entrance exam for phd after mba

Is it Possible to Get My PhD After My MBA?

In academia, numerous accomplishments can be achieved. You can earn a dual degree and have expertise in multiple fields, or further your career potential by going back to school . But what about progressing from an MBA to a PhD? 

In regards to higher education, many consider earning a PhD, or doctorate degree, the pinnacle of success. Usually, due to passion for a particular industry or subject, a PhD candidate will spend years of rigorous research to unpack its intricacies and become a leading expert in the field.  At the end of their studies, they are able to finally see their work come to fruition when they receive their doctorate and join alongside other scholars. However, is it typical for an MBA graduate to move onto pursuing their PhD? And is there a specific purpose? Are there different types of PhD programs? What is the difference between a PhD and DBA?

To answer the budding question: yes, you can pursue your PhD after earning your MBA, and choosing to earn a doctorate is entirely up to you and your aspirations. To help you better understand if getting a PhD is the right choice, we look at the path an MBA graduate can take to earn their PhD, one of the higher purposes of a doctorate, and the different types of academic programs. 

What is a PhD, and What is it Used For? 

By definition, a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy in a particular discipline, which is why it's also referred to as a doctorate. This focus is typically for individuals highly passionate about a specific subject matter, driven by the pursuit to understand it better through rigorous research. A majority of students seeking their PhD are eager researchers, although there are always exceptions, and each carries out years of highly intensive research to conclude their original thesis and earn their doctorate. 

In terms of translating your education into a career, a doctorate can be used in a plethora of fields, especially if one’s thesis is around a wider subject matter and can be a discipline applied to various industries (take organizational development, for example). For those who are passionate about a career in research, a doctoral degree is a perfect fit. Possibly the most popular field for those with a doctorate is a fruitful career in academia, teaching their subject matter to others interested in the same area. Many graduates become faculty members at business schools upon completing their PhD and provide their expertise to their students. Regardless of which industry you choose, you can be assured that a PhD will provide you with numerous opportunities. 

How Long Does it Take to Progress from an MBA to PhD?

The timeframe for earning your PhD can vary depending on program and location. Many countries have varying timelines of how long the completion of a doctoral program will take. In the United States, the average is around 4-5 years of completion after receiving your Master of Business Administration. 

Do You Need an MBA to Get a PhD?

To be accepted into a doctoral program, you must have a master’s degree. It does not have to be a Master of Business Administration, but it does need to be a master’s of some form. Depending on your area of specialization, it could be advantageous to earn your MBA in pursuit of a PhD if you are planning to embark on a career in business upon completion of your doctorate. Additionally, one important aspect to consider is the program itself. It is important to look into a program’s requirements before applying to meet the eligibility criteria. 

The Difference Between a DBA and a PhD 

For those specifically interested in a career in business, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a highly beneficial doctoral program. A DBA focuses on a broader spectrum of business disciplines, dedicating research toward multiple corporate facets, and practical implementation. On the contrary, a PhD narrows into a specific area of discipline and research, emphasizing theory, and it’s potential implications. While both are heavily centered around research and implementation, a DBA sets business executives and leaders on a path to discover new possibilities for their organizations and businesses. In a way, it allows established business professionals to “trailblaze” the way for new and innovative ideas that can disrupt the market and set a precedent for the future of business.

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Our Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program has been carefully designed for the tenured business leader looking to drive groundbreaking innovations. This rigorous program allows candidates to gain in-depth knowledge and finetune their expertise through applied research. Also, executives enjoy learning alongside changemakers in various industries and participating in exclusive opportunities available only to DBA candidates.

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Home  >  News & Articles  >  PhD after MBA: In India, Admissions 2024, Entrance Exams, Fees

Sheeza Khan

Updated on 20th February, 2024 , 8 min read

PhD after MBA: In India, Admissions 2024, Entrance Exams, Fees

A PhD after an MBA is an advanced program where you can become a doctor in a specific area of business Finance, Marketing, Operations, or Human Resources. To qualify, you generally need a 2-year MBA degree and you should pass exams like  UGC-NET or   GATE . Having a good score, a research plan, recommendations, and work experience make it more likely to get into a top MBA college. It usually takes 3-5 years to finish a PhD after MBA in India, but it could be 4-7 years abroad.

Also read: Top PhD Entrance Exams in India 

In the realm of MBA dreams, institutions like  FMS New Delhi ,  BHU , the prestigious IIMs, and the ingenious IITs stand tall as the elite havens for pursuing a PhD after your MBA adventure. 

Further Reading: IIT Madras PhD Admission 2023

Venturing into the realm of a PhD after MBA opens doors to the realms of teaching and delving deep into the realms of research. Many of you might be wondering about the average salary package spanning from INR 2,00,000 to INR 14,00,000.

More PhD Courses: 

More about MBA: 

PhD After MBA: Course Details

Also read:  GATE Study Material

Why pursue PhD after MBA?

Pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India can offer several compelling benefits:

• Deep Expertise: A PhD allows you to specialize and delve deeply into a specific area of business, enhancing your expertise and knowledge in your chosen field.
• Research Opportunities : A PhD program provides you with the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in business and management, potentially leading to valuable insights and innovations.
• Academic Career : If you aspire to an academic career, a PhD is often a requirement for becoming a professor at universities and business schools, allowing you to educate the next generation of business leaders.
• Career Advancement : A PhD can set you apart in the job market, opening doors to higher-level positions and leadership roles in both corporate and non-corporate sectors.
• Personal Fulfillmen t: Undertaking a PhD is a journey of personal growth and intellectual challenge, allowing you to engage deeply with your chosen subject matter and develop critical thinking skills.
• Networking : Doctoral programs provide opportunities to connect with experts in your field, fellow students, and professionals, expanding your professional network.
• Enhanced Problem-Solving: PhD programs often cultivate advanced problem-solving skills, which can be applied to complex business challenges.

Also Read:  Tips to prepare for UGC Net

More MBA Courses: 

Who should pursue PhD after MBA?

Eligibility criteria for pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India can vary depending on the specific university, institute, and program. However, there are general requirements that are commonly applicable:

• MBA Degree : Candidates must hold a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) degree from a recognized university or institute. This demonstrates a foundational understanding of business and management concepts.
• Minimum Marks: Many institutions require candidates to have obtained a certain minimum percentage or  grade point average (GPA) in their MBA program. This threshold can vary, but it's typically around 55% or equivalent.
• Relevant Subjects : The candidate's MBA specialization should align with the field of study they wish to pursue for their PhD for instance, if you want to pursue a PhD in Marketing, your MBA specialization should have been in Marketing.
• Entrance Exam: Some universities and institutes may require candidates to clear a relevant entrance examination specific to the PhD program they are interested in. This could involve subject-related questions, research aptitude, and general knowledge.
• Research Proposal: Applicants are often required to submit a research proposal outlining their intended area of research. This proposal should demonstrate a clear research question, objectives, methodology, and potential contribution to the field.
• Work Experience : While not always mandatory, having relevant work experience can be advantageous, especially for certain specialized PhD programs. It can demonstrate practical knowledge and a real-world perspective on the subject.
• Interview:  Some institutions may conduct interviews as part of the selection process. This is an opportunity for candidates to discuss their research interests and demonstrate their commitment to the program.
• Qualifying Examinations : In some cases, candidates might need to qualify for national-level exams such as  UGC-NET (University Grants Commission - National Eligibility Test) or  GATE  (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) to be eligible for certain PhD programs.

PhD after MBA: PhD Finance Course Details

PhD in Finance is a research-focused program offering strong academic prospects. Typically pursued after an MBA in Finance , it's available at esteemed institutions such as IIMs, FMS New Delhi , ISB , and IIT. The program delves into topics like Share Valuation, Privatization, Globalization, and Management Accounting.

Further Reading: MBA Finance Syllabus & Subjects 

PhD after MBA: PhD Marketing Course Details

PhD in Marketing is a 3-year program aimed at training students for teaching and research in marketing and related domains. Admission is based on entrance exams and interviews. Candidates with relevant postgraduate qualifications, including an MBA in Marketing, can apply. The program offers diverse career paths, like Market Research Analyst, Marketing Communications Leader, and Marketing Executive.

Further Reading: MBA in Marketing

PhD after MBA: PhD Organizational Behavior Course Details

PhD in Organizational Behavior is a 3 to 5-year program studying human behavior in organizations. Eligibility requires a master’s or MPhil degree with a 55% minimum aggregate after an MBA in Organizational Behavior. Graduates can secure positions in Academic Institutions, Colleges, Finance, Marketing, IT, etc., with average salaries ranging from INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000.

PhD after MBA: PhD Business Management Course Details

PhD in Business Management is a 3-year program focusing on business operations like leadership, organization, and planning. Eligibility requires a master’s degree with relevant subjects and a minimum aggregate of 50% or more, post-MBA in Business Management.

PhD after MBA: PhD HR Management Course Details

PhD in Human Resource Management is a 3 to 5-year program focusing on teaching organizational processes for productivity enhancement. It prepares students for HR management roles, requiring a master’s degree from a UGC-recognized or foreign university post-MBA in HR Management. 

PhD after MBA: PhD Management Studies Course Details

PhD in Management Studies is a 3-year program imparting management and organizational skills. Eligibility requires a master's degree in a related field with 50-60% aggregate, post-MBA in Management Studies.

Further Reading: BMS Course Details 

PhD after MBA: PhD Banking and Finance Course Details

PhD in Banking and Finance is a 3-year program designed to provide comprehensive knowledge in domestic and international banking, economics, and investment. A master's degree from a recognized university is the minimum eligibility for PhD after MBA in Banking and Finance. Graduates can secure positions in educational institutions, stock exchanges, banks, etc., with average salaries ranging from INR 1,80,000 to INR 6,00,000.

Further Reading: MBA Finance Jobs 

PhD after MBA: PhD Disaster Management Course Details

PhD in Disaster Management is a 3-year program focused on Environment and Disaster Management. Eligibility entails a master’s degree or M.Phil in the relevant field with at least 55% aggregate and 5 years of work experience.

Also Read: PhD in IGNOU

PhD after MBA: PhD Commerce and Management Course Details

PhD in Commerce and Management is a 3-year program focusing on commerce and business management education. To qualify for PhD after MBA in Commerce and Management, candidates need a master's degree, MBA, or MPhil with at least 55% aggregate.

Further Reading: BMS Subjects & Syllabus

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can phd be done after mba.

Certainly, it is possible to pursue a PhD after completing an MBA. To embark on a PhD journey, an individual should possess a master's degree in relevant fields, accompanied by a minimum aggregate score of 50-60%.

What are the PhD courses after MBA?

PhD programs in Finance, Management Studies, Business Management, Business Administration, Banking and Finance, and Marketing stand out as prominent choices for further studies following an MBA.

Can I do a PhD from IIM?

Indeed, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) provide PhD programs subsequent to MBA studies in disciplines such as Human Resource Management, Business Management, and Business Administration, among others.

Can I do a PhD after MBA in HR?

Indeed, undertaking a PhD following an MBA in Human Resource Management presents advantageous prospects for embarking on roles such as HR managers, executives, consultants, and various other related positions.

Does a PhD after MBA make sense?

Certainly, pursuing a PhD after completing an MBA is a strategically sound choice, offering distinct advantages in terms of enhanced job prospects and a strengthened position in the realm of teaching professions.

How many years is PhD after MBA?

PhD after MBA is normally for 4 - 6 years.

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Doing a Ph.D. After MBA | Eligibility Criteria, Career Scope, Employment And Salary

Doing A Ph.D. After MBA: The ‘road less taken’ can be simply called for Ph.D. after MBA. Not many people is seen to pursue a Ph.D. in Commerce; as it is a field that does not attract and relatively unknown many pursuers.

In the academic field, Ph.D. after MBA is more useful than a professional one. initially; The ROI and opportunity cost for this course are also not up to par, however, by saying that, it does not mean that the course is not worth it or useless. If a Ph.D. is done right then it can be quite rewarding.

Ph.D. after MBA or Management

• Ph.D. Course Duration after MBA

Eligibility Criteria for Ph.D. After MBA

Can one do a ph.d. after mba, after mba available top ph.d. courses, how to do a ph.d. after mba, ph.d. after mba in india, can i actually do a ph.d. after distance mba, ph.d. after mba – in distance education.

• Ph.D. After MBA Abroad – Entrance Exams & Admission Process
• Top-Most Abroad Universities for Pursuing PhD after MBA
• Best Countries to Study PhD after MBA Abroad
• Ph.D. After MBA in USA

Ph.D. After MBA in Australia

Ph.d. after mba in germany, ph.d. after mba finance.

• Scope Of Ph.D. after MBA in Finance

Ph.D. in Management

• Career Scope, Employment, and Salary for Doing a Ph.D. after MBA
• FAQ’s on Doing A Ph.D. after MBA

As one may expect it to be, Ph.D. after MBA may not be as advantageous. After getting done with an MBA, rather than pursue a Ph.D., many prefer to increase their work experience, but if you are interested in doing research in the field of your interest, a Ph.D. may be the perfect course for a person to take up.

Ph.D. researchers or individuals also get a chance to do individual research and study, apart from the extensive knowledge which the course provides, which puts them quite apart from other managers.

