MBA Lateral Entry: Everything You Need to Know

The Master of Business Administration or an MBA degree has long been revered for its ability to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the corporate realm. However, not everyone follows the traditional MBA route. For those looking to fast-track their careers or change their professional trajectory, MBA Lateral Entry or Lateral Admission presents an intriguing alternative.

Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking to upskill or an aspiring leader, this blog is for you.  

What is MBA Lateral Entry?

MBA Lateral Entry, also known as Lateral Admission or Direct Entry MBA, is a specialised program designed for experienced professionals who wish to pursue an MBA degree without following the traditional path of starting from scratch as a fresh graduate. This alternative pathway allows individuals with significant work experience to leverage their existing skills and knowledge, thereby accelerating their journey towards obtaining an MBA qualification.

Eligibility Criteria for MBA Lateral Entry

Eligibility criteria for MBA Lateral Entry programs can vary from one institution to another, but there are some common requirements that applicants typically need to meet. 

Here's a general outline of the eligibility criteria you might encounter when applying for such programs:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates are required to have a  bachelor's degree from a recognised university, with a minimum of 50% marks. 
• Work Experience: Most MBA Lateral Entry programs in India require candidates to have a minimum of 2 to 5 years of full-time work experience after completing their bachelor's degree. 
• PGPM Degree: The first year of a master's degree in a relevant discipline, a relevant PGDM, or a relevant PGPM degree is required for eligibility for MBA lateral entry. 

Admission Process for MBA Lateral Entry

The admission process for MBA Lateral Entry programs in India can vary from one institution to another. Here is a general overview of the typical steps involved in the admission process:

• Students must first register on the college's website and complete the application form, either in person or online, with all necessary information. 
• A merit list will be created for all qualified applicants who have submitted applications and meet all eligibility criteria, such as prior academic standing, diploma degree and admission exam requirements.
• Students will be approached for counselling and original document submission after a list of qualified applicants is created and made public. This will be followed by fee payment and enrolment.

Also Read: Best MBA Books for Aspirants

Syllabus of MBA Lateral Entry

Given below is the general outline of the core subjects and topics commonly covered in MBA Lateral Entry programs:

Core Subjects

• Business Ethics and Corporate Governance
• Managerial Economics
• Financial Management
• Marketing Management
• Human Resource Management
• Operations Management
• Strategic Management
• Business Research Methods
• Organisational Behavior
• Management Information Systems

Electives

• Environmental Management
• Healthcare Management
• Information Technology Management
• International Business
• Entrepreneurship

Future Jobs after MBA Lateral Entry

Earning an MBA Lateral Entry can open up a wide range of career opportunities, especially for experienced professionals. Here are some potential future job roles after completing an MBA Lateral Entry program:

Job Profile	Job Description	Average Salary
Senior Manager	You will be responsible for overseeing teams, making strategic decisions, and driving organisational growth.	₹24 LPA
Business Development Manager	You will be responsible for focusing on identifying and pursuing growth opportunities for their organisations.	₹6 LPA
Human Resources Manager	You will be responsible for overseeing personnel, recruitment, and employee development.	₹6.6 LPA
Marketing Director	You will be responsible for leading marketing teams, developing marketing strategies, and managing product launches and branding efforts.	₹30 LPA
Investment Banker	You will be responsible for helping clients with mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and financial advisory services.	₹4.5 LPA
Product Manager	You will be responsible for overseeing the development, marketing, and performance of specific products or services.	₹16 LPA
Supply Chain Manager	You will be responsible for ensuring the efficient movement of products from suppliers to customers.	₹12 LPA

Also Read: Top MBA Recruiters in India

Difference Between MBA Lateral Entry and Regular MBA

Here is the basic difference between MBA lateral entry and regular MBA for the students to get a better understanding of the program.

Factors	MBA Lateral Entry	Regular MBA
Eligibility	Requires prior work experience, typically 2-10 years, depending on the program and institution, along with one year of PGMP degree.	Typically open to fresh graduates or individuals with limited work experience.2
Duration	Often shorter in duration, ranging from 1 to 2 years, due to the assumption that students have prior business knowledge.	Typically a 2-year program, although some accelerated options may be available.
Specialisations	Allows for specialisation options, but course availability may depend on the institution.	Offers a wide range of specialisations, and students often choose their focus during the program.
Class Profile	Classmates are typically experienced professionals from diverse industries and backgrounds.	Classmates may consist of recent graduates with limited professional experience.
Learning Pace	Assumes students have practical knowledge, leading to a potentially faster learning pace.	Offers a more structured learning experience with a focus on building foundational business skills.
Career Opportunities	Graduates often seek senior management roles, career transitions, or leadership positions within their industries.	Graduates pursue a wide range of career paths, including entry-level positions and management roles.

About Sunstone

Sunstone is a higher education service provider through which you can apply for an MBA course in reputed colleges. Not only that, with Sunstone by your side, you can become job-ready as there are various advantages provided. Some of the benefits to take into consideration are:

• A capstone project to work on every semester
• 70+ training and development sessions by top recruiters and industry experts
• 50+ guaranteed job interviews with the Placement Protection Plan
• Learn from expert guest faculty who are ex-IIMs and IITs
• Helps in building a professional portfolio that improves your chances of getting hired.
• 0-cost EMI option available according to course duration
• If you appear in the Sunstone scholarship test, you can get a scholarship worth ₹10 Cr.

FAQs - MBA Lateral Entry

Can I pursue an MBA lateral entry without any entrance exam?

Candidates for lateral admission in an MBA program are required to take entrance exams depending on their desired university.

Is it possible to get lateral entry into the MBA course?

Yes, you can get lateral entry into the MBA course if you fulfil the eligibility criteria.

Is Lateral admission into the MBA course difficult?

No, getting a lateral admission into the MBA course is easy once you fulfil the eligibility criteria.