IIM Bangalore Launches UG Courses in BSc (Hons.) in Data Science and Economics: Admissions Begin in Sept. 2025

Update: The IIM Bangalore has announced, for the first time, its 4-year residential undergraduate programs on July 14, 2025. Admission to the first batch of IIM Bangalore UG courses in BSc (Hons.) in Data Science and Economics will begin in September 2025. 

The courses will begin in August 2026 at the new Jigani campus. The initial plan is to take 40 students for each UG course. This blog provides a detailed guide to these groundbreaking programs, covering their structure, admission process, fees, curriculum, campus facilities, and career prospects.

IIM Bangalore UG Courses: A New Era

IIM Bangalore, consistently ranked among India’s top management institutes (NIRF 2024: #2 in Management), has announced its foray into undergraduate courses via IIMB’s official X handle (@iimb_official) on July 15, 2025. This announcement reflects its commitment to addressing India’s growing demand for high-quality undergraduate education. These programs aim to nurture versatile leaders through interdisciplinary learning, blending data science, economics, and business with a liberal arts approach.

Program Overview: IIMB BSc Hons. Program in Data Science and Economics 2025

The two programs are:

• IIMB BSc Data Science (Hons) with a minor in Economics and Business.
• IIMB BSc Economics (Hons) with a minor in Data Science and Business.

These four-year residential programs, starting in August 2026, will be delivered at IIMB’s new Jigani campus. Designed per NEP 2020, they offer 160 credit points over eight semesters, with an optional three-year exit for a standard BSc degree (120 credits). The programs integrate practical learning, international exposure, and interdisciplinary coursework to prepare students for dynamic careers in data-driven and economic sectors.

What’s the Admission Process to IIMB BSc Economics and Data Science?

Admissions will be open in September 2025, with classes starting in August 2026.

• Eligibility for IIM Bangalore UG Admission 2025
  

  Completion of Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board.

  • Minimum 60% aggregate in Class 10 and Class 12 mathematics (55% for SC/ST/PwD candidates with 40% or more certified disability).
  • Age limit: General category candidates must be under 20 years, and reserved category candidates under 22 years as of August 1, 2026.

• Selection Criteria:

  • National Entrance Test: Scheduled for December 2025, covering Class 12 syllabus, logical reasoning, language, and general knowledge.
  • Personal Interview: Focused on assessing motivation, communication skills, and alignment with program goals.

• Intake: The inaugural batch of both IIM Bangalore UG courses will admit 80 students in total (40 per program). IIMB plans to scale to 640 students by 2031 and up to 2,000 in the long term.

• Application: Candidates can register their interest at IIMB’s official website (www.iimb.ac.in).

Fees and Financial Aid for IIMB Undergraduate Degrees

• The annual Fee is INR 8.5 lakh, totaling approximately INR 34-35 lakh for four years.
• IIMB is committed to inclusivity, with financial aid planned for 20% of students.

Faculty and Infrastructure

• Faculty: The programs will begin with 15 dedicated faculty members, with recruitment already underway.
• Jigani Campus: The 110-acre campus near Bannerghatta National Park is under construction, with completion expected by 2026. It will feature:
  • State-of-the-art academic and residential blocks.
  • Advanced technology infrastructure for data science labs.
  • Robust sports facilities to support holistic student development.
  • A sustainable design, aligning with IIMB’s vision for a greener future.

IIM Bangalore UG Courses: Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum is crafted to balance theoretical rigor with practical application, ensuring graduates are ready for the global marketplace:

