What should I choose between SJMSOM and IIM Lucknow considering that there is a fee waiver for SC students at SJMSOM? My profile is engineering fresher from a non IIT/NIT college with 9/9/8 acads.

Personally, I will recommend you join IIM Lucknow . The reason being your outstanding profile. With such an amazing profile you have multiple chances of getting selected in the top firms in Consulting and Investment Banking areas. Many of these reputed companies do not visit the campus if SJMSOM at all. So you will be losing a lifetime of opportunities.

Also, at the end of the day, IIM Lucknow is a top 4 IIM and its brand name will influence you throughout your life. The fees are not a problem as the majority of the students take educational loans offered at low-interest rates. You can pay it back within 5-7 years with the high paying job you land post-MBA.