FT Executive Education Rankings 2025: 7 Indian business schools among world’s best
In a significant endorsement of India’s growing reputation in the global business education landscape, seven Indian business schools have been ranked among the top 95 in the Financial Times (FT) Executive Education Rankings 2025. The rankings evaluate business schools across the world based on the quality and impact of their executive education programmes for working professionals and corporate clients.At the forefront of this achievement is the Indian School of Business (ISB), which secured the 23rd position globally, climbing three spots from last year’s 26th. ISB continues to lead the Indian contingent with its high-impact, industry-aligned executive learning solutions that are tailored for senior leadership and corporate transformation.
India’s top performers in FT executive education 2025
Here’s a look at the Indian business schools featured in this year’s rankings:
Indian School of Business ranks 23rd
ISB’s consistent rise in the FT rankings reinforces its position as a global leader in executive education. The school has carved out a niche with its customised corporate programmes, collaborations with top international institutions, and focus on leadership development, digital transformation, and innovation.With campuses in Hyderabad and Mohali, ISB draws on global faculty and strong industry partnerships to deliver programmes that equip executives with cutting-edge skills in a rapidly evolving business environment.
Steady performers: IIM Bangalore , IIM Ahmedabad , and IIM Indore
Among the IIMs, IIM Bangalore remains the second-highest ranked Indian institution, improving slightly from 48th to 46th position this year. Known for its broad range of open and customised executive development programmes, IIMB continues to serve as a key player in leadership education for both Indian and multinational companies.IIM Ahmedabad, long considered a benchmark in Indian management education, ranked 72nd, dropping two places from last year. However, the institute’s executive programmes continue to enjoy global recognition for their academic rigour and case-based learning model.IIM Indore also saw a marginal improvement, moving from 85th to 83rd. The institute is gaining ground with its emphasis on blended learning, mid-career leadership development, and sector-specific executive offerings.
New entrants: MDI Gurgaon , IIM Calcutta , and IIM Kozhikode
This year saw three new Indian entrants in the FT Executive Education Rankings, highlighting the broadening base of globally recognised Indian B-schools:
- MDI Gurgaon debuted at 61st position, thanks to its growing presence in the customised training space and corporate partnerships.
- IIM Calcutta made its first appearance at 78th, riding on the strength of its leadership and analytics-focused executive programmes.
- IIM Kozhikode, entering the list at 87th, has been gaining attention for its hybrid and digitally-enabled executive learning models, especially in ESG, digital transformation, and strategy.
The inclusion of seven Indian business schools, including three new entrants, reflects the diversification and internationalisation of executive education in India. As global corporations seek agile, future-ready leadership, Indian institutions are stepping up with programmes that blend global best practices with local relevance.
