Introduction
IIM Kozhikode, established in 1996, ranks among India’s premier business schools and consistently features in top IIM lists. For CAT 2025 aspirants targeting the PGP 2026-28 batch, understanding the IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 is crucial for strategic preparation.
The IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 unfolds through three distinct stages: eligibility verification using CAT 2025 scores, shortlisting via composite scoring, and final selection through WAT–PI rounds. The IIM K selection criteria emphasize holistic evaluation—balancing CAT performance, academic consistency, work experience, and diversity factors. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or working professional aiming for IIM Kozhikode eligibility 2026, this comprehensive guide decodes cutoffs, IIM Kozhikode WAT PI process, and scoring mechanics to transform your MBA aspirations into reality.
IIM Kozhikode Admission Process 2026 — Three-Stage Selection
The IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 follows IIM K’s official three-stage framework:
Stage 1: Eligibility & Registration – Meet minimum CAT 2025 percentiles, academic cutoffs (Class 10/12/Graduation), and complete online registration on the IIM Kozhikode portal.
Stage 2: Shortlisting for WAT–PI – IIM K computes Aggregate Index Score (AIS) using 50% CAT score + 15% Class X + 20% Class XII + 10%, Gender diversity 10% + work experience 5%, Academic diversity 5% (mutually exclusive). The IIM Kozhikode shortlist 2026 typically includes 1,500-2,000 candidates across categories.
Stage 3: WAT–PI & Final Merit List – Shortlisted candidates undergo Writing Ability Test and Personal Interview. The final composite score weighs CAT (35%), PI (35%), WAT (20%), and Resume (10%).
This structured IIM K selection criteria ensures merit-based, transparent admissions while promoting academic and gender diversity.
IIM Kozhikode Eligibility 2026 — Academic & CAT Requirements
Meeting IIM Kozhikode eligibility 2026 is mandatory before entering the selection process:
Academic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (any discipline) requiring minimum 60% aggregate marks. Candidates with CA/CMA(ICWA)/CS qualifications must have secured at least 50% aggregate marks in their CA, CMA (ICWA), or CS examinations. Final-year students awaiting results can apply provisionally.
CAT 2025 Registration: Valid CAT 2025 score with positive (>0) scaled scores across all three sections—VARC, DILR, and QA.
Category-wise Academic Cutoffs (Class 10 & 12):
- General/EWS: 60% in both Class 10 and Class 12
- OBC-NCL: 60% in both classes
- SC/ST/PwD: 55% in both classes
These IIM Kozhikode eligibility 2026 norms are drawn from the official PGP 2025-27 admission policy. Candidates not meeting these thresholds cannot proceed regardless of CAT percentile.
IIM K CAT Cutoff 2026 — Expected Percentiles by Category
The IIM K cat cutoff acts as the first filter in the IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026. Based on the official 2025-27 policy:
Official IIM Kozhikode CAT 2025 cutoffs for 2026-28 batch
| Category | Overall Percentile | Sectional Percentile |
| General | 85 | 75 |
| EWS | 75 | 65 |
| OBC-NCL | 75 | 65 |
| SC | 65 | 55 |
| ST | 55 | 45 |
| PwD | 55 | 45 |
Key Points About IIM K CAT Cutoff:
- The IIM K cat cutoff remains consistent with previous years, making it moderately accessible compared to IIM ABC.
- Sectional cutoffs ensure balanced performance—no section can be neglected.
- Meeting the cutoff only qualifies you for Stage 1 registration, not automatic shortlisting.
CAT difficulty, applicant pool strength, and seat availability may cause minor fluctuations, but the IIM K cat cutoff structure remains stable year-on-year.
Shortlisting for WAT–PI — How IIM Kozhikode Computes Aggregate Index Score
The IIM Kozhikode shortlist 2026 process uses a weighted composite called Aggregate Index Score (AIS), reflecting the IIM K selection criteria:
IIM Kozhikode Stage 2 Shortlisting Weightage:
| Component | Weightage |
| CAT 2025 Score | 50% |
| Class X Percentage | 15% |
| Class XII Percentage | 20% |
| Gender Diversity | 10% |
| Academic Diversity | 5% |
| Work Experience | 5% |
How Each Component Works:
1. CAT Index Score (50%): Scaled scores from VARC, DILR, and QA sections with equal weightage determine half your AIS.
2. Class X Score (15%): Marks are normalized by dividing your percentage by the highest percentage in your board (using a 3-year CAT applicant database), then multiplied by 15.
3. Class XII Score (20%): Stream-wise normalization—your percentage divided by the highest in your stream/board, multiplied by 20.
4. Gender/Academic Diversity (10% or 5%): Female/transgender candidates receive 10 points for gender diversity. Candidates holding (or pursuing) a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent outside Engineering/Technology receive 5 points for academic diversity. Candidates holding an engineering/technology degree plus a non-engineering/technology bachelor’s with 60% aggregate marks are also eligible for 5 points of academic diversity. A candidate receives only one of the two applicable diversity scores, not both.
5. Work Experience (5%): Full-time remunerative work post-graduation counts. Peak scoring occurs at 35-36 months (5 points); scores decline beyond 36 months to prevent over-experienced profiles.
