Kolkata: The admission season for India’s premier business schools has officially peaked this week. The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta has released the much-awaited Personal Interview (PI) Shortlist for the MBA Batch of 2026-28.
On January 8, 2026, the institute activated the shortlist link on its official website, ending the anxiety of thousands of CAT 2025 test-takers. This announcement comes just as the institute celebrates a record-breaking summer placement season, where the highest stipend touched a massive ₹6 Lakh per month.
Here is a complete, simple guide to the shortlist status, cutoffs, and the latest placement records that make “Joka” (the famous nickname for the IIM-C campus) a dream destination.
1. PI Shortlist 2026: The Wait Is Over
If you appeared for CAT 2025 and applied to IIM Calcutta, you can now check if you have been selected for the next round.
- Release Date: The shortlist was officially published on January 8, 2026.
- What is it? This list contains the names of candidates who have qualified for the Writing Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds.
- Selection Basis: The shortlist is not based on CAT scores alone. IIM Calcutta uses a “Composite Score” that gives weightage to Class 10 and 12 marks, gender diversity, and work experience.
How to Check Your Status:
- Look for the link: “MBA 2026-28 PI Shortlist Status”.
- Enter your CAT 2025 Registration Number and Email ID.
- If selected, download your Interview Call Letter immediately.
2. Summer Placements 2025-27: Smashing Records
While new students fight for a seat, the current batch has already proven why IIM Calcutta is a fortress of finance and consulting. The institute recently concluded its Summer Internship Placements for the Batch of 2025-27 with 100% success.
- Highest Stipend: The highest international stipend offered was ₹6 Lakh per month, while the highest domestic stipend stood at ₹4.5 Lakh per month.
- Average Stipend: The average monthly stipend for the batch was ₹1.85 Lakh.
- Top Recruiters: Major global firms like Accenture Strategy, Bain & Co., Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Bank of America, and JPMorgan Chase were the top hirers.
- Sector Dominance: As always, Consulting and Finance were the most popular sectors, hiring nearly 60% of the batch.
3. Admission Deadlines You Must Know
Apart from the MBA shortlist, there are other critical deadlines for aspirants:
- Executive PhD: The application window for the Executive Doctoral Programme 2026 is currently open. The last date to apply is February 14, 2026.
- MBAEx (Executive MBA): For professionals with 5+ years of experience, the selection process for the 20th Batch (2026-27) is ongoing, with Round 3 results expected soon.
4. What Next for Shortlisted Candidates?
If your name is on the list, the real battle begins now.
- WAT-PI Rounds: These will likely be conducted in February and March 2026 across major Indian cities (Bangalore, Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata).
- Documents: Keep your original mark sheets (10th, 12th, Graduation) and work experience certificates ready.
- Final Selection: The final offer will be based on your PI performance, WAT score, and CAT score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How can I check the IIM Calcutta PI Shortlist 2026?
Visit iimcal.ac.in, enter your CAT 2025 Registration Number and registered email ID to view your status.
Q2: What was the highest stipend at IIM Calcutta this year?
For the 2025-27 batch, the highest international stipend was ₹6 Lakh per month, and the highest domestic stipend was ₹4.5 Lakh per month.
Q3: Is the interview round online or offline?
IIM Calcutta typically conducts the Personal Interview (PI) and WAT in offline mode at designated centers. Check your call letter for the exact venue.
Q4: What is a Composite Score?
A Composite Score is the final number used to shortlist candidates. It includes your CAT score (usually 56% weightage), Class 10 & 12 marks, and points for gender diversity.
Q5: When is the last date for Executive PhD applications?
The last date to apply for the Executive PhD programme at IIM Calcutta is February 14, 2026.