• The course requires a lot of dedication and rigorous hard work in Ph.D.
• A lot of time needs to be invested by someone with a Ph.D., which can be tedious.
• The Ph.D. course combines practical application with theoretical knowledge.
• There are many practical methods and approaches like field studies, econometrics, experimental methods, etc., which are mostly used during Ph. D.s.
• For those who want to teach Management, Ph.D. is for them.
• The profession of the Professor is most sought after and reputable.
• Ph.D. researchers also work as consultants in top firms.
• Ph.D. increases their analytical skills and trains researchers.
• Because of their skillset, positions in analytics are offered commonly to Ph.D. researchers.
• One may not quite earn much before getting tenure, and the growth is considerably slow.

Do Refer: Career Objective for MBA

Ph.D. Course Duration After MBA

Depending on the research topic, methodologies, and time and labor investment, the duration for Ph.D. after MBA may vary.

On average, it may take 4 to 5 years for the completion of a Ph.D.. Depending on the country and institution, the duration may also vary.

Country Duration (Average)

• India –  3 years
• USA – 5-7 years
• UK – 3-4 years
• Australia – 4-6 years
• Germany – 3-5 Years

Eligibility Criteria for a Ph.D. after an MBA must be an MBA degree, as one may assume. But that’s not so.

There are many other criteria for eligibility, as well. To pursue a Ph.D. after MBA, one must fulfill being eligible for a Ph.D. after MBA, and the following are the criteria.

• One must have an acceptable TOEFL or IELTS exam score to prove their proficiency in the English language.
• One must also have a respectable, which may vary as per the university of GRE/GMAT score.
• Students must also submit their essays, transcript and SOP.
• Letters of Recommendation are required. At least 2 to 3 times to be submitted by the aspiring student.
• Oftentimes, an interview is conducted either online via video call or physically to test student’s eligibility and knowledge.
• Students must have a thesis statement or an idea and a dissertation ready.
• It is crucial that the students are well versed to have a clear idea and what they want to do about their objectives.
• The acceptance rate at top-rated Business Schools is around 3 to 5%.

Yes, one actually can do a Ph.D. after MBA. There are various business schools worldwide that offer Ph.D. programs after an MBA, which can be pursued.

For the MBA itself, some years of work experience is required by many schools. The Student may already have the direction they want to take in their life by choosing to pursue an MBA.

A Ph.D. after an MBA is not quite a popular choice, but many students still decide to pursue the research either for better opportunities or out of interest. To pursue a Ph.D., the criteria for eligibility include more than 50% or more marks in your post-graduation, and students are also required to take up an entrance exam. The field of Ph.D. is open for the Student or for anyone who has done an MBA.

A student may choose from several Ph.D. courses after MBA. Due to its vast scope, there is no dearth of specialization in the field of management.

As the Ph.D. in Management is an unexplored field, each research in each area is equally important.

There are several available courses one may take, like:

• Entrepreneurship
• Human Resource Management
• Commercial Law
• Operational Research
• Healthcare and Management
• Organizational Behaviour
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Political Science

For students who actually want to do a Ph.D. after their MBA is done, there are many options. It is important that for the duration of 2 years, the MBA course the candidate has done.

The students must choose their work and field of interest in that direction and also most important.

Students always have the choice to pursue a Ph.D. in abroad or India. The application process for both remains more or less the same. To do a Ph.D. after an MBA abroad, one has to additionally give language proficiency exams like IELTS or TOEFL and exams like GMAT or GRE.

For India, exams like CAT are applicable.

• One must have a good score in their CAT exam and a two-year MBA degree.
• For admission in their Ph.D. courses, GATE or even UGC NET may be required at some top IIMs.
• A Ph.D. may actually vary from 3 to 5 years on average, and it is important to note that the duration.
• In the first year of Ph.D., the candidates are trained in research methodologies and subjects, etc. and are mostly dedicated to the coursework.
• In the second year, one may choose the area in which they will be conduction research and their specialization.
• It is often advisable that students actually choose the area for research in which they have specialized during their MBA. It is, however, not quite compulsory.
• A Ph.D. thesis is the most essential part of any Ph.D., and during their second year only, it is important that students start developing it.
• In the third year, after they have researched and collected data, a student is asked to present their thesis statement.
• After the first six months of the third year, students are free to write their research papers and Ph.D. and do their research.
• The whole process can be quite time-consuming, but the only trick here is to be very resilient.
• Yes, you can obviously do a Ph.D. after a distance MBA.
• The institute must be recognized by the UGC.
• Universities are not allowed to differentiate between the degrees.
• The degree earned and mentioned in the eligibility criteria must be in tandem.
• As the process for regular courses, the application process is as same.
• Candidates must submit their essays, SOPs, mark sheets, documents, etc., like any other regular candidate.
• Mostly on entrance exams and interviews, the admission in a Ph.D. program is based.
• Over the ones who did pursue their degrees via distance education mode, Some institutes may prefer regular students.
•  The decision is solely based on the discretion of the university to select a candidate or not.

In Distance Education, one can definitely do a Ph.D. after MBA, but few things actually need to be taken into consideration.

It is important and mandatory that the institution from where the candidate has pursued their MBA in Distance education form is recognized by any other supreme commission as relevant to the country or by the UGC.

Also, for the Ph.D. program, one is applying to, the degree must match the eligibility criteria as well.

Ph.D. After MBA Abroad – Entrance Exams & Admission Process:

If you are actually planning to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA, especially from abroad, then the following points will help and guide you through the application process and entrance exams:

• For global universities, the application process is very different from the universities of India. You actually don’t have to give any entrance exam to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA from abroad; rather, the GMAT / GRE score is needed to submit.
• Previous project and research work matter, LORs, SOPs, and a lot when you are actually looking to pursue a Ph.D. abroad. They increase the chances of getting selected by making your profile strong.
• For Ph.D. programs, most of the universities have a 3-5% acceptance rate. Thus, it is vital to make your application strong; get in touch with experts if you need any help regarding the same.
• You need to work on your specific thesis, submit it in the provided duration as the curriculum more or less remains the same in Ph.D., and complete your Ph.D. after MBA.

Top-Most Abroad Universities for Pursuing Ph.D. after MBA

For better assistance at the time of your research on Ph.D. Courses after completion of MBA, we have enlisted some of the significant academic universities that are globally famous for their advanced specialized courses on Ph.D. after MBA:

Best Countries to Study Ph.D. after MBA Abroad

Most of the popular abroad destinations for Ph.D. studies are UK, USA, Australia, Germany, and Canada. These countries are notable for their research doctoral courses so choosing the best country to study Ph.D. is a crucial decision. So, decide carefully by doing deeper research about the course and universities in all countries. Let’s have a glance at the top countries to study Ph.D. after MBA and their popular research universities below for some idea:

Ph.D. After MBA in the USA

Ph.D. after MBA in the USA is the most popular place; because of a highly research-friendly environment, it especially is a great place to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA.

The USA offers students unlimited data and resources to facilitate their research as it is home to the top business schools. The amenities are quite good here, which are provided to Ph.D. researchers.

• University of Pennsylvania
• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• The University of California
• Columbia University
• Kellogg School of Management
• The University of Chicago
• Washington University
• Cornell University
• University of Michigan

Ph.D. after MBA in Australia is also home to many great universities, and it is a very pleasant place to be at.

Ph.D. programs after MBA are offered by many great B-schools present. For applying practical methods, there is a lot of scopes and here because of the way corporates and businesses are run here.

Students will be provided with quite a lot of opportunities to collect primary as well as secondary data and conduct researches.

• Australian National University
• UNSW Sydney
• University of Western Australia
• University of Sydney
• University of Melbourne
• University of Queensland
• Monash University
• University of Adelaide
• Queensland University of Technology
• University of Canberra

Probably the best place to pursue a Ph.D. after an MBA in Germany because of the varieties of facilities like the grant which are made available for students studying.

Germany has the best management programs and boasts of some of the best universities in the world as well. Many universities in Germany offer great guidance to students to help them in their research work and Ph.D. in management.

• University of Berlin
• University of Hamburg
• Technical University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
• RWTH Aachen University
• University of Freiburg
• Bielefeld University

One of the topmost and popular specializations is a Ph.D. after MBA in Finance. The scope is vast, and the opportunities are quite endless.

Though the subject for those interested may seem challenging, it has a plethora of research ideas and opportunities.

Expertise in subjects like Mathematics and Economics is required by Ph.D. in Finance.

The top universities which are offering this program are:

• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
• Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies
• The Centurion University of Technology and Management
• Birla Institute of Technology and Science
• Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi
• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)

Scope Of Ph.D. After MBA in Finance

Opportunities after opportunities are present in Ph.D. after MBA in Finance. There is a wide and deep scope of opportunities, and many companies to hire because of their skill and both practical and theoretical knowledge do look out for such candidates. Top companies seek to recruit candidates who have completed their  Ph.D. in Finance and  like the ones mentioned below .

• TATA Consultancy
• Genpact Technologies Ltd

One of the highest degrees of academic awarded in the study of management is a Ph.D. in management. For those seeking teaching careers and academic research as professors or faculty in the field of management at business schools worldwide, a Ph.D. in Management degree was designed.

Following are some Benefits of PhD after MBA

• Helps you become a better thinker:  More than just consume what has been taught in the classes, a good Ph.D. in Management program encourages you to do more – it teaches you to become a good thinker and create more. One will achieve newer levels of critical thinking by moving past passive learning, which you can apply in new ways in your field of interest as well as your career.
• To gain an edge:  A Ph.D. in Management is essential and immediately marketable, especially in today’s workforce, provide an asset that will give you a competitive advantage. A Ph.D. in Management proves the expertise in your field of study; you have an impressive level of credibility and a lifelong commitment to learning which will help you fulfill your professional goals.
• Become a competitive scholar-practitioner:  A Ph.D. in Management will give you the confidence and knowledge but present at them instead of just attending academic conferences. You’ll discover your write a dissertation, may find yourself authoring peer-reviewed articles published in your field’s leading journals, and may have a scholarly voice.
• Skills enhancement:  A Ph.D. in Management can actually help you enhance valuable skills and gain that are universally applicable to any kind of field. They are empowering you to make more of an impact in your current role by giving you expertise outside of your organization by the degree, which in turn helps people around you as well. You may find colleagues turning to you for guidance, Once you begin your studies.

Career Scope, Employment, and Salary for Doing a Ph.D. After MBA

Somewhere between 8 Lakhs to 18 Lakhs per annum, Ph.D. after MBA salary in India is depending upon whether you explore the academic domain working as a lecturer or academician or working in a corporate sector.

For graduates with a Ph.D. in Commerce-related specializations and Management below, we have elucidated upon the major employment sector:

• Teaching: A Ph.D.’s most popular career path post is that of becoming a professor or teacher. Most Ph. D.s in management or business pursue it in the first place to pursue a career in particular academics. Further, to hire Ph.D.’s like business school professors, most of the research universities prefer. Suppose you aim to become a part of Ivy League schools or other prestigious academic institutions because of this striking combination coupled with a few years of professional experience. In that case, you should definitely go for a Ph.D. degree after MBA. It can make you an ideal candidate for the position of lecturer or university professor at a business school. Nearly 75% of business ‘Ph.D. after MBA’ graduates at business schools become faculty members, to give a rough statistical description, and roughly 25% take jobs in the industry.
• Research: A Ph.D. involves extensive analysis and is quite a data-driven degree and in-depth assessment as it constitutes various submissions of a multiple research thesis as its incremental element. If you have planned to pursue a career in research, but combining it with a Ph.D. might give you the knowledge and expertise of both the research world as well as corporate, and an MBA is more of a route of professional to take. You can further enter various research sectors with a versatile skill set by getting the taste of both these areas, which will prove extremely useful in carrying out path-breaking contributions and case studies with the potential of bringing a newer light to the commercial industry.
• Corporate Sector: As a common myth, you might be told that in the professional world, a doctorate degree is of no use, but it is quite the opposite as a Ph.D. after an MBA can furnish you with the outstanding business acumen to fit the role of business consultants and analysts. As many of the doctoral scholars move further to become professors or researchers, only a small proportion of them head towards the industry. As this degree provides aspirants with the understanding of employing Ph.D. s derive wisdom from their theoretical and unique methodologies for analysis, which, when combined with the pragmatic training obtained during MBA, marks for a marvelous body of knowledge. You can explore varied prospects in entrepreneurship ventures as well as companies like SEC, JP Morgan Chase, McKinsey, and Morgan Stanley, which are known to hire Ph. D.s frequently.

FAQ’s on Doing A Ph.D. After MBA

Question 1. What Ph.D. should I get after my MBA?

Answer: For students who want to do a Ph.D. after their MBA is done, there are many options. The MBA course the candidate has done must be for the duration of 2 years, and it is important. The most common career path after that is chosen is teaching.

Question 2. Is an MBA higher than a Ph.D.?

Answer: Compared to a Ph.D. that takes 4-6 years, you can complete your MBA in 1- 2 years. It allows them to start their career far sooner for the student, so the MBA is considered advantageous.

Question 3. Can I do a Ph.D. while working?

Answer: Yes, you can do a Ph.D. while working, but this can only happen if you are keen to work. Working full time and doing a Ph.D. is not easy; you won’t make progress without constant effort.

Question 4. Can I do a Ph.D. at 40?

