Planning to pursue PGP in Lucknow? With 1 PGP colleges offering Post Graduate Programme (PGP), PGP in Crafting Creative Communications, PGP in Content and Creator Economy, and PGP in Tech and Business Management, choosing the right college depends on key factors such as rankings, fees, placements, and entrance exams accepted.
Lucknow's PGP landscape includes top government institutes like IIM Lucknow, along with leading private universities. Admissions are conducted through exams like CAT, GMAT, depending on the course and institution.
This page provides a complete list of PGP colleges in Lucknow 2026, helping you compare colleges based on fees, placements, courses, and admission criteria to shortlist the best options.
Overview of PGP Colleges in Lucknow
Lucknow has a diverse mix of pgp colleges across government, private, and deemed categories, offering programs in core and emerging fields. These colleges vary in terms of fee structure, admission process, and placement outcomes, making comparison essential for informed decision-making.
Admissions to most top colleges are based on national-level exams like CAT, GMAT, while state and private colleges accept CETs and institute-level entrance exams.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Data |
| Total PGP Colleges in Lucknow | 1 |
| Government Colleges | 1 |
| Private Colleges | — |
| Popular Courses | Post Graduate Program in Sustainable Management (PGP-SM), Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM), Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE), Post Graduate Program in Agribusiness Management (PGP-ABM) |
| Top Exams Accepted | CAT, GMAT |
| Average Fees | ₹20.8 L |
| Average Placement (sample) | ₹32.3 L |
| Top Recruiters | Accenture, American Express, Arpwood Partners, Avendus |
Top PGP Colleges in Lucknow 2026 (Rankings)
PGP college rankings are based on parameters such as academic reputation, faculty quality, research output, placements, and infrastructure. Rankings from sources like NIRF, India Today, and The Week are widely used by students to shortlist top colleges.
Top PGP Colleges in Lucknow (NIRF Rankings)
The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) is the most credible ranking system in India, based on parameters like teaching, learning resources, graduation outcomes, and research.
| College | 2025 | 2024 |
| IIM Lucknow | #5 | #7 |
IIM Lucknow are among the leading names in these rankings, typically combining strong academics, placements, and research or professional outcomes.
Government vs Private PGP Colleges in Lucknow
PGP colleges in Lucknow are broadly divided into government and private institutions, with key differences in fees, placements, admission process, and ROI. Government colleges are generally more competitive with lower fees, while private colleges offer higher seat availability and modern infrastructure.
Top Government PGP Colleges
Government institutes such as IIM Lucknow are known for high ROI, strong placements, and national-level competition.
| College | Fees | Median Salary | Total Courses | Popular Course | Latest Ranking |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹20.8 L | ₹32.3 L | 18 | Post Graduate Program in Agribusiness Management (PGP-ABM) | #5 NIRF 2025 |
Fee Comparison (Govt vs Private)
| Govt Colleges | |
| PGP | ₹20.8 L |
Government colleges are significantly more affordable compared to private institutions.
Placement Comparison
| Govt Colleges | |
| Highest Package | ₹75 L |
| Average Package | ₹32.3 L |
| Median Package | ₹32.3 L |
Government colleges generally have stronger placement outcomes, especially in IIM Lucknow.
ROI Analysis
ROI is a key factor for most candidates, calculated based on fees vs placement outcomes.
| College | Fees | Median Salary | Popular Course | ROI Insight |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹20.8 L | ₹32.3 L | Post Graduate Program in Agribusiness Management (PGP-ABM) | Medium ROI |
Government colleges offer higher ROI due to lower fees and strong placements, while private colleges provide better infrastructure, flexibility, and more seat availability.
From a decision-making perspective, candidates targeting top ranks and ROI should prioritise government colleges, while those looking for backup options and infrastructure can consider top private pgp institutes.
