Tuesday, 30 September 2008

PL SQL FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is PL/SQL and what is it used for?
SQL is a declarative language that allows database programmers to write a SQL declaration and hand it to the database for execution. As such, SQL cannot be used to execute procedural code with conditional, iterative and sequential statements. To overcome this limitation, PL/SQL was created.

PL/SQL is Oracle's Procedural Language extension to SQL. PL/SQL's language syntax, structure and data types are similar to that of Ada. Some of the statements provided by PL/SQL:

Conditional Control Statements:

IF ... THEN ... ELSIF ... ELSE ... END IF;
CASE ... WHEN ... THEN ... ELSE ... END CASE;
Iterative Statements:

LOOP ... END LOOP;
WHILE ... LOOP ... END LOOP;
FOR ... IN [REVERSE] ... LOOP ... END LOOP;
Sequential Control Statements:

GOTO ...;
NULL;
The PL/SQL language includes object oriented programming techniques such as encapsulation, function overloading, information hiding (all but inheritance).

PL/SQL is commonly used to write data-centric programs to manipulate data in an Oracle database.

Example PL/SQL blocks:

/* Remember to SET SERVEROUTPUT ON to see the output */
BEGIN
DBMS_OUTPUT.PUT_LINE('Hello World');
END;
/
BEGIN
-- A PL/SQL cursor
FOR cursor1 IN (SELECT * FROM table1) -- This is an embedded SQL statement
LOOP
DBMS_OUTPUT.PUT_LINE('Column 1 = ' || cursor1.column1 ||
', Column 2 = ' || cursor1.column2);
END LOOP;
END;
/
[edit]What is the difference between SQL and PL/SQL?
Both SQL and PL/SQL are languages used to access data within Oracle databases.

SQL is a limited language that allows you to directly interact with the database. You can write queries (SELECT), manipulate objects (DDL) and data (DML) with SQL. However, SQL doesn't include all the things that normal programming languages have, such as loops and IF...THEN...ELSE statements.

PL/SQL is a normal programming language that includes all the features of most other programming languages. But, it has one thing that other programming languages don't have: the ability to easily integrate with SQL.

Some of the differences:

SQL is executed one statement at a time. PL/SQL is executed as a block of code.
SQL tells the database what to do (declarative), not how to do it. In contrast, PL/SQL tell the database how to do things (procedural).
SQL is used to code queries, DML and DDL statements. PL/SQL is used to code program blocks, triggers, functions, procedures and packages.
You can embed SQL in a PL/SQL program, but you cannot embed PL/SQL within a SQL statement.
[edit]Should one use PL/SQL or Java to code procedures and triggers?
Both PL/SQL and Java can be used to create Oracle stored procedures and triggers. This often leads to questions like "Which of the two is the best?" and "Will Oracle ever desupport PL/SQL in favour of Java?".

Many Oracle applications are based on PL/SQL and it would be difficult of Oracle to ever desupport PL/SQL. In fact, all indications are that PL/SQL still has a bright future ahead of it. Many enhancements are still being made to PL/SQL. For example, Oracle 9i supports native compilation of Pl/SQL code to binaries. Not to mention the numerous PL/SQL enhancements made in Oracle 10g and 11g.

PL/SQL and Java appeal to different people in different job roles. The following table briefly describes the similarities and difference between these two language environments:

PL/SQL:

Can be used to create Oracle packages, procedures and triggers
Data centric and tightly integrated into the database
Proprietary to Oracle and difficult to port to other database systems
Data manipulation is slightly faster in PL/SQL than in Java
PL/SQL is a traditional procedural programming language
Java:

Can be used to create Oracle packages, procedures and triggers
Open standard, not proprietary to Oracle
Incurs some data conversion overhead between the Database and Java type systems
Java is an Object Orientated language, and modules are structured into classes
Java can be used to produce complete applications
PS: Starting with Oracle 10g, .NET procedures can also be stored within the database (Windows only). Nevertheless, unlike PL/SQL and JAVA, .NET code is not usable on non-Windows systems.

[edit]How can one see if somebody modified any code?
The source code for stored procedures, functions and packages are stored in the Oracle Data Dictionary. One can detect code changes by looking at the TIMESTAMP and LAST_DDL_TIME column in the USER_OBJECTS dictionary view. Example:

SELECT OBJECT_NAME,
TO_CHAR(CREATED, 'DD-Mon-RR HH24:MI') CREATE_TIME,
TO_CHAR(LAST_DDL_TIME, 'DD-Mon-RR HH24:MI') MOD_TIME,
STATUS
FROM USER_OBJECTS
WHERE LAST_DDL_TIME > '&CHECK_FROM_DATE';
Note: If you recompile an object, the LAST_DDL_TIME column is updated, but the TIMESTAMP column is not updated. If you modified the code, both the TIMESTAMP and LAST_DDL_TIME columns are updated.

[edit]How can one search PL/SQL code for a string/ key value?
The following query is handy if you want to know where certain tables, columns and expressions are referenced in your PL/SQL source code.

SELECT type, name, line
FROM user_source
WHERE UPPER(text) LIKE UPPER('%&KEYWORD%');
If you run the above query from SQL*Plus, enter the string you are searching for when prompted for KEYWORD. If not, replace &KEYWORD with the string you are searching for.

[edit]How can one keep a history of PL/SQL code changes?
One can build a history of PL/SQL code changes by setting up an AFTER CREATE schema (or database) level trigger (available from Oracle 8.1.7). This way one can easily revert to previous code should someone make any catastrophic changes. Look at this example:

CREATE TABLE SOURCE_HIST -- Create history table
AS SELECT SYSDATE CHANGE_DATE, USER_SOURCE.*
FROM USER_SOURCE WHERE 1=2;

CREATE OR REPLACE TRIGGER change_hist -- Store code in hist table
AFTER CREATE ON SCOTT.SCHEMA -- Change SCOTT to your schema name
DECLARE
BEGIN
if DICTIONARY_OBJ_TYPE in ('PROCEDURE', 'FUNCTION',
'PACKAGE', 'PACKAGE BODY', 'TYPE') then
-- Store old code in SOURCE_HIST table
INSERT INTO SOURCE_HIST
SELECT sysdate, user_source.* FROM USER_SOURCE
WHERE TYPE = DICTIONARY_OBJ_TYPE
AND NAME = DICTIONARY_OBJ_NAME;
end if;
EXCEPTION
WHEN OTHERS THEN
raise_application_error(-20000, SQLERRM);
END;
/
show errors
A better approach is to create an external CVS or SVN archive for the scripts that installs the PL/SQL code. The canonical version of what's in the database must match the latest CVS/SVN version or else someone would be cheating.

[edit]How can I protect my PL/SQL source code?
Oracle provides a binary wrapper utility that can be used to scramble PL/SQL source code. This utility was introduced in Oracle7.2 (PL/SQL V2.2) and is located in the ORACLE_HOME/bin directory.

The utility use human-readable PL/SQL source code as input, and writes out portable binary object code (somewhat larger than the original). The binary code can be distributed without fear of exposing your proprietary algorithms and methods. Oracle will still understand and know how to execute the code. Just be careful, there is no "decode" command available. So, don't lose your source!

The syntax is:

wrap iname=myscript.pls oname=xxxx.plb
Please note: there is no way to unwrap a *.plb binary file. You are supposed to backup and keep your *.pls source files after wrapping them.

[edit]Can one print to the screen from PL/SQL?
One can use the DBMS_OUTPUT package to write information to an output buffer. This buffer can be displayed on the screen from SQL*Plus if you issue the SET SERVEROUTPUT ON; command. For example:

set serveroutput on
begin
dbms_output.put_line('Look Ma, I can print from PL/SQL!!!');
end;
/
DBMS_OUTPUT is useful for debugging PL/SQL programs. However, if you print too much, the output buffer will overflow. In that case, set the buffer size to a larger value, eg.: set serveroutput on size 200000

If you forget to set serveroutput on type SET SERVEROUTPUT ON once you remember, and then EXEC NULL;. If you haven't cleared the DBMS_OUTPUT buffer with the disable or enable procedure, SQL*Plus will display the entire contents of the buffer when it executes this dummy PL/SQL block.

Note that DBMS_OUTPUT doesn't print blank or NULL lines. To overcome this problem, SET SERVEROUTPUT ON FORMAT WRAP; Look at this example with this option first disabled and then enabled:

SQL> SET SERVEROUTPUT ON
SQL> begin
2 dbms_output.put_line('The next line is blank');
3 dbms_output.put_line();
4 dbms_output.put_line('The above line should be blank');
5 end;
6 /
The next line is blank
The above line should be blank
SQL> SET SERVEROUTPUT ON FORMAT WRAP
SQL> begin
2 dbms_output.put_line('The next line is blank');
3 dbms_output.put_line();
4 dbms_output.put_line('The above line should be blank');
5 end;
6 /
The next line is blank

The above line should be blank
[edit]Can one read/write files from PL/SQL?
The UTL_FILE database package can be used to read and write operating system files.

