Leaving a top IIM for a dream IIM is statistically not recommended—stick with first attempt unless you have a genuine misalignment. Most candidates who consider this decision overestimate the gap between IIM A and IIM B/C/L, and underestimate their own ability to extract value from the college they are at. IIM Indore at Rs 16.
5L fees for Rs 25 LPA, IIM Kozhikode at Rs 24L for Rs 28 LPA, and IIM Lucknow at Rs 22L for Rs 32.3 LPA all provide strong placement outcomes and brand value. The opportunity cost of dropping is one year of salary (Rs 20-30L), Rs 9L+ partially refunded fees, plus CAT retake uncertainty.
Even if retake succeeds, the salary bump of joining IIM A over IIM L is Rs 3-5 LPA in year 1—it takes 5-7 years to recover opportunity cost. The gamble only makes sense if: you have concrete backup plans (SSC, IBPS, IRDAI), strong mock scores (98+ consistently), and deep dissatisfaction with current IIM. Emotional regret ("I wanted IIM A") is not a strong enough reason—IIM A grads also face imposter syndrome, academic pressure, and career doubts.
Another example: a CAT 2021 candidate joined IIM I during COVID, disliked virtual learning, dropped, and converted IIM B, IIM C, and ISB. Unique situations justify drops. Most do not.
Before deciding, talk to 3-5 seniors at your current IIM about their experience—often the grass-is-greener perception fades. Check your eligibility at collvera.