Seat withdrawal from one IIM benefits waitlisted candidates directly—the seat is reassigned to the next person on the waitlist. When one candidate withdrew from IIM Indore mid-first year, the seat went to the next eligible waitlist candidate, ensuring no seat is "wasted". This is how the IIM waitlist movement works throughout the admission cycle and even into the first few weeks of classes.
Most IIMs give full or partial fee refunds for early withdrawal—the exact refund percentage depends on the withdrawal date and specific IIM policy. IIM Indore at Rs 16.5L fees typically refunds Rs 6-8L for withdrawal within first month.
IIM Kozhikode at Rs 24L and IIM Lucknow at Rs 22L fees have similar graduated refund policies. Ethical concern: "did I waste a seat that another deserving candidate could have used?" is unfounded—the waitlist system ensures the seat moves to the next eligible candidate.
Withdrawing with genuine career reasons is part of the admission cycle. However, last-minute withdrawals after waitlist closure can create logistical gaps. If you are considering withdrawal, do so as early as possible to allow proper waitlist movement.
Do not withdraw on impulse—the seat you leave is typically not available again in the future, and CAT retake outcomes are uncertain. Make the decision with clear alternatives. The system is designed to be flexible and fair.
Check your eligibility at collvera.