Great Lakes Chennai
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Summary
What is Great Lakes Chennai?
Explore Great Lakes Chennai (GLIM) PGDM & PGPM 2025 admissions. Discover fees, NIRF ranking, CAT/GMAT/XAT cutoffs, and placement reports. Apply for MBA in Chen…
- Location
- Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Total fees
- ₹16 L
- Average package
- ₹15 L
- Highest package
- ₹39.3 L
- NIRF rank
- #16
- Exams accepted
- CAT, XAT, GMAT
Last updated
About Great Lakes Chennai
Strategic Advantages of Great Lakes Chennai
Great Lakes Chennai has established itself as a premier destination for management education in India since its founding in 2004. Ranked 16th by NIRF 2026, the institute offers a unique blend of global academic standards and deep industry integration. Its prestigious dual accreditation by AACSB and AMBA places Great Lakes Chennai in the elite top 5% of business schools worldwide, ensuring that your degree carries significant international weight NIRF 2026.
The institute is widely recognized for its exceptional return on investment (ROI), particularly for its flagship PGPM and PGDM programs. With a competitive total fee structure of INR 16.03 Lakhs, students in the most recent batch achieved an average placement of INR 15 LPA, while the highest package reached a remarkable INR 39.3 LPA Placement Report 2025-26. This financial value proposition is a major draw for aspirants using the CAT exam, XAT, or GMAT for admissions in the 2026-2027 cycle.
Academic Excellence and Industry Readiness
Academic rigor at Great Lakes Chennai is defined by its \"Global Mindset, Indian Roots\" philosophy. The curriculum is heavily weighted toward Business Analytics and Digital Strategy, keeping pace with the evolving demands of the modern economy. You will learn from a distinguished faculty, including regular visits from professors at Ivy League and top-tier global institutions like Kellogg and Stanford. This academic excellence is supported by a 27-acre, LEED Platinum-rated green campus, which was the first of its kind in South Asia Admission Brochure 2026.
The placement ecosystem at Great Lakes Chennai remains robust, with over 150 recruiters participating in the 2025 season. Marquee names like Microsoft, Deloitte, Accenture, and Amazon consistently hire from the talent pool. Beyond academics, the vibrant student life builds leadership and soft skills through committees and events. Joining Great Lakes Chennai means entering a powerful network of over 13,000 alumni who hold leadership positions across various global sectors, providing you with a lifelong support system for career advancement Placement Report 2025-26.
Why Join Great Lakes Chennai?
Programme Portfolio6 programmes
| Programme | Duration | Exams | Specialisations | Eligibility | Seats | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Post Graduate Program in Management (PGPM) 1-Year MBA Full-time | 1 year (full-time residential) | CAT XAT GMAT | FinanceMarketingOperations & IT+2 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT 95-98% · XAT 95-98% · GMAT 660-720 · Work-ex ≥ 2y | 440 | ₹21.75 L 2025-2026 batch |
Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) PGDM Full-time | 2 years (full-time residential) | CAT XAT GMAT CMAT | FinanceMarketingOperations & IT+2 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT 90-94% · XAT 90-94% · GMAT 640-700 | 180 | ₹16.03 L 2025-2027 batch |
Post Graduate Program in Management - Flex (PGPM Flex) Executive MBA Weekend | 2 years (Weekend mode) | CAT XAT GMAT GRE | FinanceMarketingOperations+2 | Grad ≥ 50% · CAT NA% · XAT NA% · GMAT 600+ · Work-ex ≥ 2y | 120 | ₹9.85 L 2025-2027 batch |
Post Graduate Executive Program in Management (PGXPM) Executive MBA Hybrid | 18 months (Modular) | Profile-based | Strategic ManagementFinance & RiskGlobal Marketing+1 | Grad ≥ 50% · Work-ex ≥ 8y | 60 | ₹12.75 L 2025-2027 batch |
Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) Fellow / Doctoral Full-time | 4 years (full-time) | CAT XAT GMAT GRE | FinanceMarketingOperations Management+2 | Grad ≥ 60% · CAT 90+% · XAT 90+% · GMAT 700+ | 10 | — 2025-2029 batch |
Global PGP in Management (Digital Business) Online MBA Online | 12 months (Online/Hybrid) | Profile-based | Digital MarketingData AnalyticsCloud Computing for Managers+1 | Grad ≥ 50% | 200 | ₹5 L 2025-2026 batch |
Admission Process
Admission Overview for Great Lakes Chennai
The Great Lakes Chennai admission process for the 2026-2027 cycle follows a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation designed to identify candidates with high leadership potential and academic rigor. Established in 2004, the institute has consistently secured its position as a top-tier management school, currently holding a NIRF rank of 16 NIRF 2026. Great Lakes Chennai offers two flagship programs: the one-year PGPM for candidates with work experience and the two-year PGDM for freshers and young professionals. Admissions are based on competitive entrance exam scores, comprehensive profile evaluation, and personal performance in interviews.
