IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade )

IIFT 2026

IIFT 2026 will begin with the online application submissions starting in the 3rd week of October 2025. The last date for the submission of online applications is 1st week December 2025 along with the fee payment. IIFT will not be conducting its entrance exam hence students with CAT scores will be eligible for admission. The CAT exam will be conducted in the 4th week of November 2025.

The IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade) is a national level entrance examination which stands as a prominent gateway for students aspiring to pursue an MBA in International Business. Recognized for its rigorous selection process, the IIFT exam evaluates candidates across a spectrum of competencies, including quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, verbal ability, data interpretation, and general awareness.

The IIFT exam was designed to test not only academic proficiency but also the analytical and decision-making skills essential for future business leaders. However, since 2019 the authorities of IIFT have decided to take admission of its students based on the CAT scores. The said exam was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of IIFT.

IIFT involves a comprehensive syllabus that covers topics such as current affairs, business, economics, and language skills. The exam aims to identify well-rounded individuals ready to excel in the global business environment. The two-hour computer-based test challenges its applicants with 120-130 questions, ensuring that only the most prepared and versatile candidates secure admission to this prestigious institution. It is advised for candidates to ensure their eligibility before applying at IIFT.

IIFT 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on IIFT

The IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade) is a prestigious autonomous business school established in 1963 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. The IIFT has the objective of professionalizing India's foreign trade and enhancing exports through education, research, and training. The IIFT has earned the status of a "Deemed University" since 2002 and is recognized for its specialized MBA programs in International Business as well as Business Analytics. Headquartered in New Delhi, IIFT operates multiple campuses in Kolkata, Kakinada, and internationally in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, with plans for expansion. For the 2026 admission cycle, IIFT has adopted the CAT 2025 score as its basis for shortlisting candidates, moving away from conducting its own separate entrance exam. The IIFT exam is computer-based, typically held once a year, lasting two hours and consisting of multiple-choice questions. Admissions in IIFT also involves group discussions, writing assessments, and personal interviews to evaluate communication and personal traits beyond academic excellence.

IIFT 2026 Exam Dates

IIFT 2026 Exam Highlights

IIFT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The IIFT 2026 Eligibility Criteria specify that candidates must possess a bachelor's degree of at least three years' duration from a recognized university or institute. General and OBC category candidates must have secured a minimum of 50% marks, while SC/ST and PwD candidates require at least 45%. Final-year students awaiting results are also eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of passing by the stipulated deadline. For domestic candidates, a valid CAT 2025 score is mandatory, whereas foreign nationals or NRI candidates need to submit a valid GMAT score. There is no age limit imposed for applying to the IIFT MBA programs.

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum 50% aggregate marks for General/OBC; 45% for SC/ ST/ PwD.
• Final year students can apply with submission of passing proof by the deadline.
• Domestic candidates require valid CAT 2025 scores for admission consideration.
• Foreign/NRI candidates must provide valid GMAT scores.
• No upper age limit for applicants.
• For MBA (Business Analytics), mathematics or statistics proficiency at graduation or 10+2 level is required.

Read more about-eligibility criteria

IIFT 2026 Application Process

The IIFT 2026 application process is entirely online and straightforward, enabling candidates to register and apply from anywhere. Aspirants must first visit the official IIFT website to create an account by providing basic details like name, email, and mobile number. After registration, candidates log in to fill in the detailed application form with personal, academic, and contact information. They need to upload scanned copies of their photograph, signature, and relevant certificates in the specified format. The application fee must be paid online via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI. Upon successful submission, candidates should download and save the confirmation page and payment receipt for future reference.

Steps for IIFT 2026 application process

• Registration through the official IIFT website with valid email and mobile number.
• Filling the application form with personal and educational details.
• Uploading scanned photograph, signature, and certificates as per guidelines.
• Online payment of application fee varying by category and program.
• Download and print the confirmation page after final submission.
• Adherence to stated deadlines to avoid rejection.

Read More About-application process

IIFT 2026 Exam Pattern

The IIFT 2026 Exam Pattern is a computer-based test conducted online, lasting for 2 hours with a total of 110 multiple-choice questions. The IIFT exam is divided into four sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Analysis, and General Awareness. Each section carries different marks per question, with negative marking applicable for incorrect answers. Candidates must manage their time effectively across sections as there is no sectional time limit, and the exam is designed to test aptitude in areas crucial for international business management.

Following is the IIFT 2026 exam pattern listed below in a tabular form.

IIFT 2026 Syllabus

The IIFT 2026 Syllabus covers a broad range of topics across four key areas: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and General Knowledge. The IIFT 2026 syllabus is aligned with the demands of the MBA program and requires candidates to be well-prepared in both quantitative and verbal skills along with staying updated on general awareness.

Read more- about-Syllabus

IIFT 2026 Preparation Tips

The IIFT 2026 Preparation Tips emphasize understanding the IIFT exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly, dedicating six to nine months for preparation. Candidates should create a structured study plan, focusing more on weaker areas while regularly revising strengths. Regular practice of mock tests is crucial for time management and accuracy. Preparing specifically for the General Knowledge section is important due to its unique presence in IIFT. Group discussions and peer learning can help clarify concepts and boost motivation. Speed and accuracy, especially in quantitative and reasoning sections, are key success factors.

