How should candidates prepare for the FMS Delhi extempore round?

The FMS Delhi extempore round typically follows one of two formats: CV-linked topics (most common) or random current affairs themes. You'll have 30 seconds to think and 60 to 90 seconds to speak, so preparation must focus on both depth and delivery speed.

Understand the Format

FMS Delhi panellists usually draw extempore topics from your Statement of Purpose, work experience, undergraduate major, or hobbies listed in your application. From Reddit, we learnt that an engineer was asked to speak on electric vehicles, a commerce graduate on GST reforms, and a literature student on censorship in Indian cinema.

The link is rarely subtle. If you've mentioned consulting projects, expect topics on market entry or competitive strategy.

If you've listed trekking as a hobby, be ready to discuss sustainable tourism or adventure regulation.

Random topics appear less frequently but still surface in 20 to 30 per cent of panels. These include prompts like "Should India have a uniform civil code?", "Impact of AI on white-collar jobs", or "Women's safety in metro cities". The key is to take a clear stance within the first 10 seconds and support it with two or three concrete points.

Preparation Strategy

Start by auditing every line of your CV and SOP. For each work project, prepare a 60-second narrative covering the problem, your role, and the business outcome.

For your undergraduate major, identify three to four current debates or policy shifts. If you studied economics, track RBI rate decisions, inflation trends, and fiscal deficit numbers.

If you're from engineering, follow sector-specific developments like semiconductor policy, renewable energy targets, or startup funding cycles.

Practice speaking aloud daily. Record yourself on your phone, then listen for filler words ("um", "like", "basically") and weak transitions.

Aim for a structure of opening statement, two supporting arguments, one counter-point acknowledgment, and a closing line. This framework works for 80 per cent of topics and keeps you from rambling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't memorize essays. Panellists spot rehearsed answers instantly and will interrupt with follow-up questions.

Avoid jargon unless you can explain it in simple terms. One candidate on Reddit mentioned using "synergistic value creation" in their extempore and was immediately asked to define it, which they couldn't.

Stick to clear, conversational language.

Never say "I don't know" or ask for a topic change. If you draw a completely unfamiliar prompt, acknowledge it briefly ("This is outside my usual reading") then pivot to a related area you do know.

For instance, if asked about cryptocurrency regulation and you're unsure, talk about digital payment trends or RBI's stance on fintech innovation.

Mock Practice

Run timed mocks with peers or mentors at least 15 times before your interview. Use a random topic generator or pull headlines from *The Hindu* and *Indian Express*.

After each mock, note which transitions felt clumsy and which arguments landed well. You can also compare colleges to see how other top B-schools structure their interview rounds and adjust your prep accordingly.