TISS Invites 2026 MBA Applications via CAT on Samarth Portal, Deadline 10 December

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, has commenced registrations for its highly-regarded MBA-equivalent MA programs for the 2026-27 batch. The application portal for flagship programs like MA in HRM & LR, MA in ODCL, and Master of Hospital Administration (MHA) is now live, with a critical deadline of December 10, 2025. This year, admission is primarily based on the CAT 2025 score, marking a significant change in the selection process. Aspiring leaders must understand the revised eligibility, cut-off expectations, and the multi-stage Online Assessment (OA) process to secure a coveted seat at this prestigious institute.

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, widely recognized for its high-impact research, social consciousness, and world-class management education, has officially opened its application portal for the prestigious MA programs (often considered MBA-equivalent) for the academic session 2026-27. This includes the highly sought-after Master of Arts in Human Resource Management & Labour Relations (MA HRM & LR)—a program consistently ranked among the best HR management courses in India.

​The window of opportunity is tight: the deadline to apply is set for December 10, 2025. A major institutional update for this cycle is the continued reliance on the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 score for the initial shortlisting, cementing the importance of performing well in this national-level exam for TISS aspirants. Prospective students aiming for specialized management roles in HR, ODCL, and Healthcare Administration must act swiftly to register and complete their applications well before the closing date.

​ Admission Gateway: CAT Score and Key Eligibility Criteria

​TISS has streamlined its application process for its top management programs, making the CAT 2025 score the primary filter for Phase 1 shortlisting. Understanding the specific eligibility and the role of the CAT score is critical for applicants.

• ​Mandatory Entrance Exam: 
  • ​Applicants must have appeared for the CAT 2025 examination.
  • ​The CAT score is now the sole criterion for the initial shortlisting for the MA HRM & LR, MA Organisation Development, Change and Leadership (ODCL), and Master of Hospital Administration (MHA) programs.
• ​Academic Prerequisites: 
  • ​A Bachelor's or Master's Degree of a minimum of three years duration (or four years) from a recognized university.
  • ​Candidates currently in their final year of graduation are eligible to apply provisionally, subject to meeting the passing requirements by the time of program commencement (typically by June 2026).
• ​Program-Specific Requirement (MA ODCL): 
  • ​The MA in Organisation Development, Change and Leadership (ODCL) program specifically mandates a minimum of 2 years (24 months) of full-time work experience post-graduation, as of May 1, 2026. Applicants for this specialized program must be prepared to submit official work experience certificates and related documents.
• ​Shortlisting and Cut-off Expectations:
  • ​For shortlisting, the CAT 2025 score is assigned a weightage of 95%, with 5% for Gender Diversity (extra marks for female and transgender candidates).
  • ​The expected overall minimum CAT percentile cut-off for the General category typically falls around the 70th percentile (with higher figures for final admission), although TISS also applies sectional cut-offs (historically around the 60th percentile for the General category).

​TISS 2026 Admission Calendar and Selection Process

​The admission process is divided into distinct phases, moving from the initial application to the comprehensive Online Assessment (OA) rounds. Staying on top of these dates is vital to a successful application.

• ​Crucial Deadlines and Dates: 
  • ​Application Closes: December 10, 2025 (Strict Deadline)
  • ​Application Correction Window: December 11 – 13, 2025
  • ​Announcement of Shortlisted Candidates for OA: February 13, 2026
  • ​Detailed Application Form (DAF) Submission: February 23 – 28, 2026
  • ​Online Assessment (OA) Rounds (ERT & PI): March 9 – 27, 2026
  • ​Announcement of Merit List 1: April 20, 2026
• ​The Two-Phase Selection Process:
  • ​Phase 1: Shortlisting: Based on the CAT 2025 score and gender diversity. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the Online Assessment (OA) phase.
  • ​Phase 2: Final Selection (Online Assessment): This phase is designed to assess a candidate's overall profile, clarity of thought, and readiness for a demanding program. The OA includes: 
    • ​Extempore Reflection Test (ERT): A short written communication assessment.
    • ​Personal Interview (PI): A detailed interview conducted online, focusing on academic background, work experience (if any), clarity of career goals, and understanding of socio-economic issues, reflecting TISS's core values.
• ​Final Merit Weightage: The final selection list is compiled using a balanced approach that significantly weighs the applicant's performance in the OA rounds: 
  • ​CAT Score: 70%
  • ​Online Personal Interview (PI): 20%
  • ​Graduation Marks: 10%

​ Specialized Programs and High ROI at TISS

​The TISS management programs are highly valued for their unique curriculum, rigorous training, and exceptional placement records, particularly in specialized fields.

• ​Master of Arts in Human Resource Management & Labour Relations (HRM & LR): 
  • ​Often referred to as the 'Ivy League' of HR management in India, the program focuses on building holistic HR professionals with a strong foundation in labor laws and industrial relations—a TISS trademark.
  • ​Graduates are heavily recruited by top-tier consulting firms, FMCG giants, and financial institutions.
• ​Master of Arts in Organisation Development, Change and Leadership (ODCL): 
  • ​A specialized course for experienced professionals aiming for careers in organizational consulting, change management, and leadership roles.
  • ​The minimum work experience requirement ensures a mature and focused cohort ready for advanced learning.
• ​Master of Hospital Administration (MHA):
  • ​This program addresses the growing need for professional managers in the complex healthcare sector, focusing on hospital planning, financial management, and public health systems.
• ​Placement & Reputation:
  • ​TISS maintains a track record of excellent placements, with the average salary consistently among the highest for non-IIM/XLRI B-schools, providing a high Return on Investment (ROI). Recruiters are drawn to the strong analytical skills and social perspective of TISS graduates.

​ Conclusion: Don't Miss the December 10th Deadline

​The commencement of the TISS 2026-27 application cycle is a crucial milestone for every serious management aspirant, especially those focused on impactful careers in HR and leadership. The shift to a CAT-based shortlisting process requires dedicated preparation and strategic application. With the hard deadline of December 10, 2025, looming, candidates must complete their online registration and application form to vie for a seat at this esteemed institution. This opportunity is your chance to join a legacy of academic excellence and social responsibility.

For regular updates follow Only Education News. For more details on management entrance exams and courses, check here: Management Exams List.