FAQโ€บWork Experienceโ€บDo 58 months of work experience hurt IIM plac...
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Do 58 months of work experience hurt IIM placements?

โœ“Last verified March 2026 ยท Spot outdated data? Email verify@collvera.com
Claude's answer

58 months (around 5 years) of work-ex creates specific placement headwinds at IIM ABC but you will still land a decent placement. The AMA host confirmed "some firms will not want you, you will still get a decent placement" - firms like MBB and some FMCG avoid 5+ yr ex candidates because they prefer to mould junior associates. However, specialised consulting (GEP, Vector), Indian banks, and lateral roles actively seek out 4-5 year ex candidates.

At IIM A's Rs 35.22 LPA average, candidates with high work-ex often land Rs 30-45 LPA roles in their domain of prior experience rather than MBB/IB. The decision framework: if your prior domain was finance or consulting, 5 yrs is an asset; if it was IT services, you face more filters.

Consider the IIM A PGPX or ISB PGP which are designed for 4-7 yr ex folks - ISB's Rs 43L fees for Rs 34 LPA average makes far more sense than PGP-ABC for someone at 5 years. The lateral requirement for IIM A is 18-20 months minimum, so at 58 months you're well above that floor but also above the sweet spot of 24-36 months. Check your eligibility at collvera.

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