IIFT Kolkata, established in 2006 is one of the top Business Schools in India, known for its academic excellence in the field of International Business. IIFT has been ranked 27th by NIRF Ranking 2023 in the management category. The institute has collaborations with around 41 Universities/ B-schools around the world to provide a student/ faculty exchange program. The flagship course of IIFT Kolkata is a 2-year MBA (IB) program and the intake for the same is 253.
IIFT Kolkata MBA admissions are based on CAT exam, followed by Group discussion and a Personal interview. IIFT Kolkata used to conduct its own exam for shortlisting candidates but from the academic year 2024, the institute will be considering CAT scores and the cutoff will be released after the CAT results are out. IIFT Kolkata MBA fees is INR 20.97 Lakhs, whereas the average package stood at INR 29.1 LPA.
Why MBA from IIFT Kolkata?
See What Ravi Rav from the batch of 2024 has to say about IIFT Kolkata
“I decided to pursue my MBA education at the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (Kolkata), India's best business institute and the country's only university affiliated with the Ministry of Commerce. IIM Raipur, IIM Kashipur and other Baby IIMs were my other options apart from IIFT Kolkata. I chose IIFT Kolkata over newer IIMs because of the institute's history and excellent location. Also, IIFT's reputation is very useful for me as I want to work in Trade. Read More
IIFT Kolkata Highlights
Established Year |
2006 |
Campus Size |
7 Acres |
Students Intake |
253 |
MBA Fees |
INR 20.97 Lakhs |
NIRF Ranking |
27 |
Exams Accepted |
CAT |
Number of Courses |
4 |
Scholarship |
Merit-cum-means based |
Highest Package |
INR 85.4 LPA |
Top Recruiters |
Amul, Cipla, Bajaj, Infosys, Deloitte, HSBC, ICICI Bank, etc. |
Ques: What makes IIFT Kolkata unique among business schools?
Ans: IIFT Kolkata stands out due to its strong emphasis on international business education. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a global perspective, preparing them for challenges in the dynamic world of international trade.
Ques: What sets IIFT Kolkata's faculty apart?
Ans: The faculty at IIFT Kolkata comprises seasoned professionals and academicians with extensive industry experience. Their blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights creates a stimulating learning environment, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
Ques: What is your take on the industry exposure provided by IIFT Kolkata?
Ans: IIFT Kolkata ensures that students gain real-world exposure through industry interactions, guest lectures, and internships. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students a hands-on understanding of the business world.
Ques: How relevant is the curriculum to the current job market?
Ans: Highly relevant! The curriculum constantly evolves to reflect the latest trends and demands of the international business landscape. From digital marketing to global supply chains, we're equipped with the skills and knowledge employers crave.
IIFT Kolkata Campus
IIFT Kolkata Important Dates 2024
MBA (IB) |
Events |
Dates |
Online Application Starts |
October 27, 2023 |
Last Date of Online Submission of Application Form |
December 16, 2023 |
Online Application for Foreign National/ NRI Candidates Starts |
January 15, 2024 |
Last Date of Online Submission of Application Form for Foreign National/ NRI Candidates |
March 15, 2024 |
List of Shortlisted Candidates for Second Round of Admission |
Last Week of January 2024 |
Group Discussion/ Extempore, Writing Skills Assessment and Interview |
March/ April 2024 |
Merit List Released |
First Week of July 2024 |
Commencement of Programme |
July 2024 |
Read More |
IIFT Kolkata Badminton Court
IIFT Kolkata Fees 2024
The total fees charged to the MBA (IB) students is INR 20.97 Lakhs, which covers the Tuition, Library, Medical Insurance, Hostel charges for double occupancy, Boarding charges, Student activity and Alumni Charges. IIFT Kolkata also offers a 50% concession on tuition fees to the SC, ST, and PwD Category candidates.
