#iift

About Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) Established in 1963 under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, IIFT is a premier institute for education, research, and training in International Business and Trade. With campuses in New Delhi, Kolkata, kakinada, and GIFT City, IIFT offers MBA (IB), Executive, PhD, and certificate programs, while also serving as a policy think…

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) stands as one of India’s premier institutes specializing in international business and trade. Established in 1963, IIFT has built a reputation for providing high-quality education, research, and consultancy in the areas of foreign trade and business strategy. With a strong legacy and commitment to academic excellence, the institute has contributed significantly to shaping India’s trade policies and business practices.

What is the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)?

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. Its primary goal is to provide professional education and training in foreign trade, promote research in the area of international business, and assist the government in shaping its foreign trade policies.

Located in New Delhi, with additional campuses in Kolkata and Kakinada, IIFT offers a wide range of courses focusing on global business. The institution offers an MBA in International Business (MBA-IB), Executive Programs, doctoral programs, and various short-term courses catering to professionals seeking knowledge in international trade.

The Legacy of IIFT in International Business Education

Since its inception, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade has grown into a powerhouse of knowledge in global business. Its curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the dynamic changes in the world economy, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to tackle complex challenges in international markets.

The MBA in International Business is IIFT's flagship program, designed to develop business leaders with a deep understanding of global trade dynamics. The rigorous curriculum focuses on areas such as trade policy, international marketing, supply chain management, and global financial systems. It also includes exposure to live projects, industry interactions, and opportunities to intern with leading organizations worldwide.

Key Programs at Indian Institute of Foreign Trade

MBA in International Business

The two-year full-time MBA in International Business (MBA-IB) is the most sought-after program at IIFT. The curriculum focuses on giving students a global perspective of business by offering specialized courses in areas like international trade laws, global supply chain management, cross-cultural management, and international financial management.

Executive Post Graduate Diploma in International Business (EPGDIB)

For professionals with work experience, IIFT offers an Executive Post Graduate Diploma in International Business (EPGDIB), designed for mid-level and senior professionals who wish to upskill themselves in international trade and business. This program is ideal for executives looking to transition into global leadership roles in multinational corporations.

PhD in International Trade and Business

The PhD program at IIFT allows students to undertake research in the domain of international business and foreign trade. This program is particularly valuable for individuals interested in academic careers or research-oriented roles in government and private sectors.

Short-Term Courses

In addition to long-term courses, IIFT offers a variety of short-term courses aimed at professionals and businesses looking to expand their knowledge in specific areas such as export-import management, WTO regulations, and international trade finance. These courses are often customized based on industry demand and cover various aspects of international business operations.

Research and Consultancy at IIFT

Apart from being an educational institution, IIFT also plays a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign trade policies through its research and consultancy services. The institute conducts in-depth research in areas such as global trade competitiveness, WTO policies, and emerging markets. IIFT’s faculty members have contributed to several key publications and policy papers that have had a significant impact on India’s international trade.

IIFT also provides consultancy services to national and international organizations, assisting them in enhancing their trade strategies. Through collaborations with various government bodies and international organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO) and UNCTAD, IIFT helps businesses navigate the complexities of global markets.

Admission Process and Eligibility

MBA-IB Admission Process

The admission process for the MBA in International Business (MBA-IB) at IIFT is highly competitive. Aspiring candidates must clear the IIFT entrance exam, which tests their knowledge in areas like quantitative analysis, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and general awareness. The exam is followed by a group discussion, written ability test, and a personal interview round.

Eligibility criteria for the MBA-IB program require candidates to have a recognized bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks. Additionally, work experience, although not mandatory, is considered an added advantage for applicants.

Executive Program Admission

For the Executive Programs, candidates are required to have a minimum of three years of managerial work experience. Admission is based on academic qualifications, work experience, and performance in an interview process. In some cases, a written test may also be part of the selection process.

Global Collaborations and Exchange Programs

IIFT has established global collaborations with renowned international universities and business schools, allowing students to participate in exchange programs and broaden their understanding of international trade from a global perspective. These partnerships help IIFT students gain exposure to different markets and business environments across the globe.

Some of IIFT’s key global partners include:

IESEG School of Management, France

The University of Sydney, Australia

Università Bocconi, Italy

These exchange programs provide students with an excellent opportunity to experience diverse business cultures and practices, contributing significantly to their personal and professional growth.

Campus Life and Infrastructure

IIFT’s campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, offering an excellent environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. The institute has modern classrooms, well-stocked libraries, and advanced computing facilities to support its research and academic programs.

The New Delhi campus, being the oldest, offers an expansive environment where students can engage in various student-led activities and clubs. These clubs focus on areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and trade, providing students with hands-on experience and leadership opportunities outside the classroom.

Career Opportunities and Placements

IIFT boasts an exceptional placement record with top multinational companies and organizations recruiting its graduates. IIFT’s alumni hold leadership positions in several industries such as consulting, banking, logistics, and international trade. Leading companies like Deloitte, Amazon, HSBC, Tata Group, and several government agencies have hired IIFT graduates, offering roles in areas like trade analysis, business strategy, supply chain management, and financial consulting.

The placement process is comprehensive, with students receiving support from the institute's placement cell to prepare for interviews, internships, and career development.

Conclusion

India International Trade Fair 2023