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

Apply for ISB PGP YL Round 2 by February 22, 2026. This 20-month program for young leaders with 0-24 months of experience accepts CAT, GMAT, and GRE scores.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) continues to accept applications for the second round of its newly launched Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL). Designed specifically for early-career professionals and fresh graduates, the program aims to fast-track high-potential individuals into management roles. With the Round 1 deadline having concluded on December 14, the focus has now shifted to Round 2, which offers a vital opportunity for aspirants to secure a seat in the Class of 2028.

Specialized Curriculum for Emerging Leaders

• Program Duration and Format: Unlike the traditional one-year PGP, the PGP YL is a 20-month, full-time residential program hosted primarily at the Hyderabad campus. It is structured to provide a deep dive into business fundamentals while allowing time for extensive experiential learning.
• Target Demographic: The admission criteria specifically target early-career professionals with anywhere from zero to 24 months of full-time work experience. This makes it an ideal pathway for final-year undergraduate students and recent entrants to the workforce.
• Emphasis on Internships: A core component of the residential program is the mandatory summer internship, which allows students to apply classroom theories to real-world corporate challenges before entering their second year of specialization.
• Faculty Excellence: Students are taught by a mix of ISB’s permanent faculty and visiting professors from top global business schools, ensuring a curriculum that blends international best practices with Indian market insights.

Comprehensive Selection and Merit Criteria

• Accepted Entrance Exams: ISB has expanded its reach by accepting a variety of standardized test scores. For the PGP YL, candidates can submit valid results from the GMAT, GRE, or the recently concluded CAT 2025.
• Focus on Potential: The admissions committee utilizes a holistic evaluation approach, looking beyond just numbers. They assess a candidate’s academic record, extracurricular achievements, and their demonstrated leadership potential through multiple essays.
• Interview Process: Shortlisted candidates from Round 2 will be invited for personal interviews in April 2026. These sessions are designed to test lateral thinking, maturity, and the ability to contribute to a diverse cohort.
• Center-Based Testing Only: It is important to note that only standardized test scores obtained at physical testing centers are accepted; online or "at-home" versions of the GRE or GMAT are not eligible for this admission cycle.

Key Deadlines and Evaluation Metrics

As the Round 2 window progresses, applicants are encouraged to review the weightage given to different parts of the application to ensure a balanced profile.

Conclusion

The PGP YL represents a significant shift in ISB's strategy to nurture talent at the grassroots level. By maintaining an open registration window until late February, the school provides ample time for students to refine their narratives and showcase their leadership potential. The rigorous holistic evaluation ensures that only the most driven early-career professionals join the residential program, creating a peer group that is both academically brilliant and practically inclined. Candidates awaiting their standardized test scores are advised to finalize their essays and recommendations well before the February 22 cutoff to avoid the final rush.

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