What Do Students Think About Online MBA in India?

What Do Students Think About Online MBA in India?

#MBA
Team Careers360Updated on 23 Jun 2025, 04:17 PM IST

Online MBA programmes in India have seen a significant rise in popularity, especially after the pandemic normalised remote learning and hybrid work models. But beyond the promotional brochures and university rankings, what do students really think about an online MBA in India? Here is a breakdown of their real opinions, experiences, and challenges to give you a grounded view before you take the plunge.

This Story also Contains

  1. Why Students Choose an Online MBA?
  2. Positive Student Feedback
  3. Mixed Reviews and Student Concerns
  4. Online MBA Programmes That Students Prefer
  5. Is Online MBA Worth It According to Students?
  6. Reality and Decision Making For Online MBA
What Do Students Think About Online MBA in India?
What Do Students Think About Online MBA in India?

Why Students Choose an Online MBA?

Many students choose an online MBA degree for flexibility, affordability, and accessibility. Working professionals especially find online MBA programmes appealing because they allow them to upskill without quitting their jobs.

Common motivations include

  • No need to relocate or leave employment
  • Significantly lower tuition fees compared to traditional MBA
  • Ability to balance personal, professional, and academic life
  • Opportunity to learn from reputed institutions remotely

Also Read: 10 Myths and Facts About an Online MBA That Everyone Should Know

Positive Student Feedback

1. Flexibility Is a Game Changer

“I could attend classes from my workplace or home. It saved so much commute time.” – Ankur, Online MBA student from NMIMS Global

Most students report that being able to study at their own pace and schedule was a major benefit. Pre-recorded lectures, weekend live sessions, and mobile learning apps were highly appreciated.

2. Career Progression with Ongoing Job

“I got a promotion right after completing my second semester. The MBA gave me the business perspective I lacked.” – Shruti, working with Infosys

Many working professionals saw visible benefits like promotions, departmental shifts, or better project opportunities by taking online MBA.

3. Affordable Investment

Online MBA courses, especially from public institutions like IGNOU or other state universities, offer considerable cost savings, with some programmes priced under Rs 1 lakh.

Also Read: 10 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in An Online MBA

Mixed Reviews and Student Concerns

1. Lack of Placement Support

Many students saw that there is no structured campus placement like full-time MBA programmes unless you are already working. Unlike full-time MBA programmes, most online programmes do not offer on-campus placements. This is a significant downside for fresh graduates or career switchers.

2. Peer Interaction Is Limited

Despite digital tools, the lack of in-person interaction affects collaboration, teamwork, and informal learning. Students often find group projects and networking opportunities lacking or minimal.

3. Employer Recognition Still Evolving

“Some HR managers value my degree, others still ask why I didn’t do a regular MBA.” – Neha, Online MBA from Amity Online

While recognition is growing, especially from top private and international universities, some employers still hold reservations, especially in traditional sectors.

Online MBA Programmes That Students Prefer

The following table highlights some of the popular online MBA universities that students prefer for their management degree:

University

Programme Name

Tuition Fees per semester

Popular Among

NMIMS CDOE

Online MBA

Rs 2,10,000

Working professionals

IGNOU Online

Online MBA

Rs 62,000

Budget-conscious learners

Amity Online

Online MBA

Rs 1,99,000

Graduates, Employees

Symbiosis School for Online and Digital Learning

Online MBA

Rs 3,15,000

Graduate, Mid-career professionals

Is Online MBA Worth It According to Students?

Most students agree that an online MBA is worth it if they:

  • Are currently employed and want to grow within their company

  • Cannot afford a traditional MBA or cannot relocate

  • Are self-disciplined and tech-savvy

  • Do not rely heavily on placements for job opportunities

K J Somaiya Institute of Management MBA Admissions 2026

Highest Package 27.25 LPA | Top 100 Average package 16.65 LPA | AACSB Accredited | Ranked 52 by QS International

SDA Bocconi IMB Admissions 2026

Offers full-time PGP in International Master in business (IMB) Equivalent to MBA under following specializations Marketing, HR, Operations, and many more

However, it may not be ideal if the students who:

  • Are looking for a career switch from a non-management field

  • Need structured placements and live networking

  • Thrive in classroom learning environments

Top UGC Approved Colleges for Online MBA
Download this ebook and get all details related to the top UGC approved colleges for Online MBA.
Download List Here

Also Read: The Future of Online MBA in India in 2025

Reality and Decision Making For Online MBA

While the online MBA in India is unlocking management education for lakhs of students, the reality depends on who you are and what you seek. If you are self-motivated and looking to boost your career without leaving your job, it can be an excellent choice.

But if you are expecting full-time MBA campus life, placements, and handholding, it might fall short of expectations. Understanding both pros and cons from real student experiences can help you decide if the online MBA path aligns with your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the most popular specialisations in online MBA?
A:

Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, HR Management, and Operations are among the most chosen online MBA specialisations.