A DBA user needs to grant you access to read from/ write to a specific directory before using this package. Here is an example:

CONNECT / AS SYSDBA
CREATE OR REPLACE DIRECTORY mydir AS '/tmp';
GRANT read, write ON DIRECTORY mydir TO scott;
Provide user access to the UTL_FILE package (created by catproc.sql):

GRANT EXECUTE ON UTL_FILE TO scott;
Copy and paste these examples to get you started:

Write File

DECLARE
fHandler UTL_FILE.FILE_TYPE;
BEGIN
fHandler := UTL_FILE.FOPEN('MYDIR', 'myfile', 'w');
UTL_FILE.PUTF(fHandler, 'Look ma, Im writing to a file!!!\n');
UTL_FILE.FCLOSE(fHandler);
EXCEPTION
WHEN utl_file.invalid_path THEN
raise_application_error(-20000, 'Invalid path. Create directory or set UTL_FILE_DIR.');
END;
/
Read File

DECLARE
fHandler UTL_FILE.FILE_TYPE;
buf varchar2(4000);
BEGIN
fHandler := UTL_FILE.FOPEN('MYDIR', 'myfile', 'r');
UTL_FILE.GET_LINE(fHandler, buf);
dbms_output.put_line('DATA FROM FILE: '||buf);
UTL_FILE.FCLOSE(fHandler);
EXCEPTION
WHEN utl_file.invalid_path THEN
raise_application_error(-20000, 'Invalid path. Create directory or set UTL_FILE_DIR.');
END;
/
NOTE: UTL_FILE was introduced with Oracle 7.3. Before Oracle 7.3 the only means of writing a file was to use DBMS_OUTPUT with the SQL*Plus SPOOL command.

[edit]Can one call DDL statements from PL/SQL?
One can call DDL statements like CREATE, DROP, TRUNCATE, etc. from PL/SQL by using the "EXECUTE IMMEDIATE" statement (native SQL). Examples:

begin
EXECUTE IMMEDIATE 'CREATE TABLE X(A DATE)';
end;
begin execute Immediate 'TRUNCATE TABLE emp'; end;
DECLARE
var VARCHAR2(100);
BEGIN
var := 'CREATE TABLE temp1(col1 NUMBER(2))';
EXECUTE IMMEDIATE var;
END;
NOTE: The DDL statement in quotes should not be terminated with a semicolon.

Users running Oracle versions below Oracle 8i can look at the DBMS_SQL package (see FAQ about Dynamic SQL).

[edit]Can one use dynamic SQL statements from PL/SQL?
Starting from Oracle8i one can use the "EXECUTE IMMEDIATE" statement to execute dynamic SQL and PL/SQL statements (statements created at run-time). Look at these examples. Note that the statements within quotes are NOT semicolon terminated:

EXECUTE IMMEDIATE 'CREATE TABLE x (a NUMBER)';

-- Using bind variables...'
sql_stmt := 'INSERT INTO dept VALUES (:1, :2, :3)';
EXECUTE IMMEDIATE sql_stmt USING dept_id, dept_name, location;

-- Returning a cursor...
sql_stmt := 'SELECT * FROM emp WHERE empno = :id';
EXECUTE IMMEDIATE sql_stmt INTO emp_rec USING emp_id;
One can also use the older DBMS_SQL package (V2.1 and above) to execute dynamic statements. Look at these examples:

CREATE OR REPLACE PROCEDURE DYNSQL AS
cur integer;
rc integer;
BEGIN
cur := DBMS_SQL.OPEN_CURSOR;
DBMS_SQL.PARSE(cur, 'CREATE TABLE X (Y DATE)', DBMS_SQL.NATIVE);
rc := DBMS_SQL.EXECUTE(cur);
DBMS_SQL.CLOSE_CURSOR(cur);
END;
/
More complex DBMS_SQL example using bind variables:

CREATE OR REPLACE PROCEDURE DEPARTMENTS(NO IN DEPT.DEPTNO%TYPE) AS
v_cursor integer;
v_dname char(20);
v_rows integer;
BEGIN
v_cursor := DBMS_SQL.OPEN_CURSOR;
DBMS_SQL.PARSE(v_cursor, 'select dname from dept where deptno > :x', DBMS_SQL.V7);
DBMS_SQL.BIND_VARIABLE(v_cursor, ':x', no);
DBMS_SQL.DEFINE_COLUMN_CHAR(v_cursor, 1, v_dname, 20);
v_rows := DBMS_SQL.EXECUTE(v_cursor);
loop
if DBMS_SQL.FETCH_ROWS(v_cursor) = 0 then
exit;
end if;
DBMS_SQL.COLUMN_VALUE_CHAR(v_cursor, 1, v_dname);
DBMS_OUTPUT.PUT_LINE('Deptartment name: '||v_dname);
end loop;
DBMS_SQL.CLOSE_CURSOR(v_cursor);
EXCEPTION
when others then
DBMS_SQL.CLOSE_CURSOR(v_cursor);
raise_application_error(-20000, 'Unknown Exception Raised: '||sqlcode||' '||sqlerrm);
END;
/
[edit]What is the difference between %TYPE and %ROWTYPE?
Both %TYPE and %ROWTYPE are used to define variables in PL/SQL as it is defined within the database. If the datatype or precision of a column changes, the program automically picks up the new definition from the database without having to make any code changes.

The %TYPE and %ROWTYPE constructs provide data independence, reduces maintenance costs, and allows programs to adapt as the database changes to meet new business needs.

%TYPE

%TYPE is used to declare a field with the same type as that of a specified table's column. Example:

DECLARE
v_EmpName emp.ename%TYPE;
BEGIN
SELECT ename INTO v_EmpName FROM emp WHERE ROWNUM = 1;
DBMS_OUTPUT.PUT_LINE('Name = ' || v_EmpName);
END;
/
%ROWTYPE

%ROWTYPE is used to declare a record with the same types as found in the specified database table, view or cursor. Examples:

DECLARE
v_emp emp%ROWTYPE;
BEGIN
v_emp.empno := 10;
v_emp.ename := 'XXXXXXX';
END;
/
[edit]How does one get the value of a sequence into a PL/SQL variable?
As you might know, one cannot use sequences directly from PL/SQL. Oracle (for some silly reason) prohibits this:

i := sq_sequence.NEXTVAL;
However, one can use embedded SQL statements to obtain sequence values:

select sq_sequence.NEXTVAL into :i from dual;
This FAQ was contributed by Ronald van Woensel

[edit]Can one execute an operating system command from PL/SQL?
There is no direct way to execute operating system commands from PL/SQL. PL/SQL doesn't have a "host" command, as with SQL*Plus, that allows users to call OS commands. Nevertheless, the following workarounds can be used:

Database Pipes

Write an external program (using one of the precompiler languages, OCI or Perl with Oracle access modules) to act as a listener on a database pipe (SYS.DBMS_PIPE). Your PL/SQL program then put requests to run commands in the pipe, the listener picks it up and run the requests. Results are passed back on a different database pipe. For an Pro*C example, see chapter 8 of the Oracle Application Developers Guide.

CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION host_command( cmd IN VARCHAR2 )
RETURN INTEGER IS
status NUMBER;
errormsg VARCHAR2(80);
pipe_name VARCHAR2(30);
BEGIN
pipe_name := 'HOST_PIPE';
dbms_pipe.pack_message( cmd );
status := dbms_pipe.send_message(pipe_name);
RETURN status;
END;
/
External Procedure Listeners:

From Oracle 8 one can call external 3GL code in a dynamically linked library (DLL or shared object). One just write a library in C/ C++ to do whatever is required. Defining this C/C++ function to PL/SQL makes it executable. Look at this External Procedure example.

Using Java

See example at http://www.orafaq.com/scripts/plsql/oscmd.txt

DBMS_SCHEDULER

In Oracle 10g and above, one can execute OS commands via the DBMS_SCHEDULER package. Look at this example:

BEGIN
dbms_scheduler.create_job(job_name => 'myjob',
job_type => 'executable',
job_action => '/app/oracle/x.sh',
enabled => TRUE,
auto_drop => TRUE);
END;
/

exec dbms_scheduler.run_job('myjob');
[edit]How does one loop through tables in PL/SQL?
One can make use of cursors to loop through data within tables. Look at the following nested loops code example.

DECLARE
CURSOR dept_cur IS
SELECT deptno
FROM dept
ORDER BY deptno;

-- Employee cursor all employees for a dept number
CURSOR emp_cur (v_dept_no DEPT.DEPTNO%TYPE) IS
SELECT ename
FROM emp
WHERE deptno = v_dept_no;
BEGIN
FOR dept_rec IN dept_cur LOOP
dbms_output.put_line('Employees in Department '||TO_CHAR(dept_rec.deptno));

FOR emp_rec in emp_cur(dept_rec.deptno) LOOP
dbms_output.put_line('...Employee is '||emp_rec.ename);
END LOOP;

END LOOP;
END;
/
[edit]How often should one COMMIT in a PL/SQL loop? / What is the best commit strategy?
Contrary to popular belief, one should COMMIT less frequently within a PL/SQL loop to prevent ORA-1555 (Snapshot too old) errors. The higher the frequency of commit, the sooner the extents in the undo/ rollback segments will be cleared for new transactions, causing ORA-1555 errors.