Answer: Yes, you can do a Ph.D. at the age of 40; most of the person who does this are mostly in the education sector. The only problem that comes up is that not all programs will be open for you.

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Ph.D. After MBA

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• Program Overview
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• Subjects/Syllabus
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• Program Fees
• Admission Procedure
• Education Loan/EMIs
• Career Scope

Ph.D. After MBA Program Overview

PhD after MBA might sound new to you but its impact on a professional’s life has already created a history. After completing an MBA program in any domain in regular or online mode, you can apply for a PhD program. However, to become eligible for this course, you need to have a good score in some national-level entrance exams of GATE/UGC-NET/CSIR-NET. For a PhD abroad , you need to score well on the English level proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS and the entrance exam of GRE. In India, it takes around 5 years to complete a PhD program while abroad it ranges between 4 to 7 years.

Among the top management universities in India, FMS New Delhi, IIMs, BHU, and IITs are some renowned ones offering PhD after MBA. They provide learners with a list of top specializations in the business field including PhD Finance, PhD Operation Management, PhD Marketing, PhD Human Resource Management, and many others.

Here are some key aspects that you must know about PhD after MBA: 

Making it easy for PhD after MBA aspirants, some foreign universities have launched an online version of it in the name of Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) online which also adds a “Dr.” title to your name in just 3 years and is equally credible as a regular PhD program in India. An online DBA is not offered by Indian universities as it is yet not approved by UGC but on completing it from an accredited foreign university, it will be completely recognized in the global industry.

Why Opt for a Ph.D. After MBA?

Completing an MBA will help you explore senior management positions in your functional domain but doing a PhD after MBA will bring new opportunities for you! It will help you climb up the organizational ladder and become a suitable fit for CXO positions. Based on the specialization you choose in your PhD program, you will have a variety of options not only in the business sector but also in the research and teaching fields. Above all, a PhD after MBA will increase your earning potential by multiple times which otherwise would take several years to achieve.

All of the above-mentioned benefits can also be explored with an online DBA program which is a more accessible and affordable version of PhD. Its entrance-free admission procedure and short duration of 3 years encourage a large number of candidates to opt for it.

Who Should Do a Ph.D. After MBA?

All fresh MBA graduates and working professionals serving any business domain can apply for a PhD program. The only restriction that is there is they need to clear the entrance exams with the minimum cut-off score to get admission to their desired university and specialization.

With an online DBA program, you have the liberty to apply for it after your graduation, and the best part about it is that you do not have to appear for any entrance exam. 

When To Do a Ph.D. After MBA?

If you are concerned about the age limit to apply for a PhD program, you must go through the age restrictions put on the entrance exams for it. For instance, for a UGC-NET exam (JRF), the maximum age limit is 30 years and on the other hand, a GATE exam has no specific age limit.

With an entrance-free admission process, an online DBA program makes all interested graduates apply for it at any age. This feature of the program has made even senior professionals apply for it.

Key Highlights of Ph.D. After MBA In India

• Get recognized for your management expertise with a PhD after MBA program.
• Opt for your choice of specialization in PhD after completing an MBA in online, regular, or distance mode.
• Qualify for the UGC-NET or GATE Exam to take part in a reputed institute’s PhD program.
• Choose your major from a long list of PhD specializations including Finance, Operation Management, Marketing, Human Resource Management, etc.
• Develop a research-focused understanding of the business concepts and launch new methodologies for the betterment of the industries.
• Earn a “Dr.” title with the completion of PhD from top management institutes like FMS New Delhi, IIMs, BHU, IITs, and others.
• Jumpstart your career as a CEO, COO, and board of director upon completion of PhD after MBA.
• Enjoy the benefit of completing your PhD at any age with no age capping.
• Widen up your career chances in the research and teaching domain other than the business world with a PhD after MBA.

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Ph.D. After MBA Course Subjects/Syllabus

The course structure of a PhD program is research-oriented and focused on the industrial aspects of the business. The syllabus of PhD offered at IIM Ahmedabad is provided here to help you get an overview of the program. 

Top Specializations of Ph.D. After MBA

There is a long list of specializations available in PhD programs based on the domain you choose. Here is a list of top specializations that you can opt for in PhD after MBA.

All of the above-mentioned specializations are available in online DBA programs allowing you to opt for a domain of your choice.

Ph.D. After MBA Eligibility & Duration

The eligibility criteria to apply for a PhD after MBA include the following points:

• A master’s degree in the related field from a UGC-recognized university or institution
• A minimum of 55% marks or equivalent grades in the master’s degree
• A good score in the entrance exams conducted for PhD program like NET, GATE, or any other university-specific exam
• For PhD abroad, candidates need to pass English Proficiency Tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
• A statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), academic transcripts, and an updated resume are also needed for  PhD abroad
• A good score on the GRE is needed for PhD abroad other than a master’s degree

To read the updated guidelines of UGC for undergraduate students, click here .

In case you want to skip these complications of understanding whether you are eligible for a PhD or not, go for an online DBA program that only demands a credible master’s or bachelor’s degree + work experience from an accredited university. 

The duration of a PhD after MBA in India takes around 5 years. However, if you are planning to do it from foreign, you will be able to complete it in 4-7 years. To complete it in an even shorter period of 3 years, you can opt for an Online DBA program.

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Program Fees for Ph.D. After MBA

Starting at ₹ 6,776/month

Program Fee: ₹60,000 - ₹2,50,000

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The fee package of the PhD program ranges between INR 15,000 and INR 5,00,00. This figure varies from university to university. If you have qualified for a PhD from a government institution like IGNOU or DU, your course will be completed under 1 lakhs. However, on going to a private institution, the cost of the program increases.

Online DBA programs are more expensive than regular PhD courses in India as these are offered by accredited international universities. It generally starts at INR 7 lakhs.

Ph.D. After MBA Admission Procedure

The admission process for a PhD program begins with filling out the application form for the national-level research entrance exams like UGC-NET, GATE, etc., or university-specific ones. After cracking these exams, candidates will have to appear for an interview wherein they will present their research proposal to the mentors of the university they have been selected for. On completing the paperwork and other documentation formalities for grants or stipends, candidates will be allowed to start with their research work.

With an online DBA, you will have a simple admission process that will not involve any entrance exam or interview. 

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Growth of Online Education in India

• Online education in India is set to grow at a CAGR of 19.9% by 2030.
• Skill development and employment are the major driving forces for this growth.
• Higher education is gaining popularity in this online medium.
• Financially affordability is a significant contributor to this boom.
• The increased adoption of technologies, i.e., the Internet and smartphones, has increased accessibility significantly.
• The advantage of flexibility in terms of time and location is the key highlight.

Education Loan/EMI Facilities for Ph.D. After MBA

In general, the universities offering PhD programs do not have an EMI option in their fee payment method. However, to help students financially, some of them have developed an installment-based fee structure through which they can pay their fees in part. Moreover, you can avail of a debit card or credit card EMI facility if applicable at your chosen university.

In an online DBA course, you will have the option of an education loan which adds to the accessibility of this program by making you pay the fee in easy EMIs.

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Is Ph.D. After MBA Worth it?

If you wish to retire from a respected designation in your career, a PhD after MBA is something you should think about! After an MBA, you become eligible for the senior management positions but with a PhD, you get the chance to take charge of the business strategies and model as a CEO or COO of the organization. 

The research-focused learnings of the management concepts make you develop an innovative approach toward business issues. The choice of specialization in this highest degree program in the management field gives you the freedom to choose your domain. Upon completion of the PhD after the MBA, both your designation and the salary package increase by many folds. All of these offerings are also obtained after completing an online DBA after MBA. Thus, for a long-term and successful career, a PhD after MBA or an an online DBA after MBA is worth giving a shot!

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Job Opportunity after Ph.D. After MBA

Upon completing PhD after MBA, you not only earn a “Dr.” title but unlock some premium job designations that were not in your reach before. The career prospects that you have after a PhD will be the same after you complete an online DBA. Some of these job titles are listed below along with their annual package to give you an overview of the career prospects after a PhD/an online DBA.

Top Recruiters for Ph.D. After MBA

Top organizations in the business sector hire PhD candidates actively. These organizations admire the innovative way these PhD graduates use to tackle business issues. Their “out of the box” thinking puts them in the limelight for top recruiters globally. Online DBA holders also have a special place for top recruiters as their knowledge of global business trends adds significant value to their organizations.

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Let's clear up some doubts about Ph.D. After MBA

1 is phd after mba a good option.

Yes, getting a PhD after MBA adds new career opportunities to your list. It makes you climb up the organizational ladder to CXO positions and improves your salary package at the same time.

2 Which specializations can I choose in PhD after MBA?

There are numerous specializations available in the management domain of PhD for MBA graduates which include Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Operation Management, and many more.

3 Which entrance exams are considered for PhD after MBA?

To qualify as a PhD candidate, you need to score well in UGC-NET, GATE, GRE, or other research-oriented entrance exams.

4 How long does a PhD after MBA take to complete?

In India, it takes around 5 years to complete a PhD but abroad, this period ranges between 4-7 years depending on your chosen university.

5 Can I do PhD after MBA without a master's?

As per the earlier UGC guidelines, online master’s degree holders with a minimum of 55% marks were eligible to apply for PhD but with the updated guidelines 4-year graduates with 75% marks can also apply for it.

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PhD After MBA – Step by Step Guide 2022

Written by   piyush bhartiya , mba.

PhD after MBA can simply be called the ‘road less taken.’ Not many people pursue a PhD in Commerce , it is a field that is relatively unknown and does not attract many pursuers.

PhD after MBA is more useful in the academic field than a professional one. The ROI and opportunity cost for this course are also not up to the par initially, however, it does not mean that the course is not worth it, a PhD can be quite rewarding if done right.

Table of Contents

PhD After MBA

PhD after MBA may not be as advantageous as one may expect it to be. After getting done with an MBA, many prefer to increase their work experience rather than pursue a PhD; but if you are interested in doing research in the field of your interest, PhD may be the perfect course for you to take up.

Apart from the extensive knowledge which the course provides, PhD researchers also get a chance to do individual research and study which puts them apart from other managers. 

• PhD is a rigorous course that requires a lot of dedication and hard work.
• It can be tedious as there is a lot of time one needs to invest in a PhD
• The PhD course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.
• There are many practical approaches and methods like field studies , experimental methods , econometrics , etc. which are used during PhDs. 
• It is a course for those who want to teach Management . 
• The profession of the Professor is most reputable and sought after.
• PhD researchers also work as consultants in the top firms.
• PhD trains researchers and increases their analytical skills.
• Positions in analytics are offered commonly to PhD researchers because of their skillset.
• The growth is considerably slow and one may not earn much before getting tenure.

Benefits of phd after mba

While we’re in the specifics of each PhD after MBA school, let’s have a look at the benefits of PhD after MBA and why it’s such a good career choice:

• PhD after MBA allows students to undertake research and perform in-field studies of ideas and specialities that you couldn’t do during your MBA.
• MBA degrees give profitable employment opportunities in and of itself, but after obtaining a PhD, MBA degrees become considerably more useful.
• The research conducted during a PhD following an MBA helps to raise knowledge of new business insights and trends throughout the world, which aids in more effective company management.
• Having an MBA degree, a person with a PhD can earn a lot of money. A top MBA College lecturer earns millions more than someone with an MBA degree.
• PhD after MBA permits them to work in the field of management, finance, or business research, setting them distinct from other managers who have just completed an MBA.

PhD Courses after MBA

Phd finance.

• PhD Finance is a research-based programme that prepares students for a successful academic career.
• After earning an MBA in Finance, students pursue a PhD in Finance.
• PhD finance focuses on advanced topics such as share valuation, privatisation and globalisation, cost and management accounting, and so on.

PhD Marketing

• PhD Marketing is a three-year doctoral degree that prepares students to teach and do research in the disciplines of marketing and allied fields.
• The entrance test and personal interview are used to determine admission to this programme. After completing an MBA in Marketing, any applicant with a postgraduate degree in a related field is entitled to apply for a PhD.
• PhD Marketing is a highly competitive field, with jobs such as Market Research Analyst, Marketing Communications Leader, Marketing Executive, and others paying between INR 2,00,000 and INR 10,00,000.

PhD Organization Behaviour

• PhD Organization Behaviour is a three- to five-year doctoral programme that studies human behaviour in organisations.
• A candidate for a PhD following an MBA in Organization Behaviour must have a Master’s degree or an M.Phil. in the relevant subject of study with a minimum aggregate of 55%.
• Candidates can get work in organisations such as Academic Institutions, Colleges, Finance, Marketing, Information Technology, and others after successfully completing the Ph.D. Organization Behaviour programme, with an average pay of INR 4,00,000 – INR 8,00,000.

PhD Business Management

• PhD Business Management is a three-year doctoral degree that focuses on actions such as leading, monitoring, coordinating, and planning that are involved in operating a business.
• A master’s degree in related fields with a minimum aggregate of 50% or higher qualifies a student for a PhD after completing an MBA in Business Management.
• PhD in Business Management graduates can find work in areas such as colleges and universities, finance, information technology, banking, management, operations, supply chain management, MNCs, product development, human resources, and more, with average salaries ranging from INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000.
• PhD in Management

PhD in management is one of the highest academic degrees awarded in the study of management. A PhD in Management degree was designed for those seeking academic research and teaching careers as faculty or professors in the field of management at business schools worldwide.

