Kerala is one of the most famous states in India when it comes to education. The city has become one of the top destinations for MBA education in India in recent years. The state of Kerala is home to several MBA colleges, including AICTE-approved MBA colleges and private MBA colleges with good placement. With a mix of good private and government MBA colleges, Kerala has attracted MBA aspirants from across the country.
The below list includes the top MBA colleges in Kerala in 2025, including important details like admission process, fees, courses offered, and placements. Whether you are an MBA aspirant looking for affordable MBA colleges in Kerala, MBA colleges with placements in Kerala or MBA colleges accepting CAT/XAT, the below list will help you find the right college.
Why choose Kerala for MBA?
Kerala is not just known for its beauty but also for its quality education. The state houses several top MBA colleges in Kerala, including both private MBA colleges in Kerala and government MBA colleges in Kerala, making it a great destination for management studies.
Many AICTE-approved MBA colleges in Kerala offer modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and strong academic networks. Whether you are looking for a government MBA college in Kerala or a private MBA college in Kerala, there are many options to explore. These institutions offer top MBA programs that are designed to meet industry needs. Most of these colleges are AICTE-approved MBA colleges and accept scores from national-level exams like CAT, XAT, and CMAT.
Kerala is also known for its affordable MBA education. Many MBA colleges offer good placements with companies like Infosys, TCS, ICICI Bank, and Deloitte, making Kerala a great destination for students aiming for an MBA with placement in Kerala.
Top 10 Best MBA Colleges in Kerala
Discover Kerala’s top 10 MBA colleges known for placements, ROI & faculty. Compare fees, courses & rankings to choose the best fit for your career.
1. Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode)
Established in 1996, the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode is the best MBA college in Kerala. The institute was established as a collaboration with the Kerala government and the government of India. IIM Kozhikode is currently ranked 3rd under the management category by the NIRF in 2024. The institute offers student exchange programs with some of the top foreign universities, including Bocconi University, Leipzig Graduate School of Management, Copenhagen Business School, Jonkoping Business School, etc. IIM Kozhikode is also among the top choices for students seeking an MBA with placement in Kerala and is one of the top MBA colleges accepting CAT.
- Courses Offered: MBA, executive MBA, BBM, PG diploma, and certificate courses.
- Admission Process: Admission is based on the CAT score.
- Website: www.iimk.ac.in/
- Address: IIMK Campus, Kunnamangalam, Kerala 673570
IIM, Kozhikode Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| PGPM | – | ₹14 lakhs |
| PGP-F | – | ₹14 lakhs |
| PGP – Liberal Studies and Management | – | ₹14 lakhs |
| PGP – Business Leadership | – | ₹22.5 lakhs |
| MBA for Working Executives | – | – |
| Executive PGP | – | ₹15.95 lakhs |
2. National Institute of Technology, Calicut (NIT Calicut)
Ranked 76th by the NIRF in the list of management institutes in India, NIT Calicut is a government MBA college in Kerala. The institute was established in 1961 and is approved by AICTE. Top MBA programs at NIT Calicut are provided through its School of Management Studies. NIT Calicut has an annual seat intake of 80 seats for MBA programs.
- Courses Offered: MBA/PGDM
- Admission Process: Admission is based on the CAT score.
- Website: www.nitc.ac.in/
- Address: Calicut Mukkam Road, Kattangal, Kozhikode, Kerala 673601
NIT Calicut Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| MBA | 80 | ₹3 lakhs |
3. Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala (CUSAT Kerala)
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) stands out as one of the top government MBA colleges in Kerala, offering AICTE-approved MBA programs with strong placement support. Established in 1971, CUSAT is accredited by NAAC with an A grade and recognized by both AICTE and UGC. The university offers top MBA programs through its School of Management, with an annual intake of 120 seats. Ranked 81 by NIRF 2024 in the management category, CUSAT is also a leading MBA college accepting CAT, making it a preferred choice for students looking for an MBA with placement in Kerala.
- Courses Offered: MBA/PGDM
- Admission Process: Admission is based on score in CAT, CMAT, KMAT, etc.