To fix this problem one can easily rewrite code like this:

FOR records IN my_cursor LOOP
...do some stuff...
COMMIT;
END LOOP;
COMMIT;
... to ...

FOR records IN my_cursor LOOP
...do some stuff...
i := i+1;
IF mod(i, 10000) = 0 THEN -- Commit every 10000 records
COMMIT;
END IF;
END LOOP;
COMMIT;
If you still get ORA-1555 errors, contact your DBA to increase the undo/ rollback segments.

NOTE: Although fetching across COMMITs work with Oracle, is not supported by the ANSI standard.

[edit]I can SELECT from SQL*Plus but not from PL/SQL. What is wrong?
PL/SQL respect object privileges given directly to the user, but does not observe privileges given through roles. The consequence is that a SQL statement can work in SQL*Plus, but will give an error in PL/SQL. Choose one of the following solutions:

Grant direct access on the tables to your user. Do not use roles!
GRANT select ON scott.emp TO my_user;
Define your procedures with invoker rights (Oracle 8i and higher);
create or replace procedure proc1
authid current_user is
begin
...
Move all the tables to one user/schema.
[edit]What is a mutating and constraining table?
"Mutating" means "changing". A mutating table is a table that is currently being modified by an update, delete, or insert statement. When a trigger tries to reference a table that is in state of flux (being changed), it is considered "mutating" and raises an error since Oracle should not return data that has not yet reached its final state.

Another way this error can occur is if the trigger has statements to change the primary, foreign or unique key columns of the table off which it fires. If you must have triggers on tables that have referential constraints, the workaround is to enforce the referential integrity through triggers as well.

There are several restrictions in Oracle regarding triggers:

A row-level trigger cannot query or modify a mutating table. (Of course, NEW and OLD still can be accessed by the trigger).
A statement-level trigger cannot query or modify a mutating table if the trigger is fired as the result of a CASCADE delete.
Etc.
[edit]Can one pass an object/table as an argument to a remote procedure?
The only way to reference an object type between databases is via a database link. Note that it is not enough to just use "similar" type definitions. Look at this example:

-- Database A: receives a PL/SQL table from database B
CREATE OR REPLACE PROCEDURE pcalled(TabX DBMS_SQL.VARCHAR2S) IS
BEGIN
-- do something with TabX from database B
null;
END;
/



-- Database B: sends a PL/SQL table to database A
CREATE OR REPLACE PROCEDURE pcalling IS
TabX DBMS_SQL.VARCHAR2S@DBLINK2;
BEGIN
pcalled@DBLINK2(TabX);
END;
/
[edit]What is the difference between stored procedures and functions?
Functions are normally used for computations where as procedures are normally used for executing business logic.
Functions MUST return a value, procedures doesn't need to.
You can have DML (insert,update, delete) statements in a function. But, you cannot call such a function in a SQL query. For example, if you have a function that is updating a table, you cannot call that function from a SQL query.
- select myFunction(field) from sometable; will throw error.
Function returns 1 value only. Procedure can return multiple values (max 1024).
Stored Procedure: supports deferred name resolution. Example while writing a stored procedure that uses table named tabl1 and tabl2 etc..but actually not exists in database is allowed only in during creation but runtime throws error Function wont support deferred name resolution. Stored procedure returns always integer value by default zero. where as function return type could be scalar or table or table values(SQL Server). Stored procedure is precompiled execution plan where as functions are not.
A procedure may modify an object where a function can only return a value.
PS: In earlier releases of Oracle it was better to put as much code as possible in procedures rather than triggers. At that stage procedures executed faster than triggers as triggers had to be re-compiled every time before executed (unless cached). In more recent releases both triggers and procedures are compiled when created (stored p-code) and one can add as much code as one likes in either procedures or triggers.

[edit]Is there a PL/SQL Engine in SQL*Plus?
No. Unlike Oracle Forms, SQL*Plus does not have an embedded PL/SQL engine. Thus, all your PL/SQL code is sent directly to the database engine for execution. This makes it much more efficient as SQL statements are not stripped off and sent to the database individually.

[edit]Is there a limit on the size of a PL/SQL block?
Yes, the max size is not an explicit byte limit, but related to the parse tree that is created when you compile the code. You can run the following select statement to query the size of an existing package or procedure:

SQL> select * from dba_object_size where name = 'procedure_name';
[edit]What's the PL/SQL compiler limits for block, record, subquery and label nesting?
The following limits apply:

Level of Block Nesting: 255
Level of Record Nesting: 32
Level of Subquery Nesting: 254
Level of Label Nesting: 98


[edit]Can one COMMIT/ ROLLBACK from within a trigger?
Changes made within triggers should be committed or rolled back as part of the transaction in which they execute. Thus, triggers are NOT allowed to execute COMMIT or ROLLBACK statements (with the exception of autonomous triggers). Here is an example of what will happen when they do:

SQL> CREATE TABLE tab1 (col1 NUMBER);
Table created.

SQL> CREATE TABLE log (timestamp DATE, operation VARCHAR2(2000));
Table created.

SQL> CREATE TRIGGER tab1_trig
2 AFTER insert ON tab1
3 BEGIN
4 INSERT INTO log VALUES (SYSDATE, 'Insert on TAB1');
5 COMMIT;
6 END;
7 /
Trigger created.

SQL> INSERT INTO tab1 VALUES (1);
INSERT INTO tab1 VALUES (1)
*
ERROR at line 1:
ORA-04092: cannot COMMIT in a trigger
ORA-06512: at "SCOTT.TAB1_TRIG", line 3
ORA-04088: error during execution of trigger 'SCOTT.TAB1_TRIG'
Autonomous transactions:

As workaround, one can use autonomous transactions. Autonomous transactions execute separate from the current transaction.

Unlike regular triggers, autonomous triggers can contain COMMIT and ROLLBACK statements. Example:

SQL> CREATE OR REPLACE TRIGGER tab1_trig
2 AFTER insert ON tab1
3 DECLARE
4 PRAGMA AUTONOMOUS_TRANSACTION;
5 BEGIN
6 INSERT INTO log VALUES (SYSDATE, 'Insert on TAB1');
7 COMMIT; -- only allowed in autonomous triggers
8 END;
9 /
Trigger created.

SQL> INSERT INTO tab1 VALUES (1);
1 row created.
Note that with the above example will insert and commit log entries - even if the main transaction is rolled-back!

Retrieved from "http://www.orafaq.com/wiki/PL/SQL_FAQ"

Monday, 29 September 2008

About the Post Graduate Programme in Management at Hyderabad ISB

A) About the Post Graduate Programme in Management
1) What is the PGP?
The PGP refers to the ISB’s full-time one-year residential Post Graduate Programme in Management. The PGP is comparable in rigor and content to a regular two-year full-time MBA programme offered by global business schools.

2) Is the PGP similar to the Executive MBA programmes offered by several business schools?
No. As mentioned above, the Post Graduate Programme is similar in rigor and content to a regular two-year full-time MBA programme offered by global business schools.

3) Does the PGP award an MBA degree?
No. Unlike in other countries, degrees can only be awarded by universities in India.

4) What are the concentrations being offered in the PGP?
The concentrations offered can be viewed on our website at http://www.isb.edu/pgp/Curriculum.Shtml?menuid=106

5) How many students would you be admitting for PGP 2009-10?

We are planning to admit about 560 students for 2009-10.



B) Admissions Criteria
1) What is the criteria for admission to the ISB Post Graduate Programme?
The eligibility criteria are –

Students must possess an undergraduate/graduate or post-graduate degree in any discipline
A minimum of two years' full-time post qualification work experience is preferred
A GMAT score
TOEFL/IELTS score is required for students from countries other than India, where English is not the primary language of instruction
All short-listed applicants will be interviewed as a part of the selection process

a) GMAT
1) What is the GMAT?
The GMAT is the Graduate Management Admission Test conducted by Graduate Management Admission Council and is a globally recognised test for admission to business schools. For more information on GMAT please visit their official web site http://www.mba.com/mba/TaketheGMAT

2) Is there a cut-off score for the GMAT at the ISB?
There is no cut-off score for the GMAT; however, a competitive score strengthens the application but does not in anyway guarantee admission. Similarly a lower score also does not necessarily mean exclusion.
3) Is it mandatory to take the GMAT before applying to the ISB?
Yes it is. The applicant has to take the GMAT and submit his/her score before sending in the application.
4) Can I apply with a Test Centre/Unofficial GMAT Score Report?

Yes, you can. However, the official score report from Pearson VUE should reach the ISB at least by the time we short-list the applicants.
5) What is the validity period for a GMAT score?

Currently a GMAT score is valid for 5 years.
6) If I submit more than one GMAT score, which score will be considered by the ISB?
The higher score would be considered, provided it is within the validity period of five years.
7) How long does it take for the Official GMAT scores to reach ISB?
Normally it takes 2-3 weeks for the official GMAT score to reach us. Therefore, we strongly recommend that applicants plan and book the GMAT test dates well in advance.

