IIM Bodh Gaya vs IIM Jammu: Which IIM to choose from the JIPMAT Exam

The Joint Integrated Programme in Management Admission Test (JIPMAT) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The test offers the aspiring students an opportunity to secure admission into a Five-year Integrated Programme (a unique blend of BBA and MBA) at IIM Jammu and IIM Bodh Gaya.

IIM Bodh Gaya and IIM Jammu are among the newer IIMs, also called Baby IIMs. These two, along with IIM Ranchi, offer a 5-year Integrated Programme in Management (IPM) with admission through the JIPMAT exam. JIPMAT is for students after Class 12 who want early entry into IIMs without taking the CAT later. These IIMs are growing in reputation and provide quality education, global exposure, and financial aid.

JIPMAT Exam pattern

Mode: Computer Based Test (CBT)

Duration: 150 minutes(2.5 hours)

Medium: English

Total Questions: 100 (Multiple choice Questions)

Marking Scheme:    

• Correct Answer:+4
• Incorrect Answer: -1
• Unanswered Question: 0

IIM Jammu vs IIM Bodh Gaya

Both Institutes offer a unique combination of academic rigor, early exposure to management education, and the prestige of being a part of the IIM family. However, as a student, it’s natural to wonder, which IIM is better for you? In this blog we break down the comparison between IIM Jammu and IIM Bodh Gaya based on key parameters.

1. Academic Programme

Both offer a 5-year Integrated Programme in management. The curriculum is multidisciplinary in nature in the first three years (covering humanities,mathematics, statistics etc.) and it merges with the MBA curriculum in the final two years.

2. Fees

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”. While both institutes offer the same IPM structure, their fee frameworks differ slightly.

Both Institutes provide financial assistance in the form of need-based scholarships,

government aid, and fee waivers, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to quality management education.

3. Infrastructure and Campus

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” A picturesque campus is definitely a key contributor to making your student life worthwhile.

4. Faculty and International Exposure

• IIM Jammu has a relatively larger faculty base and stronger collaborations, including MoUs with foreign universities for student exchange.
• At IIM Jammu, International immersion programs have begun taking shape, offering students a taste of global business practices early in their academic journey.
• IIM Bodh Gaya also emphasizes international immersion and hosts regular global guest lectures and academic tie-ups.
• IIM Bodh Gaya’s emphasis on cross-cultural competence and case-based learning prepares students for the evolving demand of global business. 

5. Student Life and Clubs

• Both IIMs have active student communities, clubs, and events, but IIM Jammu currently has more national-level exposure due to frequent corporate summits and public engagements.
• IIM Jammu organizes events like management conclaves, cultural fests, and regular workshops to ensure a well-rounded experience beyond the classroom.
• IIM Bodh Gaya offers a calm environment, ideal for a focused academic life, with growing extracurricular initiatives.
• IIM Bodh Gaya is equally vibrant with student-led initiatives, growing cultural events, and clubs that foster creativity, communication, and community.

6. Gender Diversity

What sets them apart slightly is their approach to gender diversity.

• IIM Bodh Gaya implements  supernumerary seats for female candidates, aiming to create a more inclusive environment. This has led to a more balanced gender ratio in recent batches.
• IIM Jammu too has taken initiatives to increase female participation but without specific supernumerary allocations at the IPM level as of now.

This is an important consideration for female aspirants, especially those looking for supportive peer environments and diverse classrooms.

7. Placement Outlook

Since the first IPM batch is yet to graduate, placement data for IPM students isn't available yet. However, looking at their flagship MBA placements gives a sense of direction.

• IIM Jammu has reported a consistently rising average CTC (Rs.16.43 LPA in 2023), with top recruiters from the consulting, tech, and BFSI sectors.
• IIM Bodh Gaya has also made impressive strides, with an average CTC of around Rs.12.36 LPA and a growing base of recruiters from across the country. 

Over the next few years, IPM graduates will begin shaping their own placement legacy, influenced by the institute’s network, brand value, and student performance.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Both IIMs offer exceptional opportunities, but the better fit depends on your personal priorities:

• Choose IIM Jammu if you're looking for faster brand growth, stronger industry exposure, and a tech-oriented academic ecosystem.
• Choose IIM Bodh Gaya if you value a slightly more affordable education, a balanced gender ratio, and a calm, focused learning environment with emerging global opportunities.

Ultimately, both institutes are building strong foundations for young minds stepping into the world of management. Your learning, growth, and success will depend more on what you make of these five years than on the name alone.

Also, cutoffs make the choice even easier, checkout JIPMAT exam analysis for the cutoffs of both the IIMs for 2025 season. For students aspiring to appear in JIPMAT 2026.  Do keep a track. We are here to be your circle of support.

Regards

Team CL!