Four Indian business schools have made it to LinkedIn’s global list of the top 20 MBA programs, with one Indian institute breaking into the top 10 — and surprisingly, it’s not IIM Ahmedabad.
According to LinkedIn’s MBA Program Rankings 2025, the Indian School of Business (ISB) has secured the fifth position worldwide, making it the only Indian institute in the top 10.
LinkedIn’s Real-World Approach to Ranking MBAs
Unlike traditional rankings that rely on reputation surveys and academic data, LinkedIn’s list is based entirely on real-world career outcomes.
In a statement, the professional networking platform said:
“The ranking analyses how graduates from different MBA programs are placed, promoted, and how many rise to C-suite positions. Metrics include job placements post-MBA, career progression, and network strength.”
LinkedIn published its findings on September 15, 2025, based on verified alumni data.
Top 5 MBA Programs in the World
At the global level, the Stanford Graduate School of Business claimed the top spot, followed by Harvard Business School in second place.
INSEAD (France/Singapore) and The Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania) ranked third and fourth, respectively.
The Indian School of Business (ISB) rounded off the top five, outperforming several prestigious global programs.
Stanford’s notable alumni include Mukesh Ambani, Steve Ballmer, and Rishi Sunak, reflecting its global influence in business and politics.
Indian School of Business: The Only Indian Institute in Top 10
Founded in 2001, ISB — with campuses in Hyderabad and Mohali — is celebrated for its Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP). The one-year course is designed for professionals with work experience and is globally ranked for its academic rigor and career outcomes.
ISB’s consistent rise in global rankings highlights India’s growing influence in business education and leadership development.
Other Indian Institutes in Top 20
Apart from ISB, three other Indian B-schools featured in the top 20 list:
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IIM Calcutta – Ranked 16th
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IIM Ahmedabad – Ranked 17th
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IIM Bangalore – Ranked 20th
Notably, IIM Calcutta outranked IIM Ahmedabad in this year’s list.
IIM Ahmedabad’s distinguished alumni include Raghuram Rajan, Falguni Nayar, and Ajay Banga, underscoring its global reputation for producing leaders across sectors.
Global Recognition for Indian Management Education
Experts say the rankings reflect a shift in how management programs are evaluated — focusing on career growth, leadership roles, and alumni success rather than just academic prestige.
With ISB breaking into the world’s top 10 and three IIMs securing spots in the top 20, India’s B-schools continue to make their mark on the global management map.
