ISB Round 2 Applications Open for PGP Management (Young Leaders Programme)

ISB Hyderabad opens Round 2 for the 20-month PGP YL. Early-career professionals with 0-24 months of experience can apply by Feb 22, 2026. Details inside.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) has officially opened the Round 2 application window for its innovative Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL). This newly streamlined 20-month residential program, which replaces the former deferred entry routes, is now accepting submissions from high-potential candidates with limited work experience. With the portal live as of today, January 11, aspirants have a six-week window to finalize their profiles before the final admission cycle for the Class of 2028 concludes.

Eligibility Criteria and Holistic Evaluation

The PGP YL is specifically curated for individuals who are either in their final year of graduation or are early-career professionals with up to 24 months of experience. Unlike the flagship one-year PGP, which requires a minimum of two years of work history, the Young Leaders Programme focuses on raw leadership potential and academic excellence. For this admission cycle, ISB is accepting CAT 2025 scores in addition to GMAT and GRE results, broadening the reach for domestic candidates.

The selection committee employs a holistic evaluation process that moves beyond mere test scores. While a competitive percentile is necessary, the committee places significant weight on three mandatory essays and a recommendation letter. This multifaceted evaluation ensures that the cohort remains diverse, comprising individuals who demonstrate not just analytical rigor but also a commitment to social impact and peer learning.

• Work Experience: 0 to 24 months as of June 15, 2026.
• Accepted Tests: GMAT (Focus Edition), GRE, or CAT 2025.
• Testing Format: Only test-center-based scores are valid; home-proctored versions are not accepted.
• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline.

Application Stages and Key Deadlines

The application process is divided into two distinct rounds to manage the high volume of interest. Round 1 concluded in December, and Round 2 serves as the final opportunity for students to join the 2026 intake. Once a candidate submits their digital application, the ISB admissions team conducts a thorough document audit and background check before shortlisting individuals for the personal interview stage.

Conclusion

As the Round 2 application cycle progresses, ISB continues to position the PGP YL as a premier pathway for the next generation of global executives. The program’s modular format and emphasis on hands-on leadership training allow young professionals to bridge the gap between academic theory and senior management roles effectively. With the February 22 deadline acting as the final cutoff for the year, prospective young leaders are encouraged to complete their submissions early to ensure their profiles undergo a comprehensive evaluation by the admissions board.

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