ISB Young Leaders Programme Applications Remain Open Until February 22

The Indian School of Business (ISB) is currently accepting Round 2 applications for the Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL) 2026. Final-year students and early-career professionals with up to 24 months of experience must submit their essays and standardized test scores by the February 22 deadline. This "leadership accelerator" offers a direct pathway to a world-class management education at the Hyderabad campus for high-potential graduates.

The Indian School of Business (ISB) has entered the final week of its Round 2 application cycle for the newly revamped Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGP YL). As of today, February 16, the admissions committee is witnessing a significant surge in activity on the digital portal as final-year undergraduate students and early-career professionals rush to meet the February 22, 2026, cutoff. This specific leadership accelerator is designed to identify high-potential individuals early in their professional journey, offering them a direct entry route into a premier management ecosystem without the requirement of extensive work experience typically associated with traditional MBA programs.

Eligibility Standards and Integrated Testing

The official ISB PGP YL portal has outlined strict eligibility criteria for the 2026-28 cohort. The programme specifically caters to individuals with 0 to 24 months of full-time work experience as of June 15, 2026. A standout feature of the current application round is the acceptance of multiple standardized test scores. Unlike previous years, the 2026 intake uniquely accepts CAT 2025 scores alongside GMAT and GRE results. The National Board of Examinations style of rigorous data verification is applied here as well, with the admissions team performing a centralized audit of all submitted academic transcripts and identity documents within 20 days of the February 22 deadline.

• Final Deadline: February 22, 2026 (23:59 hrs IST)
• Accepted Exams: CAT 2025, GMAT (Focus/Classic), or GRE.
• Test Date Validity: Scores must be dated between Feb 23, 2021, and Feb 22, 2026.
• Work Experience Cap: Maximum 24 months by mid-June 2026.
• Location: Full-time residential programme at the Hyderabad campus.

Holistic Evaluation and Essay Requirements

Admission into the PGP YL is determined by a holistic evaluation that looks beyond mere quantitative scores. The ISB Admissions Guidelines emphasize the importance of three mandatory essays that focus on leadership without formal authority, diversity of thought, and post-programme career impact. This multi-layered evaluation ensures that the selected cohort consists of balanced individuals capable of navigating complex business environments. Furthermore, candidates from families with an annual income below ₹18 lakh are encouraged to apply for need-based scholarships simultaneously with their main application, highlighting ISB's commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

• Essay 1 (Leadership): Focusing on influencing others without formal power.
• Essay 2 (Diversity): Detailing unique perspectives brought to the classroom.
• Essay 3 (Impact): Articulating long-term career visions and anticipated challenges.
• Recommendation: One mandatory letter from a faculty member or professional supervisor.
• Scholarships: Merit-based and merit-cum-need options covering up to 100% tuition.

Conclusion

As the February 22 deadline represents the final opportunity for aspirants to join the 2026-28 cohort, the focus remains on the quality and authenticity of the submitted profiles. The leadership potential of the applicants will be further tested during the personal interview rounds scheduled for April, where faculty and alumni panels assess the "fit" within the ISB culture. For the graduating class of 2026, the PGP YL serves as a transformative leadership platform that bridges the gap between academic theory and high-impact professional practice. Candidates are advised to finalize their application forms well before the final hours to avoid potential technical delays on the ISB Application Portal, ensuring their journey toward a global management career begins on schedule.

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