IIFT Kolkata Courses 2024
IIFT Kolkata is known for its flagship MBA in International Business. In the academic year 2022-24, there were more than 400 students in this program in all the IIFT campuses. Around 58% of the students had work experience and 51% of students were from engineering backgrounds. The batch also had a good number of women students.
Courses |
Duration |
Program Details |
MBA (International Business) |
2 Years |
Intake: 253 Eligibility: Minimum 3-Year Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks. Selection Criteria: CAT + Group Discussion + Personal Interview. |
MBA (International Business) Weekend Program |
3 Years |
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 3 Years of Work Experience. Selection Criteria: Group Discussion + Essay Writing + Interview |
Check: IIFT Kolkata Courses
IIFT Kolkata Library
A Day at IIFT Kolkata
See What Ravi Rav from the batch of 2024 has to say about IIFT Kolkata
“The morning class decided the pace for the day. Depending on the timing and the Previous attendance I had in the class the waking time was decided.
On most days we have 3-5 classes, with every class of 1.5 hours with a 15-minute break between,
and a launch break from 2:15 pm to 3:00 pm
The mess is a very important place for us not because of the food, in fact that’s the last thing, the reason for this mess is the only place we spend time with our friends who are in other sections during the day, talking and eating together discussing the new meme or what happened in the class or any other gossip or intellectual discussion depending on we sat with.” Read More
IIFT Kolkata Hostel Mess
Ques: How do you perceive the fees structure at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans: While the fees at IIFT Kolkata may be on the higher side, I believe it's a worthwhile investment in one's future. The quality of education, exposure to industry experts, and the overall learning experience justify the cost. Moreover, the institute offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support deserving students.
Ques: Is the MBA (IB) curriculum at IIFT Kolkata too theoretical?
Ans: Honestly, some courses delve deep into economic concepts, but professors balance theory with real-world case studies and simulations. You'll be challenged, but it definitely prepares you for the complexities of international business.
Ques: I'm not from a commerce background. Will I struggle with the MBA (BA) specialization?
Ans: While some quantitative skills are helpful, IIFT's focus on data-driven decision-making can be learned. The coursework is designed for diverse backgrounds, and the supportive peer environment fosters collaborative learning.
Ques: Is the IIFT Kolkata tuition fee worth the investment?
Ans: It's a hefty sum, but consider the return on investment. The brand value, quality of education, and network you gain open doors to top career opportunities with lucrative salaries. Plus, scholarships and loan options ease the financial burden.
IIFT Kolkata Vs IIFT Delhi
IIFT Kolkata and IIFT Delhi both are known for offering the flagship MBA in International Business. A comparison among both the campuses is done in the table below:
Particulars |
IIFT Kolkata |
IIFT Delhi |
Established Year |
2006 |
1963 |
Campus Area |
7 Acres |
6 Acres |
Courses Offered |
MBA (IB), Weekend MBA (IB), MA Economics, 1 Executive PGD, and PhD |
MBA (IB), MBA (BA), Weekend MBA (IB), 3 Executive PGD, PhD, Certificate courses. |
MBA Intake |
258 |
253 |
MBA Fees |
INR 20.97 Lakhs |
INR 21.77 Lakhs |
MBA Cutoff |
Lower than IIFT Delhi |
Top 160 rankers get IIFT Delhi and the rest get IIFT Kolkata |
MBA Curriculum |
The MBA curriculum is same for both the campuses. |
Hostels |
2 Residential blocks. The rooms are available in single and double occupancy |
3 hostel buildings (Old hostel, New hostel, and C9 Hostel). The rooms are available in single, double, and triple occupancy. |
Library |
5000 books, 90+ printed national & international journals, and 5000 national & international journals (including e-journals) |
1,05,081 resources that comprise nearly 77,916 books/ CDs-volumes, 17,931 bound periodicals, and 235 periodicals. |
Placements |
There are few companies that only visit IIFT Delhi, and the IIFT Kolkata students have to travel to IIFT Delhi to sit for those companies. |
All the major companies that have associated with IIFT visit IIFT Delhi. |
IIFT Kolkata Campus Overview
IIFT Kolkata Admission 2024
IIFT Kolkata admission is based on the CAT exam. The candidates who are interested in the IIFT MBA (IB) program will have to appear for CAT 2023 and based on their scores they will be shortlisted for the Group Discussion/ Extempore and a personal interview round.
