Confused whether to seek MBA or not in Chennai and faced with myriad choices, myriad entrance tests and fee-structure?
You are not the only one.
There are so many colleges offering MBA Admission in Chennai, and it is hard to find which one is not only good in name and fame, but also palatable in 2025 and onwards. No matter what you want (leadership position, tier increase, or being an AI-savvy marketer) this blog will provide you with the foreknowledge.
Now, let us uncrack the MBA admission Chennai scenario, highlight top institutions and possible smarter strategies to make a future-proof career.
TL;DR (Quick Summary Box)
- MBA admission in Chennai for 2025 is open across top government & private colleges.
- Popular institutes include Anna University, Loyola Institute, and Digital Scholar.
- Entrance exams accepted: TANCET, CAT, XAT, MAT, GMAT.
- MBA fees in Chennai range from ₹1.2L–₹10L depending on the college.
- Digital Scholar offers a unique 1-Year AI-Powered MBA with guaranteed placement support.
Market Insights: What You Must Know Before Applying for MBA in Chennai
- Increasing Demand: Chennai has over 20K plus aspirants of MBA admission in Chennai- in the fields of finance, marketing, HR, and digital spheres.
- Accepted exams: TANCET, CAT, MAT are accepted by most of the top colleges, even direct admission through merit or personal interview.
- Fee: 1.2L (govt colleges such as Anna University) -8-10L (private and international MBA courses such as Digital Scholar).
- Trending Courses: Digital Marketing, AI in Business, Business Analytics, HR Tech, Product Management, are the current popular courses.
- Placements: Chennai-based MBA students are averaging 4-12 LPA with the top digital MBA averaging above 15 LPA.
MBA Admission Process in Chennai: Step-by-Step
The general outline of the way most of the MBA colleges in Chennai receive admissions is as follows:
- Application Process: In college site or open portals such as TANCET/CAT/MAT.
- Entrance Exams: TANCET is most acceptable; others view CAT, MAT, XAT, GMAT.
- Shortlisting: On the basis of scores, and previous academic records.
- Personal Interview/GD: Compulsory at the private and Tier- 1 institutes.
- Final Offer: Pay a tuition fee and then start the onboarding process as soon as you are chosen.
Tip: Eligible candidates can be directly admitted in some of the MBA colleges in Chennai even without CAT/MAT.
How Digital Scholar Compares to Other MBA Admission in Chennai
| MBA admission in Chennai | Duration | Total Fees | Avg. Placements |
| Digital Scholar | 1 Year (Offline) | ₹3.5 Lakhs (After 50% Scholarship) | ₹6–12 LPA |
| Great Lakes | 2 Years | ₹17–18 Lakhs | ₹12.5 LPA |
| IIT Madras | 2 Years | ₹8–9 Lakhs | ₹13 LPA |
| Loyola Institute | 2 Years | ₹12–13 Lakhs | ₹10 LPA |
| XIME | 2 Years | ₹10 Lakhs | ₹8 LPA |
| Anna University | 2 Years | ₹1–1.5 Lakhs | ₹5–6.5 LPA |
| SRM University | 2 Years | ₹5–6 Lakhs | ₹6 LPA |
Top 7 Colleges for MBA Admission in Chennai (2025 Edition)
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular and career-defining MBA colleges in Chennai:
1. Digital Scholar – 1-Year MBA in Digital Marketing
Program Details: 1 year offline MBA in Digital Marketing (it will be accredited worldwide), developed in collaboration with the Woolf University.
Accreditation: Woolf-accredited Degree having international recognition in over 50+ countries and the possibility of transferring to a university in the US.
Eligibility Criteria: any stream post-graduate; CAT/GMAT is not required.
Entrance Exam: Open to all College graduates from any stream. Direct admission through personal interview.
Total Fee: The total fees of Digital Scholar’s 1-Year MBA in Digital Marketing is 7,00,000 (50% scholarship upto 3.5L available).
Unique Selling Point: AI powered learning, 20+ professional certifications, live brand campaigns, placement aid, and faculty across the globe.
Placements: 400+ hiring partners; average remuneration package 6 – 12 LPA.
Deadline: The last date to submit applications is 30th August, it is for the September 2025 batch.
Digital Scholar
Address: 1B, Sapna Trade Centre, 135, Poonamallee High Rd, Purasaiwakkam, Chennai – 600084.
Phone: 095136 32705.
Email: [email protected]
2. Great Lakes Institute of Management (GLIM), Chennai
Programs Details: AI, Analytics and Marketing PGDM and PKPM in the discipline of Management.
Eligibility Criteria: Bachelor degree with 50% or above
Entrance Exam: Accepts only CAT/ XAT / GMAT / CMAT.
Total Fees: In total: 17-18 Lakhs.
Placement: placements and average salary of 12.5 lakhs per annum.
Deadline: The deadline (Cycle 1) is November 2025.
3. Department of Management Studies, IIT Madras (DoMS IIT Madras)
Program Details: 2 Year MBA program (with on General Management, HR, Finance and Marketing).
Eligibility Criteria: A bachelor degree with at least 60% marks and with valid CAT score.
