IPM vs CLAT: Choosing the Right Path After Class 12th

 Introduction

As students approach the end of their school journey, one critical decision looms large: What career path to choose? For those inclined towards either management or law, two highly prestigious undergraduate entrances often come into focus:

·         IPM (Integrated Programme in Management)

·         CLAT (Common Law Admission Test)

Both are gateways to elite institutions — IIMs and NLUs respectively — but they lead to very different futures. So, which one should you choose? Let’s explore both options in depth.

What is IPM?

The Integrated Programme in Management (IPM) is a five-year dual-degree course introduced by IIM Indore and now offered by IIM Rohtak, IIM Ranchi, IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Shillong, IIM Amritsar and others. It fuses undergraduate and postgraduate studies, focusing entirely on grooming future business leaders from a young age.

Key Highlights:

·         Students earn a BBA+MBA over five years.

·         Curriculum covers liberal arts, quantitative aptitude, business communication, economics, and management.

·         Entry is through IPMAT, JIPMAT, or SAT (in some IIMs).

What is CLAT?

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is the national entrance exam for admissions to the 22 National Law Universities (NLUs) in India, such as NLSIU Bangalore, NALSAR Hyderabad, NLU Delhi, and NUJS Kolkata.

Key Highlights:

·         Offers a 5-year integrated BA LLB, BBA LLB, or BCom LLB.

·         The curriculum includes constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, and more.

·         Entry is through a single, centralized exam – CLAT.

 IPM vs CLAT: A Detailed Comparison

Career Opportunities: IPM

·         Corporate Management: Work with leading firms like McKinsey, BCG, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, etc.

·         Entrepreneurship: Start your own venture or join incubators/accelerators.

·         Finance & Consulting: High-paying roles in investment banking, private equity, consulting firms.

·         Post-graduate Opportunities: Fast track into IIM MBA alumni networks with global reach.

Career Opportunities: CLAT

·         Litigation & Judiciary: Appear in courts, practice independently, or take judiciary exams.

·         Corporate Law: Join legal teams of MNCs, or leading law firms like AZB, Cyril Amarchand, Khaitan & Co.

·         Civil Services/UPSC: A law degree strengthens your edge for constitutional and legal subjects.

·         Academia & Research: Teaching and legal research positions at universities or think tanks.

How to Choose Between IPM and CLAT?

Ask yourself the following:

Do you love numbers, strategy, and business?

·         Choose IPM. You'll thrive in environments involving leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Are you driven by justice, argumentation, and social impact?

·         Choose CLAT. Law provides a powerful platform to influence society, work in governance, or join the corporate legal world.

 Still Confused?

Evaluate:

·         Your performance in maths, reading comprehension, reasoning.

·         Whether you enjoy debating and abstract thinking (CLAT) or data and business models (IPM).

·         The lifestyle and long-term goals you envision for yourself.

Final Thoughts: Which is the Better Career Option?

There’s no absolute winner. Both are elite, demanding, and rewarding in their own ways. Your interest, aptitude, and commitment will determine which one will lead you to a fulfilling career.

Whether it's a courtroom or a boardroom — success lies in clarity of vision and early preparation.

Need Help Deciding?

We at Career Launcher, Jamshedpur offer dedicated counseling, mock tests, and prep support for both IPMAT and CLAT aspirants. Get expert guidance tailored to your career dreams.

Visit Us:

2nd Floor, UTI Mutual Fund Building,

Near Ram Mandir, Near Hotel Ginger, Bistupur

Email: jam.cl@careerlauncher.com

Call: 999693202574 / 9102999754 / 9102990084