Govt and Private
| College | Fees | Median Salary | Popular Course | ROI |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹20.8 L | ₹32.3 L | Post Graduate Program in Agribusiness Management (PGP-ABM) | 156% |
Top PGP Colleges in Lucknow by Fees
Fees is a key parameter while shortlisting pgp colleges, as it directly impacts the overall cost of education and return on investment (ROI). In Lucknow, pgp college fees vary significantly based on the type of institution—government colleges are more affordable, while private universities have higher fee structures due to infrastructure and facilities.
High Fee PGP Colleges (Above ₹10 L)
High-fee pgp colleges are mainly private universities, offering modern infrastructure, higher seat intake, and flexible admission options through institute-level exams.
| College | Fees | Popular Course | Total Courses |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹20.8 L | Post Graduate Program in Agribusiness Management (PGP-ABM) | 1 |
These colleges are suitable for candidates seeking private pgp colleges with better infrastructure, diverse course offerings, and higher seat availability.
Best ROI PGP Colleges in Lucknow
Return on Investment (ROI) is a key factor while selecting pgp colleges, as it compares the total cost of education with placement outcomes. Colleges with lower fees and higher salary packages offer better long-term value.
ROI Comparison Across Top Colleges
| College | Average Fees | Average Salary |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹20.8 L | ₹32.3 L |
Government institutes such as IIM Lucknow consistently offer high ROI due to subsidised fees and strong placement records.
PGP Colleges in Lucknow with Best Placements
Placements are a critical parameter in evaluating pgp colleges, as they reflect career opportunities, industry exposure, and earning potential. Top colleges in India maintain strong placement records across technology, consulting, and core sectors.
Colleges with Highest Placement Packages
Top pgp institutes, especially IIM Lucknow, report some of the highest placement packages in India.
| College | Highest Package |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹75 L |
These offers are typically made by international recruiters and top product-based companies.
Colleges with Best Average Salary
Average salary provides a more realistic view of placement outcomes across the student cohort.
| College | Average Salary |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹32.3 L |
Colleges with higher average salaries generally indicate strong industry connections, better training, and higher-quality recruiters.
Top Recruiters Hiring PGP Professionals
Leading companies regularly recruit from top pgp colleges in India across domains such as software, consulting, analytics, and core pgp:
- Accenture
- Deloitte
- PwC
- BCG
- American Express
Popular PGP Courses in Lucknow
PGP colleges in Lucknow offer a wide range of specialisations, with demand driven by placement trends, industry requirements, and long-term career growth. Among these, certain branches consistently attract higher enrolment due to better salary outcomes and job opportunities.
Post Graduate Programme (PGP)
- Average Salary (Top Colleges): ₹16.4 L - ₹32.3 L
- Top Recruiters: Accenture, Axis Bank, Crisil, Deloitte
| Course | Duration | Fees | Colleges | Mode | Level |
| Post Graduate Programme (PGP) | 2 Years | ₹1.5 L - ₹20.8 L | 2+ | Full-time | UG/PG |
PGP in Content and Creator Economy
- Top Recruiters: Amul, Bharat Coking Coal Limited, Coca-Cola, DDB
| Course | Duration | Fees | Colleges | Mode | Level |
| PGP in Content and Creator Economy | 2 Years | ₹21 L | 1+ | Full-time | UG/PG |
PGP in Tech and Business Management
- Top Recruiters: 1 Finance, Accenture, Acuvon, Aditya Birla Capital
| Course | Duration | Fees | Colleges | Mode | Level |
| PGP in Tech and Business Management | 16 Months | ₹33.7 L - ₹34 L | 1+ | Full-time | UG/PG |
PGP Admission Process in Lucknow 2026
Admission to pgp colleges in Lucknow follows a structured process based on entrance exams, result evaluation, and centralised or institute-level counselling. Candidates can apply through national, state, or college-level exams, depending on their target institutions and courses.
National Level Entrance Exams
National-level exams are the primary gateway to top government pgp colleges such as IIM Lucknow. These exams have high competition and wider acceptance across India.