Entrance Exam: CAT.
Total Fee: 8-9 Lakhs.
Placement: The average package of 13 LPA; job positions in consulting, analytics, and BFSI.
Deadline: According to the deadlines of CAT application.
4. Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA), Chennai
Program Details: 2 years Full time PGDM with electives and industry-driven and Jesuit values.
Eligibility criteria: The Bachelor degree (with 60 percent marks), and CAT/XAT.
Entrance Exam: Its entrance exam is CAT or XAT.
Total Fees: The total fees are 12.5-13 Lakhs.
Placement: 100% placement; the most sought-after recruiters are EY, Deloitte and Amazon.
Deadline: The project shall come to a close by January 2025.
5. Xavier Institute of Management & Entrepreneurship (XIME), Chennai
Details of Programs: 2 year Full Time full-time PGDM with specializations in Marketing, Finance, HR and Operations.
Eligibility Requirement: A minimum of 50 percent marks in an undergraduate degree + valid CAT/XAT/CMAT/MAT.
Entrance Exam: Various tests to be accepted.
Total Fees: 10 Lakhs.
Placements: Salary of round 8 LPA; best jobs in FMCG fintech and start-up.
Deadline: February, 2025.
6. Department of Management Studies, Anna University (DOMS, Anna University)
Program: 2-Year Full-time MBA and many elective courses in functional areas of business.
Eligibility Criteria: College Graduate and TANCET score.
Entrance Exam: The entrance exam is TANCET.
Fees: ranging between 1 Lakh to 1.5 Lakh (Cheap government fee structure).
Placements: The average salary of 5-6.5 LPA.
Last date: February 2025 (registration of TANCET).
7. SRM Institute of Science and Technology – School of Management, Chennai
Program: 2 Year MBA in Finance, Marketing, HR and operations.
Eligibility Criteria: Bachelor degree 50% and SRM entrance score or any other national entered test mark.
Entrance Exam: SRMJEEM / CAT / MAT / CMAT.
Fees: 5-6 Lakhs.
Placement: average salary 6 LPA.
Application Deadline: There is rolling admissions until July 2025.
What Makes Digital Scholar the Best MBA for Modern Marketers
Digital Scholar isn’t just another MBA college in Chennai — it’s a next-generation platform for marketers who want to lead in the age of AI, automation, and creator-led businesses. With global accreditation from Woolf University, 20+ industry certifications, and live client work with international brands, Digital Scholar ensures you’re not just job-ready — you’re future-ready.
Unlike traditional programs that lean on outdated case studies, Digital Scholar teaches you to build funnels, launch Google Ads, manage influencer collaborations, and grow brands from scratch. That’s why it stands out among good MBA colleges in Chennai and across India.
Why Digital Scholar Is Better Than Traditional MBA Colleges
Most MBA regular colleges in Chennai still rely on conventional lectures and theoretical coursework. Digital Scholar breaks that mould by offering:
- A 1-year compressed format with high-impact training
- Co-created curriculum with top industry experts
- Access to 50+ AI marketing tools
- A personal branding + freelancing module
This practical model has helped students land ₹6–12 LPA jobs even before graduating. It’s the best alternative to traditional MBA programs for those who want results, not just degrees.
Final Take: Which MBA Admission in Chennai Should You Choose?
If you’re serious about building a modern marketing career with real skills, industry exposure, and global recognition — Digital Scholar is your best bet. It offers the perfect mix of affordability, global access, and ROI.
Whether you’re a fresher, working professional, or someone looking to switch careers, this is the MBA that doesn’t just teach — it transforms.
Apply Now to Digital Scholar’s 1-Year MBA Program
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can I join an MBA without a CAT?
A. Yes, many private MBA colleges in Chennai like Digital Scholar offer direct MBA admission in Chennai without a CAT score. These institutions focus more on your personal interview, work experience, and commitment to learning. Digital Scholar, SRM Institute, and Saveetha Institute are top choices among management colleges in Tamil Nadu accepting students without CAT.
Q. Is it compulsory to write a CAT for an MBA?
A. Not at all. While top Indian institutes like IIMs require CAT, many reputed MBA colleges in Chennai including Digital Scholar, SRM University, and Loyola Institute accept direct MBA admission in Chennai. You can skip the common admission test and still enroll in MBA programs in Chennai.
Q. Can I join an MBA directly?
A. Absolutely. Direct admission is available in top-rated colleges like Digital Scholar. These MBA courses have simplified admission processes without entrance exams. Some also offer scholarships based on merit or interviews.
Q. Can I do an MBA without IIM?
A. Of course. IIMs are just one option. Digital Scholar, Great Lakes, and IIT Madras are among the best MBA colleges in Chennai offering MBA admission in Chennai without needing to crack CAT.
Q. Which college is best for MBA in India without a CAT?
A. For those seeking MBA admission in Chennai, Digital Scholar is a leading choice. Its online MBA program, flexible tuition fee, and real-world exposure make it ideal for students without CAT. Other options include SRM University, Saveetha Institute, and Xavier Institute.