• BSc (Hons) in Data Science:
  • Core Subjects are programming, machine learning, big data analytics, and statistical modeling.
  • Minor subjects are Economics (e.g., microeconomics, macroeconomics) and Business (e.g., marketing, strategy).
  • Focus on: Data-driven decision-making for business and policy applications.
• BSc (Hons) in Economics:
  • Core Subjects: Economic theory, econometrics, policy analysis, and quantitative methods.
  • Minor: Data Science (e.g., data analytics, visualization) and Business (e.g., finance, operations).
  • Focus: Economic modeling with digital and business applications.
• Interdisciplinary Components: Courses in philosophy, ethics, communication, and critical thinking provide a liberal arts foundation, fostering well-rounded leaders.
• Practical Learning:
  • Mandatory Internships: Required in the first three years to provide hands-on industry experience.
  • International Exchange: IIMB’s network of over 100 partner schools worldwide enables global immersion. Prof. P.D. Jose, professor in charge of the new campus, noted, “We are in talks with schools abroad to finalize exchange agreements.”
• NEP 2020 Alignment: The flexible exit option allows students to graduate with a BSc degree after three years or continue for the full Hons degree, catering to diverse career goals.

Who Can Apply for IIM Bangalore BSc Hons Programs 2025?

Age Limit
•    The candidate’s age must be maximum 20 years for General category
•    The candidate’s maximum age must be 22 years for Reserved category (as of August 1, 2025)

Education Requirements
•    Candidates must have passed class 12 (or equivalent) from a recognized board
•    Candidates must have studied Mathematics in Class 12 and scored at least 60% in Maths
•    The candidates must have scored minimum 60% marks in Class 10 overall

How to Apply for IIMB Undergraduate Degrees in BSc Economics and Data Science 2025

Once the registrations open in September 2025, you can follow these steps to apply for IIM-B UG courses:

1.    Visit the official IIM Bangalore website: iimb.ac.in
2.    Look for the UG Programs application link (to be activated in September 2025)
3.    Register with your email and create a login
4.    Fill out the application form with personal and academic details
5.    Upload required documents (mark sheets, ID proof, etc.)
6.    Pay the application fee online
7.    Submit and wait for exam and interview updates

Read More: IIM Bangalore Placement

Why Undergraduate Programs by IIM Bangalore Matter

IIM Bangalore’s BSc (Hons) programs in Data Science and Economics, launched on July 14, 2025, are a milestone for Indian education. With a young population and increasing demand for specialized undergraduate degrees, IIMB’s initiative aligns with NEP 2020’s emphasis on multidisciplinary education. The programs combine:

• Global Relevance: Data Science and Economics are high-demand fields, with applications in technology, finance, policy, and consulting.
• IIMB Prestige: Graduates will benefit from IIMB’s brand, ranked 31st globally for Masters in Management (QS World University Rankings 2025).
• Holistic Development: The liberal arts flavor and international exchange opportunities ensure well-rounded, globally competitive graduates.

Career Prospects after IIM Bangalore UG Course

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) programs will be equipped for diverse roles:

• Data Science: Data analyst, machine learning engineer, business intelligence specialist.
• Economics: Economic consultant, policy analyst, financial analyst.
• Cross-Disciplinary Roles: Strategy consultant, startup founder, or roles in digital transformation.

While specific placement details are yet to be announced, IIMB’s stellar placement record (e.g., 100% placement for PGP 2024 with an average salary of INR 35.92 LPA) suggests robust career support. The programs’ ties to IIMB’s NSRCEL incubator will also benefit aspiring entrepreneurs.

Read More: List of Top IIMs in India

How to Prepare for Admission in IIM Bangalore UG courses

To secure a spot in these competitive programs:

• Strengthen Academics: Focus on Class 12 mathematics and maintain a strong academic record (minimum 60% in Class 10 and 12).
• Entrance Test Prep:
  • Study the Class 12 syllabus thoroughly.
  • Practice logical reasoning, language skills, and general knowledge.
  • Use sample papers from IIMB’s website (available closer to the test date).
• Interview Readiness: Prepare to articulate your interest in Data Science or Economics, emphasizing career goals and interdisciplinary learning.
• Stay Updated: Register at www.iimb.ac.in for admission notifications and test details.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is based on official IIM Bangalore announcements and reputable sources as of July 15, 2025. Details regarding fees, admission processes, and program structures are subject to change. Readers should verify information directly at www.iimb.ac.in for the most accurate and updated details. The author and publisher are not responsible for any discrepancies or decisions made based on this content.