ISB Young Leaders Programme Applications Continue Ahead of February 22 Deadline

As of February 7, 2026, the Indian School of Business (ISB) is accepting Round 2 applications for its Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL).Aspirants with up to 24 months of work experience have until February 22 to submit their profiles. This 20-month full-time residential program has replaced the previous deferred entry YLP model, offering a direct MBA path for freshers. Eligible candidates can apply using CAT 2025, GMAT, or GRE scores to secure a spot in the Class of 2028. The Indian School of Business (ISB) is currently inviting high-potential graduates and early-career professionals to finalize their submissions for the Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL). As of February 7, 2026, the admission cycle has entered the final two weeks of the Round 2 window. This revamped program is specifically designed to identify the next generation of business icons, targeting individuals with zero to two years of professional experience. The application deadline of February 22 remains the primary target for those who missed the initial December cycle.

Evolving Pathways for Young Leaders

For years, the ISB Young Leaders Programme operated as a deferred entry route, requiring students to gain two years of work experience before joining the campus. However, starting with the 2026 intake, ISB has transitioned this into the PGP YL—a 20-month direct-entry MBA equivalent. This shift allows final-year undergraduate students and freshers to dive immediately into a rigorous management ecosystem. The curriculum, split between the Hyderabad and Mohali campuses, focuses on building a strong foundation in global business dynamics.

• Eligibility Shift: Candidates must have no more than 24 months of full-time work experience as of June 15, 2026.
• Testing Flexibility: Unlike the regular PGP, this program accepts CAT 2025 scores in addition to GMAT and GRE results.
• Selection Focus: The admissions committee utilizes a holistic evaluation, weighing academic consistency against leadership potential and extracurricular impact.
• Application Link: Prospective students must register and complete their profile through the official ISB application portal.

Navigating the Round 2 Requirements

With the application deadline approaching on February 22, candidates are currently in the process of drafting mandatory essays and securing recommendations. The PGP YL selection process is rigorous, mirroring the standards of global top-tier business schools. Since this is the final major round for the Class of 2028, the volume of applications is expected to be high. Applicants are encouraged to submit their forms well before the cutoff to ensure all technical document verifications are processed.

• Mandatory Essays: The 2026 application requires three reflective essays that highlight personal differentiation and career vision.
• Professional Support: One letter of recommendation is required, preferably from a professor or a supervisor who can vouch for the candidate’s analytical skills.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of ₹2,500 is mandatory for a successful submission.
• Interview Prep: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for virtual or on-campus interviews scheduled for April 2026, as detailed on the PGP YL timeline page.

Financial Aid and Global Impact

ISB has emphasized that financial constraints should not deter high-potential talent. For the Class of 2028, approximately 40% of the cohort is expected to receive some form of financial assistance. These range from merit-based waivers to need-based scholarships for candidates with a family income below ₹18 lakh. As a Triple Crown accredited institution, ISB ensures that its Young Leaders are equipped with global perspectives through its vast network of international exchange partners.

Conclusion

As the February 7 dateline passes, the countdown to the February 22 application deadline for the ISB Young Leaders Programme (PGP YL) begins in earnest. This 20-month journey represents a significant opportunity for ambitious graduates to skip the traditional waiting period and enter the management world with the backing of a world-class institution. By ensuring that CAT 2025 scores and essays are prepared with authenticity, aspirants can position themselves as prime candidates for the Class of 2028. The upcoming weeks are critical for those ready to accelerate their professional trajectory at the Indian School of Business.

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