A GD is a structured conversation, usually without a moderator lasting around 20-25 minutes in an MBA interview. Not all B-Schools conduct a Group Discussion round but B-Schools like IIM-Kozhikode, XLRI, MDI, and SIBM (GE) keep a certain weightage for Group Discussion rounds. The basic aim of a GD is to test your problem-solving skills, communication, persuasion, and how collaborative and contributive you are. Although there are many types of GD, there are topic-based GDs and Case Study GDs (XLRI, SIBM-P GE) in MBA group discussions. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts that you should follow while participating in a GD. Convert your best B-School call with the fifth season of InsideIIM's highly-rated MBA Admissions Bootcamp - WATPI Edge! Over the last four years, we have a 94%+ success rate in our last four seasons. Enroll now! Sessions are ongoing!
Some Important Tips to Crack MBA Group Discussion Round 2025
Plan your entry and exit points.
Take notes of what others say to prepare everything for the conclusion.
Be polite in disagreements. Example: “I understand your point of view but I differ…”
Acknowledge when you add to other’s points. Example “That’s a great point, Adding to what he/she shared…”
Keep a check on time. If your GD is going nowhere try to bring it back to topic and conclusion before the time runs up. In addition, you should not overspeak but state your point in under 2 minutes.
Do not deflect from the topic. Ask for clarification and bring it back to the topic if someone else has.
Adding to the previous point, while starting the GD is great, open the floor for discussion only when you are sure about it. Give a gist of the topic and do not impose your thoughts which makes the starting restricted to a point.
Red Flags to avoid: Interruption, Aggression, Shouting, Rephrasing what others said, bringing stats/ figures/ news on your own/ which you are unsure about.
Maintain eye contact with your peers and not with the moderator (professors).
How to Start Your GD Preparation? The content around GD will mostly revolve around current happenings and events. Even if it’s around a case study or generic topic, it is likely related to a current event. Staying up-to-date with current happenings and forming opinions about them are the starting points for a GD. It is the same as you would do for WATPI. Some good sources to follow: are Mint, The Hindu, Economic Times, Finshots, Think School, etc.Also Read:
Group Discussion (GD) Topics for MBA Admission 2025
Latest Topics:
LA Crisis: Climate change can wipe out the richest.
One Nation One Election
90-hour work week: Where will the call for work-life balance stop?
Indian GDP Hitting a 4-Year Low
Crashing Rupee/Forex /FDIs
The growing geopolitical fragility
Union Budget 25-26 (Upcoming)
Effect of H1B/ Green Card revoke on Indian Diaspora
India and cultural tourism (context Maha Kumbh)
Industrialists and Elections (Elon & Trump)
Results or Revenue: Deciding factor on sports funding.
GST on Caramel Popcorn: Should the tax system be improved?
Generic Topics:
5 G in India.
India as a Global Superpower/ 5 trillion Economy.
Future of EVs in India.
The Indian Mainstream Media Problem.
The Role of Startups in India's Growth.
Uniform Civil Code
Frequently Asked QuestionsQ.1 Which MBA colleges have GD round in their selection process? IIM-Kozhikode, XLRI, MDI, SIBM (GE), NMIMS, IMT, TAPMI, etc. are a few colleges that conduct a GD round as a part of their selection process. Do check out the following: