30 Dec, 2025: Registrations for the MAT February 2026 exam have commenced. Candidates can apply till 23 February 2026 for the PBT mode and up to 2 March 2026 for the CBT mode. Apply Here.
MAT February 2026: Registration, Exam Date, Admit Card, Exam Pattern, Syllabus & Preparation Strategies
Content Writer | Updated On - Dec 30, 2025
What’s New in MAT 2026?
The MAT February 2026 exam will be conducted by AIMA in two modes — PBT on 1st March, 2026 and CBT on 8th March, 2026. The application process is ongoing on the official AIMA MAT website. Candidates must note that IBT mode has been discontinued, and test cities differ for PBT and CBT, so they should select their mode carefully.
MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
The candidates applying for the MAT 2026 exam need to clear the minimum eligibility criteria decided by the AIMA. Any candidate who holds an undergraduate degree can apply for the MAT 2026 exam. The table below explains the eligibility criteria for MAT in detail:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. |
| Final-Year Students | Eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree before admission. |
| Minimum Percentage | No minimum percentage is required; individual institutes may have their cutoffs. |
| Age Limit | No age restrictions for MAT. |
| Number of Attempts | No limit; candidates can take MAT multiple times. |
| Nationality | Open to Indian and foreign nationals (NRIs and foreign applicants can also apply). |
MAT 2026 Registration
The registration process for the MAT 2026 exam February session starts and the exam is going to be conducted in two modes: Paper-based test(PBT) and Computer-based test (CBT). The Candidates aspiring to appear for MAT 2026 must complete the online registration process within the specified deadlines.
Below is a detailed guide covering the registration process, fees, and required documents for the MAT 2026 exam:
Documents required at the time of Registration:
The candidate should keep the following documents handy while filing the form for the MAT 2026 February session:
| Document | Format | File Size |
|---|---|---|
| Photograph | JPG/JPEG | 10-50 KB |
| Signature | JPG/JPEG | 5-20 KB |
| Class 12th Marksheet | PDF/JPG | Variable |
| Class 10th Marksheet | PDF/JPG | Variable |
| Graduation Mark sheet | PDF/JPG | Variable |
MAT 2026 Application Fee
The MAT 2026 application fee depends on the exam mode you choose. Candidates can pay the fees via Credit Card, UPI, Net Banking, or Wallets. The fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.
The fee details for the MAT 2026 exam are available in the table below:
| Exam Mode | Fee (₹) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Single Mode (PBT, CBT, or IBT) | ₹2,100 | Appear for one exam mode |
| Two Modes | ₹3,600 | Appear for two exams & apply to more B-schools |
MAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The MAT exam has five sections, each of them having 30 questions with a time duration of 120 minutes i.e. 2 hours. Candidates get approximately 48 seconds for each question. The MAT exam tests students based on language, reasoning, Mathematics, data analysis, and General Awareness.
You can refer to the table below for the detailed exam pattern of the MAT 2026 exam:
| Section No. | Section Name | Number of Questions | Time Suggested (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Language Comprehension | 30 | 24 |
| II | Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 | 24 |
| III | Mathematical Skills | 30 | 24 |
| IV | Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 | 24 |
| V | Indian & Global Environment | 30 | 24 |
| Total | - | 150 | 120 |
MAT Exam 2026 Syllabus
| MAT Sections | MAT Exam Syllabus |
|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | Synonyms, antonyms, analogies, one-word substitution, Comprehension, Idioms, and Phrases, Fill in the blanks, Spotting errors, Arranging Jumbled words, Reading Comprehension |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | Analogy, Blood Relation, Syllogism, Assumptions, Statement and Conclusions, Series, Cubes, Clocks, Seating Arrangement, Directions |
| Mathematical Skills | Percentage, Profit and Loss, Simple and Compound Interest, Number System, Percentage, Distance Speed and Time, Permutation and Combination, Mixtures and Alligation |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | Venn Diagram, Data Sufficiency, Bar Diagrams, Pie Charts, Data Analysis |
| Indian & Global Environment | Constitution of India, International Organisation, Monetary and Economic Policies, Current Affairs |
MAT 2026 Preparation Strategy
The MAT 2026 exam for CBT is scheduled for 3 March and the exam for PBT is going to be conducted on 23 March 2026. The exam dates are close and candidates need to focus on high-weightage topics, intense revision, and mock test practice.
Is MAT tough?
MAT is considered an easy-to-moderate difficulty exam compared to CAT and XAT. The syllabus is straightforward, and the questions are mostly concept-based rather than tricky. The challenging part of the MAT 2026 exam is time management and accuracy, as the exam has 150 questions that are to be attempted in 120 minutes(2 hours). The time for each question is approximately 48 seconds.
How to prepare for MAT 2026?
The MAT 2026 exam is approaching and candidates need a strategic revision plan to boost their score in the MAT 2026 exam. We have provided you with a 15-day plan that will help you focus on high-scoring topics, and enhance your speed before the exam.