8) Will I be considered for the deadline if I send my GMAT scores later?
You will not be allowed to submit your application without a valid GMAT score. However, you can submit the application with your test centre scores, but the official score should also reach us within 3 weeks of submission of your online application.
9) Are CAT/GRE scores accepted by the ISB in lieu of GMAT scores?
No. The ISB does not consider the CAT/GRE scores for admissions, only the GMAT.
10) Can the GMAT requirement be waived under exceptional circumstances?
No. The GMAT score cannot be waived under any circumstances.


b) English Proficiency Requirements
1) Does ISB require a test to prove proficiency in English?
A TOEFL/IELTS score is required for non-Indian students who did not have ENGLISH as the primary language of instruction during their undergraduate studies.
2) Where would we get more information about TOEFL?
Please visit their official web site www.toefl.org or write to toefl@ets.org
3) What is the IELTS?
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. To know more about IELTS please visit their official website http://www.ielts.org

C) Application Process
1) Where do I get a copy of the application form?
The ISB’s entire application process is available online and therefore no printed copy of the form is available/accepted. You will therefore need access to an internet enabled computer to apply to the programme. You will also need to scan some documents to be uploaded and will therefore need access to a scanner.
2) Does the entire application need to be completed within one session?
No. You can complete the online application in multiple sessions and have the option to save parts of the application as you proceed.
3) Do I also need to submit a printed copy of the application form once I have submitted it online?
No. We will not require you to send a printed copy of the application form.
4) How do I send in my academic transcripts/mark sheets, other documents and photographs required as part of the application?
You may scan and upload the following documents as part of the online application in the format specified in the application.

Photograph
Passport
Proof of Income
As far as mark sheets/Transcripts and Certificates are concerned, you may submit photocopies ( for all the academic/award details listed in the application) at the time of interview, if short-listed. All overseas applicants may forward soft copies (in pdf) of the same to PGPAdmissions@isb.edu , soon after they receive an interview intimation.

5) How can my referees submit their recommendation forms?
We prefer online recommendations to be submitted as part of your application. Your referees will be sent an email with a link on which they will be able to complete your recommendation form. Please ensure you enter their official email addresses only since personal email addresses will not be considered.

6) How will the ISB verify my transcripts/documents?
At the time of joining the programme, you will need to bring all the original documents with which we will verify the photocopies/scans with these originals.
7) Can I reapply?
Yes. You can reapply. Please note that you cannot reapply within the same academic year. You have to submit a fresh online application along with the application fee and essays. An additional essay listing the changes in your profile from the last year is essential. However, it is important to show a significant overall improvement from the previous year in view of extreme intensity of competition.

If you are an applicant in 2008-09, you will be able to use the same evaluations for your 2009-10 application also. You may do that by selecting the option available on the evaluator details page. However, it is always recommended to use fresh evaluations to get more insights into any of your recent initiatives, skill sets and changes in profile.

8) Do you acknowledge receipt of application by mail?
We convey the status of your application online. Do remember to check your application status.


9) I have scanned and uploaded the required documents, but I found them oriented towards 90 degrees in the Application pdf. How do I correct this?
There is absolutely no problem with this. You may go ahead submitting your application.

10) How do I submit a resume as a part of the application?
There is no need for submitting a separate resume. The online application module will generate a resume in the required format with the details you have filled as part of the application. It includes your Academic details, Employment details (along with responsibilities/achievements) and awards & activities.
D) Interviews
1) Do you have a GD/Personal Interview as part of the admission criteria?
As a part of the admission process, all short listed candidates will be interviewed. There is no group discussion
2) How many applicants are called for interview in Round-1 & Round-2 and how many selected?
There is no fixed percentage of students being called by the ISB either for interviews or for admission.
3) What will be the mode of my interview if I am overseas at the time of interview?
You will be interviewed over telephone. You have to call the telephone number given in the interview mail sent to you.


E) Fees
1) Can I pay the tuition fees in instalments?
Tuition fees can be paid in two instalments; however, the ISB allows a discount on fees paid one time in full.
2) Are there different fee structures for Indian and International students?
Currently the fee structure is the same for all students.
3) How do I accept the offer of admission?
You may accept the offer made by remitting a non-refundable admission fee of INR 200,000 (or US $ 5,000 within the deadline specified in the offer mail. If the amount has not been paid within the deadline, it will be assumed that the applicant is not interested in joining the programme.
4) a) Is the admission fee in addition to the tuition fee?
No. The admission fee is part of the tuition fees.
b) I have paid the admission fee but due to unavoidable circumstances I will not be able to join the programme. Will the admission fee be refunded to me?
No. The admission fee is non-refundable.

5) How much time do I have to accept or decline an admission offer?
The ISB should receive your acceptance decision within 15 days from the date of the admission offer along with the admission fee.
6) Can the admission offer acceptance date be extended?
No. The acceptance dates are fixed by the Admissions Committee. If the acceptance amount is not received by the due date it will be assumed that the applicant is not interested in the programme and the offer made to the applicant will stand automatically withdrawn.


F) Financial Aid
I fulfil the eligibility criteria but cannot afford the full tuition fee. Can the ISB help?
Financial Aid is provided to students in the form of tuition waivers, scholarships and loans.
Tuition Waivers: The ISB awards both merit and need based tuition waivers to qualifying applicants ranging from INR 1,00,000 to INR 3,00,000. Details of these waivers will be indicated in the admission offer where applicable.

Scholarships: The details of scholarships available to students are available on our website. Please visit the link http://www.isb.edu/isbweb/isbcms/PGP/Scholarships.Shtml for these details.

Loans: Student loans are available through a few leading financial institutions. Please check the website http://www.isb.edu/isbweb/isbcms/PGP/Loans.Shtml for details. International students applying to ISB are eligible for loans from IEFC. You may visit http://www.iefc.org for further details.
1) What is the difference between tuition waivers and scholarships?
Tuition waivers are discounts on the tuition fee granted by the ISB and communicated in the admission offer while scholarships are generally granted by other organisations and dependent on your performance in the programme.
2) Does the ISB offer financial aid to International students?

The ISB does offer financial aid to qualifying International students through tuition waivers.
3) What kinds of profiles usually get selected for scholarships?
The selection criteria usually depend on the organisation granting the scholarship. The qualifying process is highly competitive and the selection criteria vary from year to year.
4) How can an applicant apply for a tuition waiver?
The applicant has to write the required essay given in the application form and submit the latest income tax returns and pay slips of all the earning members in the family as supporting document.
5) When can one apply for an educational loan?
Once the admission process has been completed, all admitted students will be informed of the loan application deadlines through a separate mail.


G) Sponsorship
1) Can I get a sponsorship from the company where I am working?
Yes. Applicants are encouraged to get themselves sponsored by their employers.
2) Are there any other criteria to be fulfilled by the applicant for getting sponsorship from their employer?
No, there are no separate admission criteria for such candidates and the regular admission procedure will apply.
3) How does one apply to companies for sponsorships?
Each company has its own policies on sponsoring of high potential employees. It is up to you to ensure sponsorship from the company you are currently employed with.
4) Is there a different fee structure for sponsored students?
No. The fee structure and the selection criteria are universally applicable.


H) Exchange Programme
1) How many students normally go on Exchange Programmes?
The number varies from year to year and the outgoing exchange capacity for 2006-07 was in excess of 60 students. Globally 26 business schools currently participate in the ISB Exchange Network.
2) When do students go on Exchange Programmes?
Students go on an exchange programmes depending upon the mutual schedules of the ISB and the concerned exchanged partner school; this period can range from one to two ISB elective terms, most often terms 7 and 8 although some students do go in terms 5 & 6.
3) What are the selection criteria for the Exchange Programmes?
The students are allotted bidding points which they use to bid for their preferred exchange programme.
4) How does the bidding process work?
Each student is allotted an equal number of bidding points. Each term students must apply their points towards particular courses and the highest bidder is enrolled in each course. Normally most students get a majority of the courses that they bid for.
5) How do people manage possible time-clashes between the placement season and the Exchange Programme?
Most students return during placement week to participate, while others manage their placements from overseas.
6) Will all students admitted be allowed to participate in the exchange programmes?
Yes. For more details please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/ExchangeProgrammes.Shtml


I) Internship
1) Is there a summer internship at the ISB? If yes, how does it work?
As The ISB has a one year Post Graduate programme, a summer internship is not possible. However, the ISB offers the Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) to benefit students interested in doing projects while on campus. For more on ELP please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/ExperientialLearningProgramme.Shtml?


J) Placements
1) When do the Placements start?
Placements normally start in the mid 7th term and go on for a week. While a few companies start coming in from November onwards, the final offers are made/decided during the placement week only.
2) Does the ISB guarantee placements? What are the placements for graduates of the ISB PGP likely to be?
No. The ISB does not guarantee placements but every effort is made by the Career Advancement Services (CAS) Office to help students find and secure their ideal career opportunities. However placements are a function of demand and supply and the CAS helps students manage their career expectations realistically.

3) How was the placement scenario this year? Which are the companies that recruited this year? What was the average salary offered?
You will find details on the placement for the class of 2008 at http://www.isb.edu/pgp/Placement_Highlights.Shtml

K) Faculty
1) What is the role of visiting faculty at the ISB?