Following are the advantages of doing PhD in Management :

• To gain a competitive edge: A PhD in Management is an immediately marketable asset that will give you a competitive edge in today’s workforce. A PhD in Management proves that you have an impressive level of credibility, proving expertise in your field of study and a lifelong commitment to learning which will help you fulfill your professional goals.
• Helps you become a better thinker: A good PhD in Management program encourages you to do more than just consume what has been taught in the classes – it teaches you to create it and become a good thinker. By moving past passive learning, you’ll achieve newer levels of critical thinking that you can apply in new ways in your career and field of interest.
• Skills enhancement: A PhD in Management can help you gain and enhance valuable skills that are universally applicable to any field. The degree can also empower you to make more of an impact in your current role by giving you expertise outside of your organization, which in turn which helps people around you as well. Once you begin your studies, you may find colleagues turning to you for guidance.
• Become a scholar-practitioner: A PhD in Management will give you the knowledge and confidence you need to not only attend academic conferences but present at them. You’ll discover your scholarly voice, write a dissertation, and may find yourself authoring peer-reviewed articles published in your field’s leading journals.

PhD Course Duration After MBA        

The duration for PhD after MBA may vary depending on the research topic , methodologies, and investment of time and labour .

On average, the completion of PhD may take 4 to 5 years . The duration may also vary depending on the country and institution.

Eligibility For PhD After MBA

Though particular requirements differ by university, there are some fundamental requirements for a PhD following an MBA or any other postgraduate study that every applicant must meet. The fundamental qualification for a doctorate degree is a master’s degree in the corresponding subject (from a recognised institution). If you want to apply for a PhD in Business Administration, for example, you must have completed a postgraduate course like an MBA or MIM. In addition to this, you will be required to submit the following papers:

• One must have a good IELTS or TOEFL exam score to prove their English language proficiency . 
• One must also have a respectable GRE / GMAT score, it may vary as per the university.
• Students must also submit their essays, SOP , and transcript.
• At least 2 to 3 Letters of Recommendation are required to be submitted by the student. 
• Often times, an interview is conducted either physically or online via video call to test student’s knowledge and eligibility.
• Students must have a dissertation ready and a thesis statement or an idea.
• It is important that the students are well versed with what they want to do and have a clear idea about their objectives.
• At top-rated Business Schools, the acceptance rate is around 3 to 5%

Can I do a PhD after MBA?

Yes , one can do a PhD after MBA . There are Various Business Schools all over the world that offer PhD programs that can be pursued after an MBA.

For the MBA itself, many schools require some years of work experience. By the time a student may choose to pursue an MBA, they may already have the direction they want to take in their life.

A PhD after an MBA is not a popular choice but many students still decide to pursue the research either out of interest or for better opportunities. To pursue a PhD, the eligibility criteria include 50% or more marks in the post-graduation, and students are also required to take up an entrance exam. For anyone who has done an MBA, the field of PhD is open for them.

Also Read: MBA Study Material

After MBA PhD Courses

There are several PhD courses after MBA which a student may choose. There is no dearth of specialization in the field of management due to its vast scope.

Each research in each area is equally important as the PhD in Management is quite an unexplored field.

There are several courses one may take, like:

• Entrepreneurship
• Decision Sciences 
• Human Resource Management
• Organizational behaviour

How to do PhD after MBA?

There are many options for students who want to do a PhD after their MBA is done. It is important that the MBA course the candidate has done is for the duration of 2 years . Along with these basic requirements and minimum qualifying scores, letters of recommendation, research proposal and work experience aids in increasing the chances of getting admission into top universities. In India, it could take between 3 t o 5 years to complete PhD after MBA while abroad, it can take anywhere between 4 to 7 years.

It is also most important that the students must choose their field of interest and work in that direction only.

Students have the choice to pursue a PhD in India or abroad . The application for both remains more or less the same. To do a PhD after MBA abroad , one has to additionally give exams like GMAT or GRE and language proficiency exams like IELTS or TOEFL .

For India, exams like CAT are applicable.

PhD After MBA in India

There are several advantages to pursuing a PhD after an MBA, including gaining a competitive advantage in the management and business worlds, as well as the research and professional experience required to pursue high-paying managerial positions in India and overseas.

What you should know about pursuing a PhD in India after completing an MBA:

• Duration : In India, depending on the curriculum and university, you can earn your PhD after an MBA in 3-5 years.
• Eligibility :To apply for a PhD in India, you must have finished a two-year MBA programme and passed the UGC-NET or GATE test, as well as qualify for admission to India’s top business schools and universities.
• Requirements : To boost your chances of getting a PhD after an MBA in India, you’ll need GATE / UGC – NET / CSIR – NET scores, a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and optional job experience.
• Indian Institutes of Management Studies (IIMs)
• Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
• National Institute of Management, Calcutta
• Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi
• Benaras Hindu University
• PhD in Organizational Behaviour/Management
• PhD in Behavioural Finance
• PhD in Applied Statistics
• PhD in Information Technology/Data Analytics
• PhD in Market Analysis and Research

NOTE: It is often advisable that students choose the area for research in which they have specialised during their MBA. It is however not compulsory.

PhD After MBA In Distance Education

One can do a PhD after MBA in Distance Education but few things need to be taken into consideration.

It is important that the institution from where the candidate has pursued their MBA in Distance education form is recognised by the UGC or any other supreme commission, as relevant to the country.

Also, the degree must match the eligibility criteria as well for the PhD program one is applying to.

Can I do a PhD after Distance MBA?

• Yes, one can do a PhD after a distance MBA.
• The institute must be recognised by UGC.
• Universities cannot differentiate between the degrees.
• The degree earned must be in tandem with the degree mentioned in the eligibility criteria. 
• The application process is as same as the process for regular courses.
• Candidates must submit their mark sheets, documents, essays, SOP s, etc. like any other regular candidate.
• The admission in a PhD program is based mostly on entrance exams and interviews. 
• Some institutes may prefer regular students over the ones who pursue their degrees via distance education mode.
•  The decision to select a candidate or not is solely based on the discretion of the university.

Best College to Study PhD After MBA

There is a lot of scope for pursuing PhD after MBA abroad . There is also a greater advantage of its scope and recognition in countries abroad.

Some of the top business schools around the world that offers PhD after MBA are as follows:

PhD After MBA in USA

PhD after MBA in USA is the most popular place, it especially is a great place to pursue a PhD after MBA because of a highly research-friendly environment.

The USA is home to the top business schools and offers students with unlimited data and resources to facilitate their research. The amenities provided to PhD researchers are quite good here as well.

• University of Pennsylvania
• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• The University of California
• Columbia University
• Kellogg School of Management 
• The University of Chicago
• Washington University 
• Cornell University
• University of Michigan

Also Read: PhD in USA

PhD after MBA in Australia is a very pleasant place to be at and it is also home to many great universities.

PhD After MBA in Australia

There are many great B-schools that offer PhD programs after MBA . There is a lot of scope for applying practical methods here because of the way businesses and cor[orates are run here.

Students will have a lot of opportunities to conduct researches and collect primary as well as secondary data.

• University of Sydney
• University of Melbourne
• University of Queensland
• Australian National University
• UNSW Sydney
• University of Western Australia
• Queensland University of Technology
• University of Canberra
• Monash University
• University of Adelaide

PhD After MBA in Germany

PhD after MBA in Germany is probably the best place because of the many facilities like the grant which is available for students.

Germany boasts of some of the best universities in the world and has the best management programs as well. Many universities in Germany offer PhD in management and great guidance to students to help them in their research work.

• Technical University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• University of Berlin
• University of Hamburg
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• University of Freiburg
• Bielefeld University
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
• RWTH Aachen University

PhD After MBA In UK

UK is the home to many of the top business schools in the world the following are some of the top universities in UK that offer PhD after MBA:

• University of Warwick: Warwick Business School
• Durham University Business School
• University of Nottingham: Business School
• The University of Edinburgh: Business School
• Cranfield School of Management
• Leeds University: Business School
• University of Exeter: Business School
• Lancaster University Management School
• University of Birmingham: Business School
• University of Glasgow: Business School

PhD After MBA In Canada

Canada is one of the top sought after countries for pursuing higher studies and the following are some of the top Business schools in Canada offering PhD after MBA:

• McGill University – Desautels Faculty of Management
• University of Toronto Joseph L. Rotman School of Management
• University Of British Columbia Sauder School Of Business
• Western University – Ivey Business School
• HEC Montréal
• York University Schulich School Of Business
• Smith School of Business – Queen’s University

PhD After MBA In Finance

PhD in Finance gives students an excellent academic career as it is a research-oriented course 3 year course . Students usually pursue PhD in Finance after graduating with an MBA degree in Finance.

PhD in Finance deals with the advanced study of Management Accounting, Valuation of Shares, Cost, Privatization and Globalization, etc.

The minimum academic requirement for applying for a PhD in Finance is Post Graduation in courses with a minimum aggregate of 55% in Accountancy, Economics or Mathematics 

Students are also required to obtain the minimum qualifying marks in entrance exams such as UGC NET, RMAT, JNUEE, GTU PhD Entrance Exam.

PhD in Finance requires expertise in subjects like Mathematics and Economics .

The top universities offering this program are:

• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
• Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies
• Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi
• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)
• The Centurion University of Technology and Management
• Birla Institute of Technology and Science

Scope Of PhD After MBA in Finance

PhD after MBA in Finance has opportunities after opportunities. There is a wide scope of opportunities and many companies look out for such candidates to hire because of their skill and both theoretical and practical knowledge.

Students once graduated with a PhD in Finance after MBA often find work as Stockbroker , Statistician , Finance Manager, Corporate Banking Executive , etc.

Top companies like the ones mentioned below seek to recruit the candidates who have completed their PhD in Finance.

• TATA Consultancy
• Genpact Technologies Ltd

PhD After MBA In HR

PhD in Human Resource Manage ment is a doctorate program spread over 3 to 5 years and deals with the policies and teaching processes that organisations follow to maximise efficiency and productivity. It also teaches the candidates the necessary skills required to become an efficient human resource manager.

The minimum academic requirement for applying for a PhD in HR is Post Graduation in courses with a minimum aggregate of 55% from an Indian institute or a recognised foreign institute.

Students are also required to obtain the minimum qualifying marks in entrance exams such as UGC NET, CSIR NET, JNUEE

Scope Of PhD After MBA in HR

Students once graduated with a PhD in HR after MBA often find work as Human Resource Manager. HR Executive, HR Consultant, Training Coordinator, Training Manager, Recruitment Consultant, Personnel Manager, HR Director, etc.

PhD After MBA In Marketing

PhD in Marketing is a doctorate program spread over 3 years to prepare students to perform research in marketing fields and also a career in the academic field.

The minimum academic requirement for applying for a PhD in Marketing is Post Graduation in courses with a minimum aggregate of 55% from an Indian institute or a recognised foreign institute along with a follow up interview as required by the institute.

Students are also required to obtain the minimum qualifying marks in entrance exams such as  UGC NET, CSIR NET, ICMR JRF

Scope Of PhD After MBA in Marketing

Students once graduated with a PhD in Marketing after MBA often find work as Brand Manager, Market Research Analyst, Marketing Executive, Marketing Manager, New Product Manager, Teacher & Lecturer, Tell Caller/Tele sales, etc

PhD After MBA Salary

Obtaining a PhD after MBA also aids increasing a person’s salary and it can be anywhere between an average salary of INR 2,00,000 to- INR 14,00,000. Graduates can also opt to work in corporate firms or as Professors in MBA universities.

Scope Of PhD After MBA

PhD after MBA opens up doors to many opportunities such as research in various fields such as f inance, management or business. Along with that, graduates can also opt to work in corporate firms or as Professors in MBA universities

Ans. There are many options for students who want to do a PhD after their MBA is done. It is important that the MBA course the candidate has done is for the duration of 2 years . The most common career path that is chosen is teaching.

Ans. You can complete your MBA in 1- 2 years as compared to PhD which takes 4-6 years. So MBA is considered advantageous as it allows the student to start their career far sooner.

Ans. Yes, you can do PhD while working, but this can only happen if you are keen to work. Working full time and doing PhD is not easy, you won’t  make progress without constant effort.

Ans. Yes, you can do PhD at the age of 40, most of the person who do this are mostly in education sector. The only problem that comes up is that not all programs will be open for you.

Ans: Yes, one can do a PhD after MBA. There are Various Business Schools all over the world that offer PhD programs that can be pursued after an MBA. For the MBA itself, many schools require some years of work experience.

About the Author & Expert

Piyush Bhartiya

Piyush values education and has studied from the top institutes of iit roorkee, iim bangalore, kth sweden and tsinghua university in china. post completing his mba, he has worked with the world's # 1 consulting firm, the boston consulting group and focused on building sales and marketing verticals for top mncs and indian business houses., related posts.

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PhD After MBA in India

PhD after MBA in India is a doctoral degree that an individual can pursue in various MBA specializations. It can be pursued by individuals who hold a master’s degree in management like MBA, MSc in Management or Finance, PGDM, PGPM, and others. There is an array of specialization that can be pursued, including Ph.D. in Management, PhD in Finance, PhD in Human Resource Management, PhD in Supply Chain Management, PhD in Operations, PhD in Marketing, PhD in Analytics, PhD in Business Administration, PhD in Economics, PhD in Banking, PhD in International Business and others. In this article you will learn about PhD after MBA in India Admission, Entrance Test , Top Universities etc.