15-Day Study Plan for MAT 2026:
| Day | Focus Area | Tasks to Complete | Time Allocation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1-2 | Language Comprehension | Revise Reading Comprehension (RC), Vocabulary, and Grammar rules | 3 hours/day |
| Day 3-4 | Mathematical Skills | Solve Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Averages), Algebra, Number Systems | 3.5 hours/day |
| Day 5-6 | Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | Practice DI charts, bar graphs, logical puzzles | 3.5 hours/day |
| Day 7 | GK (Indian & Global Environment) | Read Current Affairs (last 6 months), Static GK | 2.5 hours |
| Day 8 | Full-Length Mock Test 1 | Attempt a mock test & analyze mistakes | 3.5 hours |
| Day 9 | Weak Area Revision | Revise weaker topics based on mock analysis | 3 hours |
| Day 10-11 | Mock Test + DI & Reasoning | Attempt Mock Test 2 + Revise DI & Logical Reasoning | 3.5 hours/day |
| Day 12-13 | Speed & Accuracy Practice | Solve 50+ Quant & Reasoning questions daily | 3 hours/day |
| Day 14 | Full-Length Mock Test 3 + Formula Revision | Attempt Mock Test 3 & Go through the formulas | 3.5 hours |
| Day 15 | Quick Revision & Relaxation | Go through important formulas, strategies | 2 hours |
Section-Wise Exam Strategy
| Section | Number of Questions | Time to Spend | Best Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | 40 | 25-30 minutes | Attempt direct RC questions first, then grammar & vocabulary |
| Mathematical Skills | 40 | 35-40 minutes | Use shortcuts for arithmetic, avoid lengthy calculations |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 40 | 30-35 minutes | Prioritize simpler graphs & tables, avoid tricky DI sets |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 40 | 30-35 minutes | Solve easy puzzles first, then logical deductions |
| Indian & Global Environment (GK) | 40 | 10-15 minutes | Attempt only known answers, skip uncertain ones |
MAT Vs CAT
MAT differs from other exams like CAT in many aspects ranging from difficulty level, the scope of acceptance, and exam pattern. The detailed analysis of the Common Admission test (CAT) and Management Aptitude test (MAT) is given below.
Is MAT easier than CAT?
Yes, MAT is easier than CAT as it has a more predictable question pattern and no sectional time limit. While CAT focuses on complex problem-solving, logical reasoning, and high-order aptitude questions, MAT tests basic conceptual understanding. Additionally, CAT is required for IIMs and top-tier institutes, whereas MAT is widely accepted by private B-schools.
The table below differentiates MAT from CAT:
| Points of difference | MAT Exam | CAT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | All India Management Institution (AIMA) | India Institue of Management (IIM) |
| Frequency | 4 times a year (February, May, September, December) | Once a year (usually in November) |
| Mode of Examination | Paper Based test (PBT), Computer Based test (CBT) and Internet Based Test (IBT) | Only Computer Based Test |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 66 to 100 |
| Application Fee | ₹1,800 to ₹2,200 (varies by session) | ₹2,400 (for General, ₹1,200 for SC/ST |
Top Colleges that Accept MAT Score
| College Name | Fees (INR Lakhs) |
|---|---|
| Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME) | 10.5 |
| TA Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) | 16 |
| Department of Management Sciences, Savitribai Phule University (PUMBA) | 6.74 |
| Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE) | 5.5 |
| Jaipuria Institute of Management | 9.5-11 |
| Amrita School of Business | 6.5 |
| Jagan Institute of Management Studies (JIMS) | 5.5-7.5 |
| Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM) | 8.5 |
| Institute of Management Technology (IMT) | 7.5-9.5 |
| Prin. L.N. Welingkar Institute of Management Development & Research (WeSchool) | 8-10 |
| Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) | 10-12 |
| Institute of Management, Nirma University | 6.5-8.5 |
| School of Management, University of Hyderabad | 3.5-5.5 |
| Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR) | 5.5-7.5 |
| University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES) | 5.5-7.5 |
| Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) | 7.5-9.5 |
| Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM) | 10-12 |
| Institute of Management, Christ University | 5.5-7.5 |
| PSG Institute of Management | 5.5-7.5 |
Do IIMs accept MAT Scores?
No, IIMs do not accept MAT scores for admission. The IIMs consider the common Admission test for admissions into their MBA/PGDM programs. With a MAT score, you can apply to top private and government B-schools throughout India.
Top Alternatives to IIMs Accepting MAT Scores:
| College Name | Location | MAT Cutoff Percentile | Avg. Placement (INR LPA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XIME Bangalore | Karnataka | 70+ | 8-10 LPA |
| TAPMI Manipal | Karnataka | 85+ | 12-16 LPA |
| BIMTECH Noida | Uttar Pradesh | 75+ | 8-10 LPA |
| IMT Nagpur | Maharashtra | 70+ | 7-9 LPA |
| LBSIM Delhi | Delhi | 75+ | 9-12 LPA |
Does VIT Vellore accept MAT scores?
No, VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology) does not accept MAT scores for MBA admissions. Instead, VIT Business School considers CAT, XAT, NMAT, CMAT, and GMAT scores for its MBA program.