Active Admission Cycle 2026-2027
For the current academic session, Great Lakes Chennai accepts scores from national and international level entrance exams. Candidates must provide valid scores for the CAT exam (2025), XAT (2026), or GMAT (taken after Jan 2024). The total fees for the flagship programs stand at ₹16.03 Lakhs, which includes tuition and residency charges Admission Brochure 2026. The application fee is generally non-refundable and costs ₹2,000 for the online submission.
Shortlisting at Great Lakes Chennai is not merely a numbers game; the institute employs a profile-based shortlisting approach. This means your academic consistency (10th, 12th, and Graduation), quality of work experience, and extracurricular achievements are weighted alongside your entrance scores. The final selection involves a Personal Interview (PI) and an Analytical Writing Test (AWT), where communication skills and logical thinking are tested in depth Official Website 2026.
Selection Criteria and Weightage
While the exact weightage varies annually, the following table represents the estimated distribution for the Great Lakes Chennai selection process for the 2026-2027 intake:
| Selection Component | Estimated Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Entrance Exam (CAT/XAT/GMAT) | 35% |
| Academic Consistency | 20% |
| Personal Interview (PI) | 25% |
| Analytical Writing Test (AWT) | 10% |
| Work Experience/Diversity | 10% |
Candidates are encouraged to apply early as Great Lakes Chennai conducts admissions in multiple rounds. Applying in earlier rounds often provides a better chance of selection and more time for financial planning. Successful applicants can look forward to an average placement of ₹15 LPA, with top performers securing packages up to ₹39.3 LPA Placement Report 2025-26.
Admission Steps
Online Registration
Visit the official portal and create an account using a valid email ID and phone number.
Academic Profile Submission
Fill in your 10th, 12th, and Graduation percentages along with institution details.
Entrance Exam Details
Enter your CAT, XAT, or GMAT scores. If the results are awaited, mention the registration number.
Work Experience Documentation
Provide details of your professional journey, including company name, role, and duration (if applicable).
Application Fee Payment
Pay the non-refundable application fee of ₹2,000 via credit/debit card or net banking.
Shortlisting Announcement
Submit the form and wait for the profile-based shortlisting results announced via email.
AWT and PI Rounds
Attend the Analytical Writing Test and Personal Interview at designated centers or online.
Final Selection Offer
Final offer letters are issued based on cumulative performance across all selection parameters.
Fee Payment and Enrollment
Pay the initial admission deposit to secure your seat at Great Lakes Chennai for the 2026 session.
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Bachelor's degree from a recognized university.
- Valid scores from CAT 2025, XAT 2026, or GMAT (taken after Jan 1, 2024).
- Freshers and candidates with work experience up to 36 months are eligible for the PGDM program.
- Candidates with 2 to 10 years of experience are eligible for the 1-year PGPM program.