This multidimensional IIM Kozhikode shortlist 2026 formula ensures 98+ percentilers with weak academics may rank lower than 95-percentilers with stellar grades and relevant experience.
IIM Kozhikode WAT–PI Process 2026 — Format, Evaluation & Preparation
The IIM Kozhikode WAT PI process determines 55% of your final composite score, making it the most critical stage.
Writing Ability Test (WAT)
Format: 20-25 minutes to write a structured essay on an assigned topic announced at the venue.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Clarity of argument and logical structure
- Grammar, vocabulary, and coherence
- Originality and depth of analysis
- Time management and conclusion quality
Common WAT Topics in IIM K:
- Current affairs: “India’s role in global climate negotiations”
- Technology: “AI ethics and accountability in decision-making”
- Business: “Startup failures—lessons for corporate governance”
- Abstract: “Success is a journey, not a destination”
- Social issues: “Digital divide in education post-pandemic”
WAT Preparation Tips:
- Practice writing 250-word essays in 20 minutes
- Stay updated on business news, policy changes, and tech trends
- Develop opinion-backed arguments with examples
- Maintain formal tone; avoid colloquialisms
- Conclude decisively—don’t leave essays hanging
Personal Interview (PI)
Format: 15-25 minute panel interview with 2-3 faculty members or industry experts, conducted in six cities (Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Mumbai, New Delhi).
Question Categories:
- Academic grilling: Core concepts from your undergraduate major
- Resume-based: Every detail you’ve mentioned—projects, internships, roles
- Current affairs: Recent business news, policy developments, geopolitics
- Situational judgment: Ethical dilemmas, leadership scenarios
- “Why MBA/IIM K?”: Career goals, industry interest, post-MBA plans
- Personal: Hobbies, family background, strengths/weaknesses
PI Evaluation Parameters (35% weightage):
- Academic depth and clarity of thought
- General awareness and social disposition
- Communication skills and confidence
- Personality, attitude, and professionalism
- Quality of work experience (if applicable)
6-Point PI Preparation Checklist:
- Master your resume: Know every project detail, internship outcome, and job responsibility
- Revise core subjects: Focus on major concepts, formulas, and theories from graduation
- Current affairs drill: Read business newspapers daily; prepare 10-15 recent news topics
- Mock interviews: Practice with mentors, alumni, or coaching experts
- STAR format answers: Structure behavioral responses (Situation-Task-Action-Result)
- Confidence building: Record yourself answering questions; refine body language
Common PI Mistakes to Avoid:
- Defensive or overconfident responses
- Vagueness about career goals or “why MBA”
- Poor knowledge of undergraduate subjects
- Lack of current affairs awareness
- Nervous body language or unclear communication
The IIM Kozhikode WAT PI process rewards authentic, well-prepared candidates who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and clarity.
Final Selection — Composite Score Weightage & Sample Calculation
After WAT–PI rounds conclude, IIM Kozhikode computes final composite scores using the IIM K selection criteria:
IIM Kozhikode Final Selection Weightage:
| Component | Weightage |
| CAT 2025 Score | 35% |
| Personal Interview | 35% |
| Writing Ability Test | 20% |
| Resume Score | 10% |
Resume Score Breakdown (10%):
- Quality of Undergraduate Academic Institution (NIRF Ranking ≤30 in 2024 categories: Overall, Universities, Colleges, Engineering, Management, Pharmacy, Medical, Dental, Law, Architecture and Planning, Agriculture and Allied Sectors): 4 points.
- Professional Qualification (qualified CA/CMA(ICWA)/CS): 4 points.
- Professional Certification (completed CFA Level 1, 2, or 3): 4 points.
Total possible up to 12, scaled to 10% weight.
Sample Calculation:
Candidate Profile:
- CAT Score: 32/35 points (91.4%)
- PI Score: 30/35 points (85.7%)
- WAT Score: 16/20 points (80%)
- Resume Score: 8/10 points (Top 30 NIRF + CFA Level 1)
Final Composite = (32 + 30 + 16 + 8) = 86 out of 100
Category-wise merit lists rank candidates in descending order. Admission offers follow merit rank per Government of India reservation norms (SC 15%, ST 7.5%, OBC-NCL 27%, EWS 10%, PwD 5%).
This transparent IIM K selection criteria ensures fairness and recognizes holistic talent beyond CAT scores alone.
Role of Academics & Work Experience in IIM K Selection
Academic Performance: The IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 assigns 35% total weight to academics (15% Class X, 20% Class XII in Stage 2; indirectly impacts CAT prep quality). Consistent 80%+ marks across 10th/12th/graduation significantly boost shortlist chances.
Work Experience: While not mandatory, relevant full-time work post-graduation adds competitive advantage. Optimal experience ranges from 25-36 months (6-8 points out of 10 in Stage 2; contributes to Resume Score in Stage 3). Fresh graduates remain competitive if they excel in CAT, academics, and interviews—the IIM K selection criteria balance experience with potential.