Phd  After MBA India Highlights

MBA (Masters of Business Administration) is a post-graduate course that many students in India wish to pursue.Every year thousands of students sit for management entrance exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, TISS-NET, SNAP, NMAT, IIFT, and others to secure seats in the top-management colleges in India like IIMs, IITs, XLRI, TISS Mumbai, Symbiosis Institute, NMIMS, IIFT, FMS, JBIMS, and various others. This shows that the demand for management graduates in India and abroad will keep on increasing.

Benefits of a Doctorate Degree After MBA

After completing MBA, many students pursue a Ph.D and land high-paying management jobs and academic jobs. So, if you have completed your MBA and are looking to get a bump in your salary or position, you should surely opt for a PhD after MBA in India. It is a doctoral course with duration of 3 years to 5 years that you can pursue in various specializations. You can either pursue it in a full-time format, complete in 3 years, or in a part-time mode, which gets completed in 3 years to 5 years, depending on your speed.

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a research-oriented doctoral course that can be pursued by students who hold a valid master’s degree from a government-recognized university. Its duration is three years to 5 years, and it can pursue both full-time and part-time. While pursuing the course, the student has to conduct individual research in a field related to the specialization. Based on that research, the student has to submit his/ her doctoral thesis to the university. The student gets the PhD degree on the basis of his/ her research thesis submitted; the student is awarded a PhD degree. If you opt to study PhD after MBA, you will have to perform individual research in your specialization and submit your thesis to the university. After obtaining your PhD, you will get various job opportunities in numerous sectors, including the government and foreign sector.

Many universities in India offer a PhD after MBA, including some top-ranking universities like IIMs, IITs, XLRI, FMS (DU), NMIMS, MDI, IMT, TISS, CU DU, JNU, and various others. You will get various specializations and many cutting-edge research topics to choose from according to your interest.

Why Pursue a Doctorate Degree After MBA?

Several reasons point to why you should pursue Ph.D. after MBA. Some of them are mentioned below:

• You will get the chance to conduct individual research in the field of management as per your interest. During your research, you will learn various new topics and get the time to dive deep into those concepts and aspects of management.
• As mentioned above, the demand for management (MBA) graduates is growing rapidly across the globe. If you hold an MBA from a good college, you will get good career options, but you will be offered fantastic and lucrative job offers from some of the biggest firms globally if you obtain a Ph.D. after MBA.
• If you wish to start a business of your own, obtaining a Ph.D. after MBA will be an excellent option to gain all the necessary knowledge and skills to start a successful business.
• While pursuing your PhD after MBA, you will get the chance to collaborate with industry experts and academic experts in the field of management and various other sectors.
• You will be exposed to interdisciplinary learning methods and the integration of modern techniques and cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• If you want to become a professor in one of the best colleges for management, you should opt for a PhD after MBA. Professors in the top management colleges of India receive 7-digit annual salaries.
• You can work in management research, finance research, economic research, business research, and various other studies.
• Candidates who hold a PhD after MBA get to work as top consultants in the biggest consultancy firms globally.
• If you hold a PhD after MBA, you have a better chance to be appointed as the CEO, president, or director of a company.
• Many government agencies recruit individuals who hold a PhD after MBA as economic & financial consultants. It is one of the most sought-after job profiles after obtaining a PhD after MBA.

Top Colleges

• IIMs (Indian Institute of Management).
• IITs (Indian Institute of Technology).
• Jawaharlal Nehru University.
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS, Mumbai).
• Indian School of Business Etc..

Eligibility 

If you wish to pursue a PhD after MBA, you will have to fulfill the eligibility criteria mentioned below:

• You need to hold a valid & full-time bachelor’s degree from a government-recognized university.
• You need to hold a master’s degree in management (MBA/ PGDM/ PGPM/ M.Com./ M.Sc./ MTech) from a government recognized university.
• You should have secured at least 55% marks or equivalent CGPA in your master’s degree. Depending on the university, you will be allowed a 5% or 10% relaxation in minimum marks if you belong to the reserved category (SC/ ST/ OBC/ PwD).
• You have to clear an entrance test like UGC NET, CAT (Common Admission Test), GRE, GMAT, UGC JRF, or others. Various universities have their mandated entrance tests, so you should check the details of the entrance exam on the university’s official website.
• Few universities also require you to have specific work experience before applying.

Universities have slightly varying eligibility criteria, so you should check the university’s eligibility criteria before applying.

Fees The average fee for PhD after MBA in India ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 2,00,000 annually, depending on the university. Government universities generally have a low tuition fee for PhD after MBA as compared to private universities. Before applying, make sure that you check the fees on the official website of the university.

Admission Process Follow the step-by-step admission process mentioned below to apply for a PhD after MBA:

• Step 1: Visit the official website of the university and check the eligibility criteria.
• Step 2: If you fulfill the eligibility criteria, fill the online application and make sure all the details are correctly mentioned.
• Step 3: You need to sit for the entrance exam and score qualifying marks as required by the university. Almost all universities require you to pass an entrance test.
• Step 4: If you clear the entrance test, the university will call you for an academic interview at the university. Your combined performance in the interview and entrance exam will determine your admission status..
• Step 5: The university will send you an invitation letter if you secure a seat.

The admission process of universities differs from each other. It is recommended that you check the admission process on the university’s official website.

Entrance Test All the universities have a mandated entrance examination for admission to PhD after MBA. You will have to secure the mandated marks in the entrance test as required by the university to secure a seat for PhD after MBA.

Some of the entrance exams for PhD after MBA are mentioned below:

• Common Admission Test (CAT).

Top Specializations

Finance Finance is one of the most sought-after specializations in PhD after MBA. You can conduct your research in the field of asset management, stocks, international finance, fintech, etc. It is also one of the specializations that offer relatively high-paying career opportunities.

Marketing It is a lucrative specialization in PhD after MBA. You will get the chance to solve marketing management problems faced by organizations. It will offer you ample opportunities to either research old marketing methods or develop modern marketing techniques.

Business Economics Business Economics is a field where you will get the chance to study Behavioral Economics, Corporate Economics, Development Economics, Urban Economics, etc. It is also one of the fields and finance where new technologies like AI & ML are making their mark. If you wish to work as a consultant in a government organization, business economics is one of the best options.

Organizational Behavior Organizational Behavior deals with the psychological and sociological workings within organizations and their impact. If you wish to pursue a non theoretical field with less analytics, organizational behavior will be a good choice.

 Accounting Accounting deals with studying accounting methods and also developing new standards for organizations. If you belong to a CA or CMA background, the accounting will be a good option for you.

International Business If your area of interest is import, export, and foreign trade, international business will be a good option. It deals with foreign exchange, and you will get the chance to research topics like trade policies, trade deficit, customs duty, international logistics, etc.

Conclusion : We hope this article about PhD after MBA in India.We welcome your feedback and suggestions.

If you need assistance for PhD Part time or Full time in India,   Send your enquiry for PhD Admission Suppport.

Also Read: Part- Time PhD in India

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MBA after PhD

• Updated on  
• Apr 14, 2023

A qualification, regardless of level and field of study, will never be a waste; one just needs to realize how to use it wisely and appropriately. As we navigate through life we shift our perspective and interests, our education choices, therefore, need to reflect this. Usually, students with PhD do not plan to study ahead, but MBA is an opportunity that it is not easy to let go, especially as it allows professionals to enter the corporate world with great opportunities ahead. In this blog, let us understand what it takes to study MBA after Ph.D . 

This Blog Includes:

Benefits of mba after ph.d., who earns more mba or ph.d., top mba entrance exams, top indian universities for mba, top foreign universities for mba, top 6 countries to study mba after phd.

Ph.D. armed you with tenacity, discipline, critical analysis of information, and the knowledge unparalleled by anyone else in the exact topic of your research. It qualified one as a specialist . It provides sound research focus, whereas MBA on other hand provides sound business and leadership focus.

It is understandable that a Ph.D. is the highest degree that one can have, but there is no hard and fast rule that one cannot pursue MBA after completing their Ph.D. Ph.D. might restrict you in one field and does not let you explore a job in another field. Also, some upper management positions may require some business expertise and if your Ph.D. is not based on the business field, considering MBA can give you that push in the business area. MBA after PhD not only offers great career opportunities but also guarantees a highly paid job and also lets you develop a strong professional network. MBA will offer you a wealth of advantages, especially when it’s from a well-reputed business school . There are many good reasons for pursuing MBA after PhD and here is a detailed guide about how doing an MBA can benefit your career:

• Develop advanced and flexible management skills.
• It gives you greater business network opportunities.
• It helps you make the transition from academia to industry.
• One can start their own company from scratch.

Here is a table containing general differences between an MBA and a PhD

Incorporate sector a Ph.D. holder draws an average salary of 10 Lakhs in India. Whereas with 1 to 4 years of experience, early career MBA salary in India can grow up to 7-8 Lakhs.

There are various MBA entrance exams that are open with admission opportunities in top B-School. The list for top MBA exams are given below:

• National Level: CAT , CMAT , and MAT
• International Level: GMAT, GRE , IELTS , and TOEFL
• University/College Level: XAT , SNAP , IIFT

The table below lists the application dates and exam date of top MBA exams:

When we talk about MBA in India, the first university which struck our mind is IIM. However, with time numerous universities had made it to the list of top MBA colleges. Below are the top B-Schools in India with their flagship program, entrance exams, and great salary package post-MBA.

• IIM Ahmedabad
• IIM Bangalore
• IIM Calcutta
• XLRI Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
• Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad
• SPIMJR, Mumbai
• IIM Kozhikode

Pursuing an MBA in a foreign university offers you the opportunity to have a globally recognized degree and explore job opportunities abroad with a higher salary, and career growth. MBA abroad requires a Bachelor’s degree and work experience for at least 4-5 years. Here we have listed some of the top universities you can consider for pursuing an MBA:

• The Wharton School, Pennsylvania
• London Business School, London (UK)
• Stanford Graduate School of Business, Stanford (MA)
• MIT Management, Cambridge (MA)
• Harvard Business School, Boston (MA)
• UC Berkeley, Berkeley (CA)
• Columbia Business School, New York
• F rankfurt School of Finance & Management, Germany
• Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

For aspirants who are planning to get an MBA degree, here is the list of best places to study MBA for a successful career in the future:

• United Kingdom
• United States

The Ph.D. is a research-oriented path, while MBA is a practice of business. Learning more about non-profit marketing through a business program might help you advance in your career.  An MBA is very general/broad in nature, it covers many subjects, most of which have an entire master’s degree path in and of itself whereas a Ph.D. is so much more about only one thing.

Leading business schools in India like IIMs, XLRI, NMIMS, etc. offer financial help to deserving candidates to complete their management studies. Different universities offer different scholarship programs for students belonging to every category. Candidates who have obtained a first degree of at least upper second class honors standard, or a second-class degree and a Master’s degree or relevant postgraduate qualification are eligible for the Ph.D. scholarships of this program.

The most basic requirement for pursuing an MBA abroad is a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university; preferably a full-time degree from a reputed institute. The second major pre-requisite of a foreign MBA is substantial work experience of a minimum of 3-5 years.

Yes, anyone can pursue an MBA after their doctoral degree. An MBA can boost your career journey, and skills learned through MBA are geared towards the industry.  

We hope you understand that it is possible to study MBA after PhD in this blog. Follow   Leverage Edu India’s no. 1 leading educational platform for related informative blogs. Please put your comments below in the comment section. 

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PhD Specialization: List, Admissions, Eligibility, after MBA, in India, Fees, Jobs, Salary Specializations in PhD After MBA

• May 13, 2024
• No Comments

In the rapidly growing world of career development and education people often look to intensify their academic qualifications and skills to stay in contact with their area of expertise. Pursuing a PhD after completing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) has emerged as a prominent selection for those seeking to enhance their skills, grow professionally, and for better income opportunities In India, where majorly all reputable and prestigious institutes and universities are located, it offers a hub of academic excellence in the academic region. It’s to dig deeper to understand all the crucial aspects of pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India which consists of various specializations, fees, eligibility criteria, admissions job prospects, and salary expectations. 

Table of Content

Various specializations in phd after mba, phd specialization: admissions process, job prospects and salary expectations, types of phd and their importance, tips and tricks for phd admission 2024 after mba.

There is various specialization that candidates can undertake to pursue PhD after Master of Business Administration are:  

• Management: Specializing in management studies through a PhD program provides a deep dive into advanced concepts like organizational behavior, strategic management, and leadership. This specialization prepares individuals for leadership roles in major areas like consulting, academics and corporate management. 
• Finance: A PhD in Finance focuses on advanced quantitative analysis, financial theory, and research methodologies. PhD can pursue a career in academic region, high-level financial analysis or financial research. 
• Marketing: The marketing specialization consists of advanced marketing strategies, market research and consumer behavior. PhD Graduates can pursue careers in advertising, marketing research, or various academic regions. 
• Human Resource Management: A PhD in HRM has its major key areas revolving around advanced organizational behavior, HRM theory, and human resource development. Graduates can also pursue careers in corporate HRM. HRM consulting, corporate HRM or various other Human resource fields. 
• Operations Management: MBA in Operations Management revolves around various advanced operations management concepts like, process optimization, supply chain management etc. Graduates can also pursue rewarding careers  in areas like logistics management, operations management, or other academic regions.