Key National PGP Exams
| Exam | Full Form | Conducting Body | Duration (Minutes) | Application Mode | Exam Mode | Level | Colleges Participating |
| CAT | Common Admission Test | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) | 120 | Online | Online | PG | 1+ College |
| GMAT | Graduate Management Admission Test | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) | 135 | Online | Online | UG | 1+ College |
These exams are widely accepted by top-ranked pgp colleges and require strong preparation due to their competitive nature.
Counselling Process
After qualifying entrance exams, candidates must participate in counselling for seat allocation based on rank, preferences, and availability.
Counselling Overview
| Counselling Type | Conducting Authority | Colleges Covered | Basis |
| National Counselling | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) | All-India pgp colleges | National exam rank / score |
The counselling process includes choice filling, seat allotment, document verification, and final admission confirmation.
Entrance Exams for PGP Colleges in Lucknow
PGP admissions in Lucknow are conducted through a mix of national and state-level entrance exams, each varying in terms of acceptance, difficulty, and participating colleges. A structured comparison helps candidates choose the right exams based on their target colleges and preparation level.
National Level PGP Entrance Exams (UG & PG)
| Exam | Level | Conducting Body | Mode | Duration | Colleges Accepting | Courses | Difficulty |
| CAT | PG | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) | Online | 120 mins | 1+ College | Post Graduate Programme in Management | Very High |
| GMAT | UG | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) | Online | 135 mins | 1+ College | PGP | High |
These exams are the primary pathway to top government pgp colleges and postgraduate programs in Lucknow.
State Level PGP Entrance Exams
State-level exams provide access to government and private colleges within specific states, often with domicile-based advantages.
Comparison of Top PGP Colleges
Comparing top pgp colleges helps candidates evaluate options based on fees, placements, rankings, infrastructure, and ROI. Government colleges like IITs, NITs, and IIITs offer lower fees and higher ROI, while private colleges such as BITS, VIT, and SRM provide better infrastructure and higher seat availability.
A structured comparison allows candidates to shortlist colleges based on their budget, rank, preferred course, and career goals, ensuring better decision-making during admission.
Private vs Government Comparison
| Private | Government | |
| Total Colleges | — | 1 |
| Top Colleges | — | IIM Lucknow |
| College distribution % | — | 100% |
| Top Courses | Executive MBA/PGDM and FPM | Executive MBA/PGDM and FPM |
| Fees Range | — | ₹20.8 L |
| Highest Salary | — | ₹75 L |
| Median Salary | — | ₹32.3 L |
| Average Salary | — | ₹32.3 L |
Top Colleges Comparison Table
| College | Type | Fees | Average Salary | Median Salary | Highest Salary | Ranking |
| IIM Lucknow | Government | ₹20.8 L | ₹32.3 L | ₹32.3 L | ₹75 L | #5 NIRF 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many pgp colleges are there in Lucknow?
There are over 1 pgp colleges in Lucknow, including government, private, and deemed universities offering UG, PG, and doctoral programs.
Which are the top pgp colleges in Lucknow?
Top pgp colleges in Lucknow include IIM Lucknow, based on rankings, placements, and academic reputation.
What exams are required for admission to pgp colleges in Lucknow?
Admission is mainly through exams like CAT and GMAT, along with other institute-specific and state-level entrance tests depending on the course and college.
What is the average fee for pgp colleges in Lucknow?
The fee range for pgp colleges in Lucknow is ₹20.8 L.
Which pgp colleges have the best placements?
Colleges with strong industry connections, high placement rates, and better salary outcomes typically include top-ranked institutes and leading private universities in Lucknow.
Which is better: government or private pgp colleges?
Government colleges often offer lower fees and higher ROI, while private colleges may provide better infrastructure and more seat availability. The best choice depends on budget, location, and goals.
What is the admission process for pgp colleges in Lucknow?
The process generally includes application → entrance exam → result → counselling/selection → seat allotment → admission, depending on the exam and college.
How to choose the best pgp college in Lucknow?
Compare colleges by rankings, fees, placements, available courses, location, and the exams they accept to shortlist options that match your goals.
