Experiencing an IIM Interview: Tips, Experience, and Insights

The process of applying to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is highly competitive and involves rigorous assessment. This assessment includes an Written Ability Test (WAT) followed by an interview. The interview, while focusing on the candidate's academic and professional achievements, equally emphasizes the understanding of the candidate's personality, decision-making process, and future aspirations.

The Admission Process at IIMs

For the IIM In-CAP (Common Admission Programme) 2019, I applied to several IIMs including IIM Trichy, IIM Ranchi, IIM Raipur, IIM Rohtak, IIM Udaipur, IIM Kashipur, and IIM Bodh Gaya. The admission process began with the Written Ability Test (WAT), followed by an in-depth interview panelled by faculty and alumni.

The Interview Experience

My interview experience began with an equal mix of formal and personal questions. The interview took place in a luxurious hotel, Monarch Luxur Hotel in Bangalore. The panel comprised three members, and the interview started with a pleasantries exchange. I introduced myself and started with a brief background, highlighting my unique achievements:

The youngest Indian to score 85 in 10th standard at the age of 10. The youngest to score 89 in 12th standard at the age of 12. The youngest Indian Engineer in the Standard 1024 Pattern at the age of 16 with 8.85 CGPA. Certified with Gold Medal for my achievement.

Discussion Topics in the Interview

The interview delved into several topics:

Personal Achievements

Samhitha, one of the panel members, asked me to talk about myself and my achievements. The question, “you’re so young! How could you achieve this?” was a surprising start but set the tone for a discussion on my background and the academic milestones achieved.

Academic and Career Aspirations

“Why MBA?” was a recurring question, which I explained by elaborating on my career journey. The panel was intrigued by my choice of pursuing an MBA after an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering. Additional questions such as “Why didn’t you get an admission from Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad)?” and “Why not choose a different IIM?” probed on the specific reasons behind my choices.

Core Questions and Issues

The interview covered some core Electrical Engineering questions. The panel then picked up the WAT paper I had submitted, discussing my opinion on the relevance of the MeToo movement. I touched upon Tarana Burke and the challenges faced by rural women in accessing digital movements. The panel then delved into current affairs, asking about events like the Rafale deal.

Future Preferences and Expectations

Further questions were asked about my preferences. For instance, “If selected which IIM do you wish to join and why?” and “What is your second best IIM choice?” These questions aimed to understand my priorities and ambitions.

Extracurricular and Personal Life

The panel was also interested in my extra-curricular activities and personal life outside studies. I mentioned my State Best Child Award and a unique incident where I mentioned the precise value of the SENSEX index as it was published on a specific day, which took the panel by surprise. This experience showed my meticulous attention to detail and knowledge beyond academic achievements.

During the Interview Session

The panel asked to see evidence of my extracurricular achievements. I produced the State Best Child Award Certificate I received at the age of 5. The panel was glad to see this documentation, further validating my claims.

Conclusion and Future Advice

At the end of the interview, the panel asked if I had any questions. I shared my interest in the institute's research initiatives and its alumni network. This conversation set a positive tone for my experience and left a lasting impression on the panel.

My experience highlights the diverse set of questions an IIM admissions panel might ask, blending academic and personal aspects to ensure a well-rounded candidate. Preparing for such an interview involves not only academic reflection but also personal introspection to align one's goals and aspirations.