The IIFT Kolkata MBA admission process includes the following stages:
Admission Stage |
Description |
Online Registration |
Interested candidates will have to apply online for the MBA program, through the official website of the institute. |
CAT Exam |
The candidates will have to appear for the CAT exam, which is conducted every year in November. |
Shortlisted Candidates |
The candidates will be shortlisted based on the CAT score and will be called for the second round assessment. |
Group Discussion and Personal Interview |
The shortlisted candidates will be called for Group Discussion and Personal Interview, which will be held in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai. |
Final Selection |
The final selection will be based on the overall performance of the candidate. |
Check: IIFT Kolkata detailed Admission
IIFT Kolkata GYM
Ques: How challenging is the admission process at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans: The admission process at IIFT Kolkata is rigorous but fair. The institute values a holistic approach, considering not only academic achievements but also performance in the written test, group discussion, and personal interview. This ensures that students admitted possess a well-rounded skill set, contributing to a vibrant and diverse campus environment.
Ques: What advice would you give to prospective students considering IIFT Kolkata for their MBA?
Ans: I would advise prospective students to thoroughly research and understand the unique aspects of IIFT Kolkata's program. It's essential to align your career goals with what the institute offers and to actively engage in the diverse opportunities available on campus. Additionally, networking with alumni and current students can provide valuable insights into the overall experience and help in making an informed decision about pursuing an MBA at IIFT Kolkata.
Ques: I'm a terrible group discussion participant. How can I survive the GD round at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans: Don't be afraid to participate! Listen actively, build on others' points, and present your ideas confidently. It's not about dominating the discussion, but about contributing constructively and showing you can collaborate effectively. Plus, practice with friends or join online GD preparation groups to hone your skills.
Ques: Everyone says the PI at IIFT is brutal. Should I be scared?
Ans: It's definitely intense, but not meant to break you. Be prepared for in-depth questions about your motivations, career goals, and understanding of international business. Show genuine passion, articulate your strengths clearly, and most importantly, be yourself. Trust that your unique story will resonate with the panel.
IIFT Kolkata Cutoff 2024
IIFT Kolkata canceled its IIFT Entrance Exam conducted by NTA every year and the shortlisting for admission is solely done through CAT 2023 entrance exam. The following is the CAT cut-off:
Category |
CAT Sectional Cutoff (Percentile) |
CAT Composite Cutoff (%) |
General |
55 |
30 |
Gen-EWS/OBC-NCL |
50 |
25 |
SC/ST/PwD/Kashmiri Migrants/ Kashmiri Pandits |
30 |
20 |
Check: IIFT Kolkata detailed Cutoff
Life at IIFT Kolkata
See What Ravi Rav from the batch of 2024 has to say about IIFT Kolkata
We have Section Wars in 12 sports such as tennis, carrom, table tennis and basketball. We also have a Cricket Tournament that includes all processes including Auction and match scores broadcasting.
IIFT Kolkata Classroom
The campus also has a proper gym with a full-time instructor
Compared to what I hear from my friends in other B-schools, IIFT Kolkata has a great culture where batch unity is reflected in everyday things.” Read More
IIFT Kolkata Placements 2023
During the 2023 placement drive at IIFT Kolkata, around 108 recruiters visited and made domestic and international offers to the students. The students received more than 17 International offers. The highest package stood at INR 85.4 LPA and the average package stood at INR 29.1 LPA.
