Kozhikode, March 25, 2026
What does it take for an Indian management institute to break into the global top 100 and sustain a steady rise over the years
The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode has answered this question with a landmark achievement. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, the institute has secured the 78th position globally in Business and Management Studies, making its debut in the top 100. This marks a significant leap from its 141st position last year.
This achievement is not just a numerical jump but a reflection of sustained academic growth and global recognition. The QS rankings evaluated more than 6,000 institutions worldwide, with nearly 2,000 institutions making it to the final rankings across multiple disciplines. Within this highly competitive landscape, IIM Kozhikode’s rise stands out as a story of consistency and strategic progress.
A closer look at the institute’s journey reveals a strong upward trajectory. From being placed in the 401 to 450 band in 2021, the institute moved to the 151 to 200 band by 2024. In 2025, it achieved an individual rank of 141 for the first time. Now, in 2026, it has firmly established itself among the top 100 globally.
What factors have driven this success
The institute has shown measurable improvement across key performance indicators. Academic reputation has increased to 67.8, while employer reputation has risen to 71.0. The overall score has improved to 71.5, supported by strong research metrics such as citations per paper at 77.9 and an H index of 85.4. These indicators highlight not only academic excellence but also industry relevance and research impact.
Speaking on the achievement, Director Debashis Chatterjee emphasized that the recognition is a result of collective effort and long term vision. He noted that the institute’s focus on impactful research, innovative pedagogy, and global engagement has played a critical role in this milestone.
Established in 1996, IIM Kozhikode has evolved into one of India’s leading management institutions. From its flagship postgraduate programme to doctoral, executive, and specialized courses, the institute has consistently expanded its academic offerings. It has also introduced forward looking initiatives such as a four year Bachelor of Management Studies programme and a unique PhD track for working professionals.
The institute’s strong standing is also reflected in national and global rankings. It is ranked third in the NIRF India Rankings 2025 for management and has previously secured a position among the top 100 globally in Financial Times rankings for its MBA programme.
As global competition intensifies in higher education, IIM Kozhikode’s rise raises an important question for other institutions. Is sustained innovation and research focus the key to global recognition
For now, IIM Kozhikode’s achievement signals a growing international footprint for Indian management education and sets a benchmark for others to follow.
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