One Week Left for CAT Applicants to Apply to GIM 2026–28 Program

The Goa Institute of Management (GIM) is closing its CAT-based application window for the 2026-28 PGDM programs soon. With the official CAT Deadline set for December 23, 2025, and the final closure on January 2, 2026, aspirants have limited time to apply for the flagship PGDM, BDA, HCM, and BIFS programs. This comprehensive article guides you through the application process, key dates, eligibility, and the impressive placement records that make GIM a top choice for management education. Don't miss this crucial opportunity to secure your seat.

As the year-end approaches, the race for admission into top-tier B-schools intensifies. For aspiring management professionals who appeared for the Common Admission Test (CAT 2025), the clock is ticking for one of India’s most sought-after institutions: the Goa Institute of Management (GIM). Candidates relying on their CAT 2025 scores to secure a seat in GIM’s prestigious 2026–28 Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programs have a critical window to complete their application. While the official 'CAT Deadline' is December 23, 2025, the extended 'Last Date' for all applicants is early January 2026. This is the final week to ensure your profile is submitted for the CAT-based evaluation round.

GIM, consistently ranked among the top B-schools in India and internationally accredited, offers a unique learning environment known for its vibrant campus and industry-aligned curriculum. Missing this crucial deadline could mean postponing your dream of pursuing a management degree from this highly-regarded institution. With the competitive 'Achiever Round' now closed, the focus shifts entirely to the final CAT-based shortlisting process.

 The GIM Application Landscape: Deadlines and Programs

The Goa Institute of Management employs a multi-stage application process, including 'First Mover,' 'Early Bird,' 'Achiever,' and 'CAT Deadline' rounds, culminating in a Final Closure Date on January 2, 2026. However, for those looking to be considered based on their CAT score specifically, the earlier deadline is highly recommended. Aspiring managers must act immediately to avoid any last-minute technical glitches.

• Key Application Dates for CAT Aspirants:
  • Achiever Round Deadline: Passed (Typically December 4, 2025). This round offers profile-based shortlisting without initial consideration of CAT/XAT/GMAT scores.
  • CAT Deadline: December 23, 2025. This is the critical cutoff for the standard CAT-based application round.
  • Final Closure Date: January 2, 2026. The absolute last date to submit the application form for the 2026-28 batch across all rounds.
• Diverse PGDM Programs for 2026–28:
  • PGDM (Flagship): The general management program, nurturing future leaders across various industries. (Intake: 300 seats).
  • PGDM – Big Data Analytics (BDA): A program tailored for the data-driven world, training managers in statistical theory, AI, and business intelligence. (Intake: 180 seats, requires GIM Analytics Aptitude Test (GAAT)).
  • PGDM – Health Care Management (HCM): Focused on managing healthcare organisations, a blend of management and healthcare function. (Intake: 120 seats).
  • PGDM – Banking, Insurance & Financial Services (BIFS): An industry-driven program preparing professionals for the specialised fields of finance, insurance, and banking. (Intake: 120 seats).

 Eligibility and Selection Criteria: Your Path to GIM

GIM's admission is strictly merit-based, emphasising a holistic selection process that considers not just the entrance exam score but also a candidate's overall profile, academic history, and communication abilities. Understanding the eligibility criteria and the weightage of the selection components is crucial for successful application.

• Minimum Eligibility Requirements:
  • A Bachelor's Degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST category).
  • Candidates in the final year of their degree are also eligible, provided they complete all requirements by June 2026.
  • A valid score from CAT 2025, XAT 2026, or GMAT (taken between January 1, 2024, and January 15, 2026) is mandatory. The generally expected CAT percentile cut-off is around 85%.
• GIM’s Selection Process Weightage (Approximate):
  • Objective Assessment (CAT/XAT/GMAT Score): 40% (Includes GAAT for BDA/IDA applicants).
  • Face-to-Face Evaluation (WAT & Interview): 30%
  • Past Academic Records: 15%
  • Work Experience & Profile Assessment: 15% (Including Diversity and Profile Assessment Index).

 GIM’s Corporate Connect and Placement Excellence

GIM's reputation is strongly underpinned by its robust placement record, which is at par with the new-age IIMs. The institute boasts a strong connection with the industry, leading to impressive recruitment figures and excellent career outcomes for its graduates.

• Placement Highlights (Recent Batch):
  • Highest Salary Package: Recorded at ₹32.20 LPA.
  • Average Salary Package: Consistently strong, with the average package for the flagship PGDM program standing at around ₹15.13 LPA.
  • Top Recruiting Sectors: Included IT & Technology, Banking, Finance, Healthcare, and Consulting, with over 200 companies visiting the campus.
  • Strong Corporate Relations: The institute sees a high rate of Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs), often exceeding 20% of the batch, showcasing early corporate recognition of GIM talent.

The institute’s unique offerings, such as the mandatory "Give Goa" project for social responsibility and its numerous international exchange partnerships, enrich the student experience, preparing them for a globally competitive business environment.