Eligibility Criteria

Admission to a PhD program after an MBA needs the student to possess a master’s degree in business administration in a relevant field from a reputable university or college. In fact, students are also needed to provide a strong academic record, a crisp and concise research proposal aligned with the selected specialization and some good years of work experience. The admission process also consists of a written entrance exam, further followed by an interview and/or presentation provided in the research proposal. 

Fees and Funding

The fees for a PhD course after an MBA differ based on the Research institution or university along with the and specialization taken into consideration. For acquiring the exact fee structure check the official website of the research institute or university. But to make the PhD course accessible for all, many universities offer grants, scholarships or assistantships to help procure expenses such as tuition fees, and basic living expenses for deserving aspirants. 

Duration of the Program

The duration of a PhD program after an MBA differs based on the specialization and the mode of education being selected by the aspirant. On an average, a full-time PhD course includes a time duration of generally 3 to 5 years to complete, while a part-time PhD course may take a longer duration and period of time due to the flexibility they offer to individuals like working professionals.

After fulfilling the PhD course successfully after the MBA course , there are some basic career prospects candidates can take for a good salary package. Some common job roles include: 

• Corporate Sector: Graduates can seek admission in roles including management trainees, enterprise analysts, and marketing executives in corporation businesses.   
• Entrepreneurship: Management calls for college students to equip the skills and know-how required to start their  very own organizational ventures.   
• Consultancy: Management professionals can emerge as experts, imparting professional solutions to groups on several control-associated problems.   
• Government Sector: Graduates can also locate opportunities in authorities’ corporations in roles that encompass administrative officers and control analysts.   
• Non-Profit Organizations: Management professionals are in demand of non-income agencies to manipulate their operations efficaciously. 

The salary expectancies for PhD Holders in management fields can range extensively relying on elements along with the character’s specialization, revel in, and the organization they work for. Also PhD Holders can anticipate to earn better salaries as compared to those with simplest MBA.

There are 2 distinctive types of PhD courses in India based on time duration : 

Full-Time PhD  

This PhD course has a typical framework of 3-6 years for completion and is completed as full time. Aspirants often take this course for higher education purposes,like assistant teacher etc. 

Part-Time PhD  

This course is taken by candidates who are working as working professionals or wish to pursue a PhD along with their usual work. Part- time PhD takes more time than a full-time PhD but aspirants need to take a few classes in order to pursue a part-time PhD.

H ere are some great tips and tricks for a successful PhD admission process after completion of a MBA program in 2024 : 

• Stay updated with crucial information 
• Practice and solve sample papers frequently 
• Prepare an exceptional Statement of Purpose 
• Seek guidance from previous alumni’s 
• Develop a study plan and revision plan 
• Prepare for interviews in the prior 
• Attend workshops and seminars related to your area of research

By following these tips and tricks you can enhance your chances of getting PhD admission quicker after MBA.

Pursuing a PhD after an MBA in India can be an enchanting and rewarding experience for people seeking to develop their careers in the field of management. With a diverse range of specializations to select from, along with a bunch of various awaiting  opportunities, India offers a favorable environment for those seeking to start on this intellectually growing  journey. So, whether you desire to become a sought-after consultant, reputable academician, or a visionary industry leader, a PhD after an MBA is the perfect course to undertake to pursue your PhD journey.

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Ph.D After MBA in India: Courses List, Eligibility, Duration, Career Scope

Mar 4, 2024

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Ph.D. after MBA in India attracts numerous students every year. Find more information about eligibility, courses list, duration, career scope, and much more.

Ph.D. after MBA is a diversified course with various insights shared with the aspirants. The article below throws light upon various questions students would want to understand, right from Can I Do Ph.D. After MBA, to different Ph.D. courses in India and their criteria. The scope for the Ph.D. after MBA is very vivid and broader and helps in developing different skills as well.

• What kind of specializations are available in Ph.D. after MBA
• Ph.D. course duration after MBA
• How to do a Ph.D. after MBA
• Requirements for applying through Ph.D

Ph.D. After MBA in Distance Education

Benefits of ph.d. after mba.

• Why Ph.D. After MBA is better option

Career Scope and Employment Sectors

Top colleges for ph.d. after mba, what kind of specializations are available in ph.d. after mba.

There are many specializations offered in Ph.D.which carry along with them great benefits. So check out the most preferred and most popular disciplines offered in Ph.D.:

• Ph.D. in Commerce
• Ph.D. in Computer Science
• Ph.D. in Economics
• Ph.D. in English
• Ph.D. in Human Resource Management
• Ph.D. in Philosophy
• Ph.D. in Psychology

Other common Ph.D. Specializations after MBA

• Ph.D. in Accounting
• Ph.D. in Business Economics
• Ph.D. in Chemistry
• Ph.D. in Commercial Law
• Ph.D. in Education
• Ph.D. in Engineering
• Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship
• Ph.D. in Finance
• Ph.D. in Healthcare and Management
• Ph.D. in IT
• Ph.D. in Marketing
• Ph.D. in Operations
• Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior
• Ph.D. in Political Science
• Ph.D. in Statistics

Ph.D. Course Duration after MBA

The duration of the Ph.D. course duration after an MBA varies from the research topics, methodologies, institutions chosen or the time being invested by aspirants. Most of the time, the course duration also depends on the kind of country students have chosen. On average the completion of Ph.D. courses takes about 4-5 years.

How to do a Ph.D. after MBA?

A Ph.D. after MBA is a career option that is dynamic and vast. The scope for the same is as well increasing. Ph.D. after MBA can be pursued after the completion of an MBA from a recognized university with a duration of two years. Aspirants need to choose their field of research and interest. There are various entrance exams that the aspirants need to take such as CAT, UGC NET and so on.

Requirements for applying through  Ph.D.

Though the specific prerequisites might vary from one university to another, there are some general criteria for a Ph.D. after MBA or any other postgraduate program that every candidate needs to fulfill. The primary requirement is that of a master's degree in the related discipline from a recognized institution in which one is applying for a doctoral degree; if you are using for a Ph.D. in Business Administration, you need to have completed a postgraduate course like, MBA, MIM, among others. Along with these, you will be required to submit the following documents.

• English proficiency test scores, such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
• SOP and LORs
• GRE or GMAT scores
• An Updated Resume or CV
• Academic Transcripts

Many students start their work career after the completion of an MBA and so opting for Ph.D. after MBA in Distance Education is easier. There are various criteria institutes consider before admission. It is very important aspirants have completed their MBA from a recognized University(UGC). It's also necessary that the eligibility criteria be met depending on the institution chosen by the aspirants.

Before delving into the specifics of each Ph.D. after MBA program, we'll look at the benefits of a Ph.D. after MBA and why a Ph.D. after MBA is such a great career option.

• Ph.D. after MBA allows you to conduct research and in-depth study of concepts and specializations that you would not have been able to do during your MBA.
• MBA degrees provide lucrative career opportunities on their own, but after obtaining a Ph.D., MBA degrees become much more valuable.
• The research conducted during a Ph.D. after an MBA raises awareness of new business insights and trends around the world, allowing for more efficient business management.
• A person with a Ph.D. after an MBA can earn a good living. A top MBA College professor earns far more than an MBA degree holder.
• Ph.D. after MBA allows aspirants to work in the field of research in management, finance, or business, distinguishing them from other managers who only pursue an MBA.

Why Ph.D. after MBA is Better Option?

A Ph.D. is a data-driven degree that involves extensive analysis and in-depth assessment as it consists of submitting a research thesis as it is the essential thing in the assessment element. If you have been planning to pursue a career in research, an MBA is more of a professional route to take but combining it with Ph.D. benefits you with the knowledge of both the corporate and research world.

What makes a Ph.D. after MBA the most popular option? The Doctorate of Philosophy program allows for in-depth knowledge in the specialization field. Research and the most importantly offers an opportunity to conduct independent study, which would otherwise only be limited to the more practical and commercially useful MBA degree. The research training provides an awareness of cutting-edge developments and evolving new insights and solving various problems. Doctoral graduates have years of experience in data analysis and data-driven decision-making; they are practiced with multiple research methodologies.

While most doctoral graduates find positions as faculty in reputable business schools, a fraction of them carry on in post-doctoral studies or head towards industry positions. 

Ph.D. after MBA can furnish you with the quintessential business understanding to fit the role of business consultants and analysts. 

As many doctoral scholars move further to become professors or researchers, only a small proportion of them head towards the industry. Listed below are some of the jobs that one can get after completing their Ph.D.:

• Scientific Writer 
• Assistant Professor
• Research Assistant
• Chief Research Manager 
• Senior Professor 
• Senior Consultant

Ph.D. has scope for working in diverse fields right from the automobile industry to the NGOs. The areas of recruitment are:

• Chemical and Pharmaceuticals Industry
• Oil and Gas Industry
• Research Industry

So as now you are aware of the Ph.D. program, make sure you choose the best specialization that suits that motivates you to push further even harder. Make no mistake in selecting the specialization, so read thoroughly through the article and choose the best.

Some of the top colleges for pursuing a Ph.D. after MBA are listed below:

• University of Calcutta
• Amity University
• Amrita University
• Delhi University
• Andhra University
• Aligarh Muslim University
• BITS Pilani
• Manipal Institute of Technology

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Applicants to HBS must have the following:

A degree program at an accredited U.S. four-year undergraduate college/university or an international equivalent (unless you are a college senior applying to our 2+2 Program ). Equivalent programs include international three-year bachelor degree programs.

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test taken in the timeframes on the chart below. The GMAT or GRE is a prerequisite for admission. We will accept the new, shorter GRE beginning September 2023. We will accept the GMAT Focus beginning with the 2+2 round in April 2024.

A TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Duolingo English Test is required if you did not attend an undergraduate institution where the sole language of instruction is English. If you completed a graduate degree which was taught in English, it is recommended you submit one of these tests, but it is not required.

Written Application

To apply to Harvard Business School, we ask you to assemble and prepare a variety of materials that will help us assess your qualifications. Remember, all materials must be submitted to HBS online by the application deadlines. The following serves as a preview of what you need to prepare.

Candidates must have the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (unless applying through the 2+2 program — please see information for college seniors). Degrees from international universities offering three-year baccalaureate degrees are valid equivalents.

We require uploaded transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate academic institutions that you have attended (full- or part-time).

You may upload an "unofficial" or student copy of your transcript; however, we will request an official copy for verification purposes should you be admitted to HBS.

When the Admissions Board looks at your transcripts, we are looking at the whole picture — not just your GPA. We take into account where you went to school, the courses that you took, and your performance. We understand the structures of different grading systems worldwide. There is no minimum GPA to apply, although our students usually have strong undergraduate records. Undergraduate academics are just one factor the Admissions Board uses to evaluate a candidate.

• There is no minimum GMAT or GRE to apply and we do not have a preference toward one test or the other. If you look at our class profile , you can see that we have a range of GMAT and GRE scores in the current first-year class.
• We will accept the new, shorter GRE beginning September 2023. We will accept the GMAT Focus beginning with the 2+2 round in April 2024.
• When submitting your application, you may report the unofficial GMAT or GRE score given on the day of the test, or your official score if you have received it. Every applicant must request that the testing agency sends an official score report directly to HBS. We accept online versions of the GMAT or GRE.
• We require you to complete the AWA portion of the exam; however, you do not need the results in order to submit your application. Note: If you took the online version of the GMAT prior to the addition of the AWA section (i.e. before May 20, 2021), we will accept those test scores without the AWA as long as they have not expired.
• Be advised that in order to apply for admission, scores must be dated as follows:

Please note that the HBS code for the GMAT is HRLX892 and the HBS code for the GRE is 4064.

• A TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Duolingo English Test is required if you did not attend an undergraduate institution where the sole language of instruction is English.
• If you completed a graduate degree which was taught in English, it is recommended you submit one of these tests, but it is not required.

HBS does not have a minimum test score to apply, however, the MBA Admissions Board discourages any candidate with a TOEFL score lower than 109 on the IBT, an IELTS score lower than 7.5, a PTE score lower than 75, or a Duolingo score lower than 145 from applying.

HBS only accepts the Internet-based (IBT) version of the TOEFL. Please note that the HBS code for the TOEFL is 3444.

There is one question for the Class of 2026 application:

As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program? (900 words)

We invite you to share personal or professional experiences from your background that give you a unique ability to contribute to HBS. Try to remember to not overthink or overwrite in this essay; it is best to answer the question in clear and concise language that those of us who don't know your world can understand.

You will need to have two recommendations submitted online by the application deadlines. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that all recommendations are submitted online by the deadline date for the round in which the applicant is applying.

Use your best judgment on who you decide to ask - there is no set formula for who should be your recommenders. We know it is not always possible to have a direct supervisor write your recommendation – we would not want you to jeopardize your current position for the application process. Look at the questions we are asking recommenders to complete. Find people who know you well enough to answer them. This can be a former supervisor, a colleague, or someone you collaborate on an activity outside of work. How well a person knows you should take priority over level of seniority or HBS alumni status.