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IIFT 2026 Admit Card

The IIFT 2026 admit card will be released online on the official IIFT-NTA website well before the exam date. Candidates must download their IIFT admit cards by logging into the portal using their application number, date of birth, and security pin. The admit card is a mandatory document for entry into the exam hall and contains important details like exam date, venue, and candidate information. Aspirants should print a clear copy of the admit card and carry it along with a valid photo ID on the exam day to avoid any inconvenience. It is advised to download and save the admit card promptly once available to ensure a smooth examination experience.

IIFT 2026 Cut – offs

The IIFT 2026 Cut Offs are the minimum scores candidates need on the CAT 2025 exam to qualify for the next admission stages at IIFT for MBA programs. Expected general category cut-offs are around 125-130 marks (out of 300), with slightly lower cut-offs for OBC (115-120), SC/ST (100-105), and PwD categories (90-95). These IIFT cut-offs depend on factors like exam difficulty, number of candidates, and previous year trends. Besides overall cut-offs, sectional cut-offs (around 65% in Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) are also enforced to ensure balanced performance across subjects.

 Read more about-cut off

Scholarship Details

New Scholarship Scheme (NSS):

• Coverage:10% of students in all full-time/regular degree courses (MBA-IB, MBA-BA, MA Economics, IPM).
• Amount:20% of the tuition fee.

Eligibility

• Awarded on a means-cum-merit basis (70% weightage to means, 30% to merit).
• Family income from all sources must be less than INR 8 LPA (subject to revision).
• Scholarship is disbursed after successful completion of the programme.

Special Category Topper: Topper among SC/ST students receives a scholarship equivalent to the first-year tuition fee, capped at INR 3.5 lakh.

OPJEMS Scholarship: For MBA(IB) students (Delhi campus), selected through an online test and interview.

• Amount: INR 1.5 lakh.

Central Sector Scholarship Scheme for SC/ST

• Eligibility:Family income should not exceed INR 6.5 LPA.
• Benefits:Full tuition fee, non-refundable charges, living expenses (INR 2,220/month), and books/stationery (INR 3,000/year).

Need-Based Scholarship (for students admitted before AY 2023)

• Benefit:Interest subsidy on educational loan for 27 months.
• Eligibility:Family income less than INR 6.5 LPA.

IIFT 2026 Results

The IIFT 2026 Results are expected to be announced online, typically in May 2026 following the completion of the Group Discussion (GD), Writing Skills Assessment (WAT), and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. Candidates can check their scorecards by logging into the official IIFT website using their application number, date of birth, and password. The IIFT scorecard displays overall and section-wise marks, which help candidates gauge their performance and understand their admission status. It is important for candidates to download and save the IIFT result for further admission procedures.

IIFT 2026 Counselling Process

The IIFT 2026 Counselling Process will occur after the announcement of results and shortlisting based on CAT 2025 scores and overall merits. The IIFT counselling includes stages such as Group Discussion, Writing Skills Assessment, and Personal Interview, designed to evaluate candidates on communication, writing clarity, personality traits, and alignment with IIFT’s values. The IIFT counselling typically takes place between February and March, usually on-campus at IIFT Delhi and Kolkata, though online modes may be offered depending on circumstances. Candidates must attend with original documents for verification, and final admission offers are extended based on combined performance in entrance scores and counselling rounds.

 Read more about- counselling

IIFT 2026 Instructions

1. Candidates should upload their photograph and signature with the preferred size in the portal which should be clearly visible.
2. Candidates need to carry their admit card/hall ticket to the exam centre. Candidates will be prohibited from entering the exam hall without this document.
3. Candidates will also be required to carry a valid ID proof such as – Voter ID Card/ Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Driving License, etc.
4. It is advisable for all candidates to enter the designated exam hall before time for a smooth security process before the beginning of exam.
5. Any candidate violating the rules will be strictly dealt as per the norms of the exam centre.
6. Any candidate pursuing any unfair means in the exam hall will be dealt with as per the rules and regulations of the test centre.

IIFT 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is the mode and duration of the IIFT 2026 entrance exam?

Ans. The IIFT 2026 entrance exam is conducted as a computer-based test (CBT) online, with a total duration of 2 hours (120 minutes). It comprises multiple-choice questions (MCQs) across four sections.

Q2. What are the eligibility criteria for applying to IIFT 2026 MBA programs?

Ans. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree of at least three years from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). Domestic applicants need a valid CAT 2025 score, while foreign nationals or NRIs must submit a valid GMAT score. There is no upper age limit for applicants.

Q3. How is the IIFT 2026 selection process structured after the exam?

Ans. Shortlisted candidates based on CAT scores are invited for counselling rounds that include Group Discussion (GD), Writing Skills Assessment (WAT), and Personal Interview (PI). Final selection is made through a composite evaluation of CAT scores and performance in these rounds.

Q4. Is there negative marking in the IIFT 2026 exam?

Ans. Yes, IIFT 2026 employs negative marking. For incorrect answers in Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability sections, 1 mark is deducted per wrong response. In the General Awareness section, 0.5 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer.

Q5. When are the IIFT 2026 results expected to be declared, and how can candidates check them?

Ans. The results for IIFT are usually announced in December. Candidates can check their individual scorecards by logging into the official IIFT admission portal using their application number, date of birth, and password.