Hi.
At GIBS Business School (GIBS), Bengaluru, the Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) play a crucial role in the final selection for PGDM/MBA programs. They are designed to evaluate candidates beyond academic scores, focusing on skills, personality, and overall suitability for management education. Here's a detailed breakdown:
1. Purpose of GD and PI
Group Discussion (GD)
Assesses:
Communication and articulation skills
Analytical and problem-solving abilities
Leadership and teamwork potential
Ability to handle conflicts and divergent opinions
Awareness of current affairs and business trends
Format:
Usually conducted in groups of 6–12 participants
A business or social topic is given, and participants discuss/debate
Moderators observe and score each candidate
Weightage: GD scores are a part of the final selection criteria and influence the candidate's overall profile evaluation.
Personal Interview (PI)
Assesses:
Personality, confidence, and motivation for management studies
Career goals and clarity of purpose
Leadership potential and decision-making ability
Knowledge of academics, work experience, and industry trends
Ethical reasoning and problem-solving approach
Format:
One-on-one or panel interview
Discussion about academic background, achievements, internships, and sometimes current affairs or case scenarios
Weightage: PI score is combined with GD, CAT/XAT/CMAT score, academic profile, and work experience to arrive at the final selection.
2. How GD and PI Influence Final Selection
Even if a candidate has a high CAT/XAT/CMAT score, a poor GD/PI performance can impact selection, as GIBS looks for well-rounded candidates.
Conversely, candidates with moderate entrance scores but strong GD/PI skills can improve their chances.
Final merit is usually calculated as a combination of:
Entrance exam score (CAT/XAT/CMAT/MAT)
GD score
PI score
Academic performance (10th, 12th, graduation)
Work experience (if any)
GIBS focuses on leadership potential, communication, and managerial aptitude, which GD and PI effectively assess.
