The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 2025 exam pattern is released by the All India Management Association (AIMA) on its official portal, mat.aima.in. The exam will follow the revised structure introduced in previous sessions, comprising 150 questions.
MAT 2025 features five sections, each containing 30 questions, making a total of 150 questions. The exam duration will be 2 hours (120 minutes), with no sectional time restrictions, allowing candidates to allocate time according to their strengths.
The exam is conducted four times a year in February, May, September, and December, giving multiple opportunities to candidates.
In the MAT 2025 marking scheme, each correct answer will earn 1 mark, while 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer, making the exam both accuracy- and speed-oriented.
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Key Summary
- The MAT 2025 exam pattern will be released by AIMA on the official website: mat.aima.in.
- The exam contains 150 questions with a time duration of 120 minutes (2 hours), and no sectional time limit.
- The test is divided into five sections, each containing 30 questions of equal weightage.
- Sections include Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, and Economic & Business Environment.
- Each correct answer carries +1 mark, while -0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer.
- The exam can be taken in three modes which includes Paper-Based Test (PBT), Computer-Based Test (CBT), and the combined PBT+CBT option (with an additional fee).
- MAT is conducted four times a year in February, May, September, and December, allowing multiple attempts.
- Candidates can choose their preferred test mode and appear for multiple sessions to improve scores.
- The official MAT syllabus, pattern, and notifications should always be verified from AIMA’s official portal for the respective session.
- What is the MAT Exam Pattern?
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Overview
- MAT 2025 Exam Modes: PBT, CBT, and IBT
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025
- MAT Previous Years’ Question Papers
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Sectional Weightage
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Marking Scheme
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Syllabus
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Preparation Plan
- MAT Exam Pattern 2025 FAQs
What is the MAT Exam Pattern?
The MAT exam pattern simply explains how the Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is structured along with how many sections it has, how questions are divided, the marking scheme, and the total duration.
In 2025, the MAT exam is designed to test your language skills, reasoning ability, numerical aptitude, data interpretation, and business awareness that are all essential qualities for management studies. The test has a total of 150 multiple-choice questions, divided equally across five sections. You get 120 minutes (2 hours) to complete the paper, and there’s no sectional time limit, meaning you can move freely between sections as you wish.
Each question carries one mark, and 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. The pattern remains identical across all test modes: Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT).
MAT Exam Pattern 2025
- MAT exam is conducted as a paper-based test and Computer-Based Test. Candidates can choose the mode as per their preference.They also choose to attend for both the exam modes.
- The MAT exam pattern is divided into 5 sections such as Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency , Economic and Business Environment.
- There are a total of 150 multiple-choice questions in MAT, with each section consisting of 30 questions.
- As per the MAT marking scheme, for every correct answer 1 mark will be awarded and 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
- Total marks for MAT is 120, with each question carrying 1 mark. Candidates are given a total of 120 minutes to solve all the questions with no sectional time limit.
| Particulars | Details |
| Conducting body | AIMA (All India Management Association). |
| Modes |
|
| Sections |
|
| Questions | 150 MCQs (30 per section). |
| Total Marks | 150 |
| Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours). |
| Sectional Time limit | There are no sectional time limits |
| Marking |
|
| Official AIMA MAT Website | https://mat.aima.in/ |
MAT 2025 Exam Modes: PBT, CBT, and IBT
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 2025 is conducted in multiple modes to provide flexibility for candidates. As per AIMA, the official modes are:
- PBT (Paper-Based Test): Traditional pen-and-paper exam conducted at designated test centres.
- CBT (Computer-Based Test): Conducted on computers at test centres, allowing candidates to navigate sections digitally.
- PBT + CBT Option: Candidates can choose to appear in both modes for an additional fee, providing an extra opportunity to improve scores and send results to more institutes.
All modes follow the same syllabus, exam pattern, and marking scheme. Detailed schedules, fees, and session-specific information are published on the official AIMA portal.
