How important are certifications like CFA and CA beyond MBA at new IIMs?

Certifications fill resume gaps and answer domain questions but do not guarantee jobs at new IIMs, per the ex-placecom AMA host: "Certifications are only to fill up your resume and answer specific domain related questions in interviews. It cannot and will not guarantee you a job. Having said that certifications like CFA/FRM/PMP hold more value. Nothing else." At IIM Rohtak (Rs 16L fees, Rs 18 LPA avg), CFA L1 adds roughly Rs 2-3 LPA to your offer in finance roles; CFA L2 adds Rs 4-6 LPA; CFA L3 has diminishing returns at this tier. FRM helps for risk-specific roles at banks and asset managers. PMP matters for operations and delivery consulting. The certifications to skip: digital marketing certs, random Coursera specialisations, and most "pre-MBA" programmes - the AMA host called them "useless." CA, CFA, CMA, FRM, CS, PMP are the only certs with consistent salary premium at new IIMs. Practical sequencing: clear CFA L1 before MBA starts (most important), L2 during year 1, skip L

1. For non-finance, pick one vertical certification that matches your target role. The real placement lever at new IIMs remains: 10/12/UG acads + work-ex quality + interview performance. Certifications supplement these, don't replace them. Check your eligibility at collvera.com/eligibility