IIM Kozhikode Fees & Placements (2024-25 Data)
Total Program Fees: Necessary fees must be paid on registration day; specific amount not detailed, but historical ~₹20.50 lakhs total (including tuition, accommodation, facilities). Acceptance fee ₹1,00,000 upon offer. Merit-based and need-based scholarships available.
Placement Highlights (2024 Batch):
- Average Package: ₹28.05 LPA
- Median Package: ₹27.00 LPA
- Highest Domestic Package: ₹72.02 LPA
- Number of Students: 537
- Top Recruiters: Amazon, Deloitte, Accenture, BCG, HCL, Cognizant
- Major Sectors: Consulting (33%), Finance (28%), IT & Analytics (15%), Sales & Marketing (10%), General Management (8%), Operations (6%)
Source: IIM Kozhikode Final Placements Report 2024
ROI remains strong—graduates typically recover fees within 12-18 months post-placement, making IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 highly attractive for career growth.
Important Dates — IIM Kozhikode Admission Timeline 2026
| Event | Expected Date |
| CAT 2025 Exam | Late November 2025 |
| CAT Results | Early January 2026 |
| Stage 1 Registration Opens | Mid-January 2026 |
| Stage 2 Shortlist Announcement | Late January 2026 |
| WAT–PI Rounds | February–March 2026 |
| Final Merit List Release | Around Second week of May 2026 |
| Classes Commence | June 2026 |
Note: Verify exact dates on iimk.ac.in admission portal
Comparing IIM Kozhikode vs IIM Lucknow & Indore
| Parameter | IIM Kozhikode | IIM Lucknow | IIM Indore |
| CAT Weightage (Final) | 35% | 30% | 20% |
| PI Weightage | 35% | 40% | 40% |
| WAT Weightage | 20% | 10% | 10% |
| CAT Cutoff (General) | 85 | 90 | 90 |
| Work Experience Weight | 5% (shortlist) | 10% | 10% |
| Average Package 2024 | ₹28.05 L | ₹30.50 L | ₹28.00 L |
The IIM K selection criteria emphasize balanced preparation—strong CAT scores, consistent academics, and interview readiness, over any single dimension.
FAQs — IIM Kozhikode Admission Process 2026
1. What is the CAT 2025 cutoff for IIM Kozhikode?
The IIM K cat cutoff is 85 overall percentile and 75 sectional for General category. OBC-NCL/EWS need 75 overall, 65 sectional. SC requires 65/55, while ST/PwD need 55/45.
2. What is the eligibility for IIM K admission?
IIM Kozhikode eligibility 2026 requires a bachelor’s degree with 60% marks (General), 50% for professional qualifications (CA/CMA/CS), and valid CAT 2025 scores above category cutoffs.
3. How is the shortlisting process done?
The IIM Kozhikode shortlist 2026 uses Aggregate Index Score: 50% CAT + 15% Class X + 20% Class XII + 10%/5% diversity + 5% work experience. Top scorers receive WAT–PI calls.
4. What is the weightage of CAT, academics, and PI?
In final selection per IIM K selection criteria: CAT 35%, PI 35%, WAT 20%, Resume 10%. Academics influence Stage 2 shortlisting (35% combined Class X/XII).
5. How important is work experience at IIM Kozhikode?
Work experience adds 5% weight in shortlisting and strengthens PI discussions. However, the IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 welcomes freshers who excel in CAT and academics.
6. How many candidates are shortlisted for WAT–PI?
The number of candidates shortlisted is at the discretion of the Institute and depends on the planned batch size (typically ~1,500-2,000 candidates across categories for ~480-500 PGP seats).
7. What is the gender diversity factor at IIM K?
Female and transgender candidates receive 10 diversity points in Stage 2 shortlisting as part of the IIM K selection criteria promoting balanced cohort composition.
8. When will the final merit list be released?
Final merit lists following the IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 are expected in the second week of May 2026, with admission offers sent sequentially.
9. What was the previous year’s cutoff for IIM Kozhikode?
The IIM K cat cutoff remained stable at 85 overall/75 sectional for General category across recent admission cycles, demonstrating consistent admission standards.
10. Is there a sectional cutoff in CAT for IIM K?
Yes, the IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 enforces sectional cutoffs (75 for General in VARC, DILR, QA) ensuring balanced quantitative and verbal abilities.
Start Your IIM Kozhikode Journey Today
Mastering the IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 requires strategic preparation across CAT percentiles, academic consistency, and interview readiness. Understanding the IIM K selection criteria, IIM Kozhikode WAT PI process, and IIM K cat cutoff empowers you to optimize every selection stage.
With transparent IIM Kozhikode eligibility 2026 norms, holistic evaluation through the IIM Kozhikode shortlist 2026 process, and merit-based final selection, IIM K rewards well-rounded candidates who demonstrate potential beyond test scores.
Download our free 10-point IIM Kozhikode application checklist. Subscribe for CAT 2025 updates and transform your MBA dreams into reality. Verify the latest information on iimk.ac.in today!
Updates Note: This article is based on the official IIM Kozhikode admission policy for 2025-27 batch (verified October 15, 2025). For the latest IIM Kozhikode admission process 2026 updates, verify on iimk.ac.in.