MAT 2025 Exam Modes Difference
| Mode | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| CBT (Computer-Based Test) | Conducted on a fixed date at test centres. | Allows easy navigation across sections; digital interface; same syllabus and marking as PBT. |
| PBT (Paper-Based Test) | Traditional paper-based exam at selected centres. | Requires manual time management; answers marked on OMR sheets; same syllabus and marking scheme. |
| PBT + CBT Option | Candidates appear in both PBT and CBT for the same session. | Provides flexibility and an extra chance to send scores to additional institutes; session-specific rules must be checked on AIMA. |
Ques. Is IBT (remote/online proctored) available for MAT 2025?
Ans. AIMA’s main exam modes are PBT and CBT. In some sessions, additional remote proctored (IBT) options may be offered. Candidates should verify availability and guidelines on the official MAT portal for the specific session.
Ques. If I take both PBT and CBT, will both scores be sent to colleges in MAT 2025?
Ans. Yes. If you opt for the PBT+CBT option, both scores can be sent to your selected institutes. Check the current AIMA session notice for detailed rules on institute selection.
MAT Exam Pattern 2025
The MAT exam consists of five key sections, each carrying equal weightage of 30 questions, summing up to a total of 150 questions.
Candidates get 120 minutes (2 hours) to complete the test, with no sectional time limit. This allows flexibility to manage time across sections as per individual strengths.
| Sections | Section Name | Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language Comprehension | 30 |
| 2 | Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 |
| 3 | Mathematical Skills | 30 |
| 4 | Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 |
| 5 | Economic & Business Environment | 30 |
| Total | 150 Questions | |
Source: @mat.aima.in
MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Section-Wise Weightage
The MAT exam consists of five key sections, each carrying equal weightage of 30 questions, summing up to a total of 150 questions.
Candidates get 120 minutes (2 hours) to complete the test, with no sectional time limit. This allows flexibility to manage time across sections as per individual strengths.
| Sections | Section Name | Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language Comprehension | 30 |
| 2 | Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 |
| 3 | Mathematical Skills | 30 |
| 4 | Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 |
| 5 | Economic & Business Environment | 30 |
| Total | 150 Questions | |
Source: @mat.aima.in
Check:
- MAT Preparation for Data Analysis and Sufficiency 2025
- MAT Preparation for Language Comprehension 2025
Ques. Which section holds the most importance in MAT 2025?
Ans. All five sections in the MAT 2025 exam carry equal importance, with 30 questions and 30 marks each, contributing 20% weightage to the overall paper. Hence, maintaining consistent performance across all sections is key to a strong composite score.
Ques. Is there any sectional time limit in MAT 2025?
Ans. No, there is no sectional time limit in the MAT exam. Candidates have a total of 120 minutes (2 hours) to attempt all 150 questions, and they can freely switch between sections depending on their strategy and comfort level.
Ques. Is every section equally weighted in the MAT 2025 exam?
Ans. Yes, all sections in the MAT 2025 exam carry equal weightage. Each section consists of 30 questions, contributing 20% to the total paper. While the raw marks are equally distributed, the final percentile or composite score is calculated after statistical scaling across different sessions.
MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Marking Scheme
The MAT 2025 marking scheme, as defined by AIMA, follows a uniform scoring pattern across both Paper-Based (PBT) and Computer-Based (CBT) modes with clear rules for right, wrong, and unattempted answers.
- Each correct answer in the MAT 2025 exam is awarded 1 mark, irrespective of the section.
- An incorrect response attracts a penalty of 0.25 marks, so careful answering is essential.
- Unattempted questions carry zero marks, ensuring no disadvantage for skipping uncertain items.
