MICAT 2026 exam is an MBA entrance examination by MICA Ahmedabad is a special test that evaluates analytical skill, creative thinking, written communication, and personality orientation.
As part of the selection to take the flagship PGDM and PGDM-C programmes at MICA, the exam is conducted twice a year in MICAT I and MICAT II, in December 2025 and January 2026 respectively.
MICAT is one of the B-school entrance exams in India that attracts more than 8,000-10,000 candidates annually to contest over 180-200 seats. As per the MICAT Exam Pattern 2026, this test is performed in an online CBT format and takes a total of 2 hours and 15 minutes.
In contrast to conventional MBA tests, such as the CAT or XAT, MICAT is structured into 3 sections:
- Section A - Psychometric Test (Mandatory qualifier)
- Section B - Descriptive Test (Essay and Creative Writing)
- Section C - Aptitude Section (Divergent-Convergent Thinking, Quant, Verbal, GA
Source: MICAT Official Website
- Number of Question: approximately 140-150 MCQs + 2 Descriptive Writing Question(Essay + Story writing).
- Maximum Time: 135 minutes (2 hours 15 minutes) no sectional time limit though Psychometric section must be taken first.
- Form of Exam: Online CBT to be administered in 48+ test cities in India.
- Marking Scheme: +1 when answers are correct; -1/4 in Section C; no negative marking in Section A and B.
- Distinctive Characteristic: Psychometric Test is mandatory- failure to complete the test disqualifies the candidate regardless of the performance in other sections.
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Key Summary
- MICAT is administered in two semesters annually: MICAT I and MICAT II.
- The psychometric section is qualifying in nature and must be cleared to proceed further.
- The Aptitude section carries the highest weightage, contributing about 80% of the total score.
- MICAT scores are considered alongside CAT/XAT/GMAT scores for a balanced admission assessment.
- Negative marking of 0.25 marks applies only to incorrect answers in the aptitude section.
- The descriptive section evaluates creativity, structured communication, and abstract thinking
- What is the MICAT Exam?
- What is the MICAT Exam Pattern?
- MICAT Exam Pattern Negative Marking
- MICAT Exam Pattern: Total Marks
- MICAT Exam Marks vs Rank
- What is the MICAT Syllabus?
- MICAT 2024 Question Paper
- MICAT Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
- What is the MICAT Exam?
- What is the MICAT Exam Pattern?
- MICAT Exam Pattern Negative Marking
- MICAT Exam Pattern: Total Marks
- MICAT Exam Marks vs Rank
- What is the MICAT Syllabus?
- MICAT 2024 Question Paper
- MICAT Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
What is the MICAT Exam?
MICAT is an MBA entrance test conducted by Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA) to secure admission into the prestigious program of Post-graduate diploma management (PGDM) and Post-graduate diploma management control (PGDM-C).
- In contrast to other management entrance tests, it focuses on creativity, personality testing, and communication skills, among other analytical reasoning and general ability.
- MICAT is also structured in a unique way to compare both traditional skills and qualities of MBA, which include originality, lateral thinking, and emotional intelligence that are very important in marketing, advertising, and brand communication careers. It is a bi-annual exam that leads to one of the most specialized management institutes in India.
Ques. Who can apply for MICAT 2026?
Ans. Candidates who have a bachelor's degree in any field and have a legitimate mark in CAT, XAT, or GMAT can apply to MICAT 2026. Final-year undergraduate students can also apply, although they must graduate successfully before the academic program is officially launched.
Ques. How frequently is MICAT done per annum?
Ans. MICAT is conducted twice in a year, MICAT I in December 2025 and MICAT II in January or February 2026. The candidates may opt to take one or both tests. Should they do both, the best score is automatically taken to shortlisting to increase their chances of getting into MICA.
Read More: MICAT 2025 Phase I Paper Analysis
MICAT assesses the candidates in a special format and is divided into three sub-sections: Psychometric Test, Descriptive Test and Aptitude Test.
Each and every section of the exam has different weightage, but the psychometric section must be qualified by the candidates to proceed further to the next stage.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Papers | 2 sessions (MICAT I & II) |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Sections | Psychometric, Descriptive, Aptitude |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Subjects | Psychometric, Verbal Ability, Quantitative Ability, Reasoning, GK, Divergent Thinking, Descriptive |
Ques. Is the psychometric part mandatory?
Ans. Yes, the psychometric part of MICAT is mandatory and serves as the initial assessment of evaluation. If the candidate fails to meet the requirement of this section, the rest of their paper is not graded and they are disqualified. It guarantees that the candidates fit the personality and creativity-related demands of MICA.
Ques. What is the duration of the MICAT examination?
Ans. The MICAT exam takes a total time of 2 hours and 45 minutes and all the three parts are included: Psychometric, Descriptive and Aptitude. Candidates are expected to use their time well because the questions in each section involve different skills, such as personality analysis, creative writing, and solving logical problems, and each set of questions demand different approaches in the time allocated.