The ISB invites faculty to teach a course during a term and they are available on campus throughout the term. Faculty from Wharton, Kellogg, London Business School, Stanford, Chicago, Duke, and Texas among others, have taught at the ISB.
For more details please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/Distinctive%20Faculty.Shtml?menuid=105

2) How accessible are the faculty to the students?

Faculty members are easily accessible to the students, as they stay on campus throughout the term.


L) Credentials

1) Does AICTE/UGC recognise the ISB’s Post Graduation Programme in Management?

The ISB neither offers a diploma nor a degree. It is a certificate programme for students with experience. Therefore, we have not sought recognition for our Post Graduate Programme in Management from either the AICTE or the UGC.


M) Infrastructure & Facilities

1) Are all students required to live on campus?

Given the rigor of the course and The ISB’s aim to build a small but highly interactive campus community, it is a fully residential programme for all students.

2) Do you provide accommodation for married students?

We offer fully serviced studio apartment with preferential allotment to married students. However, your preferred type of accommodation cannot always be guaranteed, though every reasonable effort is made to address your specific requirements.

3) What all is provided in the accommodation?

Accommodation information can be found in http://www.isb.edu/KnowISb/Housing.Shtml

4) What are the facilities provide on campus?

The ISB provides the following facilities:
ICICI Bank branch
Daily Needs store- MORE
Infirmary – Branch of Apollo
Recreation Centre – Equipped with Squash, Swimming pool, basket ball ground, Tennis, Table Tennis, Gymnasium, Toddler’s room etc.
House Keeping
Washing machines in addition to laundry service
Please check the web site for further information http://www.isb.edu/pgp/WorldClassCampus.Shtml?menuid=105


N) Reservations

1) Do you have any quotas for NRI'S/SC/ST/BC?

No. We do not. However, the ISB encourages applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

2) Will Indian and foreign applicants be evaluated on the same basis?

Yes.


O) Campus Visits and Meeting the Alumni

1) I am interested in a Campus tour. How and when can I visit the campus?

Regular campus visits are organized by the ISB on all Fridays during the Admission period. For registration please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/AdmissionEvents.Shtml?menuid=109

2) How do I contact current batch students?

Please visit http://www.isb.edu/pgp/ContactAlumni_Students.aspx for more details on interacting with the current students.

3) How do I contact the Alumni?

Please visit the link http://isb.edu/pgp/ContactAlumni_Students.aspx and complete the online form. Once we receive this request we shall get back to you with the contact details of the alumnus or ask the alumnus to contact you directly.


P) Miscellaneous

1) Will part-time work experience be considered?

Work experience should be full-time. Part-time work experience will not be considered.

2) Will Army service be considered as work experience?

Yes, your work experience will be viewed in the context of the responsibilities you have handled.

3) I have worked in my family owned business for the past three years – will this experience be considered?

If this experience is full-time and if you can support this with relevant documents in your application, you can apply. The quality and relevance of your experience in your business will be critical. You will still have to furnish recommendations. Recommendations from your father, friends and family will not be accepted. You should furnish recommendation from people with whom you have a strictly professional interaction like your clients, vendors etc.

4) Do I need 16 years of formal education?

No, as long as you have been awarded a Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university, you are eligible to apply


5) Do you consider deferral of admissions?

The School does not normally permit deferral of admissions. However, in exceptional cases where applicants are unable to join after accepting the admission offer and depositing the stipulated acceptance fee, the School may consider deferment of admission to the following academic year. Such decisions, if any, will be made only after due validation of the genuineness of the request for deferment and compliance by the applicant concerned with the stipulated requirements. The decision of the School in this regard will be final.

6) How important are extra-curricular activities in the application?

The ISB would like to admit well-rounded students. Extra-curricular activities add that extra dimension to your personality. In the US it is routine for people to do community service, which they can mention as an extra-curricular activity in their applications. But Indian conditions are different, so not having done such activities is understandable. However, if you look deep down, you may find some things that you may have been doing. Did you tutor a kid anytime, did you organize a festival in your apartment complex, did you volunteer your time in some campaign or raise funds for some cause, etc.? If you haven't done anything at all, it's never too late to start. Don't do it just to get your B-school admission, but do what interests you. If you are in the IT area, think of something related to IT that you can do after office hours. How about persuading your company to donate their obsolete computers to charity? The possibilities are endless.

7) Will I need to buy text books?

Although most study material is included in the course packs, periodically you will need to buy text books for various courses. The expenditure on text books for the programme is estimated at INR 15,000-INR 20,000.

8) Are there any schools for children in the vicinity of the ISB?

Yes. There are a number of schools around the ISB. More information is available upon request.

9) Having done an MBA, am I eligible for the ISB programme?

There is no restriction in applying to our Programme but you should demonstrate very good reasons in your application for wanting to do the PGP from the ISB.

10) I hold a Master Mariner’s competency certificate. Will I be eligible for applying to the ISB?

Yes, you will be. However, you will need to obtain a certificate from World Education Services (http://www.wes.org ) to the effect that your certificate course is equivalent of a Bachelor’s Degree.
11) I have completed a three year diploma course but do not have an under-graduate degree. Am I eligible for the ISB Programme?

The eligibility criterion at the ISB requires all students to have an undergraduate degree. If your diploma is considered to be equivalent to a degree by the appropriate authorities then it will be acceptable otherwise not.

OUTBOUND EXCHANGE PROGRAMME @ ISB Hyderabad

FAQs
Q. When can I go on exchange programme?

ISB PGP students may go on exchange during the elective terms (5-8). The CKGSB programme is offered in Term 5, where as all others fall in Term 8 or Term 7 and 8. For more details, check the fact sheets in the exchange network section to see their academic calendar.

Q. When is the application deadline?

The bidding for exchange programme usually takes place around the end of Term 2. The exact deadline will be conveyed to students in advance.

Q. What are the selection criteria for exchange programme?

Students must be in good standing with the school. No honour code violations or ‘F’ grades are allowed, and one must maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.5. Final selection is made through a bidding system, as is the case with elective courses.

Q. Can I apply for more than one exchange programmes?

Yes, you can apply for maximum of 3 programmes. You are required to rank the three choices in the order of preference. You will be first assessed for your preference, if you cannot make it for first preference you will be assessed for the other choices. A student may go on only one exchange while at ISB.

Q. How much do I account towards my exchange programme?

You may incur Rs. 40,000 to 4 lakhs (INR) for an exchange programme depending on the duration and destination of the host school and your lifestyle. If you are comfortable with frugal living, one can typically sail through an exchange in a developed country for less than Rs. 3 lakhs (no car, low end apartment, etc.). Developing countries are typically much less. While planning expenses take in to account airfares, accommodation, food, personal expenses, insurance, clothing, books, stationery, social activities and, etc.

Q. Where can I get information on the exchange programme?

Fact sheets are available for all host schools in the exchange network section, which will help you with the preliminary information. Other good sources of research are host school websites, and the brochures of host schools that are available at the LRC. Reviews by past exchange students may be examined at the exchange office.

Class schedules and other details are sent out by the host school once you are selected for the program.

Q. Do I need a passport or visa to go abroad?

Yes, you must have a valid passport that will remain valid at least six months from the date of departure. The kind of visa differs from country to country and the host university may also have a visa preference. Check with the host school about what type of visa they recommend. Your host university will send you an acceptance/invitation letter and the related forms to submit, along with your passport, to the nearest Consular office for that country. It is advised to begin your visa process at least 3 months before your planned departure (longer for Pakistan).

Q. Do I have to speak a foreign language to go abroad?

No, all the exchange schools offer courses in English. Nevertheless, many host schools offer intensive language classes and electives in the native tongue. For more details on language courses and foreign language electives, go through the School brochures or website.

Q. How many classes do I have to take at the host university?

You are required to take whatever is considered a full load of classes at the exchange school, typically four to five classes. This information is contained in each school’s brochure or Website. Take advice from the ASA office about the necessary course load before your departure.

Q. How much credit do I get for my courses abroad?

The credits to be transferred back to ISB will be decided by ASA Office depending on the number of class hours per course. Such details must be submitted to ASA Office before departure to arrive at a clear understanding. In the event that you cannot register for classes until you arrive at the host university, you should send your class schedule by email or fax as soon as possible thereafter.

Q. How about the grades?

The grades earned at host school will not be transferred to ISB CGPA. Grades for ISB CGPA will be calculated as per ISB grading policy.

Q. If I select a specific elective at ISB, should I select the same elective during the exchange programme?

Double credit will not be granted for similar courses taken at ISB and the host school. Please take advice from ASA Office before you choose your electives at the host school.

Q. How do I manage the recruiting activities at ISB during the exchange term?

Keep in touch with Career Advancement Services while you are abroad and make sure you are kept appraised of recruitment activities. Previous exchange students have had good success with flying down for the placement week only. In many cases, you may also be able to use the host school career services.

Q. Can I take part in such programmes which go beyond the ISB graduation dates? In this case, when and how is the degree conferred?

You may take part in programmes that go beyond ISB course duration. In fact in many programmes require you to spend an extra month abroad. Your transcripts and graduation certificate will be sent to you once ISB receives your transcript from the host school.