- The exam comprises 150 questions, with the total raw score calculated out of 150.
| Response Type | Marks Awarded | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +1 mark | Each right answer earns one mark. |
| Incorrect Answer | -0.25 mark | 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong response. |
| Unattempted Question | 0 mark | No marks are given or deducted. |
Also Check:
- MAT Preparation 2025 for Mathematical Skills
- MAT Preparation 2025 for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
Ques. How many marks are awarded for a correct answer in MAT 2025?
Ans. Each correct answer in the MAT exam carries 1 mark, and this applies to all five sections namely Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, and Economic & Business Environment.
This ensures that every section contributes equally to your raw score, making consistent performance across sections important.
Ques. Is there negative marking in MAT 2025?
Ans. Yes, the MAT follows a negative marking system. For every incorrect answer, 0.25 marks are deducted from your total score. This rule encourages accuracy and careful answering, discouraging random guesses. However, leaving a question unattempted does not affect your score.
Ques. Is the marking scheme the same for both PBT and CBT?
Ans. The marking rules are identical for both Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT). This means that whether you take the exam on paper or on a computer, the scoring pattern, negative marking, and total marks remain consistent.
MAT Previous Years’ Question Papers
Previous year’s question papers are important to understand the exam pattern, identifying important topics, and improving time management.
MAT question papers from various previous sessions are listed below.
| Year | MAT Exam Paper PDF |
| 2025 | Download Here |
| 2022 | Download Here |
| 2021 | Download Here |
| 2020 | Download Here |
| 2018 | Download Here |
MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Syllabus
he language comprehension syllabus includes topics such as grammar, passages, and vocabulary. Out of 30 questions 10 - 12 questions will be on Reading Comprehension. Other topics include parts of speech, idioms/phrases, fill in the blanks, para jumbles, etc.
- Intelligence and critical thinking topics include puzzles, series, blood relations, syllogism, column graphs, coding-decoding, etc. The difficulty level of the section is comparatively low.
- LCM - HCF, complex numbers, percentages, permutations and combinations, sequence-series, profit loss are part of the Mathematical skills section.
- Data analysis and sufficiency section covers important topics such as tables, pie charts, charts, graphs, Venn diagrams, bar diagrams etc.
- The Economic and business environment is a unique section which usually covers general knowledge and current affairs nationally and internationally.
| Section | No. of Questions | Suggested Time | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | 30 | 25-30 min | RC, vocabulary, grammar, para-jumbles |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 | 20-25 min | Puzzles, arrangements, syllogisms |
| Mathematical Skills | 30 | 25-30 min | Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number theory |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 | 20-25 min | Charts, tables, data sufficiency |
| Economic & Business Environment | 30 | 10-15 min | Current affairs, economy, business news |
Also check:
MAT Exam Pattern 2025: Preparation Plan
A structured preparation plan helps maximize your score in the Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 2025. Here’s an actionable approach which can be followed to prepare for the exam effectively.
- Total Practice Duration: 6-10 weeks of focused study, around 30-40 hours per week, especially if you are re-attempting or targeting a high percentile.
- Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests under timed conditions. Simulate CBT mode if that’s your exam choice. Frequent mocks help improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
- Sectional Focus:
- Quantitative & Data Analysis: Strengthen speed and accuracy; practice shortcut techniques.
- Reasoning & Verbal: Maintain steady practice, focusing on puzzles, logical reasoning, and comprehension.
- EBE Section: Prepare selective notes on economic/business concepts.
- Revision: In the last 10 days, revise formulas, key tricks, and take 2 full mocks every 3 days to consolidate strategy.
Weekly Plan for MAT 2025 Practice
| Week | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Weeks 1-2 | Build fundamentals: Quant basics + Reading Comprehension practice |
| Weeks 3-4 | Intensive practice: Reasoning + Data Interpretation |
| Week 5 | Mock tests + Revision of weak areas |
| Week 6 | Final mocks + GK brush-up + Exam strategy refinement |
This plan allows a balanced approach, covering all sections, improving speed, and boosting confidence before the exam.