- Strong academic record across 10th and 12th standards with a minimum of 60% marks.
- Final year students can apply provided they complete their degree by June 2026.
- Mandatory participation in the AWT and PI rounds for shortlisted applicants.
Placement Statistics
Sector-wise Placements
Top Recruiters
Great Lakes Chennai Placement Performance 2025
Great Lakes Chennai has once again demonstrated its prowess in management placements, concluding its latest recruitment cycle for the PGPM and PGDM batches with exceptional results. The institution continues to be a preferred destination for recruiters seeking industry-ready talent with high analytical capabilities. In the 2024-2025 cycle, Great Lakes Chennai maintained a near-perfect placement record, with students securing roles in prestigious global and domestic firms Placement Report 2025.
Placement Statistics at Great Lakes Chennai
| Metric | Details (2024-2025) |
|---|---|
| Highest Package | INR 39.3 LPA |
| Average Package | INR 15 LPA |
| Median Package | INR 14.8 LPA |
| Placement Rate | 99% |
| Top Sector | IT/ITES & Consulting |
At Great Lakes Chennai, the 2024-2025 placement season witnessed a notable shift towards Product Management, Business Analytics, and Strategy Consulting roles. This trend highlights the curriculum's alignment with the digital economy. The average package remained stable at INR 15 LPA, reflecting the school's Tier 1 status and its ability to withstand market fluctuations NIRF 2026. Candidates who entered via the CAT exam or XAT with significant work experience particularly excelled in the PGPM (1-year) recruitment process.
The recruiter mix was diverse, comprising 25% new recruiters and 75% legacy partners. Prominent offers were extended to Great Lakes Chennai students in the BFSI and E-commerce sectors, with several international roles also being offered in the Middle East and Southeast Asia regions. For those still deciding on their target schools, using a College Shortlister can help compare these outcomes against other top-ranked IIMs and private B-schools Placement Report 2025.
The summer internship drive at Great Lakes Chennai for the two-year PGDM batch also saw robust participation. Stipends saw a growth of roughly 12% compared to the previous year, with the highest stipend reaching INR 4.25 Lakhs for the duration. Key recruiters for internships included FMCG giants and top-tier consulting firms, providing students with essential industry exposure before the final placement season Placement Report 2025.
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Cutoff Details
| Category | Exam | Year | Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | CAT | 2025 | 85-90% |
| General | XAT | 2025 | 85-90% |
| General | GMAT | 2025 | 620 |
| General | CAT | 2025 | 80-85% |
| General | XAT | 2025 | 80-85% |
| General | GMAT | 2025 | 580 |
| General | CAT | 2024 | 85% |
| General | XAT | 2024 | 85% |
| General | GMAT | 2024 | 600 |
| General | CAT | 2024 | 82% |
| General | XAT | 2024 | 82% |
| General | CAT | 2023 | 85% |
| General | XAT | 2023 | 85% |
| General | GMAT | 2023 | 600 |
← Swipe to view all columns →
Great Lakes Chennai Cutoff and Selection Criteria 2026-2027
Admissions at Great Lakes Chennai are unique because the institute evaluates candidates through a holistic profile-based approach rather than relying solely on high entrance percentiles. While the Great Lakes Chennai cutoff for the flagship PGPM and PGDM programs typically hovers between the 80th and 90th percentile, your academic consistency, quality of work experience, and leadership potential carry significant weight. For the 2026-2027 cycle, the institute accepts CAT 2025, XAT 2026, and GMAT scores Admission Brochure 2026.
Exam Scores and Sectional Trends
Unlike the IIMs, Great Lakes Chennai does not strictly mandate rigid sectional cutoffs for every candidate, though a balanced performance across VARC, DILR, and QA is preferred to ensure academic readiness. The overall cutoff for the 2-year PGDM has remained stable at 80-85 percentile, whereas the 1-year PGPM, tailored for professionals with over two years of experience, often sees cutoffs reaching the 85-90+ percentile range due to its high ROI and industry reputation Admission Brochure 2026. Applicants with a GMAT score of 600 or above are generally considered competitive for the 1-year program.
