Over the past few years, management education in India has witnessed a fresh wave of opportunities for students right after their Class 12 board exams. One of the most talked-about programs making headlines is the Integrated Programme in Management (IPM), offered by prestigious IIMs like Indore, Rohtak, Ranchi, Bodh Gaya, and Jammu.
But many students and parents ask a big question: Is an Integrated MBA through IPM worth it in 2025?
Let’s break it down honestly, without jargon, and help you decide if this path fits your career goals.
The Integrated Programme in Management (IPM) is a five-year dual-degree program designed for students who have completed Class 12 and aspire to become future business leaders. It combines undergraduate (BA/BBA) and postgraduate (MBA) studies into one continuous, well-structured course.
You don’t need to do a separate CAT exam after graduation — you directly enter the MBA phase once you complete your undergrad years within the program.
Popular IIMs offering IPM:
IIM Indore (Flagship program)
IIM Rohtak
IIM Ranchi
IIM Bodh Gaya
IIM Jammu
There’s a simple reason — students today want career security early. With growing competition and the uncertain job market, getting into an IIM right after Class 12 feels like a safe, smart, and future-proof choice.
Some reasons for its rising demand:
Early admission to prestigious IIMs
Exposure to management concepts from a young age
Strong internship and placement opportunities
No stress of appearing for the CAT after graduation
Global exchange programs and industry exposure
Also, with entrance exams like CUET, CLAT, and IPMAT happening around the same time, students prefer to explore multiple career options together.
Now, let’s talk numbers.
The total program cost for a five-year IPM course at IIM Indore is approximately â¹35-40 lakhs (2025 estimate). Compared to a traditional graduation + MBA path, it might feel like a bigger commitment.
However, here’s why it balances out:
Top IIMs offer average placement packages of â¹20+ LPA after completion
Guaranteed admission into the MBA phase without fresh CAT attempts
Scholarships and loan facilities make it financially accessible for many students
Long-term ROI is higher, thanks to a premium IIM tag and early industry experience
If you want a deeper cost-benefit breakdown, you can check out Career Launcher Malviya Nagar’s expert counseling sessions here:
https://www.careerlauncher.com/delhi-malviya-nagar/
This program isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s ideal for:
Students who are clear about pursuing management as a career
Those who don’t want to risk CAT prep stress later
Aspirants who are comfortable with subjects like mathematics, reasoning, and verbal ability
Students are open to campus life, internships, and long-term academic commitment
If you’re passionate about startups, entrepreneurship, or leadership roles, IPM is a great head start.
We spoke to students currently pursuing IPM at various IIMs, and here’s what they shared:
“It’s the best decision I made after Class 12.”
“The exposure is unmatched. From international internships to case study competitions, you feel like a professional early on.”
“The pressure is real, but so are the rewards.”
Most students value the networking, peer learning, and early career clarity they gain through IPM.
Like any big decision, IPM comes with its own challenges:
Five years in one institution can feel monotonous for some
High pressure of performance and maintaining good grades
It limits your career flexibility if you later change your mind about management
However, most of these concerns can be addressed with the right mindset, strong time management, and proper mentorship.
Yes — if you’re management-oriented and looking for a fast-tracked, secured career option with premium branding and early industry exposure.
The ROI, placement records, and overall experience offered by IIMs through IPM justify the investment for most serious students. It also saves you the unpredictability of CAT post-graduation and gives you a competitive edge in corporate and entrepreneurial fields.
Q1. Is IPM better than doing a regular BBA or B.Com?
Yes, especially if you aspire for management roles, global exposure, and better placements.
Q2. Can I quit the program after the undergraduate phase?
Yes, you can exit after three years with a BA/BBA degree.
Q3. Is IPMAT very difficult?
It’s competitive, but with focused preparation through platforms like Career Launcher Malviya Nagar, students can crack it confidently.
Q4. What is the average salary package after completing IPM?
Around â¹20-25 LPA (2025 estimate), depending on the IIM and your performance.
Career Launcher Malviya Nagar has helped hundreds of students crack IPMAT and secure seats at top IIMs. From personal mentorship to mock tests and profile building, we’ve got you covered.
Book a free counseling session now: