IIM Indore is more forgiving of gap years than IIM ABC, accepting candidates with 2-year post-UG gap if they have a good CAT score and can justify the gap in interview. The OP of this thread had a 1-year gap, and mentioned that gap years are not a problem if justified, and that gap candidates are treated like freshers during admission. IIM I at Rs 16.
5L fees and Rs 25 LPA average has diverse batch composition including 2-3 year gap candidates. The catch: gap year candidates face tougher summer placements because companies prefer continuous academic timelines, but final placements are more forgiving after 2 years of MBA work showcases competence. Justification matters: UPSC prep, family business, startup, health reasons, and parental care are accepted; idle years or unproductive gaps raise red flags.
For Bcom graduates with 2-year gaps attempting CAT after the gap, target 97+ CAT with all sectionals cleared, secure 9/8/7 or better academics, and prepare a strong narrative for interview. Realistic IIM targets for gap year candidates: IIM Indore, IIM Kashipur, IIM Ranchi, IIM Udaipur, and IIFT. Avoid IIM ABC unless CAT is 99.
5+ and academic profile is strong. A 6-12 month branded internship during the gap year dramatically improves profile because it demonstrates productive use of time. If you're in second year of graduation with 2-year gap history, write CAT in 3rd year while finishing degree, secure a placement into a branded firm, and prepare for CAT again in 2 years with workex for better IIM conversions.
Check your eligibility at collvera.