Recommender Questions

How do the candidate's performance, potential, background, or personal qualities compare to those of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles? Please provide specific examples. (300 words)

Please describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant's response. (250 words)

This can be your standard business resume or CV. You do not need to have it in any special format. You can use whatever you would use to conduct a job search. Note: The HBS MBA Program is designed for students who have full-time work experience. While it is important for candidates to assess their own readiness to apply, the Admissions Board recommends that applicants have at least two years of full-time work experience (prior to enrolling).

• There is a nonrefundable application fee (credit card only) of $250 USD* to offset the cost of reviewing applications. All active duty military applicants do not have to pay the application fee.

If your annual income at your current or most recent place of employment is $65,000 USD or less, the need-based application fee waiver will automatically apply. If you do not automatically qualify but would like to request a fee waiver due to financial hardship, you may apply for a need-based application fee waiver after starting your application.

*Applicants to our 2+2 Program have a reduced application fee of $100.

After your written application has been submitted and reviewed, you may be invited to interview. Interviews are 30 minutes and are conducted by an MBA Admissions Board member who has reviewed your application. Your interview will be tailored to you and is designed for us to learn more about you in the context of a conversation.

The interview is a positive indicator of interest, but is not a guarantee of admission; it serves as one element among many that are considered as we complete a final review of your candidacy. All interviews are conducted by invitation only, at the discretion of the Admissions Board. If invited, however, you must participate in order to complete the application process.

Interviews may be scheduled on campus, in domestic or international hub cities, or via Zoom. Neither the timing of your interview invitation nor its format, whether in person or via Zoom, implies anything about the status of your application or affects your candidacy.

Post-Interview Reflection

Within 24 hours of the interview, candidates are required to submit a written reflection through our online application system. Detailed instructions will be provided to those applicants who are invited to interview.

MBA Application Tips Video Series

Every HBS MBA student has been where you are right now. In this video series, we hope to help you learn how to break down your application into small, actionable steps so that you can submit a successful application that is true to you and your journey.

Joint Degree Programs

Applications for both Harvard Business School and the partnering Harvard graduate school must be submitted as explained on these overview pages:

• MS/MBA Engineering
• MS/MBA Life Sciences
• MPA-ID / MBA

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What is the GMAT Exam and What Should You Know?

If you're a graduate business degree hopeful, you've likely heard about the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).

The GMAT exam is the premier business school admission test used to help thousands of graduate business programs make critical admissions decisions. The GMAT helps you prove your commitment to and eligibility for the MBA or business master’s degree you're applying to by demonstrating your problem-solving abilities and critical reasoning skills.

Submitting a strong GMAT score means a higher chance of acceptance and may also result in a scholarship offer to your chosen school.

Here’s everything you should know  about the GMAT :

Why does the GMAT matter?

Business schools value the GMAT because it’s an indicator of a candidate's work ethic and readiness for a program.

As a standardized test, the GMAT exam helps business schools compare candidates from different backgrounds and regions, which is why most  schools favor the GMAT  over other tests.

As a globally recognized test, your GMAT score puts you on a level playing field with candidates from around the world for programs in any of 110 countries. It also allows you to compete fairly against other candidates with widely varying academic and professional backgrounds.

In a Kaplan/Manhattan Prep  survey , 88% of business schools said that submitting a competitive admissions exam score will help your application. Business school admissions officers also explained why they still favor the GMAT:

• ‘A good GMAT score shows us that prospective students are willing to invest time to prepare for the MBA and that they have the baseline knowledge to begin.’
• ‘Our scholarships are based on GPA, GMAT score, and interview experience, so strong GMAT scores have a very important impact on admissions and scholarship offers.’

How does the GMAT work?

GMAT questions are based on the mathematic concepts and English-language skills you would have learned in high school. For example, you may be required to use arithmetic or elementary algebra as part of the test. The GMAT does not evaluate your job skills, motivation or interpersonal skills. It is also not designed to test your command of the English language.

You already have what it takes to achieve a good result on the GMAT. It’s essential that you understand that preparation is crucial.

GMAT is not impossibly challenging. However, it may be difficult to get a good, balanced score that truly represents your abilities without knowing what to expect by reviewing practice questions and preparing for the test conditions.

While the English and mathematics involved are not especially difficult, the GMAT is measuring your ability to reason and make complex judgments using critical thinking, analysis of information, and problem solving under timed conditions.

The GMAT has a maximum score of 805 and a minimum of 205. It lasts up to 2 hours and 15 minutes and consists of 3 sections that you can take in any order.

What is the GMAT exam structure?

1. quantitative reasoning.

The GMAT  quant section  determines mathematical ability and numerical literacy. This section of the exam tests your ability to reason, solve problems. It measures the skills you will use in quantitative-based subjects such as finance, accounting and managerial statistics.

The questions in this section are problem solving questions, and require common knowledge of concepts related to arithmetic and elementary algebra.

2. Verbal Reasoning

GMAT verbal evaluates reading comprehension and critical reasoning. You will be assessed on your ability to comprehend and draw inferences from written material and to evaluate arguments.

 This section features a mixture of two types of multiple-choice questions:

• Reading comprehension passages of up to 350 words are followed by a set of questions testing your ability to interpret the text, to draw inferences from it, and to identify logical relationships between elements of the content.
• Critical reasoning measuring your ability to draw conclusions from short arguments.

3. Data Insights

This tests candidates' ability to read and interpret data in multiple formats, including table analysis and graphic interpretation.

This part of the GMAT exam is designed to mimic today’s business world that demands managers synthesize data from multiple sources to identify patterns, make decisions and solve business problems.

There are 20 multiple response questions in the Data Insights section using five different question formats:

• Multi-source reasoning using data from multiple sources, you answer multiple choice or yes/no and true/false questions
• Table analysis using a sortable table containing numeric data, you must determine if a set of statements are true or false
• Graphic interpretation using a chart or graph, you find or extrapolate a value to complete fill-in-the-blank statements from a drop-down list
• Two-part analysis using quantitative and/or verbal information, you must weigh trade-offs and make decisions with more than one variable. Possible answers are presented in a table and you should choose the correct options.
• Data sufficiency asks you to analyze a quantitative problem, recognize which data is relevant, and determine at what point there is enough data to solve the problem.

What is computer adaptive testing

The GMAT is more than just a computerized version of a written test, it is computer adaptive. This means it automatically adapts the question you see in the above sections based on a real-time assessment of your performance as you are taking the test.

After an average difficulty starting question, the questions vary in difficulty depending on the test taker's answers.

In the computer-adaptive format, if you answer a question right, a more challenging question appears next, and if your answer is wrong, an easier one appears.

The GMAT can be taken once every 16 calendar days and completed no more than five times in 12 months. You can choose to take the test online or find test centers  around the world

 Why should I take the GMAT exam if it's not compulsory?

We highly recommend that you speak with the admissions team for your chosen program well ahead of the admissions deadline.

Even when the GMAT is not a compulsory part of the application process up front, admissions managers may still ask you to supply a score later in the process if your application is not as competitive as others in their applicant pool.

Also consider whether GMAT is required for your second or third choice programs if you are not able to secure a place on your first-choice program.

Register for the GMAT Now! REGISTER

How much does the GMAT cost?

The GMAT exam at a test center generally costs $275, although  prices vary  depending on test center location.

How to prepare for the GMAT?

 How long does it take to prepare for the GMAT?

According to the Graduate Management Admission Council ( GMAC ), the owner and administrator of the GMAT, candidates can achieve a competitive score in just six weeks .

Your goal is to reach a point where you are quickly and confidently able to focus on answering each question, rather than spending time decoding what is being asked. You also want to become confident in your approach to selecting your answers as second guessing yourself will cost you valuable time on exam day.

A commonly recommended approach is to focus your preparation on your problem areas. Make sure you also pay moderate attention to your stronger areas to ensure that you don’t lose easy marks by becoming complacent and making avoidable errors. Take full, scored practice exams regularly to benchmark your process and to identify areas of strength and weakness. Replicate actual test conditions as much as you can so you don’t use a calculator or refer to your notes.

There are many helpful study tools available to help in your preparation. The  FREE GMAT™ Official Starter Kit  is a sampler of 90 past exam questions and  two, full-length GMAT™ practice exams that match the real exam format, increase in difficulty, and help you manage your pacing.

GMAC also offers the  GMAT Official Guide , which is the only study guide that features real GMAT™ questions from past exams offered by the makers of the exam.

What is a ‘good’ GMAT score?

Your score out of 805 is based on your performance in all three sections of the exam. When you receive your score out of 805, you will also receive a percentile, which indicates how you compare to other test takers.

The definition of a good GMAT score changes from business school to business school and candidate to candidate. Ultimately, a good GMAT score is one that gets you into your target program.

To work out what score to aim for, look at your desired program's average GMAT score and GMAT score range.

You typically want to aim for the class average score, but you can also get accepted with a lower score if other aspects of your application – like your essays, work experience, and interview performance – are strong.

What score are business schools looking for?

Most programs do not have an explicitly stated minimum GMAT score requirement. Instead, they tend to publish an average or a range of GMAT scores achieved by their most recent class. This can provide a useful benchmark; however, they are generally looking for candidates with a well-balanced set of scores across all sections.

Don’t rule out programs even if you haven't reached your target GMAT score, especially if it is close to the published range. Your GMAT score will be one part of your application, and you may have considerable strengths in other areas. Contact the admissions team for your chosen program to seek their guidance and be prepared to retake the exam.

How is the GMAT different to the GRE?

The critical difference between the  GMAT and GRE  is that the GMAT was created specifically for business schools, while the GRE is for a broader scope of graduate degrees. More than 7,700 business school programs worldwide accept the GMAT exam.

When should I take the GMAT? 

Check the admissions deadlines for your target programs well ahead of time and work back from there, accounting for how much time you need to prepare. We recommend preparing for the GMAT at least three to six months ahead of time to give yourself the chance to achieve the score you want, or to re‑take if you want to aim for a higher score.

Your GMAT score is valid for five years. If you are currently studying, preparing for the GMAT while you are still in an academic mindset can make your life significantly easier.

Register for the GMAT exam

You can take the GMAT exam in major cities and at almost any time of the year. The test is offered worldwide at Pearson VUE test centers approved by the Graduate Management Admission Council and also online.

You can  register for the GMAT on mba.com .

 Ultimately, even where the GMAT is not required, taking the GMAT will put a candidate at an advantage, providing access to top business schools globally. "The GMAT score is important for assessing a candidate's aptitude for being able to have a successful MBA experience,” Nora Colton, director of the University College London Global Business School for Health, explains.

 “The exam is designed to demonstrate essential critical thinking and reasoning skills that will be required in an MBA program and beyond.”

Register for the GMAT Now! Register

Home » Career Guidance » Top 30 Entrance Exams after Graduation: Preparation Guide

Top 30 Entrance Exams after Graduation: Preparation Guide

Table of Contents

Are you in a dilemma about the career path to take after completing your graduation? Are you seeking ways to acquire a certified degree or secure a government job?

One of the most popular choices for graduates is to appear for various entrance exams after graduation in India, whether competitive or government exams . These entrance exams provide a platform for students to kickstart their professional journey. However, with numerous options available, students often find it challenging to choose the right one.

The blog will cover the details of each exam, such as eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, and career prospects. It will also provide preparation tips for the exams, including the best study materials, preparation strategy, and time management tips.

By the end of this blog, you will have a clear idea about the entrance exams after graduation and which exam suits you best to achieve your career aspirations.

Top 15 Entrance Exams after Graduation

We have listed the top 15 entrance exams you can opt for after graduation. Some of the exams are conducted at the national level, while others are by various well-recognized institutes or colleges. These entrances are conducted for various career fields like medicine, engineering , management, law, etc.

These entrance examinations check your eligibility for the respective certification courses from reputed institutes. Let us now look at the entrance exams after graduation:

• Common Admission Test (CAT)
• Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
• Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT)
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
• Common Proficiency Test (CPT)
• National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) PG 
• Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
• Joint Admission Test for Masters (IIT JAM) 
• Common-Law Admission Test (CLAT)
• Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
• Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) 
• JIPMER PG Medical Entrance Exam:  
• CEED (Common Entrance Exam for Design) 
• XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)

1. Common Admission Test (CAT)

Common Admission Test or CAT is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for students who want to study MBA or PGDM in India. You need to score a minimum of 50% marks in Graduation. This is the most important entrance exam after graduation in India if you want to pursue MBA from top b-schools.

The CAT syllabus includes Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.

2. Management Aptitude Test (MAT)

Management Aptitude Test or MAT is conducted by the All-India Management Association (AIMA) for students who want to study MBA/ PGDM in India. You need to pass graduation to sit for MAT. It is the second-best entrance exam after graduation after CAT for you.

The MAT syllabus includes Language Comprehension, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, and Indian and Global Environment

3. Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT)

The Graduate Management Aptitude Test is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) for students who wish to study MBA/PGDM abroad. To sit for the exam, you need to have a degree from a reputed university. If you want to pursue your career abroad, this entrance exam after graduation is the best option.

The GMAT syllabus includes Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.

4. Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)

Graduate Record Examinations or GRE is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) for graduates seeking admission to various business schools abroad. After graduation, this entrance exam is the second-best option for you if you want to study abroad.

The GRE syllabus includes Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.

