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ISB Recommendation Analysis 2025-2026

Hyderabad and Mohali

1 Year Program

Fall Intake

Quick Facts

Average GMAT Score:                                      740

Average GRE Score:                                         326

Average GPA:                                                   3.69

Average Work Experience:                             5 yrs

Acceptance Rate:                                            9%-11%

Yield Rate:                                                      56%

The Indian School of Business (ISB) offers a globally competitive one-year MBA designed for high-performing professionals ready to accelerate their careers. Known for its rigorous curriculum, strong industry integration, and leadership development focus, ISB attracts ambitious individuals eager to create impact in fast-evolving markets. With deep strengths in consulting, technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, and campuses in Hyderabad and Mohali, ISB serves as a powerful launchpad into both Indian and global leadership roles. Its flexible learning model, peer-driven culture, and emphasis on emerging market innovation make it an ideal fit for those who value speed, scale, and real-world relevance.




WHOM TO CHOOSE AS YOUR RECOMMENDER?

Best bets (in this order):

  • Your current direct supervisor

  • A former boss (from the last 1–2 years)

  • Any manager who’s directly led your work

  • A mentor or business partner

  • A client (only if the relationship was deep + recent)

  • A social work lead (only if it’s core to your story)

Avoid picking:

  • Family members (instant red flag)

  • Juniors or direct reports

  • Vendors or service providers

  • Peers or professors (unless there’s a standout reason — and even then, risky)

Bottom line: Choose impact over title. If they’ve seen you lead, grow, or grind — they’re a strong




LOR Analysis




Question 1

Please provide a brief description of your interaction with the applicant and, if applicable, the applicant’s role in your organization

Tips:

 This isn’t just a “how long have you known them” question it’s a credibility test. Instead of saying, “I’ve known her for 12 months,” have your recommender add a quick story or reason that shows why they worked with you. Something like, “I brought her onto my team because she consistently translated complex data into clear insights for senior clients.” That one line tells the AdCom how long, how closely, and why they rate you. And if they hired, promoted, or specifically requested to work with you say it. That’s instant credibility.


Question 2 

How does the performance of the applicant compare to that of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles?

Tips:

Anyone can say someone’s “hardworking” or “dependable” but without real examples, it’s just noise. Your recommender needs to highlight traits that matter, and back them with proof. Focus on EQ over IQ. Leadership over checkbox wins. Don’t just say you met deadlines show how you led under pressure, rallied a team, or took initiative beyond your role. If you've been promoted fast, won awards, or stood out among peers, that’s gold include it. And make sure every trait ties back to your future career goals. If you're gunning for a leadership role in impact investing, show moments where you influenced, built consensus, or pushed a bold idea forward. No vague praise. No fluff. Just sharp traits, linked to sharp stories.


Question 3  

Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant’s response.

Tips:

The best way to answer the weakness question? Keep it real but structured. Start with the actual weakness (don’t sugarcoat it), then share the feedback they got that made them aware of it. Show that they took it seriously no defensiveness, just maturity. Then walk through what they did to fix it: concrete actions, not vague intentions. End with the progress they’ve made and the impact it had. Every step should have an example. And remember: pick a weakness that’s fixable, not a red flag. Never choose something that questions judgment, ethics, or character. You want growth, not damage control.

My View

ISB isn’t looking for finished products. It’s built for hungry, high-agency folks who’ve done a lot — and are just getting started. This isn’t a finishing school for corporate clones. It’s a launchpad for people who’ve seen the gaps, hacked solutions, and want sharper tools to scale their impact. At ISB, speed matters. So does self-awareness. You’ll sit next to consultants pivoting to climate, engineers pitching startups, and operators ready to play bigger — all figuring it out in real-time. If you thrive in chaos, back yourself even when it’s messy, and believe India deserves better leaders, not louder ones — ISB won’t just teach you. It’ll back you.

Final Take

ISB is ideal for ambitious, high-performing professionals seeking a fast-paced, globally relevant business education rooted in the Indian context. Known for its one-year format, strong academic rigor, and powerful alumni network, ISB suits those who are ready to accelerate their careers, pivot industries, or deepen their leadership capabilities. With campuses in Hyderabad and Mohali, ISB offers exposure to India’s diverse business landscape while maintaining global standards through partnerships with top schools like Wharton and Kellogg. Its collaborative, meritocratic culture appeals to those who value peer learning, adaptability, and execution. But if you're looking for a slower-paced, exploratory experience or heavy specialization, ISB’s intensity and broad-based curriculum may feel condensed.

MBA Profile Fit

The Profile Fit Score is a quick guide to assess how well ISB matches your goals, based on factors like career outcomes, brand, and international support. It helps you gauge overall program fit—not rank.

Consulting Fit

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Brand Strength

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ROI for International Students
 

Leadership Focus

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Geographic advantage

Insights
  • Pick someone who really knows you, not just a big title.

  • Avoid CEOs who can’t get specific.

  • Never write your own letter AdComs can tell.

  • Always waive your right to see it builds trust.

  • Focus on EQ: leadership, teamwork, initiative.

  • If two LORs, make sure they show different strengths.

  • Keep your LORs and application consistent.

  • Don’t risk a weak letter it can kill your chances.

Take the Next Step with Us

Discover how our comprehensive suite of expert services can empower your journey, whether it’s navigating the application process, honing leadership skills, or advancing your career with confidence and clarity.

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