IIM Lucknow rejection at 99.3+ GEF (General Engineer Female) is increasingly common in 2026 because Lucknow has drastically raised internal cutoffs. Multiple candidates in this thread were rejected at L despite 99.
3+: 99.3 GEF 10/9/9 9.8 CGPA 10th rejected, 98.
9% GEF rejected (received call year before at 97%), 99.4% 96/93/9 rejected. IIM Lucknow at Rs 22L fees and Rs 32.
3 LPA average has traditionally been more female-friendly but in 2026 the threshold moved up to 99.5+ for GEF candidates with below-perfect academics. Female candidates still get +3-5 effective percentile advantage, but the raw CAT cutoff for Lucknow is tightening across all categories.
For GEF engineers targeting IIM L: secure 99.7+ CAT, 10th 9.5+ CGPA, 12th 92+%, UG 80+%.
Below these, IIM L rejection becomes more likely. Lucknow rejection doesn't mean you're noncompetitive; apply to IIM Calcutta (Rs 27L, Rs 34.23 LPA), IIM K (Rs 24L, Rs 28 LPA), FMS (Rs 2.
43L, Rs 34 LPA), SPJIMR (Rs 26.5L, Rs 32 LPA), XLRI (Rs 30.6L, Rs 28 LPA via XAT).
For retakers, focus on: CAT 99.7+, adding workex, strengthening academic record via certifications (CFA L1, CA L1, analytics). IIM L shortlists in 2026 are volatile; don't over-index on prior year trends.
Check your eligibility at collvera.