Factors Influencing Cutoff Movements
The cutoffs at Great Lakes Chennai have shown a slight upward trajectory over the last three cycles. This is primarily driven by:
- The institute's consistent NIRF ranking (Rank 16 in 2025), which has boosted applicant volume NIRF 2025.
- Strong placement performance, with an average package of INR 15 LPA attracting more high-scoring aspirants Placement Report 2025.
- Global accreditations like AACSB and AMBA, making it a preferred choice for those seeking international standards in India.
Category-Wise Selection Logic
As a private standalone institution, Great Lakes Chennai follows a merit-based admission policy and does not have a reservation quota for OBC, SC, or ST categories common in government-run B-schools. However, they actively seek gender and academic diversity, often providing profile-based relaxations to exceptional candidates with unique backgrounds or significant achievements in sports, arts, or social work Admission Policy 2026.
| Programme | Expected CAT 2025 Cutoff | Expected XAT 2026 Cutoff | Expected GMAT Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| PGPM (1-Year) | 85 - 92 %ile | 85 - 92 %ile | 620 - 680+ |
| PGDM (2-Year) | 80 - 85 %ile | 80 - 85 %ile | 580 - 640+ |
Rankings & Accreditations
Accreditations
Student Reviews
Great Lakes Chennai offers one of the best 1-year programs in India. The focus on Business Analytics and world-class faculty visitations make the academic experience unmatched. The ROI is impressive, considering the average package of INR 15 LPA is achieved in just one year.
The 1-year PGPM at Great Lakes Chennai is extremely fast-paced and can feel overwhelming. You barely have time for extracurriculars as the schedule is packed with assignments and guest lectures. If you are looking for a relaxed campus life, the intensity of this program might be a challenge.
The infrastructure at Great Lakes Chennai is spectacular; it is a LEED Platinum certified green campus. Living on the ECR provides a peaceful environment conducive to study. The diverse peer group in the PGDM program helps in understanding industry perspectives through collaborative case studies and CAT exam networking.
One major drawback is the remote location of Great Lakes Chennai, which is quite far from the main city. This makes traveling to Chennai for personal work or weekend outings time-consuming. Also, the mess services have some room for improvement in terms of menu variety and speed.
Placements at Great Lakes Chennai are consistently strong, with top consulting firms visiting regularly. The highest package touching INR 39.3 LPA shows recruiter trust. The career services team is very proactive in preparing students through mock interviews and tailored resume workshops.
While the placement numbers are great, the process at Great Lakes Chennai can be quite stressful due to high internal competition. Some niche roles in marketing are fewer compared to consulting and analytics roles, which might be a concern for students purely interested in traditional FMCG firms.
The faculty at Great Lakes Chennai is a mix of industry veterans and academic scholars. The school’s legacy of Global Mindset, Indian Roots is evident in the curriculum. The Empirical Research projects allow students to work on real-world business problems under the guidance of experienced mentors.
Strictness regarding campus rules and hostel timings can sometimes feel restrictive for post-graduate students. Additionally, the library could use more physical space for collaborative studies during peak exam seasons when the common areas at Great Lakes Chennai get quite crowded with groups.
For someone with work experience, the PGPM at Great Lakes Chennai provides a great platform to transition into leadership roles. The alumni network is vast and very helpful, often participating in mentorship programs. The focus on data-driven decision-making keeps the curriculum relevant to current market needs.
The fee structure for the PGPM at Great Lakes Chennai is on the higher side, around INR 16.03 Lakhs , which might feel steep despite the good placements. The intense competition for top grades can sometimes overshadow the collaborative spirit during the initial terms.
