IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade)
The IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade) entrance exam is one of the most competitive exams in India for students who wish to pursue an MBA in International Business from IIFT. Conducted by the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, a prestigious institute under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the exam is a gateway to admission in its MBA (IB) program at its campuses in New Delhi and Kolkata.
This guide will help you understand everything about the IIFT exam, including eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, application process, and important dates. Whether you’re preparing for the exam or considering applying, this comprehensive overview will guide you through the process.
What is IIFT?
The IIFT exam is conducted annually by Indian Institute of Foreign Trade for admission to its MBA (International Business) program. The MBA (IB) program at IIFT is one of the most sought-after management programs in the country, with a focus on international business, trade, and global market strategies. It is designed to prepare students for the challenges of global business environments.
IIFT is known for its rigorous academic programs, excellent placement records, and a diverse student body. Graduates of IIFT are highly sought after by global businesses and top firms in the world of international trade and commerce.
Eligibility Criteria for IIFT
Before applying for the IIFT exam, candidates need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Below are the general eligibility requirements for appearing in the exam:
| Program | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| MBA (International Business) | – A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates). – Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree can also apply. |
| Age Limit | – No age limit for appearing in the exam. |
IIFT Exam Pattern
The IIFT exam pattern is designed to assess a candidate’s aptitude in various areas such as Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability, and General Knowledge. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and has a total of 110 questions. Below is an overview of the exam pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 20-25 | 2 hours | 1 mark | 25 marks |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DI & LR) | 30-35 | 1 mark | 30 marks | |
| Verbal Ability (VA) | 20-25 | 1 mark | 25 marks | |
| General Knowledge & Current Affairs (GK) | 10-15 | 1 mark | 15 marks | |
| Total | 110 | 2 hours | 1 mark per question | 100 marks |
Marking Scheme:
- Correct Answer: +3 marks for each correct answer.
- Incorrect Answer: -1 mark for each incorrect answer.
- Unanswered Questions: No marks for unanswered questions.
IIFT Syllabus
The IIFT syllabus is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge in areas such as Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. Below are the key topics for each section:
1. Quantitative Ability (QA):
- Arithmetic (Time, Work, Profit & Loss, Percentage)
- Algebra (Equations, Functions, Progressions)
- Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry)
- Probability and Permutation
- Data Sufficiency
- Number Systems
2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DI & LR):
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts, Data Analysis)
- Logical Reasoning (Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Syllogisms)
- Analytical Reasoning
- Blood Relations
- Coding-Decoding
3. Verbal Ability (VA):
- Reading Comprehension
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
- Sentence Correction
- Sentence Completion
- Para Jumbles
- Grammar
4. General Knowledge & Current Affairs (GK):
- National and International News
- Business, Economics, and Finance
- Sports
- Government Policies and International Relations
- Science and Technology
- Environmental Issues
IIFT Selection Process
The IIFT selection process consists of multiple stages. After the exam, candidates who meet the required cutoff scores are shortlisted for further rounds. Below is the typical selection process:
- Registration and Application: Candidates must register for the IIFT exam on the official IIFT website. The application form requires personal details, academic qualifications, and other relevant information.
- IIFT Exam: Candidates appear for the IIFT exam at the selected test centers. The exam is conducted in multiple cities across India, and candidates can choose their preferred center during the application process.
- Result Declaration: The result is declared on the official IIFT website. Candidates can check their individual scores and download the IIFT scorecard. The result is typically announced within a few weeks of the exam.
- Shortlisting for Further Rounds: Based on the IIFT exam score, candidates are shortlisted for the next rounds, which typically include Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and Writing Ability Test (WAT).
- Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and Writing Ability Test (WAT): Shortlisted candidates are invited for the GD/PI/WAT rounds. These rounds assess candidates on their communication skills, knowledge, personality, and suitability for a career in international business.
- Final Selection: The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in the IIFT exam, GD/PI/WAT rounds, academic record, work experience (if applicable), and other factors. The selected candidates are then offered admission to the MBA (IB) program.
IIFT Fee Structure
The IIFT fee structure varies depending on the campus and the candidate’s category. Below is an approximate fee structure for the MBA (International Business) program:
| Program | Fee |
|---|---|
| MBA (IB) – New Delhi Campus | ₹17,50,000 per year (approx.) |
| MBA (IB) – Kolkata Campus | ₹17,00,000 per year (approx.) |
| Other Fees | ₹50,000 (Approx.) per year (Hostel/Library, etc.) |
| Total Fee for Two Years | ₹35,00,000 – ₹35,50,000 (approx.) |
Note: The fee structure may vary slightly from year to year. Candidates are advised to check the official IIFT website for the latest fee details.
IIFT Preparation Tips
- Know the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Understanding the IIFT exam pattern and syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. Develop a structured study plan and focus on key topics for each section.
- Time Management: Time management is crucial during the exam. Practicing time-bound mock tests will help you improve your speed and accuracy.
- Regular Practice: Regularly practice quantitative problems, logical reasoning puzzles, and verbal ability questions to sharpen your skills. Focus on improving your speed while maintaining accuracy.
- Stay Updated on Current Affairs: Read newspapers, magazines, and online portals to stay updated on national and international news, business, economics, and current events.
- Solve Previous Year Papers: Solve IIFT previous year papers to get a sense of the difficulty level and the types of questions asked in the exam.
- Mock Tests: Take mock tests regularly to gauge your preparation. Mock tests help you track progress and identify areas that need improvement.
Conclusion
The IIFT exam is a gateway to one of India’s premier MBA programs in International Business. With its diverse curriculum, global exposure, and excellent placement records, the MBA (IB) program at IIFT is an excellent choice for students aspiring to make a mark in the world of international trade and business. By preparing well, staying focused, and using the right resources, you can excel in the IIFT exam and secure your place in this prestigious institution.
