Frequently asked question regarding Distance MBA.

1. Which is more valuable – Regular MBA or Executive MBA?

For a working professional, where taking out time for daily chores itself is a headache, regular MBA is seen to become a roadblock. For working professionals, distance MBA to be studied at their own convenience is obviously better.

In terms of money, regular MBA is almost four times costlier than distance MBA. Again, distance MBA gets favored here. With the use of technology in education, seminars and webinars being in demand, and the presence of the internet everywhere, distance MBA grabs major attention compared to the regular theoretical book-learning approach of a traditional MBA.

Both the degrees are valid for seeking higher jobs, whether in the private sector or in government. Both carry almost the same value; it depends upon your schedule and motivation level which one suits you better.

2. How much is the price difference between the two?

Distance MBA is almost four times cheaper than regular MBA. Also, the cost of going to class, attending lectures, and purchasing books is reduced. Technically, distance MBA is much cheaper.

3. Am I offered placement opportunities after my Distance MBA degree?

Distance MBA is designed mainly for working professionals who are already employed. However, it is also pursued by fresh graduates and homemakers.

Most universities offering distance MBA do not provide direct placements, though some (like SMU, NMIMS, IMT, etc.) sometimes provide placement assistance. IGNOU also has a campus placement cell.

4. Can I opt for specializations within distance MBA?

Yes. All the specializations available under regular MBA are available here as well. Depending upon your interest and preferences you can choose the one which suits you the best.

Also, while choosing a specialization keep in mind your work area, and if you are planning for a switch, plan the specialization accordingly.

5. Which are the best Universities for Distance MBA?

Tagging any University or College as the best in any field will not be justified. While choosing a University, keep in mind the following factors and then opt for one:

• Approved by UGC-DEB Entitled for offering distance education courses
• Exams conducted on time
• Reasonable fee and higher return on investment
• Program delivery method
• Platforms for lecture delivery

To name a few – ICFAI University, Annamalai University, Lovely Professional University, Sikkim Manipal University, and IGNOU are highly looked for.

6. What entrance exams to be taken for Distance MBA?

Distance MBA admissions do not ask for centralized entrance tests like CAT or MAT. Usually the Universities conduct their own entrance exams.

Although, having a score of any centralized exam can also be used to get into the universities, subject to their admission guidelines.

7. What impact does a distance MBA degree have on the salary?

The salary of an MBA depends upon many factors like experience, type of job, location of the job, and company.

If you’re a fresher and searching for a job in a metro city, you can expect a salary ranging from INR 15,000/- to INR 25,000/-. Although, the average salary of an experienced MBA professional in India is as high as INR 50,000/-.

If you have been working earlier, you can easily expect a hike of approx 30% on your previous salary. This is also subject to change depending upon the market scenario and the company that you are working with.

8. Do I have to forego my job for pursuing a Distance MBA degree?

No. You can continue with your regular job along with this degree and spend your weekends or spare time on a daily basis for your studies. During examination time, you might have to take leaves from office to take the test, otherwise regular work can be done.

9. Is job availability enhanced after the Distance MBA degree?

Having completed your MBA degree, be it regular or distance, you are adding a postgraduate qualification to your profile. Obviously your market value goes up and the chances of getting higher level jobs increase.

10. Do I remain eligible for Government jobs?

Yes. UGC-DEB Entitled clarified that degrees, diplomas, and certificates awarded by universities and institutions approved by UGC-DEB should be treated as equivalent to corresponding degrees of regular institutions.

That means a distance MBA will be treated as good as a regular MBA for government jobs.

11. Am I eligible to pursue higher studies after my Distance MBA degree?

All the higher education degrees that ask for a postgraduate qualification are open for you to pursue. Although, PGDM/PGDBA students are not eligible to apply for Ph.D since diploma courses are not eligible for Ph.D programs.

With a Distance MBA degree, you are eligible for Ph.D as well.

12. Is PGDM equal to MBA?

Not all PGDM courses are considered equal to MBA. A PGDM is considered equivalent to MBA if the institution offering PGDM has accreditation from AIU (The Association of Indian Universities).

Course-wise, a PGDM and MBA are similar, but an MBA course has wider acceptance in both private and government jobs.