Campus Gallery
Scholarships
Dr. Bala V. Balachandran Merit Scholarship
INR 5 LakhsThe Dr. Bala V. Balachandran Merit Scholarship at Great Lakes Chennai honors students with exceptional academic and professional potential. This prestigious award is usually adjusted against the second-year tuition fees for PGDM students or the final installment for PGPM candidates.
Criteria: Top 10-15 students based on CAT/XAT/GMAT scores and interview performance.
Great Lakes Diversity Scholarships (Women)
INR 1 - 2 LakhsTo promote a healthy gender ratio on campus, Great Lakes Chennai offers Diversity Scholarships to high-achieving women. These grants are designed to encourage female leadership in corporate sectors and are awarded during the admission offer stage.
Criteria: Female candidates with strong academic profiles and leadership potential.
Merit-cum-Means Financial Assistance
Up to INR 3 LakhsThe Need-based Scholarship at Great Lakes Chennai ensures that financial constraints do not hinder talent. Applicants must provide verified income documents and maintain a minimum CGPA during the course to continue receiving the benefit.
Criteria: Family income below INR 8 LPA and high entrance exam percentiles.
Extraordinary Achievement Scholarship
INR 2 LakhsGreat Lakes Chennai values well-rounded individuals. This scholarship recognizes students who have excelled in non-academic fields, bringing unique perspectives to the MBA classroom. Recipients are often chosen during the final selection process.
Criteria: Candidates with national or international recognition in sports, arts, or social work.
Dean’s Merit List Scholarship
Partial Tuition WaiverThis scholarship is awarded to the top rankers of the first year at Great Lakes Chennai. It serves as an incentive for academic excellence within the competitive environment of the post-graduate diploma program.
Criteria: Exceptional performance in the first year of the PGDM program.
Alumni-Endowed Leadership Award
Variable per BatchFunded by the successful alumni network of Great Lakes Chennai, this award supports students who show the most promise in leadership and community contribution. It is typically awarded towards the end of the academic year.
Criteria: Demonstrated leadership in student committees and academic excellence.
Faculty Profiles
Dr. Suresh Srinivasan
Strategy and Leadership
PhD (Strategy), PGDM (IIM Bangalore) • 30+ Years
Dr. P.K. Viswanathan
Business Analytics and Operations
PhD (Management), MBA (FMS Delhi) • 28+ Years
Dr. Sanjoy Sircar
Finance and Accounting
PhD (Finance), MBA (USA) • 25+ Years
Dr. Bappaditya Mukhopadhyay
Economics and Quantitative Methods
PhD (Economics, ISI) • 22+ Years
Dr. Bharadhwaj Sivakumar
Marketing Strategy
PhD (Marketing) • 24+ Years
Dr. K. Rajeshwari
Marketing and Retail Management
PhD (IIT Madras), MBA (IIM Ahmedabad) • 20+ Years
Dr. Vidya Mahambare
Economics and Finance
PhD (Lancaster University, UK) • 18+ Years
Dr. Veena Varma
Organizational Behavior & HR
PhD (Management) • 15+ Years
Hostel & Campus Life
Campus Facilities
Residential Experience at Great Lakes Chennai
Living at Great Lakes Chennai is a central part of the management learning experience. The campus is notably India’s first LEED Platinum-rated green business school, ensuring an eco-friendly environment that promotes well-being and productivity. Since the flagship PGDM and PGPM programs are fully residential, students reside in air-conditioned hostels designed for comfort and intensive peer-to-peer learning Admission Brochure 2026.
Modern Hostel Facilities and Dining
The hostels at Great Lakes Chennai offer single or double occupancy rooms equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and 24/7 power backup. The residential wings are separate for men and women, ensuring privacy and security while fostering a close-knit community. For dining, the campus features a multi-cuisine mess known as the Bistro, which serves nutritious vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Students also have access to 24/7 snacks and caffeine stations, which are essential during the rigorous
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