Obtain a bachelor's degree. SIBM requires a four-year degree from an accredited institution. While you do not need to be a business major, take courses that will apply to the study of management, such as accounting, economics and mathematics. If you already have a bachelor's degree, look over your transcript. Identify any weaknesses or poor marks. Enroll in a local college or university as a non-degree student and take a few courses to address these needs.
Register for and take the Symbiosis National Aptitude (SNAP) examination. SNAP is a two-hour standardized multiple choice exam that tests your general English, quantitative, data interpretation, analytical and logical reasoning skills and general knowledge of current affairs. SNAP is offered in 30 Indian cities; if you are applying from out of country, make arrangements to travel to India for the exam. After registering for the test, you will then receive a course catalog and application for SIBM.
Complete and return the SIBM application. Deadlines differ from year to year, but usually fall in November or December. In your application include transcripts, tests scores, recommendations and a Curriculum Vitae (CV) with relevant work experience.
Await the first cut of applicants. As a prestigious institution, the application process for SIBM is quite rigorous. After initial applications are received, they are reviewed by the admissions committee. Based on academic strength and scores on the SNAP, students are either invited for a group and individual interview or rejected from the program. You will be informed in mid-January if you make it through the first round of the application process.
Attend the Group Exercise and Personal Interview in Pune, India. This second part of the selection process is a four-day, intensive conference usually held in early February. During this time you will be interviewed in both group and individual settings. You will be asked about your education and work experience, observations on business and the market place and even your opinions on personal and social issues. The interviewers ask these questions to see if you are a good fit for the program. Always maintain strong professionalism, stay on point, answer all questions and avoid controversial or offensive responses.
Await the admissions decision. A few weeks after your interviews, usually the last week in February, SIBM will publish the accepted class. If you are not accepted, do not be discouraged. SIBM is a competitive program with low acceptance rates. If you feel it is the place for you, strengthen your application through additional course work and employment and apply again.
Register for classes and pay all applicable tuition and fees. In April, there is new student orientation and classes begin in early June. Once you matriculate in the program, you will receive your MBA within two years.