What is the student exchange program at IIM Ahmedabad?

Student exchange programs basically provide students with the opportunity to study abroad at a university for a given amount of time. Here, you will have the opportunity to network, learn more about new cultures as well as meet new people from different countries. Considering the fact that globalization is taking place, there are chances that people would be required to work from different parts of the world.

When it comes to IIM Ahmedabad’s student exchange program, there are normally two different types of them.

Normal Exchange program:

Here, you can go for an exchange program for one term to a university. IIM itself has three terms per year and normally, this exchange happens in term V. 

• You should have a good academic performance with tons of extracurricular activities like sports, case competition, music, quizzes, and positions of responsibility if you want to qualify. However, make sure that these activities are done as a part of IIM A as they are the only ones counted.
• The selection for this generally happens at the end of the year. So, a lot of the time all your academic performances and activities till before the year-end will be considered. Then, a rank list will be generated and students choose universities based on their exchange ranks.
• Usually, 1/4th of the class goes for these exchange programs but scholarships are provided only to the top few students. 
• You will also get a lot of free time to travel as your grades won’t be counted for this term due to differences in grading systems.

Dual degree exchange program:

• Here, you can go for an exchange for two terms instead of one. This takes place between term V and VI for 10-15 students. If you are going for a dual degree, you will also get a master’s degree from the exchange institute with your IIM A PGDM. You can also have choices of applying for MS Finance, Real Estate, etc.
• In this case, selection criteria are based on academic performance only. You will have to complete an additional thesis or internship at the exchange university depending upon what is required.

One of my seniors was a dual degree graduate and had a great experience. You should definitely go for any of the exchange programs if you get the opportunity.