What are waitlist movements typically like for IIM Ahmedabad and Bangalore?

Waitlist movement at IIM Ahmedabad and Bangalore is typically moderate, with most movement happening within the first 2 to 3 weeks after the initial offer round. The exact extent of movement varies by year, but the rough pattern is: positions 1 to 60 in the general waitlist typically convert at IIM A; positions 1 to 80 typically convert at IIM B.

The Typical Pattern at IIM A

IIM Ahmedabad's waitlist movement has typically followed this rough pattern in recent batches:

First movement (1 to 2 weeks after initial offer): positions 1 to 30 to 40 in general waitlist typically convert.

Second movement (3 to 4 weeks in): incremental, positions 30 to 50 to 60 typically.

Third and later movements: smaller, position-by-position, can extend through the joining window in some years.

The total movement at IIM A is typically smaller than at IIM B because IIM A is often the top-preference choice for shortlisted candidates. Fewer candidates drop after accepting an IIM A offer.

The Typical Pattern at IIM B

IIM Bangalore's waitlist movement is somewhat deeper than IIM A's, typically because:

• Some candidates with multiple top-IIM offers prefer IIM A and release IIM B
• ISB and IIM A PGPX absorb some candidates who would otherwise join IIM B
• Specific candidates may prefer IIM C for specific function-fit reasons

Recent IIM B waitlist movement has typically covered positions 1 to 80 in general category in most years. The first 2 to 3 weeks see the heaviest movement; later movement is incremental.

What Drives the Movement

The key driver is candidates with multiple top-tier offers consolidating their choices:

• IIM A waitlist moves when candidates choose XLRI BM, ISB, or international MBAs over IIM A
• IIM B waitlist moves when candidates choose IIM A, IIM C, ISB, or international MBAs over IIM B
• IIM C waitlist (not asked but for reference) moves when candidates choose IIM A or B over IIM C

The specific movement also depends on the year's CAT and admissions dynamics. Strong CAT years with more 99.5 plus candidates tend to produce more waitlist movement.

Category-Wise Differences

The waitlist for reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, EWS) at IIM A and B moves on its own schedule, often deeper than the general waitlist because:

• Reserved-category candidates have fewer overlap with the general waitlist preferences
• Specific category-based offers may flow to higher-tier alternatives, releasing IIM A or B seats

The specific category waitlist movement is published through the official admissions communications.

For Your Specific Waitlist Position

The published waitlist movement pattern is the best directional data, but actual conversion depends on the specific year's dynamics. If you're at position 50 or below in the general waitlist at IIM A or B, conversion is reasonably likely in most years.

Beyond position 100, the probability drops meaningfully, but every year has surprises. Keep your other offers active and joining deposits ready in case the waitlist moves to your position.

The official communication from IIM A or B after each movement round is the most reliable signal. Third-party speculation and aspirant forum posts are often misleading.