Q: What are the average salaries after an online MBA in India?
A:

Salaries range from Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs per year, depending on prior experience, institution, and role. Freshers usually earn on the lower side unless from reputed institutes.

Q: Can I get a job at an MNC with an online MBA?
A:

Yes, particularly if you already have work experience. Many students with online MBA courses have secured roles in companies like TCS, Wipro, and Infosys.

Q: Do online MBA students get the same degree as regular students?
A:

Yes, most universities mention only "MBA" on the degree, without specifying the delivery mode. However, always verify this with the university before enrolling.

Q: Is an online MBA from India recognised globally?
A:

Yes, many online MBA courses from accredited Indian universities are recognised globally, especially those aligned with UGC and AICTE norms. Recognition also improves if the programme is delivered in partnership with global institutions.

Certifications By Top Providers
Basic Programming using Python
Via Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
Introduction to Managerial Economics
Via Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
Online MBA Business Analytics
Via Centre for Distance and Online Education, Anna University, Chennai
Corporate Law
Via National Law University, New Delhi
The Science and Business of Biotechnology
Via Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge
Introduction to Aerospace Engineering
Via Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
Udemy
 3320 courses
Edx
 1992 courses
Swayam
 1936 courses
Coursera
 1660 courses
NPTEL
 1258 courses
Futurelearn
 1074 courses
Explore Top Universities Across Globe

Questions related to MBA

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to MBA ?

Hello,

Here's a comprehensive list of the top 20 MBA colleges in Hyderabad:

  1. Indian School of Business (ISB)
  2. ICFAI Business School (IBS)
  3. Institute of Management Technology (IMT)
  4. Woxsen University
  5. Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE)
  6. Vignana Jyothi Institute of Management (VJIM)
  7. University of Hyderabad - School of Management Studies
  8. National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE)
  9. Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM)
  10. Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS)
  11. Siva Sivani Institute of Management (SSIM)
  12. GITAM Hyderabad Business School
  13. Osmania University - Department of Business Management
  14. Aurora's Business School
  15. Badruka School of Management
  16. Chaitanya Bharathi Institute of Technology (CBIT)
  17. Institute of Insurance and Risk Management (IIRM)
  18. Amity Global Business School
  19. St. Joseph's Degree and PG College
  20. Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU) - School of Management Studies

Hope it's helpful to you.

Hello,

Here are some top MBA colleges in India with fees under Rs. 2 lakh and their exam/cutoff details:

  • SIMSREE, Mumbai – Fee around Rs. 1.3–1.4 lakh for 2 years. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, MAT, ATMA. Cutoff is very high, usually 99+ percentile in CAT/CMAT.

  • PUMBA (Dept. of Management Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University) – Fee around Rs. 1.2–1.3 lakh. Accepts CAT, CMAT, MAH-CET, ATMA. Cutoff approx. 75+ percentile in CAT, 90–95+ percentile in CMAT, high scores in MAH-CET.

  • TISS, Mumbai (MA HRM & other management-related programmes) – Fee around Rs. 1.7–1.9 lakh. Accepts CAT for some courses. Qualifying cutoff is around 60–70 percentile, but final selection cutoffs are higher.

These are the main government institutes where the full MBA/PG programme fee is within Rs. 2 lakh. Cutoffs vary slightly each year and by category, but SIMSREE and PUMBA generally need high scores, while TISS has its own process along with CAT shortlisting.

Hope it helps !

Yes, MBA in FinTech is a good option if you are interested in the combination of finance and technology. After this course you can work in roles like FinTech product manager, financial analyst, blockchain/crypto specialist, risk & compliance manager, or business development manager in banks, startups, and financial companies.

For the salary part, freshers usually start with around 5–10 LPA in normal companies and in bigger FinTech firms or banks it can even go up to 10–15 LPA, depending on your skills, college, and location.

If you do Data Science and then an MBA in Finance, you can get many high-paying jobs. Some of the best options are:

1. CFO (Chief Financial Officer) – You manage a company’s finances, budgeting, and reports. Big companies pay 40 lakh to 1 crore per year.

2. Investment Banker – You help clients raise money and do mergers or acquisitions. Salaries start around 10–12 lakh for freshers and can go up to 30 lakh or more with experience.

3. Chief Data Officer – You lead data strategies in companies. Pay can be 80 lakh to 1.3 crore per year.

4. Machine Learning Engineer / AI Scientist – You create AI and ML models. Salary is around 35–42 lakh per year.

5. Product Manager – You manage product strategy and market positioning. Can earn 89 lakh to 1.1 crore per year in big tech companies.

6. Financial Actuary – You analyze financial risks. Pay is around 25–30 lakh per year.

Hello,

If you have made a mistake while entering your education details in KEA PGCET MBA option entry, you cannot edit it directly once it is submitted. You need to contact KEA immediately.

You can:

  • Call the KEA helpline numbers.

  • Or visit the KEA office with your documents.

They will guide you on how to correct the mistake. Do it quickly, as corrections are allowed only within the given time.

Hope it helps !