ISB Opens Round 2 Applications for PGP Management (Young Leaders Programme); Deadline February 22

ISB has opened Round 2 applications for the PGP Young Leaders Programme. Eligible candidates with 0-2 years of experience must apply by February 22, 2026.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) has officially commenced the Round 2 application cycle for its newly streamlined Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL). Following the conclusion of the initial round in December, the portal is now live for the final phase of recruitment for the Class of 2028. This specific admission entry point is tailored for high-potential individuals who are either in their final year of graduation or have accumulated fewer than 20 months of full-time work experience.

Eligibility and Standardized Test Requirements

The PGP YL is a 20-month full-time residential program that replaces previous deferred entry routes at ISB. To be considered for the current application cycle, candidates must demonstrate a strong academic foundation alongside competitive scores in national or international management entrance exams.

• Work Experience: Applicants must have between 0 and 24 months of full-time work experience as of June 15 of the year of joining.
• Accepted Tests: For the first time, ISB is accepting CAT 2025 scores in addition to GMAT (Focus Edition) and GRE scores.
• Test Center Focus: Only test-center-based scores are valid for this admission cycle; online or "at-home" versions of these exams are not accepted.
• Academic Record: While no minimum CGPA is mandated, the selection committee looks for consistent performance from Class 10 through graduation.

Application Components and Selection Stages

The application process for the Young Leaders Programme is designed to evaluate more than just numerical scores. It involves a holistic review of a candidate's leadership potential, diversity of thought, and long-term career vision. The process is divided into distinct stages that move from digital submission to personal interactions.

• Essay Focus: Candidates must submit three reflective essays covering leadership without authority, diversity of perspective, and post-program impact.
• Recommendation: A single evaluation from a professor or professional supervisor is required to validate the applicant's potential.
• Interview Format: Shortlisted candidates can opt for virtual or in-person interviews, both of which carry equal weight in the final selection.

Key Deadlines and Financial Aid Opportunities

As the Round 2 window remains open, the university has emphasized the importance of timely submissions. Since this is the final round for the PGP YL Class of 2028, there will be no further extensions beyond the February date. ISB has also integrated its scholarship application within the main form to streamline the process for those seeking financial assistance.

• Final Deadline: The portal will close for all Round 2 submissions at 11:59 PM IST on February 22, 2026.
• Decision Notification: Candidates can expect to receive their final admission status by mid-May 2026.
• Scholarships: Up to 40% of the cohort is eligible for merit-based or need-based tuition waivers, which can cover a significant portion of the program fees.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of 2,500 is payable at the time of submission.

Conclusion

The opening of Round 2 for the ISB PGP YL presents a final opportunity for early-career professionals and freshers to secure a seat at one of Asia's top-ranked business schools. By expanding the admission criteria to include CAT scores and focusing on a 20-month residential format, the program aims to bridge the gap between undergraduate studies and senior management roles. Interested candidates have until February 22 to finalize their application and prepare for the rigorous selection process that follows.

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