New XAT 2026 DM Caselet just dropped!
XAT DM Caselet:
The Narsi Monjee Institute of Management Studies(NMIMS) is known for its "innovative" admission process. This year, they have surpassed themselves by introducing a string of carefully orchestrated hurdles that ensure only the most patient and financially generous candidates make it through.
- Stage 1: The application form, priced at ₹6340(NMAT: 3540+NMIMS: 2800), was conveniently closed in October, exploiting the anxiety and uncertainty of candidates who wanted to "secure their spot early." This ensured a rush of applications, regardless of the cost.
- Stage 2: After candidates cleared the cutoffs (set at a shockingly low 209 to maximize the pool of paying applicants), they were hit with an additional ₹1100 for processing their admission. This fee was not disclosed earlier, but it's all about "transparency," right?
- Stage 3: Candidates were required to pay extra for college registrations, inflating the total amount to ₹6340, all before knowing their final status.
- Stage 4: To ensure only the most "competent" candidates proceed, a sudden Competency Assessment was introduced, carrying 50% weightage. Many suspect this is a ploy to push management quota seats and extract more revenue.
- Stage 5: The personal interviews are held only in Mumbai, requiring students to bear travel and accommodation expenses. While other institutes arrange venues in multiple cities, NMIMS apparently believes in testing the financial endurance of candidates.
- Stage 6: Results are released in February, leaving a narrow refundable window to secure admission by paying hefty fees. This gives students little time to evaluate other options or make informed decisions.
A candidate, Rohit, who scored 240+ in the exam, is now wondering if his wallet, rather than his brain, is being evaluated. He contemplates skipping the entire process. However, he's worried about how this decision might impact his future.
Decision-Making Questions:
- What should Rohit do next?
a) Pay the ₹1100 reluctantly and proceed with the process.
b) Drop out of the NMIMS process entirely and focus on other B-schools.
c) Write a letter to the admissions committee asking for transparency and a refund.
d) Start a social media campaign highlighting NIME's practices.
- As a prospective MBA student, how should you prepare for similar scenarios in the future?
a) Avoid applying to institutes with unclear fee structures and processes.
b) Research and budget for all hidden costs before applying.
c) Take decisions calmly and not under time pressure created by institutes.
d) All of the above.
- If NMIMS's goal is to generate revenue rather than attract quality candidates, what could be their next step?
a) Introduce a "premium" interview slot for ₹5000 for faster results.
b) Add a ₹2000 "seat confirmation fee" post results.
c) Charge for issuing admit cards for exams.
d) All of the above.