- Website: https://cusat.ac.in/
- Address: Kalamassery, Kochi, Kerala 682022
CUSAT Kerala Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| MBA | 120 | ₹2.8 lakhs |
4. Rajagiri Business School, Kochi (RBS Kochi)
Rajagiri Business School in Kochi is one of the AICTE-approved MBA colleges in Kerala, known for offering top MBA programs with excellent placement support. Ranked 93rd under the management category by NIRF 2024, it is among the best private institutions for an MBA with placement in Kerala. Rajagiri Business School offers MBA and FPM programs and holds accreditations from ACBSP, NBA, and EFMD. The institute also has academic tie-ups with leading national and international institutions, and top recruiters like Deloitte, Amazon, and PwC regularly participate in its campus placements.
- Courses Offered: MBA and FPM
- Admission Process: Admission is based on scores in CAT, MAT, CMAT, XAT, or KMAT.
- Website: www.rajagiribusinessschool.edu.in/
- Address: Kakkanad, Kochi, Kerala 682039
RBS Kochi Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| PGDM | 250 | ₹7.5 lakhs |
| FPM | 20 | ₹50k |
5. Rajagiri Centre for Business Studies, Kochi
Rajagiri Centre for Business Studies, one of the top AICTE-approved MBA colleges in Kerala, is known for its top MBA programs and strong global collaborations. Established in 2001, the institute is affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, and holds an A++ accreditation from NAAC. Recognized for offering an MBA with placement in Kerala, RCBS has partnerships with over 60 international universities, including the University of Maryland and Western Michigan University.
- Courses Offered: MBA/PGDM and MA
- Admission Process: Admission is based on scores in CAT, MAT, CMAT, XAT, or KMAT.
- Website: https://rcbs.rajagiri.edu/
- Address: Rajagiri Valley, Kakkanad, Kochi, Kerala 682039
RCBS Kochi Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| PGDM | 240 | ₹7 lakhs |
| MBA | 120 | ₹1.84 lakhs |
| International Exchange MBA | 60 | – |
6. SCMS Cochin School of Business, Kochi
SCMS Cochin School of Business is a private MBA college in Kerala accredited by NBA and ACBSP. The institute is one of the AICTE-approved MBA colleges and offers MBA and FPM programs. SCMS Cochin School of Business also has an A grade accreditation from NAAC and is one of the best private MBA colleges in Kerala.
- Courses Offered: MBA/PGDM
- Admission Process: Admission is based on scores in CAT, XAT, MAT, ATMA, CMAT, or KMAT.
- Website: https://scms.edu.in/
- Address: Prathap Nagar, Muttom, Aluva, Kochi, Kerala 683016
SCMS Cochin Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| PGDM | 120 | ₹7.95 lakhs |
| FPM | 20 | – |
7. Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship, Kochi (XIME Kochi)
Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME) stands out as one of the best MBA colleges in Kerala, offering top MBA programs with global exposure. Established in 2012, this AICTE-approved MBA college is also recognized as a top private MBA college in Kerala. XIME has built strong academic partnerships with international universities like Nagoya University of Commerce and Business (Japan) and Audencia Business School (France). With 150 MBA seats available annually, admission is based on valid scores from CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or KMAT.
- Courses Offered: MBA/PGDM
- Admission Process: A valid score in CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or KMAT is required for admission.
- Website: www.ximekochi.org
- Address: Kalamassery, Kochi, Kerala 683503
XIME Kochi Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| PGDM | 150 | ₹9.9 lakhs |
8. Saintgits Institute of Management, Kottayam
Located in Kottayam, Saintgits Institute of Management is a top-ranked MBA college in Kerala. Saintgits Institute of Management is affiliated with the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University and is one of the AICTE-approved MBA colleges in Kerala.
- Courses Offered: MBA and certificate courses.
- Admission Process: Admission is based on scores in CAT, CMAT, or KMAT.
