TAPMI (T. A. Pai Management Institute) invites applications for its 2026–28 MBA batches

Secure your seat in the prestigious TAPMI Manipal MBA Program! The application window for the 2026-28 batch is closing soon. Aspiring management professionals must submit their applications by the hard deadline of December 29, 2025. TAPMI accepts scores from major entrance exams like CAT, XAT, GMAT, and NMAT. Don't miss this opportunity to join one of India's leading B-schools, known for its focus on responsible leadership and ethical management. Apply now through the official admissions portal to begin your journey.

T. A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal, a globally recognized institution with the coveted AACSB and AMBA accreditations, has issued a final reminder for applications to its full-time Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs for the academic session 2026-28. TAPMI is renowned for its academic rigor, student-managed investment fund, and strong emphasis on values-based leadership.

​The current application cycle is nearing its conclusion, with the official deadline set for December 29, 2025. This date is critical for all aspiring managers looking to secure a spot in one of TAPMI's highly regarded programs. Candidates who have appeared or are scheduled to appear for national-level management entrance examinations such as CAT (Common Admission Test), XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test), GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), or NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test) must expedite their application process. This news, dated November 22, 2025, serves as the final alert for thousands of competitive aspirants aiming for a transformative MBA experience.

​ Eligibility & Accepted Entrance Exams for TAPMI 2026-28

​TAPMI's admission process is highly selective, looking for candidates with strong academic backgrounds, competitive exam scores, and demonstrated leadership potential. Meeting the eligibility criteria is the non-negotiable first step toward securing an interview call.

• ​Minimum Academic Qualification: Candidates must hold a recognized Bachelor's Degree with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). The degree should be of a minimum of three years duration. Final-year degree students are also eligible to apply, provided they complete all requirements by the date specified by TAPMI.
• ​Mandatory Entrance Exam Scores: A valid score from one of the following national or international management entrance examinations is compulsory for consideration: 
  • ​CAT 2025
  • ​XAT 2026
  • ​GMAT (scores taken from 2023 onwards)
  • ​NMAT 2025 (score must be valid for the 2026-28 admissions cycle)
• ​Work Experience (Optional but Preferred): While not mandatory for the flagship MBA program, candidates with relevant work experience often have an advantage in the selection process. Work experience is a requirement for certain specialized programs offered by TAPMI.
• ​Other Programs Offered: Interested candidates should also explore specialized programs like the MBA in Banking and Financial Services (BKFS) and the MBA in Human Resources (HR), which share the same deadline and entrance exam requirements.

​ The Online Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

​All interested candidates must complete the application process exclusively through the TAPMI official admissions portal before the deadline. Applying early is highly recommended to avoid technical glitches and ensure a smooth submission.

• ​Online Registration: Visit the official TAPMI website and navigate to the Admissions section for the 2026-28 batch. Register using a valid email ID and mobile number to receive login credentials.
• ​Form Completion: Log in and accurately fill out the detailed application form. This includes personal information, academic history from 10th grade onwards, work experience details (if applicable), and your preferred MBA program specialization.
• ​Entrance Exam Details: Carefully enter the scores or registration details of the CAT, XAT, GMAT, or NMAT exam you have appeared for or are appearing for. Ensure the scores entered are correct, as they are crucial for shortlisting.
• ​Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of required documents, which typically include your photograph, signature, all academic mark sheets (10th, 12th, and Bachelor's degree), and the scorecard of the relevant entrance exam.
• ​Application Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable application fee online using a Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking facility. The application is considered complete only after the successful payment and generation of a confirmation page.

​TAPMI's Selection Process: Beyond the Scorecard

​Securing a high percentile in the entrance exam is the first stage. TAPMI's comprehensive selection process, known for its emphasis on communication and critical thinking, goes beyond just the test score to evaluate the overall profile of the candidate.

• ​Shortlisting for Interview: Candidates are shortlisted based on their entrance exam score, academic profile (including consistency and specialization), and diversity factors (gender and academic background). A high CAT/XAT/GMAT/NMAT score is essential for the initial cut-off.
• ​Common Admission Process (CAP): Shortlisted candidates are invited to the subsequent rounds, which generally include: 
  • ​Extempore/Presentation (EP): Candidates are given a topic on the spot and asked to speak for a few minutes, testing their communication, structure, and ability to think quickly.
  • ​Personal Interview (PI): A formal interview assessing the candidate’s goals, subject knowledge, general awareness, fit for the program, and managerial potential.
• ​Final Merit List Generation: The final selection is based on a holistic score, which typically assigns weightage to the following factors: 
  • ​Entrance Exam Score (CAT/XAT/GMAT/NMAT): Highest Weightage (e.g., 40-50%)
  • ​Academic Profile (10th, 12th, Graduation): Significant Weightage (e.g., 15-20%)
  • ​EP/PI Performance: High Weightage (e.g., 30-35%)
  • ​Work Experience & Other Achievements: Remaining Weightage

​Conclusion

​The deadline of December 29, 2025, marks the final opportunity for aspirants to apply for the TAPMI Manipal MBA batch of 2026-28. With its triple-crown accreditation, strong placement record, and reputation for transforming raw talent into ethical leaders, TAPMI offers one of the most compelling MBA propositions in the country. Candidates must ensure their applications are complete, accurate, and submitted well in advance of the deadline. The race for a top-tier MBA seat is fierce—apply now to keep your management dreams alive.

For regular updates follow Only Education News. For more details on management entrance exams and courses, check here: Management Exams List.