Free Coaching Initiative Helps Hundreds Secure IIM Admissions
Published: February 12, 2026
Location: Kozhikode, India
Introduction
In an inspiring move to democratize education, a mentor-led non-profit organization called the OpenGrad Foundation is challenging the dominance of costly private coaching centers. This initiative is focused on providing free coaching to students aiming to tackle entrance examinations for prestigious business schools, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
About the OpenGrad Foundation
Founded by a group of alumni from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore, the OpenGrad Foundation is led by Sahil Sameer, Sebbin Joshy, Mohammed Shahid, and Amith Tony Joseph. The organization is dedicated to helping students prepare for the Common Admission Test (CAT) and other MBA entrance examinations.
Mission and Vision
The founders identified a significant gap in the education system, particularly in the transition from school to higher education. Sahil Sameer, one of the founders, explained, “Schools are not measured by what happens to students after Class 12. But access to a good college today depends on cracking competitive exams. That is where many students need guidance.” He emphasized that higher education is crucial for both economic mobility and broader social exposure.
Program Structure
The OpenGrad Foundation offers a comprehensive program that includes:
- Structured study plans
- Live online classes
- Recorded sessions with no expiry
- Mock tests
- Interview preparation
The initiative began in May 2023 with just 80 CAT aspirants who were selected based on economic criteria. Out of these, 47 students secured admissions to various business schools. The following year saw a significant increase in enrollment, with 500 students participating and 101 gaining admission to IIMs.
Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Model
One of the unique aspects of the OpenGrad Foundation is its peer-to-peer mentorship model. Many alumni who successfully gained admission to business schools returned as mentors, expanding the volunteer network to over 1,000 members. This model not only provides guidance but also fosters a supportive community among aspirants.
Success Stories
Numerous students have benefited from the OpenGrad initiative, showcasing its effectiveness:
Ankith Suman
Ankith Suman, now pursuing his MBA at IIM Ahmedabad, prepared for the CAT in 2023 using OpenGrad’s YouTube classes and mentor guidance. He achieved an impressive score of 99.8 percentile and attributes his success to the motivation and guidance he received. “It was not just syllabus oriented. There was motivation, and importantly, guidance in Malayalam, which is rare,” he noted.
He also highlighted the importance of mock interviews conducted during an early bootcamp in Kochi, which helped him during his IIM interview. “From strategy sessions to understanding the admission process, I had support until I walked into the college,” he added, explaining that he avoided paid coaching due to what he considered “exorbitant” fees.
Sri Lakshmi N.S.
Sri Lakshmi N.S., a native of Kollam and currently employed at Technopark, enrolled in the program after a friend gained admission to IIM Raipur through OpenGrad. She praised the program for its structured approach: “They give a clear plan before starting. The class recordings have no expiry, and we can ask doubts even about admissions,” she said. She also appreciated the candid discussions about MBA specializations, which helped her make informed choices.
Impact on Students
The OpenGrad Foundation’s initiative has not only helped students gain admission to prestigious institutions but has also empowered them to pursue their dreams without the financial burden associated with traditional coaching centers. The program has become a beacon of hope for many aspiring MBA candidates, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Conclusion
The OpenGrad Foundation exemplifies how community-driven initiatives can significantly impact education and access to higher learning. By providing free coaching and mentorship, the organization is helping to level the playing field for students across India, allowing them to pursue their aspirations and achieve their academic goals.
Note: The OpenGrad Foundation is a testament to the power of collective effort in transforming lives through education.
