IIT Mandi MBA in Data Science & AI: Apply for 2026-28 Batch

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has started accepting applications for its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Students aiming for the 2026-28 batch can apply online from December 24, 2025 , until January 27, 2026 . This program is gaining popularity because of the high demand for skills in data and artificial intelligence. The previous batch saw strong job offers, with an average annual salary of ₹18 Lakhs (LPA) and the highest package reaching an impressive ₹49 LPA .

This specialized MBA program is offered by the School of Management at IIT Mandi. It is designed to create business leaders who understand and can use powerful tools like Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. In today's world, businesses heavily rely on data to make smart decisions and grow, making these skills very valuable for future careers.

Understanding the MBA Program

The MBA in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence at IIT Mandi focuses on blending core business knowledge with advanced technological skills. This helps students lead companies through digital changes.

Key Areas of Study

• The curriculum covers important business foundations along with subjects like AI, machine learning, data science, and strategies for the digital world.
• The courses are regularly updated. This is done with help from industry experts, ensuring that what students learn matches what companies need today.
• Students get access to modern data analysis laboratories and high-tech computing facilities. They can also use IIT Mandi’s technology hub, Catalyst, which supports new business ideas and startups.

Hands-on Learning Experience

• The program offers practical learning through live projects, challenges focused on AI-driven business cases, and internships.
• Students also participate in hackathons (events where people create new software or hardware ideas) and go on industry visits to see how businesses work.

Professor Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi, stated that this MBA program helps shape future business leaders who can use data and AI responsibly and in new ways. He emphasized IIT Mandi’s dedication to providing excellent management education driven by technology. Professor Anjan Kumar Swain, Chairperson of the School of Management at IIT Mandi, added that the program expertly combines management, data analysis, and technology. This helps students develop critical thinking, encourages new ideas, and builds strong leadership skills needed in the fast-changing digital economy.

Job Opportunities and Placements

Students from this program have achieved excellent job placement results. As noted, the average annual salary for the last batch was ₹18 LPA , and the highest salary package offered was ₹49 LPA . Companies that hire graduates from this program come from various fields, including data analysis, consulting, banking and finance (BFSI), technology services, and businesses that heavily use AI.

How to Apply for the Program

Interested candidates must submit their applications through an online form. This form is available on the official website of the School of Management (SOM) at IIT Mandi. Before applying, candidates should check the detailed eligibility requirements.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Applicants can choose to apply under one of the two main categories:

For complete details on eligibility criteria, students should visit the SOM website:som.iitmandi.ac.in.

Steps for the Admission Process

1. Candidates need to submit their applications online through the School of Management website.
2. After an initial review of all submitted applications, a list of selected candidates will be created.
3. These shortlisted candidates will then be invited to attend a Personal Interview as the next step in the admission process.

Key Dates for Application