Hi everyone! 👋
I'm 22F, a recent B.Tech graduate in Civil Engineering . I just cleared all 17 backpapers and now I'm officially graduating! 🎉
Now that graduation is done, I'm fully committed to pursuing an MBA from a top IIM (preferably IIM Calcutta, IIM Indore, or IIM Ahmedabad). I've done some research and I'd love your honest advice on my plans.
My Background:
- ✅ B.Tech Civil Engineering - CLEARED all backpapers
- Final CGPA: ~7.0
- Class 10 marks: ~80%
- Class 12 marks: ~78%
- Age: 22 years
- Fresher - No work experience
Why IIM Calcutta:
Doesn't consider graduation CGPA for shortlisting (huge relief!)
Better average package (₹36 LPA) than IIM Ahmedabad (₹35.22 LPA)
Highest individual package (₹1.45 Crore) among all IIMs
100% placement rate
Triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS)
My Plan:
- Now - Next 6 months: Full-time CAT preparation
- Target: 99+ percentile in CAT
- Timeline: Take CAT in November 2026
- WAT-PI: February-March 2026
- MBA Start: August 2026
My Questions:
Is 99+ CAT percentile realistic for an engineer?
Coaching vs Self-study - what worked for you?
How to frame my 17 backpapers story in PI interview?
Should I work 1-2 years or apply directly as fresher?
Any civil engineers here who did MBA?
IIM Calcutta vs IIM Indore vs IIM Ahmedabad - which better for fresher?
What should I do NOW to strengthen my profile?
What if I score 98.5 percentile instead of 99+?
Is 6 months enough for CAT prep?
Should I have backup non-IIM B-schools?
Advantages:
- ✅ Cleared all backpapers (shows determination)
- ✅ Decent Class 10 & 12 marks
- ✅ 6 months for dedicated CAT prep
- ✅ IIM-C doesn't care about graduation CGPA
Concerns:
- Non-stellar graduation CGPA (7.0)
- No work experience
- Fresher in competitive environment
- 99+ percentile is a high bar
Any honest feedback would be incredibly valuable! Would love to hear from anyone who cleared backpapers, engineers who did MBA, or IIM-C students/alumni.
Thanks in advance! 🙏