Monday, 22 September 2008

Fellow programme in management (FPM)

1. What is FPM?
FPM is the doctoral programme at IIMA. The FPM program prepares students to pursue a career, which requires high scholastic aptitude and academic research. The FPM programme is primarily designed to help students seek research careers in academia or elsewhere. It is a PhD programme and should not be confused with the MBA degree.


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2.
Where can I get more information about the Fellow Program in Management?
Programmes Officer
FPM Office,
Indian Institute of Management,
Vastrapur, Ahmedabad
380 015
Tel +91-79-2632 4636
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3.


What is the average completing time for undertaking an FPM?
The average completion time is between four to five years.
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4.
Is it possible to complete the FPM programme on a part-time basis?
No. However, a student may seek employment at the end of four and a half years with the concurrence of his / her thesis advisory committee.
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5.
Who should apply? What are the typical backgrounds of doctoral students?
FPM programme is looking for highly motivated students interested in pursuing research careers requiring high scholastic aptitude. Typical students have varied backgrounds. Please follow the link to know about backgrounds of current students.
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6.
What are the qualities which IIMA is looking for in applicants to the program?
We are looking for highly motivated and disciplined candidates with strong academic preparation who exhibit curiosity, desire to learn, and have an inclination towards research.

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7.
How will I sustain myself for 4-5 years, if I have a family?
IIMA provides sufficient fellowship (including fees, boarding, lodging and stipend) for four and a half years to doctoral students. Please refer later section for details.

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8.
Does it help to have an MBA degree before entering the FPM program?
Not really. The first year course requirements are common for PGDM and FPM programmes. Hence, a student coming from non-management background is equally placed with those having a management background. Please check the area pages in the FPM Brochure for specific requirements. For example, P&QM area encourages students who have a quantitative training from various disciplines to apply for their programme. Similarly, students with a background in Psychology may find the work done in the Organizational Behaviour useful.

However if you have a PGDM from some of the IIMs, you may receive a full / conditional waiver in courses if you fulfil some minimum criteria.

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9.
How do I apply? What is the process of admission to the programme? Where can I get the forms? Can I apply online?
FPM programme admissions require a student to submit –

Completed application form (download from here)
(Link to Application form PDF File)
Demand draft of Application fees
Scores on standardized tests ( CAT / GATE / UGC JRF / GMAT / GRE)


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10.
What are the important deadlines?
Last Date for FPM Application: November 30, 2006
Interview dates- Early to Mid March, 2007
Joining dates – June 2007
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11.
What is the purpose of the interview? What is expected at the interview for IIMA? Does it help if I come prepared with a research proposal?
The purpose of the interview is to gauge the academic preparation of the candidate for the programme. It also gives the candidate an opportunity to find out if the programme meets the requirements of the student. The student is not expected to have prepared any research proposal.
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12.
Does the programme accept international students?
Yes, the programme accepts international students. The eligibility requirements are the same as for domestic students. Please write to us specifically for details on the admission process and fees.

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13.
How selective is IIMA? What are my chances of getting admitted? How many students are admitted each year?
IIMA offers around 25-30 offers in each year from a large no. of applicants.

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17.
Do you have an option of doing inter-disciplinary research?
Yes. You could specify this at the time of application. However, you will be housed in an area. You could take courses from a variety of areas and choose your thesis topic that cuts across disciplines.
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18. Is the courses work at IIMA very difficulty?
The institute expects high academic rigour and integrity. It has stringent requirements at every stage of the programme. The candidates who are unable to meet the requirements are asked to resign from the programme.
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19.
What are the important stages in the FPM program?
The key stages are
1. First year coursework common with IIMA PGP programme
2. Second year coursework in area of specialization
3. Area comprehensive examination
4. Proposal defense
5. Data collection / Research
6. Thesis seminar
7. Thesis defense

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20.
How much flexibility exists in the FPM program? Can I change my area of research during my stay at IIMA?
IIMA FPM programme offers a mix of flexibility and rigidity to the students. Students are allowed to change their chosen area of work during the first year at IIMA, if they fulfil specified criteria. Please see specific deadlines for doing so). IIMA offers high degree of flexibility in choosing area of research. However a student is required to complete his/her area comprehensive exam and thesis proposal defense by the end of third year.
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21.
How do I choose my research topic?
A research topic requires interest and motivation of student and availability of a suitable guide interested in the area. FPM students form a Thesis Advisory Committee with whom they have to work towards their thesis.

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22.
What is the process of getting Infosys scholarship and how much is the amount?
Infosys Fellowship is awarded to a few students who have chosen the IT sector as their area of research (They could be in any field of management and not necessarily in the IT area). We follow a stringent selection process for the fellowship and all students who have finished their first year of FPM but have not yet submitted their thesis proposal are eligible.

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23.
Are doctoral students required to teach?
No
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24.
What support is available for presenting research papers in Indian and international conferences?
IIMA offers full support for attending domestic conferences. Competitive Travel Grants are available for attending international conferences.
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25.
How do I find a job, after completing my doctoral studies?
IIMA placement office helps students to seek placements in industry.

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26.
How does FPM programme prepare me for an academic career?
Government of India recognizes the FPM as equivalent of PhD offered by Indian Universities. It forms the minimum requirement for seeking a position in academia. Our FPM are currently working in some of the best academic institutions in India and a few are now working in universities abroad.
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27.
Is FPM from IIMA recognized as equivalent to a Ph.D. ?
Yes. Our students go abroad both as faculty as well as on post-doctoral positions.

Executive Education (MDP)

FAQs


1. What is Executive Education Programme?
The Executive Education Programmes at IIMA popularly known as MDPs (Management Development Programmes) are designed with the objective of providing practicing managers

a) insights into managerial concepts and implementing strategies in functional areas.
b) an overall perspective for decision making by integrating functional and general management approaches.

IIMA has been active in designing MDPs on contemporary topics to bring the latest in management discipline to practicing managers. It offers several highly rated MDPs focused on functional and sectoral areas and some unique general management programmes like the
3-Tier Programme, the long duration MEP.



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2.
How do I apply for admission to a Programme?
There are two ways to apply: online or by post/courier

a) Apply Online.
Select the programme you are interested in. Click on Registration at the bottom of the page for applying on-line or.

b) By E-mail/Fax/Post/courier.
Download brochure and application form from link.

Send the application by e-mail to mdp@iimahd.ernet.in, by fax on (+91-79-26300352/26306896) or by post/courier addressed to: Manager (MDA)
Indian Institute of Management
Ahmedabad 380 015.

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3.


Is the programme brochure available on the Net? How do I download it?
The brochures of all the executive education programmes are available online. Click on request a brochure. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your computer for you to read the brochure. If you don't have Acrobat Reader, please click here to download Adobe Acrobat now.
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4.
Who can apply for admission to a Programme?
The brochure of each programme provides information about the likely profile of the participant and for whom the programme is designed. The applications received are reviewed to select the participant mix with the objective to maximize the benefits of the programme to the entire group of participants. Participants’ education, experience, organization and current job roles are some of the factors, which are taken into consideration during application review.
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5.
Where are the programmes held?
IIMA’s executive education programmes are conducted on its lush green and serene campus in Ahmedabad.
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6.
How can I get to the IIMA Campus?
The IIMA campus is at Vastrapur, about 15 kms from Ahmedabad airport and 9 kms from Ahmedabad (Kalupur) railway station. On arrival you can hire a taxi. The fare from the airport to IIMA is about Rs. 300. We will be happy to receive MDP participants at the airport provided they let us have the flight details in advance.

Because of various practical difficulties, we are unable to receive participants at the railway station. Taxifare from the railway station to IIMA is about Rs. 150. Autorikshaws charge Rs 60 to Rs 70.

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7.
What can you tell me about Ahmedabad city?
Ahmedabad, the seventh largest city of India, is one of the most important seats of learning. In addition to IIMA, Ahmedabad boasts a number of exceptional academic and research institutes such as National Institute of Design, Mudra Institute of Communication, and Physical Research Laboratory.

Once known as the “Manchester of the East”, much of the city’s twentieth century reputation was built on its commercial and enterprising spirit. It was a centre for textiles.

The Hriday Kunj, the Ashram on the bank of Sabarmati River, from which Mahatma Gandhi launched the Independence movement, is in Ahmedabad.

The city is well connected by air and rail to all major cities in India. It has an International Airport and is connected to major cities of Europe, USA, and the Gulf.

The city has moderately hot climate round the year except in May-June, when it is very hot. Here is the general pattern of temperature in Ahmedabad.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Max
C 29 31 36 40 45 44 35 32 33 36 33 30
Min
C 12 15 19 23 26 27 26 25 24 21 15 10

For further information, please click on www.gujarattourism.com
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8.
Are participants required to live on the campus?
Yes, the participants are required to live on campus. There is a centrally air-conditioned executive hostel that has all the facilities you need. Stay on the campus is essential because the teaching methodology involves group exercises, role-plays, simulation games, lecture-cum-discussions, presentations, and case analysis at group and class level. The learning starts at around seven in the morning and continues beyond the classrooms into the late hours of the night.

