XLRI Announces Forthcoming PGDM (BM) Dual-Degree Programme with Nine Global Specializations
XLRI Jamshedpur has announced the launch of a prestigious PGDM (BM) dual-degree programme in collaboration with a leading international B-School, offering students the opportunity to specialize in nine sought-after global domains. The program provides a unique opportunity to earn degrees from both institutions. Admission to this highly specialized program will be based on the candidate's profile and a valid score in XAT 2026, targeting aspirants focused on international careers in high-growth fields like Fintech, Analytics, and Strategy.l
The XLRI Jamshedpur (Xavier School of Management), one of India's oldest and most revered B-schools, has unveiled plans for a major academic expansion with the announcement of a PGDM (Business Management) dual-degree programme. This new offering is designed to provide Indian management students with a truly global perspective and specialized knowledge demanded by international markets.
The program, structured as a partnership with a prominent global university (details to be announced soon), will allow students to spend a significant portion of their two-year curriculum abroad, culminating in two separate degrees—one from XLRI and one from the partner institution. This initiative aims to produce highly specialized management professionals equipped to lead global businesses.
I. Program Structure and Admission Timeline
The dual-degree programme is expected to integrate seamlessly into XLRI's existing admission cycle, relying heavily on the XAT entrance examination.
| Event | Expected Timeline (2026) | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Official Partner & Program Launch | January / February 2026 | Full details, curriculum, and fees will be confirmed. |
| Admission Notification | February 2026 | Separate application window for the dual-degree program (post-XAT). |
| Mandatory Entrance Exam | XAT 2026 (Jan 5) | A valid XAT score will be the primary shortlisting criteria. |
| Selection Rounds | March – April 2026 | Specialized Personal Interview (PI) round, possibly involving the partner institute. |
| Programme Commencement | July 2026 | Start of the inaugural batch. |
II. Nine Global Specializations on Offer
The distinguishing feature of this dual-degree programme is the breadth and relevance of the specialized tracks, which are geared toward emerging global business needs.
- Specialization Focus: The nine global specializations are expected to cover high-growth and future-oriented domains, providing students with deep functional expertise. These typically include areas like:
- Fintech & Digital Finance
- Global Strategy and Leadership
- Business Analytics & Data Science
- Supply Chain Management (Global)
- Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Management
- Marketing Strategy (International)
- Technology Management
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Human Resource Management (Global)
- Curriculum Design: The program is anticipated to feature a year split between the XLRI campus (focusing on foundational management principles) and the international partner campus (focusing on specialized courses and global context).
Value Proposition: The dual degree offers an accelerated, cost-effective way to secure two internationally recognized qualifications while gaining crucial cross-cultural exposure, making graduates highly attractive to global recruiters.
III. Admission Criteria and Aspirant Readiness
Admission to this specialized dual-degree program will likely be even more competitive than XLRI's flagship PGDM (BM) and PGDM (HRM) programs.
- High XAT Score: Aspirants must aim for an exceptionally high percentile in XAT 2026 (scheduled for January 5, 2026), likely higher than the cutoffs for the traditional courses, due to the limited seats and high value of the degree.
- Profile Preference: The selection process will prioritize candidates with:
- Exceptional Academic Record: Consistently high marks in 10th, 12th, and Graduation.
- Relevant Work Experience (Preferred): Experience that aligns with one of the nine global specializations.
- Strong Global Orientation: Demonstrated interest in international business and cross-cultural communication skills.
- Application Strategy: Candidates must apply for the standard XAT 2026 and then separately apply for the dual-degree programme once its application window is opened by XLRI, indicating their preference for the specialized program.
Aspirants targeting this exclusive global opportunity must intensify their XAT preparation and simultaneously build a strong profile to meet the demanding selection criteria of XLRI's new dual-degree programme.
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