MICAT Exam Pattern Comparison
| Particulars | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) |
| Number of Sections | 3 (Psychometric, Descriptive, Aptitude) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Section A – Psychometric Test | 150 Qs, 30 min, Qualifier, No Negative Marking | Same | Same | Same | 150 Qs, Qualifier |
| Section B – Descriptive Test | 4 Qs, 25 min, Essay + Creative Writing | Same | Same | Same | 4 Qs, Descriptive Writing |
| Section C – Aptitude | 70 MCQs total: DCR (20), VA (20), QA+DI (20), GA (10) | Same | Same | Same | Similar structure (DCR, VA, QA/DI, GA) |
| Total Duration | 135 Minutes (30+25+80) | 135 Minutes | 135 Minutes | 135 Minutes | 135 Minutes |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct in Aptitude | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 for Aptitude Section only | -0.25 | -0.25 | -0.25 | -0.25 |
| Psychometric Section Weight | Qualifying - mandatory to clear | Same | Same | Same | Qualifying |
| Descriptive Section Weight | Evaluated only if Psychometric is cleared | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Aptitude Section Weight | Counts for percentile calculation | Same | Same | Same | Same |
- Pattern remained structurally stable between 2021 and 2025.
- The psychometric section has consistently been a qualifier.
- The descriptive section maintained 4 questions, a 25-minute time window every year.
- The Aptitude section consistently had 70 MCQs with -0.25 negative marking, split across 4 sub-sections.
- Total duration stayed 135 minutes across all years
MICAT Exam Pattern Negative Marking
- MICAT uses negative marks only with some of the objective-based questions in the aptitude section.
- Commonly, a quarter ( 1/4) mark is subtracted on every incorrect response as a deterrent to random guessing and a motivator to be accurate.
- No negative marking is associated with the psychometric and descriptive sections since these are not tests of objective accuracy but creativity, personality, and written communication.
Candidates need to concentrate on the aptitude questions and do justice by being fast and precise. Familiarity with the marking scheme and mock tests practiced under exam conditions may greatly enhance accuracy and time management in MICAT.
Ques. Are all MICAT sections negatively marked?
Ans. No, negative marking is not compulsory in all the MICAT parts. It is only applicable to the objective questions in the Aptitude Test. The Psychometric Test and Descriptive Test have no penalty against wrong answers. As a result, a candidate has the opportunity of taking the tests without fear of being penalized on account of any wrong answers.
Ques. What percentage is lost when there is a wrong answer in MICAT?
Ans. In MICAT, there is a deduction of 0.25 marks on any incorrect attempt in the objective questions in the aptitude section. This negative marking system does deter random guessing, and so it is significant that a candidate understands every question before giving an answer so as to get the best and highest score possible.
MICAT Exam Pattern: Total Marks
The overall MICAT marks differ slightly depending on the question distribution but as a rule, the total marks are fixed in the question structure. The test is graded out of about 144-150 points, and it includes all three key parts.
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Psychometric Test | Qualifying (no marks counted, but compulsory) |
| Descriptive Test | 4 questions (20-25 marks) |
| Aptitude Test | 120-125 marks |
| Total | 144-150 marks |
Ques. Do the total marks in MICAT remain constant?
Ans. MICAT marks are not fixed at all because they may change slightly as per the question paper that is to be used during that year. Nevertheless, it falls in the range of 144 to 150. It is crucial to mention that the Psychometric Test decides the qualifying process of the candidate and it does not add to the score.
Ques. What is the most weighted section?
Ans. Aptitude Test carries the greatest weightage in MICAT and this category provides about 120-125 marks in the aggregate score. The Descriptive Test will have a mark of approximately 20-25 and the Psychometric test is qualifying in nature. This system guarantees a high level of focus on the analytical, logical, and verbal skills in the assessment process.
MICAT Exam Marks vs Rank
Marks obtained in MICAT are relative because the test is not determined by preset standards. Shortlisting of the candidates is through their performance in MICAT, CAT / GMAT and then in Group exercise (GE) and Personal Interview (PI).
| Marks Range | Expected Shortlisting Status |
|---|---|
| 120+ | Very High chance of GE & PI call |
| 100–119 | High chance, if CAT/XAT/GMAT scores are strong |
| 80–99 | Moderate chance, depends on overall profile |
| Below 80 | Low chance of shortlisting |
Ques. Is MICAT ranking dependent on the same marks?
Ans. Yes, MICAT short listing is not entirely based on raw scores. The same candidates can be awarded in different ways due to the consideration of other factors such as relative performance, psychometric qualification and CAT/XAT/ GMAT scores. The profile, consistency, and performance of a candidate in other stages will affect his or her overall ranking and short listing.
Ques. What is the significance of MICAT score over the CAT/XAT/GMAT?
Ans. MICAT score stands just as significantly as the CAT, XAT, or GMAT scores do in the admission process at MICA. Whereas the main aim of those national level exams is to check aptitude, MICAT is a test that measures creativity, personality and communication skills. These two scores combine to form a balanced assessment, with the applicants having analytic skills and, at the same time, creative and management potential.
What is the MICAT Syllabus?