Particulars |
Placement Statistics 2023 |
Total Recruiters |
108 |
Percentage of PPOs |
39% |
International Positions |
17+ |
Highest CTC |
INR 85.4 LPA |
Average CTC |
INR 29.1 LPA |
Top Recruiters |
Amul, Cipla, Bajaj, Infosys, Deloitte, HSBC, ICIC Bank, etc. |
IIFT Open Air Theatre
IIFT Kolkata Year Wise Placements
According to the placement statistics of the previous year, the placements have been improving consistently. The average package seems to increase every year and in 2023 it increased by 16%. The highest package has also been increasing every year and there was not much difference seen in 2021 and 2022, but in 2023 there was a 63% increase in the highest domestic CTC, which stood at INR 76.5 LPA.
Placement Year |
Highest Package |
Average Package |
2023 |
INR 85.4 LPA |
INR 29.1 LPA |
2022 |
INR 46.5 LPA |
INR 25.16 LPA |
2021 |
INR 46.45 LPA |
INR 21.08 LPA |
Check: IIFT Kolkata detailed Placement Report
Ques: Heard some rumors about "internal politics" impacting placements. Any truth to that?
Ans: Honestly, haven't seen any evidence of that so far. The Placement Committee seems transparent and supportive. Everyone's just focused on landing their dream jobs.
Ques: How would you summarize the overall placement experience at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans: The overall placement experience at IIFT Kolkata was exceptional. The institute's commitment to excellence, coupled with a proactive placement cell and supportive alumni network, creates an environment where students can explore diverse opportunities and secure placements in their preferred domains.
Ques: Many of my batchmates landed six-figure packages. Feeling inadequate now. Is IIFT all about the money?
Ans: Absolutely not! While financial security is important, IIFT should equip you with skills and experiences that go beyond just a paycheck. Remember, true success is measured by personal fulfillment and impact, not just numbers on a bank statement.
Ques: In your opinion, what sets IIFT Kolkata's placements apart from other B-schools?
Ans: One distinguishing factor is the global exposure offered by IIFT Kolkata. The institute's focus on international business opens doors to unique placement opportunities. Additionally, the emphasis on industry-relevant skills through the curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the corporate world.
IIFT Kolkata Hostel
See What Ravi Rav from the batch of 2024 has to say about IIFT Kolkata
“There are two There are 2 hostels one for boys and one for girls. The rooms in the boys' dormitory are small and for single-person accommodation
, while the rooms in the girls' dormitory are larger and shared by two people.
IIFT Kolkata Hostel
Being surrounded by friends makes life quieter. I learned the value of the living program as it was my first time living on campus.
IIFT Kolkata Hostel Rooms
Like other hotels, the food is good, good, good and sometimes terrible. The daily breakfast is good but the hotel has no air conditioning, which is a problem considering the humidity in Kolkata.” Read More
IIFT Kolkata Vs IIM Udaipur Vs NMIMS Mumbai
A comparison among the top 3 management colleges i.e. IIFT Kolkata, IIM Udaipur, and NMIMS Mumbai are mentioned below:
Particulars |
IIFT Kolkata |
IIM Udaipur |
NMIMS Mumbai |
NIRF Ranking 2023 |
27 |
16 |
21 |
Established Year |
2006 |
2011 |
1981 |
Campus Size |
7 Acres |
300 Acres |
179 Acres |
MBA Batch Size |
400 |
340 |
600 |
MBA Admission |
CAT + GD + PI |
CAT + PI through CAP |
NMAT + WAT + WATSON GLASER Test + Personal Interview |
MBA Cutoff |
- |
92 Percentile |
86 percentile |
MBA Fees |
INR 20.97 Lakhs |
INR 21.20 Lakhs |
INR 23.90 Lakhs |
Highest CTC |
INR 85.4 LPA |
INR 46.77 LPA |
INR 67.80 LPA |
Average CTC |
INR 29.1 LPA |
INR 20.09 LPA |
INR 26.63 LPA |
Scholarship |
Merit-cum-means based scholarship available. |
Scholarships offered by Government of India and Government of Rajasthan can be availed by the students. |
Scholarships available for economically weaker students who have a family income less than INR 6 lakh per annum. |
Check: IIFT Kolkata Hostel Details
IIFT Kolkata FAQs
Ques. What is the highest package in IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The highest international package at IIFT stood at INR 85.40 LPA and the highest domestic package at INR 76.5 LPA.
