IIM Cutoffs 2026: What Percentile Do You Actually Need?

How IIM cutoffs actually work

A "cutoff" is not one number. The IIMs shortlist on an overall percentile and sectional percentiles, then weigh your academics, work experience and diversity.

Older IIMs (A, B, C, L, I, K)

Expect to need a 99+ overall percentile, with 85-90+ in every section. A strong sectional balance matters as much as the headline number - a 99.5 with a weak VARC can still be filtered out.

Newer IIMs and good non-IIMs

Many newer IIMs and top non-IIMs call candidates from the 95-98 percentile band, with sectional cutoffs around 80+.

Why your profile matters

Two candidates at the same percentile are not equal. Academic consistency (10th, 12th, graduation), work experience and gender/academic diversity all feed the final call. A balanced profile can pull a slightly lower score into the shortlist.

Takeaway: aim for a balanced 99+ with no weak section. Don't chase one section while another sinks.