Colleges Under SNAP/NMAT/CAT/XAT That Offer MBA and Not PGDM

Introduction

Every MBA aspirant in India eventually faces this question: “Should I go for an MBA or PGDM?” The confusion grows further when you realize that some colleges under popular entrance exams—like SNAP, NMAT, CAT, and XAT—offer MBA degrees, while others grant PGDM diplomas.

While both programs prepare you for leadership roles, the type of credential (MBA vs PGDM) can impact your long-term academic and career trajectory. For instance, MBA is a university-recognized degree under UGC, while PGDM is an AICTE-approved diploma. This distinction matters if you’re planning a PhD abroad or aiming for government-sector roles.

MBA vs PGDM – Why Does It Matter?

At first glance, an MBA and PGDM program look identical—they both span 2 years, cover core subjects like marketing, finance, HR, and operations, and promise strong placement opportunities. However, there are key structural differences:

So, does choosing PGDM put you at a disadvantage? Not really. Many top B-schools like XLRI, SPJIMR, and MDI have PGDM programs with stellar placement records. However, if you value academic recognition and international acceptance, MBA may be the safer route.

Colleges Offering MBA Under SNAP

The Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University), which holds UGC recognition. Unlike autonomous PGDM institutes, most Symbiosis institutes actually award an MBA degree.

Top Symbiosis colleges offering MBA through SNAP:

• Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune – MBA in core domains like Marketing, HR, Finance, Operations.
• SCMHRD, Pune – MBA with strong placement in HR and Analytics.
• SIBM, Bengaluru – MBA with industry-focused curriculum.
• SIIB, Pune – Specialized MBAs in International Business, Agribusiness, Energy & Environment.
• SIOM, Nashik – MBA in Operations Management.

 Why choose SNAP MBA colleges?

• All are under Symbiosis University → UGC-recognized MBA degree.
• Strong industry reputation and alumni base.
• Diverse, niche specializations beyond the generic MBA.

Colleges Offering MBA Under NMAT

The NMAT exam, conducted by GMAC, is accepted by several universities in India. The most prominent one is NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies), a deemed-to-be university that offers MBA programs instead of PGDM.

Key MBA colleges under NMAT:

• NMIMS, Mumbai – MBA in Core, HR, and Pharmaceutical Management.
• NMIMS, Bengaluru/Hyderabad/Navi Mumbai campuses – MBA with industry alignment.
• K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management (KJSIM) – Recently converted its flagship PGDM into an MBA degree after attaining university status.
• SDA Bocconi Asia Center (via NMAT) – Offers International Master in Business (equivalent pathway to MBA).

Why choose NMAT MBA colleges?

• NMIMS brand value with global recognition.
• University-backed MBA degrees ensure academic legitimacy.
• Wide geographical spread of campuses.

Colleges Offering MBA Under CAT

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the gateway to some of India’s most prestigious B-schools. Until 2017, IIMs awarded PGDM, but from 2018 onwards, IIMs grant MBA degrees due to the IIM Act.

Top MBA colleges under CAT:

• All IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Lucknow, etc.) – MBA degrees now recognized globally.
• Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi University – Offers MBA at one of the lowest fees with the highest ROI.
• IITs (Bombay, Delhi, Kharagpur, Madras, Roorkee, etc.) – Their Schools of Management award MBAs.
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU-FMS) – MBA under a central university.
• Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) – MBA in HR, Marketing, Finance.

Table Snapshot:

Why choose CAT MBA colleges?

• IIM MBA now equals global recognition.
• Strong ROI from FMS and IITs.
• Wide range of central/state universities offering affordable MBA.
  

Colleges Offering MBA Under XAT

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, is another top management entrance. However, XLRI itself still offers PGDM, not MBA. The good news? Several XAT-participating universities provide MBA degrees.

Top MBA colleges under XAT:

• XIM University, Bhubaneswar (XIMB) – Offers MBA in Business Management, Human Resource Management, and more.
• JAGSoM (Jagdish Sheth School of Management, now under a university) – Offers MBA programs.
• IFMR GSB at Krea University, Sri City – MBA with strong focus on finance and analytics.
• Goa Institute of Management (GIM) – Though historically PGDM, its alignment with university regulations now facilitates MBA pathways for some programs.
  

 Why choose XAT MBA colleges?

• Xavier University recognition ensures a UGC-approved MBA degree.
• Niche specializations like sustainability, development management.
• Strong corporate linkages in Eastern and Southern India.

How to Choose Between MBA and PGDM?

With so many choices, how should you decide?

Here’s a framework to simplify your decision:

• Career Goal: If you plan to pursue a PhD abroad or appear for government exams, an MBA degree is better.
• Placements: At top institutes, PGDM and MBA placements are nearly identical. Focus on the college brand.
• Curriculum: PGDMs are faster to adapt; MBAs may be more theoretical.
• ROI: University-based MBAs (like FMS Delhi) are far more affordable than many PGDMs.

Think of MBA vs PGDM as two trains going to the same destination. One (MBA) runs on the UGC track, the other (PGDM) runs on the AICTE track. What matters more is the quality of the train (the college), not just the track.

How Career Plan B Helps?

Choosing between MBA and PGDM, and aligning it with the right entrance exam, is not easy. That’s where Career Plan B comes in.

Here’s how we guide aspirants like you:

• Personalized Career Counselling: One-on-one sessions to understand whether MBA or PGDM aligns better with your long-term goals.
• Psycheintel & Career Assessment Tests: Assess aptitude, strengths, and interests to suggest the right exam-college fit.
• Admission & Academic Profile Guidance: Build strong SOPs, CVs, and strategies tailored to MBA universities under SNAP, NMAT, CAT, or XAT.
• Career Roadmapping: Clear, step-by-step career planning beyond just college admission, including placements and higher studies.

With Career Plan B, you don’t just choose a college—you choose a direction for your entire career journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is MBA better than PGDM?
   Not necessarily. Both are well-recognized. MBA has stronger academic value; PGDM is more industry-flexible.
2. Do IIMs offer MBA or PGDM?
   Since 2018, all IIMs offer MBA degrees under the IIM Act.
3. Which is more expensive—MBA or PGDM?
   Depends on the college. An IIM MBA may cost ₹20L+, while FMS Delhi MBA costs less than ₹2L.
4. Can PGDM holders pursue PhD abroad?
   Some universities accept it, but MBA is more universally recognized.
5. Do placements differ between MBA and PGDM?
   At top institutes, no difference. Recruiters focus on the brand and talent pool.

Conclusion

Choosing the right MBA college under SNAP, NMAT, CAT, or XAT that offers an MBA degree over a PGDM diploma can significantly impact career trajectories. Understanding the difference, aligning with personal goals, and applying strategically will unlock better opportunities. For professional guidance tailored to individual profiles and ambitions, exploring Career Plan B’s customized services is a smart step toward a successful management career. Your MBA journey deserves expert support to navigate choices wisely for a rewarding future.