IIT Mandi calls for applications for MBA in Data Science and AI for 2026–28; Packages Go Up to ₹49 LPA

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has announced the availability of seats for the MBA in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DS & AI) course for the 2026, 28 academic year, thus making the program as one of the promising options for those students willing to combine management education with technology skills of the latest trend. Candidates wishing to apply can do so via the official website of IIT Mandi until January 27, 2026.

To equip business leaders of tomorrow with a solid technology background, the MBA (DS & AI) programme at IIT Mandi blends the core management skills such as strategy, finance, and marketing with the advanced topics like artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and digital transformation. Students can leverage advanced analytics laboratories, high, end computing infrastructure, and the innovation and startup ecosystem at IIT Mandi through its technology incubator, Catalyst. Professor Anjan Kumar Swain, Chairperson, School of Management, talked about the future vision of the program that intends to develop leaders who excel in the fast, changing digital economy. He added that our curriculum is a mix of management, analytics, and technology, which is instrumental in the development of critical thinking, creativity, and leadership qualities.

Eligibility IIT Mandi is calling for applications for the MBA program starting in 2026. All candidates must have a valid CAT 2025 score.

Furthermore, applicants with a Bachelor's or Master's degree from Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs) or from the institutions ranked within the top 100 by NIRF 2025 (overall or engineering categories) are eligible to apply. Comprehensive admission criteria are listed on the institute website. Placement Highlights The School of Management at IIT Mandi has undergone a significant curriculum transformation in the recent past. As part of the revision, a variety of new electives such as Generative AI for Managers, AI, driven Financial Decision Making, and AI for Marketing have been introduced. The changes have been quite effective in placements as well. 

The last batch managed to achieve an average CTC of 18 lakh per annum, with the highest package going up to 49 LPA. Alongside these, the top recruiters have included companies primarily from the fields of analytics, consulting, BFSI, technology services, and AI driven enterprises, which after all, is a clear indication of the program's increasing industry relevance. As the application window is currently open, IIT Mandi's MBA in Data Science and AI is rapidly becoming an excellent choice for management aspirants who want to be future ready.