- Website: www.saintgits.org
- Address: Kottukulam Hills, Pathamuttom, Kerala 686532
Saintgits Institute Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| MBA | 120 | ₹3.6 lakhs |
| Integrated MBA | – | – |
| MBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management | – | – |
9. SCMS School of Technology and Management, Kochi (SSTM Kochi)
Established in 2003, SCMS School of Technology and Management is a private institute in Kochi offering top MBA programs. The institute is accredited with an A+ by NAAC and is approved by AICTE. The MBA programs offered at SSTM Kochi are accredited by NBA and ACBSP.
- Courses Offered: MBA
- Admission Process: Admission is based on scores in MAT, XAT, CAT, CMAT, ATMA, or KMAT.
- Website: www.scmsgroup.org
- Address: Choornikkara, Kochi, Kerala 683501
SSTM Kochi Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| MBA | 120 | – |
10. Sahrdaya Institute of Management Studies, Thrissur
Affiliated with the University of Calicut, Sahrdaya Institute of Management is a private MBA college in Kerala. Sahrdaya Institute of Management is an AICTE-approved MBA college and is among the best MBA colleges in Kerala. Admission to top MBA programs at Sahrdaya Institute of Management Studies is based on valid scores in CAT, CMAT, or KMAT.
- Courses Offered: MBA/PGDM
- Admission Process: Admission is based on a valid CAT, CMAT, or KMAT score.
- Website: https://sahrdayasims.ac.in
- Address: Kodakara, Thrissur, Kerala 680684
Sahrdaya Institute Programs & Fee Structure
| Courses | Total Seats | Total Fees |
| MBA | 90 | ₹3 lakhs |
Top MBA Colleges in Kerala – Seat Intake
Below is the list of best MBA colleges in Kerala and the total MBA seats offered by them.
| College Name | Total MBA Seats |
| IIM Kozhikode | – |
| NIT Calicut | 80 |
| CUSAT Kochi | 120 |
| RBS Kochi | 240 |
| RCBS Kochi | 420 |
| SCMS Cochin School | 120 |
| XIME Kochi | 150 |
| Saintgits Institute | 120 |
| SSTM Kochi | 120 |
| Sahrdaya Institute of Management | 90 |
Top Government MBA Colleges in Kerala – Seat Intake
Here is the list of the top government MBA colleges in Kerala and their annual seat intake for MBA programs.
| College Name | Total MBA Seats |
| IIM Kozhikode | – |
| NIT Calicut | 80 |
| CUSAT Kochi | 120 |
Top Private MBA Colleges in Kerala – Seat Intake
Here is the list of the top private MBA colleges in Kerala and their annual seat intake for MBA programs.
| College Name | Total MBA Seats |
| RBS Kochi | 240 |
| RCBS Kochi | 420 |
| SCMS Cochin School | 120 |
| XIME Kochi | 150 |
| Saintgits Institute | 120 |
| SSTM Kochi | 120 |
| Sahrdaya Institute of Management | 90 |
Fees Comparison of Top 10 Best MBA Colleges in Kerala
| College | College Type | Total Fees |
| IIM Kozhikode | Public | ₹12.1-₹22.5 lakhs |
| NIT Calicut | Public | ₹3 lakhs |
| CUSAT Kochi | Public | ₹2.8 lakhs |
| RBS Kochi | Private | ₹7.5 lakhs |
| RCBS Kochi | Private | ₹1.8-₹7 lakhs |
| SCMS Cochin School | Private | ₹7.95 lakhs |
| XIME Kochi | Private | ₹9.9 lakhs |
| Saintgits Institute | Private | ₹3.6 lakhs |
| SSTM Kochi | Private | – |
| Sahrdaya Institute of Management | Private | ₹3 lakhs |
READ ABOUT: TOP 5 MBA COLLEGES IN AHMEDABAD
Placement Packages of THE BEST MBA Colleges in Kerala
| College | Average Placement Package (LPA) | Highest Placement Package (LPA) |
| IIM Kozhikode | ₹27L | ₹72.02L |
| NIT Calicut | – | ₹51L |
| CUSAT Kochi | ₹9.34L | ₹20.14L |
| RBS Kochi | – | ₹18L |
| RCBS Kochi | – | ₹9.33L |
| SCMS Cochin School | ₹7.08L | ₹13.58L |
| XIME Kochi | ₹9L | ₹16.22L |
| Saintgits Institute | ₹8.34L | ₹12.50L |
| SSTM Kochi | ₹6.38L | ₹13.58L |
| Sahrdaya Institute of Management | ₹5.2L | ₹13.5L |
READ MORE ABOUT: Top MBA Colleges in Mumbai – Rankings, fees and placements
How to choose the best MBA college in Kerala?