Ques. Is IIFT Delhi better than IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. There is no difference between IIFT Delhi and IIFT Kolkata in terms of admission. Also, the placement is common for both. The campus of IIFT Kolkata is better than the IIFT Delhi campus.
Ques. How is IIFT Kolkata for MBA?
Ans. IIFT Kolkata has an amazing campus, great faculty, and excellent placements. IIFT has achieved 100% placements in summer internships with an average stipend of INR 1.5 Lakhs.
Ques. Is IIFT better than IIMs?
Ans. Both IIFT and IIM are top management institutes are are really good in terms of faculty, placement and curriculum. But IIFT is a better choice if considering an institute for International Business.
Ques. What is the cutoff for MBA at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The IIFT cut-off usually ranges between 35-40 marks for the General category. However, the cut-offs can be different for 2024 admissions as the CAT 2023 score will be considered.
Ques. What is the fees of IIFT Kolkata MBA?
Ans. The total fees charged to the MBA (IB) students by IIFT Kolkata is INR 20.97 Lakhs, which covers the Tuition, Library, Medical Insurance, Hostel charges for double occupancy, Boarding charges, Student activity and Alumni Charges.
Ques. Does IIFT Kolkata have hostel facilities?
Ans. Yes IIFT do offer hostel facilities and it is mandatory for the MBA (IB) students to stay at the campus hostel.
Ques. Does IIFT Kolkata accept CAT exam?
Ans. Yes, IIFT Kolkata has started accepting CAT exam from the academic year 2024-26. Before IIFT admissions were based on the IIFT entrance exams only.
Ques. How many seats are there at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. There are around 400 seats for the MBA (IB) program at IIFT and at IIFT Kolkata takes around 140 students.
Ques. What is the package of IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. During the 2023 placement drive, the highest package stood at INR 85.4 LPA and the average package stood at INR 29.1 LPA.
Ques. Is IIFT 2024 cancelled?
Ans. The IIFT 2024 exam has been cancelled, and now, admission will be offered based on CAT 2023 scores. This decision was announced on August 10, 2023.
Ques. What is IIFT famous for?
Ans. IIFT is known for its 50 years of heritage and is famous for its MBA degree in International Business, which is offered by very few top management institutes.
Ques. Is it compulsory to stay at the IIFT Kolkata hostel?
Ans. Yes. The MBA (IB) course offered by IIFT Kolkata is
Ques. Who is eligible for the IIFT Kolkata MBA?
Ans. Anyone who has a Bachelor’s degree with 50% aggregate in any discipline is eligible to apply for the IIFT Kolkata MBA program. Even the candidates who are in their final year of graduation are also eligible.
Ques. Can a fresher apply at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. Yes, freshers can apply to the IIFT Kolkata MBA (IB) program. The work experience is not mandatory but can add benefits during the final selection.
Ques. Do we have to apply separately for IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. No. There is a common application for all the IIFT campuses. The campus is allotted to the candidates based on their final rank. If the rank is under the top 160, then the applicants will get the Delhi campus and the rest will get the Kolkata campus.
Ques. Is work experience necessary for IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. No, work experience is not mandatory to apply for the MBA (IB) program at IIFT Kolkata, but it will definitely be beneficial during the final selection process.
Ques. How many students apply to IIFT every year?
Ans. During the 2023 admissions, around 19958 students applied to IIFT for the MBA (IB) program in the general category.
Ques. Which companies visit IIFT Kolkata for placements?
Ans. Some of the top companies that visited IIFT Kolkata during the 2023 placement drive include Adani Group, Cargill, Diageo, Client Associates, Edelweiss, etc.