Q. Is MBA without a CAT worth it?
A. Yes. Many MBA colleges in Chennai provide high ROI without CAT. Digital Scholar’s MBA program focuses on practical outcomes with 20+ certifications, live projects, and placements in top companies — making it extremely valuable.
Q. Can I do an MBA after 12th?
A. No. MBA requires a bachelor’s degree. However, Digital Scholar offers advanced marketing bootcamps for students aspiring to join after graduation. Most MBA admission in Chennai colleges like Anna University and Bharath Institute also mandate graduation.
Q. Can I get admission in MBA without entrance exam in Chennai?
A. Yes, Digital Scholar and many private MBA colleges in Tamil Nadu allow direct admission. They may conduct personal interviews or check academic scores instead of exam accepted formats like CAT or MAT.
Q. Can we join an MBA without an entrance exam?
A. Definitely. Digital Scholar is a top MBA college that accepts students without an entrance exam. Instead, they assess aptitude and readiness for their AI-led, industry-driven MBA course.
Q. Which college does not need an entrance exam for an MBA in Chennai?
A. Digital Scholar, SRM Institute, and Hindustan Institute are popular names that provide MBA admission in Chennai without entrance tests. These colleges streamline the admission process to make it more accessible.
Q. How to join an MBA in Chennai?
A. Start by shortlisting colleges like Digital Scholar or IIT Madras, review tuition fees, and check eligibility. Apply online and prepare for personal interviews if required. Avoid colleges demanding only entrance exams.
Q. Can I apply directly to an MBA?
A. Yes, most MBA colleges in Chennai like Digital Scholar offer direct MBA admission in Chennai. You’ll need to fill the application form, upload your graduation certificates, and possibly attend an interview.
Q. Can I get direct admission in MBA after 12th?
A. No. You need an undergraduate degree. However, you can plan early by researching MBA admission in Chennai through college names like Measi Institute, Amity Global Business School, and Digital Scholar.
Q. Can an MBA be done privately?
A. Yes, several private MBA colleges like Digital Scholar, Madha Engineering College, and Anand Institute offer excellent MBA programs in Chennai with strong ROI, flexible learning, and AI-powered curriculum.
Q. Which MBA is the cheapest?
A. In terms of affordability and value, Digital Scholar’s MBA is one of the best. With a scholarship, the total tuition fee is just ₹3.5L. Anna University also offers low-cost options.
Q. Can I do an MBA at low cost?
A. Yes. Digital Scholar, Loyola Institute, and SSN School of Management are affordable choices in Chennai with excellent outcomes. Look for MBA colleges in Chennai with flexible fees structure.
Q. Can I do an MBA in 1 lakh?
A. Only a few government MBA colleges in Chennai like Anna University come close. Private colleges with scholarships like Digital Scholar may help you reduce MBA course fees in Chennai significantly.
Q. Which MBA is best for money?
A. Digital Scholar tops the list by combining low fees, high placements, and global certifications. It’s ideal for students seeking MBA admission in Chennai with max ROI.
Q. Which country is best for MBA with the lowest fees?
A. India is among the most affordable, especially Chennai. Institutions like Digital Scholar offer world-class training at a fraction of foreign MBA costs.
Q. Which MBA course is best?
A. The best is one that offers future-ready skills, global exposure, and ROI — like the Digital Marketing MBA program at Digital Scholar. It stands out in the MBA colleges in Chennai landscape.
Q. How to reduce MBA fees?
A. Opt for colleges offering scholarships or flexible models. Digital Scholar offers up to 50% scholarships, making it the best option for MBA admission in Chennai on a budget.
Q. Which institute is best for MBA in Chennai?
A. Digital Scholar has been rated one of the finest MBA colleges in Chennai, particularly if the student would want to combine a low-cost, future-fulfilling abilities and training with placement-oriented results. It is one of the best MBA schools in Chennai because it offers 1-year practical MBA, global accreditation as Woolf University, and practical online learning. Various other options such as IIT Madras, Loyola Institute, SRM University are also good options according to preferences of MBA in Chennai admission.
Q. Which MBA is the cheapest?
A. For the most affordable MBA admission in Chennai, Anna University and Digital Scholar are leading options. Anna offers traditional government MBA programs with total tuition fees as low as ₹1–1.5 lakhs. Digital Scholar, on the other hand, offers a value-packed 1-year program for just ₹3.5L with scholarships and guaranteed placements, making it the best private MBA college for ROI.
Q. Can I join an MBA without a CAT?
A. Yes, many top MBA colleges in Chennai like Digital Scholar and Saveetha Institute accept students without CAT. You can still secure MBA admission in Chennai based on your graduation marks and personal interview. This is especially helpful for students exploring direct admission routes without preparing for the common admission test.
Q. Can I get admission in MBA without entrance exam in Chennai?
A. Definitely. Several private MBA colleges in Tamil Nadu, including Digital Scholar, allow direct MBA admission in Chennai without requiring any entrance exam. Instead, selection is based on eligibility criteria, academic background, or interviews — perfect for those wanting a quicker and practical route into management studies.
1 Comments
Thanks for the information.