Choosing the best MBA college in Kerala is very important for your future career. Here are some tips:
- Check the Accreditation: Always go for AICTE-approved MBA colleges. Accreditation ensures quality education and eligibility for government jobs.
- Look at Placement Records: If your goal is a good job, focus on MBA colleges with good placement in Kerala. IIM Kozhikode, Rajagiri, and SCMS offer excellent packages.
- Entrance Exam Accepted: Some MBA colleges accept CAT, XAT, and CMAT, while others accept KMAT. Choose a college that matches the exams you have taken.
- Fees vs ROI: Some top MBA colleges in Kerala offer affordable education and great returns in the form of jobs. Compare fees with average packages.
- Specializations: Go for colleges that offer the top MBA programs in your area of interest like Marketing, HR, Finance, or Business Analytics.
- Location and Campus Life: Good infrastructure and a peaceful environment can help you focus better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which MBA college in Kerala offers the highest placement package?
Among the top MBA colleges in Kerala, IIM Kozhikode offers the highest placement packages. The average salary for MBA graduates from IIM Kozhikode is ₹20-24 LPA, and the highest package can exceed ₹50 LPA in some years.
2. Can I get admission to MBA colleges in Kerala without CAT?
Yes, many top MBA colleges in Kerala accept KMAT Kerala, CMAT, MAT, and XAT scores as alternatives to CAT.
3. What is the average placement salary for MBA graduates in Kerala?
The average placement salary for MBA graduates in Kerala varies between ₹4-8 LPA, depending on the college. Top institutes like IIM Kozhikode and Rajagiri Business School report higher average salaries, while smaller institutions offer lower packages.
4. Which MBA colleges in Kerala have the best ROI?
IIM Kozhikode, Rajagiri Business School, and Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) provide excellent ROI due to their high placement packages and reasonable tuition fees.
5. Are there good distance MBA programs available in Kerala?
Yes, CUSAT, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), and Kerala University offer recognized distance MBA programs.
6. What are the eligibility criteria for MBA admission in Kerala?
You must have a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). A valid MBA entrance exam score is also required.
7. What is the average MBA fee in Kerala?
The average fee ranges from ₹2 lakh to ₹7 lakh for the full course, depending on the college.
8. Are there any government MBA colleges in Kerala with low fees?
Yes, institutions like CUSAT, Kerala University, and NIT Calicut are government-funded and have affordable fee structures.
9. Which MBA college in Kerala has the best campus infrastructure?
Rajagiri, NIT Calicut, and IIM Kozhikode are known for their modern infrastructure, green campuses, and excellent facilities.
10. Are there any Kerala MBA colleges with international exposure or global programs?
Yes. Rajagiri Business School offers global immersion programs, tie-ups with international universities, and exchange programs.
Conclusion
If you are serious about your future in business, choosing the right MBA college is your first step. Kerala is home to many top management institutes like IIM Kozhikode, Rajagiri Business School, etc. The cost of living in Kerala is also low compared to other states, and this is one of the reasons why students prefer top MBA colleges in Kerala for pursuing an MBA. Both government and private MBA colleges in Kerala offer an MBA with placement in Kerala. Many of the top government MBA colleges in Kerala are low-fee MBA colleges in Kerala with good ROI. Before choosing an MBA college, from the above list of top MBA colleges in Kerala, make sure to check its placement record, faculty, infrastructure, fees, and specializations offered. Pick a college that matches your career goals, interests, and budget.
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