SC/ST candidates face 20-25 percentile lower cutoffs and OBC faces ~10 percentile lower than general at IIMs. EWS candidates face 5-8 percentile lower. At IIM Ahmedabad (Rs 27.5L fees, Rs 35.22 LPA avg, 99%+ general cutoff), SC cutoff is around 77-80 percentile, ST around 73-76, OBC around 89-92, EWS around 92-
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- At IIM B and C, similar patterns. These adjustments reflect structural disadvantages in access to education, coaching, and test prep. Placement outcomes: SC/ST graduates place at slightly lower averages (Rs 20-25 LPA vs Rs 35 LPA general average) but in the same firms and roles. OBC graduates place identically to general. The AMA thread mentioned an ST candidate with 93 percentile converting IIM K - a realistic example. Category candidates still face the same interview bar, and conversion requires genuine preparation. For SC/ST candidates considering IIM A vs IIM L at lower cutoffs: IIM A brand and placement access is significantly stronger, so aim for A if percentile permits. The MBB firms and top IB firms recruit without category filters - post-admission, category is invisible in placement. The sticky reality: category candidates often face imposter syndrome at IIMs due to lower cutoff perception. The solution: focus on performing in year 1 academic and case work to build placement track record. Your IIM acceptance is earned through the accepted admission process - don't let ranters tell you otherwise. Check your eligibility at collvera.com/eligibility