IIHM eCHAT 2026 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The IIHM eCHAT 2026 (Electronic Common Hospitality Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) for admission to its hotel management and hospitality programs. Before applying for the exam, it is essential for candidates to understand the eligibility criteria, as it determines whether they qualify to appear for the test and pursue hospitality education at IIHM.

The IIHM eCHAT 2026 eligibility criteria define the required academic qualifications, age limits, and other conditions that candidates must meet to apply for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. These criteria ensure that students possess the right educational background and aptitude for the hospitality industry, which demands a blend of academic knowledge, interpersonal skills, and service orientation.

For undergraduate courses, candidates must have completed or be appearing in their 10+2 (Class 12) or equivalent examination from a recognized board. For postgraduate courses, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Additionally, good communication skills and proficiency in English are important, as the medium of instruction at IIHM is English. 

IIHM eCHAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria – In Detail

Below is a detailed explanation of the eligibility criteria for both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs through IIHM eCHAT 2026.

Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Courses (B.Sc. in Hospitality & Hotel Administration and Related Programs)

1. a) Educational Qualification

• Candidates must have completed their 10+2 (Class XII) or equivalent examination from a recognized Central or State Board such as CBSE, ICSE, or any state board.
• Students who are appearing for their 10+2 final examination in 2026 are also eligible to apply, provided they submit their marksheet and proof of passing at the time of admission.
• The qualification should include English as one of the compulsory subjects, as the program requires a strong command of English.

1. b) Minimum Marks Required

• Candidates should have passed all subjects in their qualifying examination.
• There is no fixed minimum aggregate percentage mentioned officially by IIHM; however, students are generally expected to have a minimum of 45–50% aggregate marks for smooth admission.

1. c) Age Limit

• Candidates must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission (by July 1, 2026).
• The upper age limit is 22 years for general category candidates as per general hospitality admission norms.
• For SC/ST candidates, the upper age limit is relaxed by up to 2 years (i.e., 24 years).

1. d) Nationality

• The candidate must be an Indian citizen.
• Foreign Nationals, NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs can also apply under the International Student Category.
• International students must fulfill the eligibility equivalence criteria set by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and provide supporting academic documentation.

1. e) Language Proficiency

• Since all IIHM programs are taught in English, candidates must have good command over English (spoken and written).
• Proficiency in English is mandatory, and candidates may be assessed for their communication skills during the Personal Interview round.

Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Courses (M.Sc. or MBA in Hospitality/Hotel Management)

1. a) Educational Qualification

• Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree (10+2+3 system) in any discipline from a recognized university or institution.
• Graduates from hotel management, tourism, business, or service-oriented fields are preferred, but candidates from other streams are also eligible.
• Those who are in their final year of graduation in 2026 can apply, provided they submit proof of graduation before admission confirmation.

1. b) Minimum Marks Required

• Candidates must have secured at least 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA in their qualifying Bachelor’s degree examination.

1. c) Age Limit

• There is no specific age restriction for postgraduate applicants.
• However, candidates are generally expected to be within a reasonable age range (below 28 years) for entry-level hospitality training and placements.

International Students Eligibility

• International candidates, including NRI, PIO, and OCI students, are welcome to apply.
• They must submit:
• Proof of valid passport and visa
• Equivalent qualification certificate approved by AIU (Association of Indian Universities)
• English language proficiency certificate (if applicable, such as IELTS/TOEFL)
• International candidates will go through the same eCHAT, Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI) process, either online or in person.

Click Here For IIHM eCHAT Application Form

IIHM eCHAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria – FAQs

Q1. What is the minimum educational qualification required to apply for IIHM eCHAT 2026?

Ans: To apply for the undergraduate course, candidates must have passed or be appearing in their 10+2 (Class 12) examination from a recognized board (CBSE, ISC, or State Board). For postgraduate courses, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

Q2. Can students appearing for their Class 12 board exams in 2026 apply for IIHM eCHAT?

Ans: Yes, students who are appearing for their 10+2 examination in 2026 are eligible to apply. However, they must submit proof of passing the qualifying exam during the time of admission.

Q3. Is there any specific stream required in Class 12 to apply for IIHM eCHAT 2026?

Ans: No, candidates from any stream – Science, Commerce, or Arts – can apply for IIHM eCHAT 2026. The only condition is that English must be one of the subjects studied in Class 12.

Q4. Is there an age limit to apply for IIHM eCHAT 2026?

Ans: Yes, the minimum age for admission is 17 years as of July 1, 2026. The maximum age is 22 years for general category candidates and 24 years for SC/ST candidates (with a 2-year relaxation).

Q5. Can international students apply for IIHM eCHAT 2026?

Ans: Yes, international students, NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs are eligible to apply. They must provide proof of valid passport, visa, and academic equivalence certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).