Can I Get into IIM with a Low Academic Record?

Yes, it is possible to get into an IIM despite a poor academic record; however, it may be more difficult. While IIMs examine previous academic success, they also place a high value on other considerations such as your Common Admission Test (CAT) score, work experience, and overall profile. 

Despite the low academic records, many applicants hope to get admitted to prominent universities such as the IIMs. However, some IIMs have more lenient admissions criteria that focus on other aspects of the application. IIMs that you can get into with a low academic score include IIM Calcutta and IIM Lucknow, among others. 

IIMs Accepting Low Academic Profiles

The table below lists the names of these IIMs as well as the admission prerequisites.

Name of IIM	Selection/Admission Criteria
IIM Calcutta	There is no consideration for graduation scores or work experience. Class X and XII have call scores of more than 80%. A decent CAT score percentile ensures a call. For lower class X or class XII scores, a high CAT percentile (for example, 99.8) is necessary.
IIM Lucknow	There is no consideration of class X marks. CAT scores and work experience are given a high weightage. A high CAT percentile and work experience can help compensate for poor graduation marks. The 12th and graduation scores are weighted at 10%, the CAT score at 60%, and job experience at 10%. More opportunities with over 2.5 years of job experience and a high CAT score.
IIM Kozhikode	There is no consideration of class X scores. CAT results are weighted at 75%, class XII scores at 7.5%, and graduation scores at 7.5%. A CAT score of the 99.8th percentile or higher can compensate for poor academic performance.
IIM Indore	Class X marks are weighted at 36%, class XII at 40%, and CAT at 20%. Expect a call if you just received a lower graduation grade. Unlikely to get a call if either class X or class XII scores are low, regardless of the CAT score. Normalises board percentages, taking into account mark inflation for certain boards.

Also Read:

• How to Prepare for CAT 2025 with a Full-time Job? Best Tips to Follow
• Which IIM is best for CAT 2025 Aspirants?

How to Get Into IIM With a Low Academic Score?

Here are some suggestions to help you get into IIMs despite a poor academic record:

1. Common Admission Test (CAT): The Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted by IIMs, is a prerequisite for admission. This highly difficult test has approximately 2 lakh students for 5000 places at IIMs.

2. WAT, GD, and PI: Those who meet the cutoffs advance to the second stage of the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview. IIM faculty members regularly administer PI tests to assess a variety of soft and interpersonal abilities. The questions vary from academic and professional experience to personal topics.

3. Work Experience: Applying for an MBA right after you graduate is a common error. If you are familiar with any associated strategies, you will have a better chance of being admitted to the MBA program.

Related Links:

• Which are the best books for CAT preparation in 2025?
• Can a Final Year Student Apply for CAT 2025?    

Conclusion

Yes, you can get into IIM with a low academic record by excelling in other areas like CAT score, work experience, personal interview, and a strong overall profile. Focus on IIMs with flexible criteria, build your strengths, and showcase your potential to stand out in the selection process.