IIM Sambalpur Announces Shortlist for MBA PI 2026-28 Batch
Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur, one of the third-generation IIMs established under the Ministry of Education, has started the shortlisting process for the personal interview (PI) round for MBA admissions to the 2026–28 academic batch.
As per the admission framework of IIM Sambalpur, shortlisted candidates began receiving official email notifications on January 8, 2026, inviting them to complete the application formalities for the PI stage.
CAT 2025 Cut-offs and Shortlisting Parameters
The shortlisting exercise at IIM Sambalpur is primarily based on candidates’ performance in the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025, the national-level entrance examination for management programmes conducted by the IIMs.
For candidates belonging to the general category, the minimum required overall CAT percentile is 90, with no explicit sectional cut-offs specified in the published admission policy.
The pre-PI evaluation uses a composite score, factoring in:
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CAT 2025 performance
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Academic scores in Class X, Class XII, and graduation
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Relevant work experience
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Gender diversity considerations
This multi-parameter approach enables IIM Sambalpur to conduct a holistic assessment before inviting candidates to the interview stage.
Application Process for Shortlisted Candidates
Candidates who selected IIM Sambalpur during CAT 2025 registration and met the eligibility criteria receive a direct email from the institute.
The communication includes a secure link to the admission portal, where applicants must:
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Log in to the online application system
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Fill in and submit the PI application form
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Confirm their willingness to participate in the interview process
Timely completion of this step is mandatory to retain the shortlist status for the MBA programme.
Personal Interview Stage and Final Selection
Shortlisted candidates will be evaluated through personal interviews, which may be conducted in online or hybrid mode.
The PI round is expected to take place between March and April 2026 and will carry significant weight in the preparation of the final merit list, along with academic credentials and diversity-related components.
The institute has not yet released specific details regarding interview dates, venues, or the total number of candidates shortlisted for this cycle.
Importance of the Shortlist for MBA Aspirants
The release of the shortlist marks a crucial milestone for CAT 2025 aspirants aiming to secure admission to IIM Sambalpur, which has gained recognition for its industry-oriented curriculum and innovation-driven learning environment.
Final admission offers will be issued based on cumulative performance across all stages, reinforcing a transparent and merit-based selection process at IIM Sambalpur.
Candidates are advised to regularly check their registered email IDs and the official institute website for further updates related to interviews and final admission decisions.