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9.
How about early check-in and extended stay?
Participants can check in the day before the start of programme and can check out the day after the programme concludes. Earlier check-ins and later check-outs are possible against additional cash payment, provided accommodation is available.

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10.
What facilities do you offer at the IIMA campus?
Kasturbhai Lalbhai Management Development Centre, the venue for the executive education programmes, provides a quiet and intellectual environment. Its location on the IIMA campus encourages and facilitates interaction between participants and the faculty.

KLMDC has 64 furnished air-conditioned living rooms. Each room is provided with network connections for access to Internet and IIMA’s Intranet. The Centre also has a reading lounge, classrooms, syndicate rooms and a computer lab with Internet facility. Participants also have access to facilities for indoor and outdoor games on the campus.

The participants can make STD/ISD calls from their rooms using telephone cards, available at the MDC counter for purchase.

Vikram Sarabhai Library is an invaluable resource with close to 180,000 volumes, 600 current periodicals, 700 CDs and more than 2000 working papers and dissertations. It also provides indexing search services from a number of major databases like EBI/Inform, Econlit and BSP. The library has set up the 3i network or “Information Infrastructure for Institutions” to provide business, industry, environmental, agricultural, and economic information to the users. The entire library database is also available on the Institute’s intranet.

Internet
The World Wide Web is accessible from all the computers on the campus. Also you can get your laptop connected from the room to the Internet through our network.

Other facilities
Other facilities on the campus include SBI ATM and extension counter, post office, gymnasium, walking/jogging trails, and a dispensary.

Special Diets
The programme fee is inclusive of all meals. We do our best to help participants with special dietary requirements provided they let us know in advance.

Sports
The participants can have access to several outdoor and indoor games.

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11.
Do I get a certificate at the end of Programme?
Yes, you will get a certificate of participation on successful completion of the programme.


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12.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. It is business casual attire for classes and informal dress for the rest of the time. You can wear appropriate attire for sports.

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13.
What is the Teaching Methodology you follow for executive education programmes?
Pedagogical tools are matched to the needs of individual programmes and emphasize active participation rather than passive assimilation. The case method of study is the major tool. It is supplemented by group exercises, role plays, games, lecture-cum-discussions and presentations by participants.

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14.
What is the usual class size?
The size varies between 30 and 50 participants. In some exceptional cases the size could be smaller or slightly bigger.
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15. How is a typical programme day scheduled?
A typical programme day starts at 09.00 hrs and goes on to 18.00 hrs. Classes involving the Faculty are generally in the mornings; group exercises and preparation for the following day’s classes generally take place in the afternoons and evenings.
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16.
Is sponsorship required for my application to be considered?
Yes. Sponsorship is normally required. In some cases it may be relaxed. Please check with the Manager (MDA) or the coordinator of the programme you wish to attend if you have difficulty getting sponsorship.

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17.
What does the programme fee include?
The programme fee includes double-occupancy on-campus accommodation, standard meals, and all programme materials. The fee also includes transportation from the airport at the beginning of the programme and to the airport/railway station at the end of the programme.
Incidentals, such as laundry, entertainment, phone bills, and the like, are not included in the programme fee.


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18.
When do I pay the fees?
The payment should be made once you receive confirmation that you have been admitted to the programme. It should reach us at least a week before the start of the programme.

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19.
How do I pay?
Please pay by demand draft/at-par cheque drawn in favour of IIM-Ahmedabad and payable in Ahmedabad. Cheques from other places are not acceptable if they are not payable at par at Ahmedabad.
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20.
What if I am unable to attend the programme I applied for?
If you can’t attend the programme, we shall return your full fees to your sponsor provided you let us know at least one week in advance of the start of the programme.
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21.
What if I have Disabilities?
Participants with disabilities should contact us in advance for specific requirements.
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22.
What about my Health Insurance during the programme?
IIM-A is not responsible for medical fees incurred by the participant during the stay at IIM-A. We request you to enquire with your employer or insurer for Health Insurance coverage.

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23.
What about safety of my belonging during the programme stay?
Individuals are provided with safe keeping facilities during the programme stay. Please do not leave your valuables and cash unprotected. IIM-A is not responsible for any loss of personal property.
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PGPX: One Year Post-Graduate Programme in Management for Executives

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the eligibility criteria for admission to PGPX?

Following are the basic criteria for the PGPX V (2010-11) starting in April 2010:

(a) Bachelors Degree or equivalent in any discipline
(b) Minimum Age: 27 years at the start of the programme
[born on or before March 31, 1983]
(c) Upper age limit: None
(d) GMAT (www.mba.com) score obtained between April 1, 2006 and August 11, 2009.To ensure that scores are sent directly to IIMA, please enter GMAT Code for IIMA PGPX
CQQ-RR-60.
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2. What are the criteria for admission?

Admitted candidates should have good GMAT scores, a good academic record, a clear idea of why they prefer IIMA for doing their one year programme, leadership potential and substantial work experience that shows some evidence of a supervisory/managerial role in an organization that they have worked for.
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3. Is the admission process different for sponsored candidates?

No. All candidates, whether sponsored or not, will go through the PGPX admission process.
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4. Is there a minimum GMAT score?

No. But higher the GMAT score, better the chance of admission.
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5. If I have more than one GMAT score, which will be considered?

Highest score amongst the tests taken after April 1, 2006 and on/before August 11,2009 will be considered for PGPX IV (2009-10).
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6. Is it sufficient to submit the application with the test centre score or do you need the official score from Pearson before the last date?

We will accept the test centre (unofficial) GMAT score from candidates up to August 11, 2009 which is the deadline for receiving the application forms.

Candidates are required to have the official score sent from Pearson to IIMA [CODE:CQQ-RR-60 ] soon after their submission of scores/application. The application will be considered incomplete unless the GMAT score is received from Pearson.
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7. Will CAT scores be considered?

We will not be considering CAT scores for PGPX.
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8. What is the minimum marks/grade I should have at the Bachelors' level for me to apply for admission?

There is no minimum. However, selected candidates are likely to have had a consistently good academic record.
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9. I have already completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Management/MBA and have been working since then. Will this earlier education be considered as a disqualification for the PGPX?

No.
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10. What is 'substantial' work experience?

Adhering to minimum age of 27 years at the start of the programme, a normal graduate should have 6 to 7 years of post qualification, full time work experience. Similarly, post graduate should have 5 to 6 years of experience. PhD/M.Phil can be evaluated on case to case basis.
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11. Should the experience be in a for-profit organization?

Not necessary.
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12. How would leadership potential be judged?

Leadership potential will be judged partly through application form content and partly through interview.
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13. The profile of the first, second and third batch is better than mine. Will I be considered for the next PGPX?

Yes. Profiles can vary from batch to batch. Further, the profile information of PGPX I (2006–07), PGPX II (2007-08) and PGPX III (2008-09) is the ‘average’ of the batch.
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14. Is there any reservation for people working outside India?

No. However the programme is actively seeking an international mix of students.
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15. Is there any reservation for company sponsored candidates?

No.
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16. How many seats are available?

We are open to taking up to 160 high quality students

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17. What are the specialisations available for the PGPX?

The focus is on general management and hence, no specialisation (minor) is officially offered. The programme, however, will offer a wide selection of elective courses for those wanting to do more courses in a particular area.
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18. Which electives are available to the students?

Electives will depend on student interest and faculty supply. Our effort will be to provide a wide range of electives including on marketing, finance, supply chain management, strategic management, sectoral areas like financial services, infrastructure etc.
Based on the students' preference of PGPX I (2006-07), 11 electives were offered in Term III and 19 were offered in Term V. Similarly, in PGPX II (2007-08), 11 electives were offered in Term III and 15 were offered in Term V and 12 electives are being offered in Term III of PGPX III (2008-09).
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19. What degree is offered at the end of the programme?

On successful completion, students are given a One Year Post-Graduate Diploma in Management for Executives. This may be considered equivalent to the one year management programmes offered by INSEAD (France), Asian Institute of Management (Philippines), University of Pittsburgh (USA), Cranfield (UK), Indian School of Business (India) etc.
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20. How is PGPX different from the existing two year Post Graduate Programme (PGP) at IIMA?

PGPX is aimed at experienced executives who wish to acquire formal education in management. It has a general management focus, with an emphasis on managing across borders and cultures. It has an International Immersion component besides teaching content drawn from many countries. The goal is to prepare students to be ready to take leadership positions in the firms that they join.
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21. How is PGPX different from the existing One-Year Post Graduate Programme in Public Management and Policy(PGP-PMP) at IIMA?

PGPX is different from PGP-PMP. The focus of the PGPX is exclusively on the private corporate sector and general management whereas PGP-PMP is focused on public management, which is broadly understood as the management of government, policy formulation, regulation, management of public enterprises, international organizations, non-government organizations. Some courses in the PGP-PMP are similar to courses in PGPX.
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22. Would the programme enable students to go for higher studies like PhD?

Yes! at IIM, Ahmedabad after successful completion of PGPX subject to certain academic standards. As of now, we are unsure about international doctoral programmes as they look more for years of education along with a Bachelors for admission. Some course waivers may depend on the Masters degree. We would hope that our programme would be recognized as Masters equivalent, just like the two year programme (which is also not a formal degree, but has got established as being a high quality post graduate education).
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23. What is the International Immersion segment?