Admission Process of VIT Vellore:
| Admission Factor | Accepted Exams |
|---|---|
| Entrance Exam Scores | CAT, XAT, NMAT, CMAT, GMAT |
| Academic Performance | Graduation with at least 60% marks |
| Selection Process | Personal Interview (PI) & Written Ability Test (WAT) |
Do IITs accept MAT scores?
No, IITs do not accept MAT scores for MBA admissions. IITs require CAT (Common Admission Test) scores for their MBA/PGDM programs.
IIT MBA Admission Criteria:
| Institute | Accepted Exam | Minimum CAT Percentile (General Category) |
|---|---|---|
| IIT Delhi (DMS) | CAT | 90+ |
| IIT Bombay (SJMSOM) | CAT | 90+ |
| IIT Kharagpur (VGSoM) | CAT | 90+ |
| IIT Madras (DOMS) | CAT | 85+ |
| IIT Roorkee (DOMS) | CAT | 85+ |
| IIT Kanpur | CAT | 85+ |
| IIT BHU | CAT | 80+ |
Does IIT Offer an MBA?
Yes, IITs do offer MBA programs, but they do not accept MAT scores. Admission to IIT MBA programs is based on the CAT exam followed by a Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). Below is a table of top IITs offering MBA programs and their admission criteria.
MBA Admissions in IIT
| IIT | MBA Department | Entrance Exam | Selection Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| IIT Bombay | Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM) | CAT | Shortlist → WAT → PI |
| IIT Delhi | Department of Management Studies (DMS) | CAT | Shortlist → WAT → PI |
| IIT Kharagpur | Vinod Gupta School of Management (VGSOM) | CAT | Shortlist → WAT → PI |
| IIT Madras | Department of Management Studies (DOMS) | CAT | Shortlist → PI |
| IIT Roorkee | Department of Management Studies | CAT | Shortlist → PI |
| IIT Kanpur | Department of Industrial & Management Engineering (IME) | CAT | Shortlist → WAT → PI |
| IIT (ISM) Dhanbad | Department of Management Studies | CAT | Shortlist → PI |
MAT 2026 Expected Cut-off for Different B-Schools
The expected cut-off score for MAT 2026 is calculated based on the previous year's trends analysis. The cut-off may vary for different B-schools based on factors like the difficulty of the exam, the reputation of the institute, and number of applicants.
For the top B-schools like Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME), Bangalore, and IPE Hyderabad the expected cut-off percentile is estimated to be 95+, while students scoring low percentile like 60-65 can aim for B-schools like Jayapee Business School.
| Institute | Expected MAT Cutoff (Composite Score) | Expected MAT Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| IPE Hyderabad | 600–700 | 95+ |
| XIME Bangalore | 600–700 | 95+ |
| PUMBA Pune | 600–700 | 95+ |
| Amity Business School, Noida | 600+ | 90+ |
| Christ University, Bengaluru | 600–650 | 80–90 |
| BIMTECH Greater Noida (Specialized Programs) | 600+ | 80–90 |
| SIES College of Management Studies, Navi Mumbai | 650+ | 80–90 |
| VIT Business School (VIT) Vellore | 600–650 | 80–85 |
| Institute of Management Studies (IMS) Ghaziabad | 600–650 | 75–80 |
| Jaypee Business School, Noida | 550–600 | 60–65 |
Is 90% good in MAT?
Yes, a score of 90 percentile in MAT is considered a good score and it can get you admission to top B-schools. 90 percentile corresponds to a score of approximately 600-650 marks and this score may get you a seat in B-schools like Christ University, BIMTECH etc.
Colleges Accepting 90+ Percentile in MAT:
| Institute Name | Location | Programs Offered | Expected MAT Cutoff (Composite Score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christ University | Bengaluru | MBA, PGDM | 600–650 |
| BIMTECH (Specialized Programs) | Greater Noida | PGDM | 600+ |
| SIES College of Management Studies | Navi Mumbai | PGDM | 600–650 |
| VIT Business School (VIT) | Vellore | MBA | 600+ |
| Jaipuria Institute of Management | Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur | PGDM | 600–620 |
| XIME Bangalore | Bangalore | PGDM | 650+ |
| New Delhi Institute of Management (NDIM) | New Delhi | PGDM | 600+ |
MAT Exam Frequently Asked Questions
MAT 2026 Exam FAQ’s
Question 1. What is the validity of the MAT score?
Answer- The MAT score is valid for one year after the date of declaration.
Question 2. How does the MAT percentile work?
Answer- The percentile is calculated based on your performance relative to other test takers. For example, if you score 99 percentile, it means you performed better than 99% of the candidates, placing you in the top 1%.
Question 3. Can I apply for both PBT and CBT modes?
Answer- Yes, you can opt for both Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) by paying an additional amount of ₹1500 after the basic ₹2100, making a total of ₹3,600.
Question 4. When does the result for MAT come out?
Answer- The result of the MAT exam is declared one or two months after the exams are conducted. The February session results are expected to be announced in the second week of June 2026.
Question 5. Is MAT conducted 4 times in a year?
Answer- Yes, the MAT exam is conducted in 4 sessions: February, May, August, and December. Candidates can appear in multiple sessions, and the best score among them is considered for admissions.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.
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