Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), Delhi, founded in 1963, is India’s premier national institute dedicated to research, training, and education in international business and trade. Established under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, IIFT has evolved into a global centre of excellence, renowned for its rigorous education programs focused on global trade, international business strategy, and analytics.
The institute’s flagship programs, the MBA in International Business (IB) and MBA in Business Analytics (BA), reflect the dynamic and complex nature of the modern global economy. Delivered over a two-year full-time curriculum, these programs provide comprehensive training in functional management coupled with a deep understanding of international trade policies, global markets, and cutting-edge data-driven decision-making.
IIFT leverages a world-class faculty pool with experience from top Indian and international business schools, actively contributing to policy advisories for the Government of India and global trade bodies. The curriculum integrates case studies, simulation exercises, live projects, business communication sessions, and sector-focused electives—covering areas such as global finance, cross-border taxation, trade logistics, digital marketing, AI in business, sustainable supply chains, and business law.
The institute fosters a strong student-centric ecosystem with active clubs, leadership forums, cross-cultural learning, and participation in prestigious global competitions. The centralized New Delhi campus features cutting-edge facilities, including specialized labs, a rich library repository with international trade databases, and technology-enabled classrooms.
IIFT’s career services are tailored to meet industry demands, with an extensive network of recruiters from top consulting firms, multinational corporations, banks, fintech startups, analytics firms, and export-import businesses. Graduates enjoy excellent career trajectories, with approximately 95% placement rates, median salaries above ₹25 LPA, and international job offers supporting global career ambitions.
The institute’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with many leaders staying actively engaged in mentoring, guest sessions, and industry collaborations. IIFT continues to enhance its offerings through strategic partnerships with global B-schools and trade organizations, making it the institution of choice for aspiring business leaders focused on international markets and analytics.
| Event | Tentative Dates |
|---|---|
| Application Start | July 2025 |
| Application Deadline | December 2025 |
| CAT / Entrance Exam Date | November 2025 |
| Shortlisting & GD/PI | January–February 2026 |
| Final Merit List/Admissions | March 2026 |
| Orientation & Session Start | July 2026 |
MBA International Business (2 Year Full-Time)
MBA Business Analytics (2 Year Full-Time)
Executive MBA (Weekend/Part-Time)
MA in Economics with specialization in Trade and Finance
Doctoral / PhD Programs in Business and Trade Studies
Certificate and Short-Term Executive Education programs in international trade, analytics, and supply chain management
The courses combine domain expertise with functional management and global trade policy insights, preparing students for leadership roles across global markets.
Entrance Exam:
Until recently, admissions were via the IIFT national entrance exam but now also via CAT as per latest policy changes.
Online Application:
Register & apply with academic details, entrance scores, and payment of application fees.
Shortlisting for Final Round:
Based on entrance exam scores, academic record, work experience, and diversity considerations.
Selection Round:
Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) to evaluate communication skills, problem-solving, leadership potential, and fit with institute values.
Final Merit List:
Composite evaluation of exam score, WAT/GD/PI, academics, work experience.
Offer Rollout & Admission:
Candidates receive admission offer letters and must complete payment and document verification
| Fee Component | Amount (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | ₹10,91,000/year | For MBA International Business |
| Course & Examination Fee | ₹1,00,000 | Per annum approx. |
| Caution Deposit | ₹10,000 (refundable) | Payable once |
| Hostel & Mess Charges | ₹4,30,000/year | Optional, based on accommodation |
| Other Fees (Library, Alumni, Events) | ₹50,000 | Annual charges |
| Total Approximate | ₹21,82,000 – ₹22,50,000 | Full course (2 years) Including tuition, hostel optional |
IIFT Delhi has a stellar placement track record for the MBA (IB) and MBA (BA) batches, making it one of the most sought-after MBA colleges nationwide.
Highest Domestic Salary: ₹76.5 Lakhs
Highest International Salary: ₹85.4 Lakhs
Average Salary: ₹29.1 Lakhs
Median Salary: ₹25 Lakhs
Number of Recruiters: 120+
Number of International Placements: 10+
Top Recruiting Sector: Sales and Marketing (22%)
Placement Rate: More than 95%
Marketing and Sales have been the leading recruiting domain, with over 20% of offers. This highlights the institute's strength in producing industry-ready marketing professionals proficient in both traditional and digital markets.
Finance and consulting roles remain significant, with many positions offered by top-tier global consulting firms and financial institutions.
Analytics, IT, and supply chain management functions also form an expanding cohort, reflecting the industry's pivot towards data-driven decision-making.
The institute facilitates highly valued summer internships with average stipends ranging from ₹1.4 lakhs to ₹2.7 lakhs, and top stipends reaching ₹6 lakhs among MBA IB students. The internships provide critical exposure to businesses, governmental agencies, and non-profits within India and abroad.
IIFT’s Career Services Office (CSO) offers holistic candidate preparation, including soft skills training, mock interviews, case practice sessions, networking events, and direct recruitment drives hosted both on and off campus.