Ques. Does IIFT have international placements?
Ans. Yes, the IIFT students do get international offers. During the 2023 placement drive, the students received 17 international offers and the highest international package stood at INR 85.40 LPA
Ques. What is the age eligibility of IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The is no age limit to apply for the programs at IIFT Kolkata.
Ques. Where do IIFT students get placed?
Ans. IIFT students get placed in all sectors like BFSI, IT, FMCG/ FMCD/ Retail, E-Commerce & Telecom, Transportation/ Logistics, Pharmaceutical/ Healthcare, etc. The most recruited sector of IIFT is BFSI and Professional Services.
Ques. What is the average package at IIFT?
Ans. During the 2023 placement drive at IIFT Kolkata, the average package stood at INR 29.1 LPA.
Ques. How many acres is IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The IIFT Kolkata is spread over 7 acres in the Madurdaha area.
Ques. Does IIFT Kolkata conduct any interviews for admission?
Ans. Yes, IIFT Kolkata conduct interviews for the shortlisted candidates, which will be held in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai
Ques. Is GMAT compulsory for IIFT?
Ans. GMAT is compulsory only for Foreign Nationals/ NRIs applying to the MBA (IB) program at IIFT Kolkata. The Indian citizens will only require CAT score to apply at IIFT.
Ques. What is the admission process for MBA at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The MBA (IB) admission process at IIFT Kolkata includes the shortlisting of candidates based on their application and CAT scores, followed by a Group discussion and a Personal Interview.
Ques. Is CAT exam compulsory, for the Weekend MBA (IB) program admission at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. No. CAT scores are not required for admission into the weekend MBA (IB) program at IIFT Kolkata. The admission process includes Group Discussion, Essay Writing and a Personal Interview.
Ques. Who can apply for the Weekend MBA (IB) program at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. Those who have a bachelor’s degree with 50% aggregate and 3 years of work experience can apply to the MBA (IB) program at IIFT Kolkata.
Ques. How is the library at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The library at the Kolkata Campus is presently equipped with a collection of around 5000 books, 90+ printed national & international journals, and 5000 national & international journals (including e-journals) in the field of International Business Management and related areas. The library also provides access to over 200+ full-text e-journals on economics, and databases like Economist Intelligence Unit, CMIE Prowess, Industry Outlook, and EPWRF India Time Series.
Ques. What is the PhD admission process at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The PhD admission at IIFT Delhi is based on a Written Exam conducted by IIFT, followed by a Personal Interview. The UGC NET-JRF qualified candidates will be exempted for the Written Examination.
Ques. What is the PhD fees at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. IIFT Kolkata does not charge any fees to full-time PhD candidates, but around INR 5.75 Lakhs is charged by the part-time PhD candidates.
Ques. What is the eligibility to apply for the PhD program at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The candidates who have a Master’s degree with 55% marks or a 4-year Bachelor’s degree with 75% marks are eligible to apply for the PhD program at IIFT Kolkata.
Ques. How many seats are available for PhD at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. There are 19 seats available for PhD at IIFT Kolkata, whereas at IIFT Delhi, there are 20 seats.
Ques. Does IIFT Kolkata offer fellowship to its PhD students?
Ans. Yes, IIFT Kolkata do offer an amount of INR 15,000 per month in the form of a fellowship, to selected candidates only.
Ques. What is the duration of the PhD program at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The PhD program at IIFT Kolkata is of 3 to 6 years duration. The students can extend it for 2 more years with the process of re-registration as per the academic rules.
Ques. What are the courses offered by IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. IIFT Kolkata offers a full-time MBA (IB), Weekend MBA (IB), Executive MBA, and a PhD program.
Ques. What is the duration of the Weekend MBA (IB) program at IIFT Kolkata?
Ans. The IIFT Kolkata Weekend MBA (IB) program is a 3-year duration.