CAT 2025: Colleges Accepting 80–84 Percentile (MBA 2026 Admissions)

Scoring between 80–84 percentile in CAT 2025 opens doors to several reputed Tier-2 and Tier-1.5 MBA colleges for the MBA 2026 admission cycle. While top IIMs demand very high percentiles, many well-established institutes evaluate candidates holistically, considering CAT score, academics, work experience, diversity, and GD-PI performance.

This detailed guide lists the best MBA colleges accepting 80–84 percentile in CAT 2025, along with admission insights, expected cut-offs, fees, placements, and ROI—helping you make informed decisions for MBA 2026.

Is 80–84 Percentile in CAT 2025 Good for MBA 2026?

Yes. An 80–84 percentile in CAT 2025 is competitive for:

• Reputed private B-schools

• Autonomous institutes

• University-affiliated MBA/MMS programs

• Colleges with strong placement consistency and ROI

At this range, candidates typically secure:

• Average packages of ₹5–9 LPA

• Roles in marketing, BFSI, HR, analytics, operations, and consulting

• Admission through profile-based selection rather than percentile alone

Top Colleges Accepting 80–84 Percentile in CAT 2025

1. Great Lakes Institute of Management (Chennai / Gurgaon)

Great Lakes Institute of Management is a preferred choice for candidates in the 80–85 CAT percentile range due to its strong profile-based shortlisting. The institute emphasizes academic consistency, work experience, leadership potential, and interview performance alongside CAT scores.

For MBA 2026, Great Lakes offers strong exposure in analytics, consulting, and BFSI domains. The curriculum is industry-aligned, supported by corporate mentorship, live projects, and internships, making it a high-ROI option despite slightly higher fees.

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• Expected CAT Cut-off (2026): 80–85 percentile

• Fees: ₹18–21 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹14–15 LPA

• Top Roles: Consultant, Business Analyst, Product Analyst

2. K J Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai

K J Somaiya is one of Mumbai’s most respected private B-schools and regularly considers candidates in the 80–84 percentile range with strong profiles. The institute follows a balanced selection process, giving weightage to CAT scores, academics, SOPs, and interviews.

For MBA 2026, K J Somaiya continues to attract recruiters from consulting, FMCG, BFSI, and IT services. Its Mumbai location provides unmatched corporate exposure and internship opportunities.

• Expected CAT Cut-off: 80–85 percentile

• Fees: ₹19–20 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹11–12 LPA

• Top Roles: Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Consultant

3. IMT Nagpur

IMT Nagpur is a solid Tier-2 B-school under the IMT brand umbrella and is highly suitable for candidates scoring 80–84 percentile in CAT 2025. The institute focuses on practical learning, leadership development, and employability skills.

With consistent placements and moderate fees, IMT Nagpur offers strong ROI for MBA 2026 aspirants targeting marketing, finance, and operations roles.

• Expected CAT Cut-off: 80–85 percentile

• Fees: ₹12–14 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹7–8 LPA

• Top Roles: Management Trainee, Business Development Manager

4. FORE School of Management, New Delhi

FORE School of Management accepts CAT percentiles in the 80–85 range for certain programs and profiles. Located in Delhi, FORE offers excellent exposure to consulting firms, corporates, and policy-driven organizations.

For MBA 2026, FORE remains attractive due to its experienced faculty, rigorous academics, and strong placement network across consulting, BFSI, and analytics sectors.

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• Expected CAT Cut-off: 82–85 percentile

• Fees: ₹16–17 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹14–15 LPA

• Top Roles: Consultant, Risk Analyst, Strategy Associate

5. TAPMI Manipal

TAPMI is a reputed AACSB-accredited B-school that considers 80–84 percentile candidates with strong academic and extracurricular profiles. The institute focuses heavily on analytics-driven management education and leadership development.

MBA 2026 aspirants benefit from TAPMI’s structured curriculum, case-based pedagogy, and consistent placement outcomes.

• Expected CAT Cut-off: 80–85 percentile

• Fees: ₹16–18 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹12–13 LPA

• Top Roles: Analyst, Marketing Manager, Operations Lead

6. XIMR Mumbai (Xavier Institute of Management & Research)

XIMR Mumbai is a value-for-money option for candidates with 80–84 CAT percentile. Affiliated with the University of Mumbai and AICTE-approved, XIMR offers strong academic rigor at comparatively lower fees.

For MBA 2026, XIMR continues to deliver consistent placements in BFSI, IT services, and consulting roles, especially for students targeting Mumbai-based careers.

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• Expected CAT Cut-off: 80–84 percentile

• Fees: ₹4–5 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹6–7 LPA

• Top Roles: Business Analyst, Relationship Manager

7. Chetana’s Ramprasad Khandelwal Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai

Chetana’s Institute is an autonomous and well-regarded MBA college in Maharashtra that regularly admits candidates in the 80–84 percentile range through CAT and MAH CET. It is known for academic discipline and strong corporate engagement.

For MBA 2026, the institute offers excellent ROI, especially for students seeking quality education without premium fees.

• Expected CAT Cut-off: 80–85 percentile

• Fees: ₹4–4.5 lakhs

• Average Package: ₹6–7 LPA

• Top Roles: Marketing Executive, Financial Analyst

Strategy to Convert MBA Admission at 80–84 Percentile

• Apply to multiple colleges early

• Focus heavily on GD-PI preparation

• Highlight internships, certifications, and leadership roles

• Write strong SOPs emphasizing career clarity

• Target both CAT-based and CET-based institutes for backup

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is 80–84 percentile enough for MBA in 2026?

Yes. Many reputed Tier-2 and Tier-1.5 colleges accept candidates in this range through profile-based selection.

Can I get good placements with 80–84 percentile?

Yes. Average packages range between ₹5–9 LPA depending on the institute and specialization.

Should I apply only through CAT?

No. You should also apply via CMAT, XAT, MAT, and state CETs to maximize admission chances.

Is work experience mandatory at this percentile?

Not mandatory, but it significantly improves shortlisting and final selection chances.

Final Takeaway

An 80–84 percentile in CAT 2025 is far from a limitation. With smart college shortlisting, strong GD-PI preparation, and early applications, you can secure admission to high-quality MBA colleges for the 2026 intake with excellent career outcomes and ROI.