Old IIMs vs Baby IIMs - Which One Should You Choose?

When considering an MBA in India, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) stand out as the premier B-schools. There are 21 IIMs throughout the nation, classified into Old, New, and Baby IIMs according to their founding years. The Old IIMs boast a rich legacy and significant prestige, while the Baby IIMs symbolize the new wave of management education in India, vibrant, innovative, and quickly adapting.

So, what sets them apart, and which one is the right choice for you? Let’s explore.

Overview of Old IIMs

The Old IIMs are the pioneers that set the benchmark for management education in India. Institutes like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta were established in the 1960s and have consistently ranked among the best business schools globally.
Other Old IIMs such as IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode, and IIM Indore further strengthened this legacy. They offer:

• Robust academic infrastructure
• Renowned faculty members
• Global collaborations
• A vast alumni network across top corporates

Their placement statistics and global recognition make them the first choice for many aspirants.

Overview of Baby IIMs

The Baby IIMs were established between 2015 and 2022 under the government’s vision to expand quality management education across India. These include IIM Amritsar, IIM Nagpur, IIM Sambalpur, IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Sirmaur, IIM Visakhapatnam, IIM Kashipur, IIM Jammu and IIM Trichy.
Most Baby IIMs were mentored by Old or New IIMs during their initial years, ensuring strong academic guidance and structural support.
Key highlights of Baby IIMs:

• Modern, tech-enabled campuses
• Industry-oriented curriculum
• Young and dynamic faculty
• Improving placement statistics year after year

Comparison Table: Old IIMs vs Baby IIMs

Advantages of Old IIMs

1. Strong Legacy and Reputation: Over 50 years of excellence makes them globally recognized.
2. Outstanding Placements: Consistent top recruiters and higher salary packages.
3. Vast Alumni Network: Presence in leading global corporations and startups.
4. Research & Global Collaborations: Partnerships with international universities.
5. Peer Learning: Highly competitive student community enhances overall growth.

Advantages of Baby IIMs

1. Modern Curriculum: New-age courses focusing on analytics, entrepreneurship, and digital leadership.
2. Mentorship Support: Guidance from established IIMs ensures academic stability.
3. Smaller Batch Sizes: Better faculty interaction and personalized learning.
4. Lower Competition: Slightly lower CAT cut-offs provide good opportunities for deserving candidates.
5. Rapid Growth: Continuous improvement in placements, rankings, and brand value.

Challenges Baby IIMs Face

• Limited Alumni Base: Still in early stages of building strong corporate connections.
• Infrastructure Expansion: Many operate from temporary campuses.
• Brand Perception: Employers often favor older IIMs due to legacy advantage.

However, with each passing year, these gaps are narrowing as Baby IIMs continue to grow stronger.

Who Should Choose Which?

• Old IIMs: Ideal for aspirants seeking a globally recognized brand, high ROI, and access to top recruiters.
• Baby IIMs: Perfect for candidates looking for strong academic foundations, modern exposure, and opportunities to grow with an emerging institution.

If your CAT percentile is slightly below the top tier cut-off, choosing a Baby IIM is still a wise investment, offering an IIM tag and quality education.
The prestigious Old IIMs embody stability, whereas the newer Baby IIMs signify innovation and promise.
Both are essential in influencing the management scene in India. Your decision should align with your career aspirations, CAT results, and future objectives.

Regardless of the IIM you select, it is your commitment and willingness to learn that will determine your success.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between Old and Baby IIMs?
Old IIMs are well-established institutes with a strong legacy, while Baby IIMs are newer institutes mentored by older ones and are still developing their reputation.

2. Are Baby IIMs worth joining?
Yes, they offer quality education, mentorship support, and growing placement opportunities, making them a solid choice for MBA aspirants.

3. Which Baby IIM has the best placement record?
IIM Visakhapatnam, IIM Amritsar, and IIM Nagpur currently lead in placements among the Baby IIMs.

4. Is the brand value of Baby IIMs increasing?
Yes. With every passing batch, their placement stats, faculty strength, and rankings are improving rapidly.

5. Should I prefer a New IIM over a Baby IIM?
If your goal is better infrastructure and slightly stronger placements, New IIMs are preferable. But Baby IIMs also offer competitive learning environments.