |
3. XLRI, Jamshedpur- PGDGM
The PGP (Post Graduate Programme) at ISB Hyderabad is a top-ranked One Year MBA program, considered one of the best in India. It’s designed to help professionals improve their business management skills with a modern and up-to-date curriculum, taught by experienced faculty from around the world.
The program combines tough coursework with real-world learning, giving students the chance to apply what they learn in practical situations. The PGP at ISB focuses on preparing students for leadership roles, making sure they are ready to succeed in global business.
Course Name: | PGP |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 37,38,180 |
4. ISB, Hydrabad- PGP
XLRI offers an 18-month full-time residential management program, the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (General Management) – PGDM (GM), formerly called GMP. This program is for professionals with at least three years of work experience in fields like IT, energy, automobile, and manufacturing.
The PGDM (GM) program helps students learn the latest in management while also focusing on leadership with a human touch. It broadens their thinking and prepares them to solve real-world business problems.
Course Name: | Postgraduate Diploma in General Management |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 24.20 lakh |
5. SP Jain Institute Of Management And Research- PGPM
SPJIMR’s Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM) is an 18-month AICTE-approved program designed for professionals with at least three years of work experience.
The program begins with a two-month online module, followed by a 12-month on-campus residential course, and finishes with four months of projects focused on startups, social impact, and international exposure. Students can also customize their learning by choosing one major and two concentration areas, allowing them to focus on the skills that match their career goals.
Course Name: | Post Graduate Programme in Management |
Course Link: | spjimr.org/course/post-graduate-programme-in-management-pgpm/ |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 21,00,000 |
6. Soil Institute of Management- PGPM
The 1 Year MBA – PGPM at SOIL Institute of Management provides a strong foundation in key business skills and important management areas. The program is taught by experienced faculty and industry leaders, who create courses based on the latest research and industry best practices.
This 1-year MBA is focused on developing future leaders who are known for their integrity and strong character. The program aims to teach students how to lead responsibly, inspire others, and help India grow into a stronger global economy.
Course Name: | Post Graduate Program in Management |
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Course Fees: | INR 15,33,226 |
7. IIM Bangalore- EPGP
The Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) at IIM Bangalore is a one-year, full-time residential One Year MBA for professionals with 5 to 15 years of work experience. This program helps improve the skills of participants and prepares them for senior management positions.
One of the key features of the EPGP is its diverse group of students, each with rich work experience.
Course Name: | Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 33,96,000 |
8. Jindal Global Business School- MBA 1 year
The 1 Year MBA at Jindal Global Business School is designed to prepare future business leaders and executives. The program is taught by experienced faculty through a mix of recorded lectures and live sessions that focus on real-life business cases and practical learning.
Course Name: | 1 year Master of Business Administration |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 1,80,000 |
9. IIM, Udaipur- One year MBA
The 1 Year MBA program at IIM Udaipur offers two specialized tracks: Digital Enterprise Management (DEM) and Global Supply Chain Management (GSCM). This program is designed for professionals who want to enhance their expertise in these growing fields while developing their overall business management skills.
Course Name: | 1 year MBA |
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Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 22,95,000 |
10. Great Lakes Institute Of Management- PGPM
The Post Graduate Program in Management (PGPM) at Great Lakes Institute of Management is a fast-paced One Year MBA for professionals who want to move into managerial roles. This AICTE-approved program provides a strong foundation in business management and uses a unique teaching method to make learning practical and engaging.
The program brings together professionals from different fields, creating opportunities to learn from each other’s experiences.
Course Name: | PGPM |
Course Link: | |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 21,66,000 |
11. IIM, Lucknow- IPMX
IIM Lucknow offers the International Programme in Management for Executives (IPMX), 1 Year MBA program at its NOIDA campus. This residential program is designed for mid- to senior-level professionals who want to prepare for top leadership roles in various industries.
The IPMX program is accredited by AACSB and the Association of MBAs (AMBA). To apply, candidates are required to have a valid GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, or GRE score.
Course Name: | IPMX |
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Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 26,25,000 |
12. IIM, Indore- EPGP
The Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) at IIM Indore is a one-year full-time residential One Year MBA designed for experienced professionals. The program helps students improve their management and leadership skills, preparing them for higher roles in organizations.
The EPGP combines practical skills with important management lessons, helping participants stay ahead in today’s fast-paced business world.
Course Name: | Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management |
Course Link: | iimidr.ac.in/programmes/executive-post-graduate-programme-in-management-epgp/ |
Eligibility Criteria: |
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Course Fees: | INR 22,11,800 |
How to Choose the Best 1 year MBA Course?
- Program Focus & Specialization
Different programs focus on different areas like leadership, finance, marketing, or digital management. Pick a program that matches your career goals. - Reputation of the Institute
Go for a well-known and respected business school, like IIMs or ISB, as they provide great opportunities and recognition both in India and globally. - Curriculum and Teaching Style
Look for a program that offers practical learning (like case studies, projects, and internships) along with theory. This will help you apply what you learn in the real world. - Faculty Expertise
Choose a program where you’ll be taught by experienced professors who bring real-world knowledge to the classroom. - Alumni Network
A strong alumni network can help you connect with professionals, find mentors, and open doors for job opportunities. - Location & Campus Life
Think about where the business school is located. Some people prefer schools in big cities for industry connections, while others prefer a quieter campus setting. - Placement Opportunities
Check the school’s placement record to see if companies you’re interested in hire from that school. Good placement support can lead to better job offers. - Cost vs Return on Investment (ROI)
Consider the cost of the program and the value you’ll get in return. A higher fee might be worth it if it leads to higher-paying jobs and better career growth.
Last Words
Choosing the right One Year MBA can have a huge impact on your career. It can help you move into leadership roles, earn a higher salary, and build a strong professional network.
Before you decide, take some time to look into different programs. Think about your career goals, the skills you want to learn, and which program fits those needs best. Whether you choose an IIM, ISB, or any other top school, make sure it’s the right choice for your future.
FAQs
Q1: What is a One Year MBA Program?
Ans:A One Year MBA is an accelerated MBA program designed for professionals with work experience. It helps them gain advanced business knowledge in just 12 months, compared to the usual two-year course.
Q2: Is a One Year MBA recognized in India?
Ans:Yes, One Year MBA programs from top schools like IIMs, ISB, and XLRI are widely recognized and respected in India and internationally.
Q3: Who should consider a One Year MBA?
Ans:A One Year MBA is ideal for professionals with a few years of work experience who want to fast-track their careers, develop leadership skills, or shift industries without taking a long break from work.
Q4: What are the advantages of a One Year MBA over a Two Year MBA?
Ans:A One Year MBA helps you progress faster in your career, with less time spent out of work. It offers an intense and focused curriculum, allowing you to gain new skills quickly and return to your job sooner.
Q5: What is the eligibility for a One Year MBA in India?
Ans:To be eligible for a One Year MBA, you typically need a bachelor’s degree and at least 3 to 5 years of work experience. Some programs also require test scores like GMAT or GRE.