MAT Exam Pattern 2025 FAQs
Ques. How many questions are in MAT 2025?
Ans. The MAT 2025 exam has a total of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), divided equally into five sections.
- Each section contains 30 questions.
- Sections include Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, and Economic & Business Environment.
| Section | No. of Questions |
|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | 30 |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 |
| Mathematical Skills | 30 |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 |
| Economic & Business Environment | 30 |
| Total | 150 |
Ques. How long is the MAT 2025 exam?
Ans. The total exam duration for MAT 2025 is 120 minutes (2 hours).
- There are no sectional time limits, so you can manage time according to your strengths.
- Efficient time allocation across sections is important to attempt all questions.
Ques. Is there negative marking in MAT 2025?
Ans. Yes, the MAT exam applies negative marking for incorrect answers.
- +1 mark is awarded for each correct answer.
- The -0.25 mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
- 0 marks are given for unattempted questions.
| Response Type | Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +1 |
| Incorrect Answer | -0.25 |
| Unattempted | 0 |
Ques. What are the exam modes for MAT 2025?
Ans. MAT 2025 is offered in multiple modes to give candidates flexibility.
- PBT (Paper-Based Test): Conducted at test centres with manual time management.
- CBT (Computer-Based Test): Conducted on computers at test centres with easy navigation between sections.
- PBT + CBT Option: Allows candidates to appear in both modes for an additional fee and send scores to more institutes.
| Mode | Key Features |
|---|---|
| PBT | Traditional paper exam at test centres; requires manual time management |
| CBT | Conducted on computers; allows easy section navigation |
| PBT + CBT | Flexibility and extra score submission opportunity; session-specific rules apply |
Ques. Are final-year students eligible to appear in the MAT exam?
Ans. Yes, final-year students of graduate courses are eligible to apply for MAT 2026.
- You can appear before completing your degree.
- All other eligibility criteria remain as per AIMA guidelines.
Ques. How are percentiles calculated in the MAT?
Ans. AIMA calculates scaled sectional scores and percentiles to normalize scores across sessions.
- Composite percentile reflects overall performance across all sections.
- Trusted sources like MBAUniverse and Careers360 provide worked examples of percentile calculation.
- Official scorecards are final; always rely on them for official results.
Ques. Which sections should I prioritise in the MAT exam?
Ans. Although all sections have equal weightage, strategic planning helps maximize your score:
- Start with Quantitative & Data Analysis + Reasoning to secure high marks.
- Attempt Language Comprehension next for accuracy.
- Leave Economic & Business Environment (GK) for last, as it is time-efficient if prepared.
Ques. Where to get official updates and admit cards for MAT 2025 exams?
Ans.
- Access all official updates through the AIMA MAT applicant dashboard at mat.aima.in.
- Check session-wise notifications for registration deadlines, exam dates, fees, and admit card release.
Ques. Can I take MAT multiple times?
Ans. Yes, candidates can appear for multiple MAT sessions in the same year.
- Advantages:
- Improves composite percentile and chances of shortlisting at institutes.
- Allows candidates to choose different modes (PBT/CBT) across attempts.
- Strategy: Learn from previous mocks and revise weak areas between sessions.
| Attempt | Mode Options | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | PBT / CBT | Initial attempt; understand timing and difficulty |
| 2 | PBT / CBT | Improve percentile; experiment with section strategy |
| 3 (if available) | PBT + CBT | Extra chance; send scores to more institutes |
Ques. How soon after the test is the MAT 2025 result declared?
Ans. AIMA publishes session-specific result dates, but generally, results are released within a few days to weeks after the test. Always check the session notice on mat.aima.in for precise information.
Ques. Where to register for MAT 2026?
Ans. Register only on the official AIMA MAT portal: mat.aima.in.
Ques. Can final-year students apply for MAT 2026?
Ans. Yes, final-year students are eligible to apply, as per AIMA guidelines.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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