International Immersion is a five week international segement of PGPX where all students compulsorily go abroad for one week of academic study and 4 weeks of project. It exposes the students to work practices in an environment different from their "home culture." It helps them understand the macro-economic underpinnings, strengths and weaknesses of the host country from a business perspective. The International Immersion prepares the students to take on challenging assignments anywhere in the new globalised world.

Please refer the 'International Immersion' section for more details.
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24. Will placement services be available?

Yes, to students who are not sponsored by companies. To know more on placement statistics of PGPX I and PGPX II, please visit Placements (PGPX I) and Placements (PGPX II).
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25. My age is significantly above the minimum required for PGPX. Will any company show interest in hiring me after finishing the programme?

Our attempt is to customise placement for each individual. PGPX I and II students of different age groups got placements.
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26. What is the charge for the application form and its submission?

Both are free.
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27. What is the schedule of the admission process for the programme starting in April 2009?

(i) The application form for PGPX IV (2009-10) are closed
(ii) Intimation to shortlisted candidates was sent on September 04, 2008
(iii) Interviews: September-October, 2008
(iv) Intimation to selected candidates: by October 31, 2008
(v) Acceptance of offer: by November 25, 2008

The schedule of the admission process for the programme starting in April 2010 (PGPX V) is:

(i) The application form will be available online on www.iimahd.ernet.in in 2nd week of April, 2009.
(ii) Last date for receipt of filled-in applications: August 11, 2009
(iii) Intimation to shortlisted candidates: by September 10, 2009
(iv) Interviews: September-October, 2009
(v) Intimation to selected candidates: by October 31, 2009
(vi) Acceptance of offer: by November 25, 2009
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28. What are the documents required for application?

No documents are required to be attached along with Application Form. However, the photocopies/originals would need to be provided later in the admission process. The application form specifies all the documents required. They include: GMAT score, employment history, academic background, achievements etc. While the application will seek information from these documents, the photocopies/originals would need to be provided later in the admission process.
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29. Will an entrance test be conducted? If so, where and when?

IIMA will not conduct any entrance test for PGPX. Applicants have to submit their GMAT score obtained between April 1, 2006 and August 11, 2009 for those applying in 2009 for the PGPX V (2010-11) starting in April 2010.
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30. Is staying on the institute campus mandatory?

Yes, this is a fully residential programme. Accommodation will be available for both single and married students.
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31. What will be the nature of the accommodation?

Single Accommodation:

One room + bath (total built up area: 203 sq ft)
Each room is fully furnished with air conditioner, television, refrigerator, telephone connection and internet facility.

Caution money deposit payable at the time of joining the programme by the students opting
for single accommodation will be Rs 25,000*.

Additional single room for visit of guest/relatives will be at Rs 2000* per day subject to availability. (Please contact IMDC reception on +91-79-66325700 for tariff and availability)


Married Accommodation:

Two rooms + kitchen + bath (total built up area: 676 sq ft)
Both the rooms are fully furnished. Bedroom has an air conditioner. The house has television, refrigerator, telephone connection and internet facility.

Married accommodation charges are Rs 6000* per month. The students who are offered married accommodation would require to pay non-refundable commitment charges of Rs. 36,000* which would be adjusted against the monthly charges.

Electricity charges for married accommodation will need to be paid on basis of actuals based on the meter reading.

Caution money deposit payable at the time of joining the programme by the students opting for married accommodation will be Rs 50,000*.

*Applicable for PGPX III (2008-09).

Common Facilities:

Vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals is served in the dining hall.

Facilities for indoor/outdoor games and recreation activities are available. Games such as Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Football (Soccer), Hockey, Table Tennis, Tennis and Volleyball are very popular among the student community. Fitness conscious students can enroll on payment basis in the air-conditioned gymnasium or go for a jog around the scenic campus. For those who prefer to stay indoors, there is Chess, Carom or Bridge.

Three doctors are in attendance at the dispensary on the campus. A Post Office and a full fledged State Bank of India branch with ATM facility function on the campus.


Network Connectivity:

High-speed servers, running on a variety of platforms to suit all kinds of requirements, support the entire network. The Institute's network is linked to the Internet via a dedicated leased line enabling round the clock Internet connectivity on the campus. Every classroom has a computer connected to this network that allows faculty to retrieve relevant information from their desktop or the central database. This connectivity helps both the students and the faculty considerably in their research and projects. Students are expected to bring their own lap-tops.
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32. What are the financial implications of the programme?


(a) What is the fee for the programme?

The fee break up of PGPX IV(2009-10) is as following:

PGPX IV (2009-10)
Sr Family Single
1 Tution 13,74,500 13,74,500
2 Computer Fee 42,000 42,000
3 Library 41,000 41,000
4 Alumni Fee 2,500 2,500
5 Placement 10,000 10,000
6 Books & Course Material 35,000 35,000
7 International Immersion 1,70,000 1,70,000
8 Lodging
a. Married Student Housing 2,35,000 -
b. Single Accommodation - 1,40,000
9 Boarding
PGPX Dining Hall - 1,10,000
10 Electricity 15,000 15,000
11 Stationary 10,000 10,000
Total 19,35,000 19,50,000



(b) What is the fee payment mode?

For PGPX III (2008-09), two payment modes are available:

Mode 1: (Payment in Lumpsum)

PGPX III (2008-09)
a Commitment Fee on acceptance of offer (non-refundable) Before
November 24, 2007 INR 200,000 USD 5700
b Commitment Advance ONLY for Married Student Housing (MSH) to be adjusted against monthly charges (non-refundable) Before
November 24, 2007 INR 36,000 USD 1000
c Additional Commitment Fee
(non-refundable) Before
January 15, 2008 INR 200,000 USD 5700
d Caution Deposit (refundable upon final clearance from the Chief Administrative Officer at the end of the Programme)

For Single Room Accommodation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For Married Student Housing (MSH)
At the time of Registration during April first week, 2008 INR 25,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INR 50,000 USD 700
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USD 1400
e Programme Fee after adjusting the commitment fees
[1,400,000 - (200,000 + 200,000)] At the time of Registration during April first week, 2008 INR 1,000,000 USD 28500


Mode 2: (Payment in Installments)

PGPX III (2008-09)
a Commitment Fee on acceptance of offer (non-refundable) Before
November 24, 2007 INR 200,000 USD 5700
b Commitment Advance ONLY for Married Student Housing (MSH) to be adjusted against monthly charges (non-refundable) Before
November 24, 2007 INR 36,000 USD 1000
c Additional Commitment Fee
(non-refundable) Before
January 15, 2008 INR 200,000 USD 5700
d Caution Deposit (refundable upon final clearance from the Chief Administrative Officer at the end of the Programme)

For Single Room Accommodation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For Married Student Housing (MSH)
At the time of Registration during April first week, 2008 INR 25,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INR 50,000 USD 700
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USD 1400
e Programme Fee: First Installment (Prior to Term I) At the time of Registration during April first week, 2008 INR 175,000 USD 5000
f Programme Fee: Second Installment (Prior to Term II) Before
June, 2008 INR 300,000 USD 8500
g Programme Fee: Third Installment (Prior to Term III) Before
August, 2008 INR 300,000 USD 8500
h Programme Fee: Third Installment (Prior to Term IV) Before
December, 2008 INR 300,000 USD 8500

Note: If the value of US Dollar goes down to a level at which Indian Rupee equivalent is less than the required payment, the difference will have to be paid by the student.

The fee for the PGPX III (2008-09) is INR 14,00,000 (approximately USD 39,900) for a single student. This includes tuition, academic expenses like basic programme material, library and network charges, mess charges and accommodation. The fee also covers contribution to travel and some expenses related to the International Immersion segment. (Married students staying in married accommodation would have to pay the additional costs), please refer FAQ 31 for the same. No refund/rebate/free meals would be given if a student is not availing the mess facility for any duration. Mess charges for the visiting family members/guests will be charged at actuals as per the prevailing rates fixed by the Institute from time to time.

The payment mode of PGPX IV(2009-10) will be posted soon.

(c) What about bank loans to finance the programme?

The Institute has found several banks interested in offering loans to those admitted to the PGPX. International students, apart from their own banking sources, can approach bank branches of Indian banks in their countries.

Please click here for the details of loan schemes from banks available for PGPX. For exact details please contact the bank/s directly since the interest rates change from time to time.


(d) Does the programme offer scholarships?

As of now, there are none. But eventually, we will institute a few, especially based on performance.
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33. Can I know a little more about Ahmedabad?

Please refer the 'About Ahmedabad' section for details.
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34. Can I talk to someone at IIMA for further clarifications?

Yes, please contact

Manager, PGPX
(One Year Post-Graduate Programme in Management for Executives)
Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad – 380015, India
Tel: +91-79-6632 4449 Fax: +91-79-6632 4447
Mobiles: 942660PGPX
982532PGPX
9825317479
Email: pgpxquery@iimahd.ernet.in Web: www.iimahd.ernet.in

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