The MICAT syllabus is the only syllabus that combines aptitude, creativity, and personality tests. MICAT is designed to test originality, decision-making, and communication, unlike a normal MBA exam, which only covers quantitative and verbal skills. This combination will guarantee that the candidates will be evaluated on academic ability and imaginative-managerial talent.
| Section | Detailed Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Psychometric Test | Personality traits, attitude assessment, values, motivation, emotional intelligence, leadership qualities, ethical decision-making, situational judgment, and behavioral tendencies. |
| Descriptive Test | Essay writing on abstract or current topics, story writing from images or cues, argument framing, creative solutions to hypothetical problems, evaluating ideas, and structured written communication. |
| Verbal Ability (VA) | Reading comprehension passages (fact-based, inference, tone identification), grammar usage, sentence correction, vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms), idioms, para jumbles, sentence completion, and verbal reasoning. |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) & Data Interpretation (DI) | Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, averages, profit & loss, time-speed-distance, time & work), algebra (equations, inequalities), geometry, mensuration, number system, probability, permutations & combinations, modern math, and DI (tables, charts, graphs, caselets). |
| Reasoning | Analytical reasoning, coding-decoding, syllogisms, puzzles, seating arrangement, input-output, series, data sufficiency, logical arguments, statement-assumption-conclusion, and critical reasoning questions. |
| Divergent Thinking | Word association tests, sentence association, creative reasoning, visual reasoning, lateral thinking, brainstorming-based questions, and tasks measuring originality of ideas. |
| General Awareness (GA) | Current affairs (national & international), static GK, Indian economy, business & corporate news, advertising & media, marketing campaigns, digital trends, social issues, sports, literature, and important awards/events. |
Ques. What part of MICAT matters the most?
Ans. The most important part is the Psychometric Test because only those who pass the Psychometric Test have their other sections reviewed. Even high scores on aptitude or on descriptive areas do not qualify for this. It acts as the initial filter of MICA admissions.
Ques. What do I need to do to prepare for MICAT General Awareness?
Ans. General Awareness demands an orientation towards up to date issues particularly in the media, advertising and in business. The candidates should become habitual to reading the newspapers, industry magazines, and major campaigns. Awareness of communication, marketing, and the global trends regarding the industry are also highly emphasized in MICA, but the level of knowledge in this aspect is also important in Static GK.
MICAT 2024 Question Paper
You can Download MICAT 2024 memory based question paper pdf from the below link:
| MICAT Question Paper | Download Link |
|---|---|
| MICAT 2024 Question Paper for Session 1 | Download PDF |
| MICAT 2024 Question Paper for Session 2 | Download PDF |
MICAT Previous Years Question Paper
Mudra Institute of Communication, Ahmedabad, has not released MICAT previous years' question papers. However, MICA Ahmedabad releases MICAT sample papers to help students know the pattern, difficulty level and other aspects of the exam. You can download the sample papers from the following given links:
| MICAT Previous Years’ Sample Papers | Download Links |
|---|---|
| MICAT SAMPLE TEST 1 | Check Here |
| MICAT SAMPLE TEST 2 | Check Here |
| MICAT SAMPLE TEST 3 | Check Here |
| MICAT SAMPLE TEST 4 | Check Here |
| MICAT SAMPLE TEST 5 | Check Here |
| MICAT 2011-13 | Check Here |
| MICAT 2008-10 | Check Here |
| MICAT 2013-15 | Check Here |
| MICAT 2016-17 | Check Here |
MICAT Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
Ques. How many times can I take MICAT?
There are two opportunities to take 2 exams in the same academic year; MICAT I and MICAT II. Ans.The higher of the two scores is automatically counted towards shortlisting and candidates are given a reasonable opportunity to revise their performance and be accepted to MICA.
Ques. How long is the MICAT test?
Ans.The duration of the MICAT exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes. It is categorized into three sections- Psychometric Test, Descriptive Test and Aptitude Test. These sections would evaluate different skills, such as personality, analytical, creativity, and communication, necessary to join MICA programs.
Ques. Does MICAT have some sectional cutoffs?
Ans.Yes, MICAT has a sectional evaluation process. The Psychometric Test is first cleared; thereafter, Descriptive and Aptitude are assessed. This means they not only display aptitude but also they align with the MICA’s emphasis on personality, creativity and relevance to communication based management education.
Ques. Can I get admission into MICA with only a CAT score?
Ans.Not with just a CAT score, no, one cannot be guaranteed admission to MICA. Although the CAT, XAT, or GMAT scores are taken into consideration, the applicant has to undergo MICAT, and then go through the Group Exercise (GE) and Personal Interview (PI). All applicants to MICA have to undergo a mandatory interview process.
Ques. Is MICAT tougher than CAT?
Ans. MICAT and CAT are not similar in terms of difficulty. CAT is very much quantitative and logical, whereas MICAT relies on creativity, communication and personality aspects. MICAT is not more difficult, but it needs special preparatory techniques. Candidates tend to complement CAT, evaluating various aspects of managerial potential.
*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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