5. Common Proficiency Test (CPT)

The Common Proficiency Test or CPT is conducted by the Council of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). If you want to pursue a career in Accountancy, this entrance exam after graduation will help you become a Chartered Accountant in India.

The CPT syllabus includes Fundamentals of Accounting, Mercantile Laws, General Economics, and Quantitative Aptitude.

6. National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) PG 

The National Eligibility- cum- Entrance Test (NEET) PG is conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). This exam is for students who wish to pursue postgraduate medical courses like MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master in Surgery), or Post-Graduation Diploma in India. If you want to make a career in the medical field, NEET PG is the best entrance exam after graduation that you must apply for. Millions of students appear for NEET every year.

The NEET syllabus includes Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.

7. Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)

Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is conducted jointly by the Indian Institute of Science and the Indian Institute of Technology. After graduation, it is the entrance exam for the students who want to pursue MTech and ME.

The GATE syllabus includes General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, and the selected subject paper.

8. Joint Admission Test for Masters (IIT JAM) 

The Joint Admission Test for Masters or IIT JAM is conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology and the Indian Institute of Science. After graduation, it is the entrance exam for admission to M.Sc. and M.Sc.-Ph.D. integrated program.

The IIT JAM syllabus includes Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, and Physics.

9. Common-Law Admission Test (CLAT)

The National Law Universities conduct the Common Law Admission Test or CLAT for students who want to pursue a Master of LAW (LLM). To sit in the exam, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in LAW.

The CLAT syllabus includes English Language, GK & Current Affairs, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Techniques, and Legal Reasoning.

10. Law School Admission Test (LSAT)

The law school admission test (LSAT) is a worldwide level law entrance exam. You can appear for this entrance exam after graduation to pursue law either in India or abroad.

The LSAT syllabus includes Analytical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension.

11. Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) 

Admission to various MD/MS courses conducted at the Institute is made twice a year. The admission to the above courses of the Institute is made on merit on all India basis, by holding an entrance exam after graduation by the Institute, after issuing a countrywide admission notice. The sessions commence from first January and first July each year The Institute follows a residency service-cum-training scheme.  

Syllabus: 

The PGIMER syllabus includes English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, General Knowledge, Technical Subjects. 

12. JIPMER PG Medical Entrance Exam:  

Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research exam is conducted for admission to MD / MS course. This medical entrance exam after graduation is conducted once in a year. 

The JIPMER PG syllabus includes English Comprehension and Language, Logical & Quantitative Reasoning, Physics, Chemistry, Biology. 

13. CEED (Common Entrance Exam for Design) 

CEED exam is one of the top entrance exams after graduation conducted at the national level once a year in 24 cities across the nation. Candidates who have completed a degree/diploma programme of minimum three years (after 10+2 level), or appearing for the final examination of such a programme. 

Part A(online)consists Visualization and spatial ability, Environmental and social awareness, Analytical and logical reasoning, Language and creativity, Design thinking and problem solving, Observation and design sensitivity and Part B (offline) consists Drawing Creativity Communication Skills Problem Identification Skills. 

14. NEET-MDS: 

NEET-MDS is an eligibility-cum-ranking examination prescribed as the single entrance examination to various after Graduation MDS Courses under Dentists Act, 1948. It is a single window entrance examination for Dental PG courses. No other entrance examination, either at state or institution level, shall be valid for entry to MDS Courses as per Dentists Act, 1948. 

The syllabus for the exam shall be that of BDS standard and shall cover all the subjects/syllabus taught during the BDS course as prescribed in the DCI Revised BDS Course Regulations. 

15. XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) 

XAT is an online CBT (computer-based) management entrance exam after graduation which grants eligible candidates’ admission to the top B-schools in India. It is the management admission test after graduation for admission to MBA/PGDM programs in XLRI and other top MBA colleges like XIMB, IMT Ghaziabad, TAPMI Manipal, and 160 other top MBA colleges in India. 

• Verbal and Logical Ability: Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Analogy, Para jumble, Grammar, Critical Reasoning, Fill in the Blanks, etc.
• Decision Making: Data Arrangement, Conditioning, Grouping, Complex Arrangement, Case lets, Assumptions, Premises, Conclusions, etc.

Top 15 Government Exams after Graduation

Besides professional courses, many government exams can land you various prestigious job positions after graduation.

Let us now look at the top 10 government entrance exams after graduation.

• Indian Economic Service Exam (IESE) / Indian Statistical Service Exam (ISSE)
• Combined Defence Services Exam (CDS)
• UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC -CSE)
• RBI Grade B Examination
• Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL)
• Teacher Exams (TET)
• Railway Entrance Exams
• GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) 
• ESE/IES ( Engineering Services Examination / Indian Engineering Services) 
• ATC-AAI (Air Traffic Control -Airport Authority of India) 
• Indian Army University Entry Scheme
• AFCAT  

Also read: List Of Easiest Government Exams

1. Indian Economic Service Exam (IESE) / Indian Statistical Service Exam (ISSE)

Indian Economic Service Exam (IESE)/ Indian Statistical Service Exam (ISSE) is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission for hiring Economists and Statistics for the executive branches of the Indian Government. Students from an Economics or Statistical background are more preferred. You should have a graduation degree in Economics or Statistics.

The IESE/ ISSE syllabus includes General English, General Studies, General Economics, Statistics, and Indian Economics.

Also, read: Tips to succeed in Indian Economic Services (IES) Exam

2. Combined Defence Services Exam (CDSE)

The Combined Defence Services exam, or CDS is one of the competitive exams conducted by UPSC. It is a joint military exam for recruiting candidates under different Academies of the Indian Army – Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), and Indian Naval Academy (INA). The CDS exam is the best entry for aspirants who want to join the Indian Armed forces after graduation.

The CDS syllabus includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.

3. UPSC CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION

UPSC Civil Services Examination is conducted by Union Public Service Commission to recruit suitable candidates for various posts such as:

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
• For Indian Foreign Service (IFS).
• Indian Police Service (IPS).
• Indian P&T Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS).
• Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS).
• For Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS).
• Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS).
• For Indian Revenue Service (IRS-IT).
• Indian Revenue Service (IRS-C&CE).
• Indian Trade Service (ITS).
• Railway Protection Force (RPF).
• Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IA&AS).
• Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS).
• Indian Corporate Law Service (ICLS).
• Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS).
• Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES).
• Indian Information Service (IIS).
• Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS).
• Indian Postal Service (IPS).

Exam like UPSC is divided into three stages- Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Graduated students are eligible to sit for this exam. UPSC is one of the toughest and most prestigious exams in India.

Explore All UPSC Exams: UPSC exams

The UPSC Prelims syllabus includes English, GK, History, Geography, Economics, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability, and Comprehension.

4. RBI Grade B Examination

RBI Grade B Examination  is conducted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Even if it is Grade B, RBI’s pay scale and job profile are what you go for. You will be responsible for Currency Issues and circulation, Ensuring the Nation’s Financial Stability, Management of Government accounts, etc. One can be posted in its various branches all over the country.

You need to score a minimum of 60% marks in Graduation. The exam is divided into three stages: Prelim, Main, and Interview. It is one of the high-class government competitive exams after graduation for jobs.

The RBI Grade B examination syllabus includes Current Affairs, Indian Financial System, Indian Banking System, Monetary Plans, National Institutions, and Banking Terms.

One of the competitive exams conducted by the State Bank of India (SBI) is the  PO Exam for Probationary Officers . You need to pass graduation to sit in this exam. You will be on probationary post for two years. After continuous assessment during the probation period, you may be promoted to a higher rank where you will take care of administrative tasks, general banking, marketing, and cross-selling other products.

The SBI PO syllabus includes the English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reading Ability.

One of the competitive exams conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) is the IBPS PO Exam for Probationary Officers. Graduates are eligible to sit for the IBPS PO exam. It is a 2-year probationary job. After assessing your performance during this period, you may be promoted to a higher rank with responsibilities such as marketing, general banking, administrative tasks, and cross-selling other products.

The IBPS PO syllabus includes English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability.

7. Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL)

The Staff Selection Commission conducts the Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level ( SSC CGL ) Examination to recruit Class 1 and Class 2 officers in various departments and ministries of the Government of India. After selection, you will work as an Auditor, Excise Inspector, Examiner, tax officer, food inspector, audit officer, etc. It is one of the competitive exams after graduation for jobs in multiple posts.

The SSC CGL syllabus includes English Comprehension, General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness.

8. Teacher Eligibility Test (TET)

Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) Examination is one of the competitive exams in India conducted by the Central Government and States to shortlist candidates to be a teacher. TET will provide a certification to you to apply for the post of Teacher in Government Schools/Colleges all over India. It would be best to have 50% marks in graduation to sit for the examination.

The TET syllabus includes Language, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies.

9. Railway Entrance Exams

Indian Railways Examination is conducted by Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) to recruit suitable candidates for the Non-Technical and Technical posts. It would be best if you were a graduate to sit for the examination. You can get a job posting anywhere in India. It is one of the entrance exams after graduation for railway jobs in India.

The Railway entrance exam syllabus includes General Awareness, General Intelligence & Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Mathematics.

10. LIC AAO

Life Insurance Corporation conducts LIC AAO Examination to recruit suitable candidates for Assistant Administrator Officer. Assistant Administrative Officer (AAO) is a very responsible and respected designation in the insurance sector. Your work will be mainly administrative and have to deal with face-to-face interactions with customers.

The LIC AAO syllabus includes English Language, Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, GK & Current Affairs, Insurance & Financial Market Awareness, Professional Language, and Legal AAO Drafting.

11. GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) 

The GATE is an examination conducted in India that primarily tests the comprehensive understanding of various undergraduate subjects in engineering and science for admission into the Master’s Program and Job in Public Sector Companies.  Students after graduation in Engineering/ Technology/ Arts/ Commerce or PG in relevant disciplines with minimum 60% marks counted as eligible applicants. It is conducted jointly by Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore and seven Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) at Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras and Roorkee with unlimited attempts allowed. 

GATE syllabus contains General Aptitude (GA) section (15 Marks) as applicable for all papers. The rest sections (85 Marks) depending on subjects relevant to disciplines you are appearing.  

Recommended, read: GATE Preparation Tips and Tricks

12. ESE/IES ( Engineering Services Examination / Indian Engineering Services) 

ESE/IES Exam is a national-level exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit engineering graduates after graduation. The commission conducts the ESE/IES exam each year for major branches, namely Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronics Telecommunications. Students after graduation in Engineering with age limit: 21-30 years are eligible.  

IES Preliminary Exam Pattern consists of MCQs in General Aptitude (200 Marks) and subjects relevant to disciplines (300 Marks). IES Main Exam Pattern consists of descriptive subjects relevant to disciplines (600 Marks). 

13. ATC-AAI (Air Traffic Control -Airport Authority of India) 

ATC is one of the top government exams after graduation will normally be provided by AAI, which may be provided by licensed ATCs engaged by the airport operators. Regional Headquarter. Candidates who want to apply for Junior Executive should have completed Graduation in physics/mathematics from the university, which is recognized by the government. Or, the candidate needs to possess a full-time BE/B. Tech degree from a recognized university. 

AAI Junior Executive Syllabus for Part 1 includes topics like General English, General Intelligence, General Aptitude, and General Knowledge. Part 2 includes Physics and Mathematics. 

14. Indian Army University Entry Scheme:   

Indian Army recruits unmarried Male after graduation for Grant of Permanent Commission in the Indian Army for University Entry Scheme (Pre-Final year) Course at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun & Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai. Age Limit: 18 to 24 years as on 01 July of the respective year. The Selection Process includes Screening Test at respective Command HQ. Candidates must be physically fit according to the prescribed physical standards. 

IAUES Syllabus for Part 1 includes topics like General English, Elementary Mathematics and General Knowledge.  

This is an All-India level defence recruitment exam to select candidates for Air force. It is held twice a year, for grant of Short Service Commission in Flying Branch and Permanent/ Short Service Commission in Technical and Ground Duty Branches through Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) after Graduation.  

AFCAT syllabus includes English, General awareness, Numerical ability, Reasoning and military aptitude test. 

Recommended Resource: Defence exams in India

Entrance Exams after Graduation – Summary

To conclude, we suggest you introspect and identify your interests and skills first. Self-assessment is the best way to deal with challenges. It’s high time to spend on yourself before moving ahead with the next assignment in life.

In this article, we have given the list of entrance exams after graduation and the government competitive exams in India. These exams will curate the best career path for you. Based on your interest and future goals, move ahead towards the best-suited career field.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are plenty of government job options on the list of entrance exams after graduation however, the UPSC Civil Service examination is considered to be the mother of all the examinations. The UPSC exam is one of the most difficult and prestigious examinations in India. This exam is conducted to recruit candidates for various positions in the Indian Government.

The difficulty or easiness of a job depends on your perspective towards it. Among the list of entrance exams after graduation for getting a government job, IBPS is considered to be one of the easiest entrance exams after graduation. IBPS is a two-stage examination conducted to recruit qualified individuals for various job profiles in the government sector.

Here are some related resources:

• Govt Jobs after Graduation- A Guarantee to Great Career
• Boost Your Career Prospects with These In-Demand Courses After Graduation
• Exploring Your Options: Choosing the Right Career Path for BBA Graduates
• Tips to Succeed in Indian Economic Services Exam
• IPS Exam 2022: Latest News, Date, Eligibility, Salary & Vacancies

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