IIT Mandi Opens Applications for MBA in Data Science and AI for 2026-28

The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi) has officially launched the application process for its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program specializing in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DS&AI) for the academic batch of 2026-28. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Application Process

Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official IIT Mandi website. The deadline for application submissions is January 27, 2026. This provides ample time for prospective students to prepare their applications and gather necessary documentation.

Program Highlights

The MBA program at IIT Mandi is distinctive for its integration of core business principles with advanced topics in technology. Key features of the program include:

• Specialization: Focus on Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
• Curriculum: The curriculum combines management, analytics, and technology.
• State-of-the-art Facilities: Access to advanced analytics labs and computing resources.
• Technology Incubator: Opportunities to engage with IIT Mandi’s technology incubator, Catalyst.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the MBA program at IIT Mandi, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must have taken the CAT 2025 exam.
• Possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from Central Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs).
• Be ranked in the top 100 of the NIRF 2025 in either overall or engineering categories.

For further details regarding the application process and eligibility, candidates are encouraged to visit the official IIT Mandi website.

Placement Opportunities

The MBA program at IIT Mandi has a strong reputation for its placement outcomes. The School of Management has recently revamped its curriculum, introducing new elective clusters such as:

• Generative AI for Managers
• AI-driven Financial Decision Making
• AI for Marketing

The previous cohort of students achieved impressive placement results, with an average Cost to Company (CTC) of ₹18 lakh per annum (LPA) and the highest CTC reaching ₹49 LPA. The placement drive attracted a wide range of companies across various sectors, including:

• Analytics
• Consulting
• BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance)
• Technology Services
• AI-driven Businesses

Expert Insights

Professor Anjan Kumar Swain, Chairperson of the School of Management at IIT Mandi, shared insights on the program’s objectives. He stated, “Our program merges management, analytics, and technology to cultivate leaders capable of thriving in the fast-evolving digital landscape. We aim to deliver a transformative educational experience that enhances critical thinking, encourages innovation, and bolsters leadership skills.”

Conclusion

The MBA in Data Science and AI at IIT Mandi presents a unique opportunity for students to gain a competitive edge in the job market. With a robust curriculum, excellent placement prospects, and access to cutting-edge technology, this program is poised to attract ambitious candidates looking to make a significant impact in the fields of data science and artificial intelligence.

Note: For more information on the application process, eligibility criteria, and program details, please visit the official IIT Mandi website.