Which is better for an MBA with a finance focus, IIM Ahmedabad vs. IIM Calcutta? Please also read the notes below this question.

My close friend is in the last month of his MBA at IIMA. He has interned in Credit Suisse IBD, got a PPO(Pre Placement Offer), and is now joining Matrix Partners, one of the major global VC funds. The answer is based on his experience and opinion. 

The statement that IIMC is better than IIMA in finance, is just a myth that has gained popularity. A lot of top IBD ( Barclays, MS, HSBC), VC (Matrix, IDG, Kalari), and PE (AION) roles are offered exclusively to students at IIM A and not IIM C. Being said that, IIM C must have some exclusive job roles to offer too without a doubt.

Now, coming to the reason why more IIM A students go to the consulting domain than to finance. Following are the reasons for the same:

• It is not because of unsubstantial finance focus but the fact that consulting companies like to hire in bulk, from the institute. 
• Moreover, the placement process at IIM A is a lot more flexible and student-friendly than almost every other campus in the country. 
• Here, you can actually have an IBD PPO and still sit for placements here, thus availing further opportunities to make a career choice more suitable for you.

Hence, if you are confident to secure a place in the top 15% of the class, you should definitely join IIM A.