In NMAT, candidates’ scaled score and percentile rank both are important for MBA admissions. For admission in NMIMS Mumbai, a score of 235+ i.e. 98th-99th percentile is required. Although the official minimum eligibility cutoff is 209(with 62 being the required sectional score) but last year students got admissions at score of 235 and above.
- For Tier 2 colleges like K J Somaiya or TAPMI, a score between 220 and 230 (93rd to 96th percentile) is generally competitive.
- For other good colleges like IBS, Shiv Nadar, or Alliance, a score around 150 to 210 (50th to 85th percentile) is required
To secure admission calls from the extended Top 10 NMAT Colleges list, including NMIMS campuses (Bangalore/Hyderabad), XIMB, and SOIL, a highly competitive scaled score between 215 and 235 is required.
| NMAT Scaled Score Range | Estimated Percentile Range | Performance Level | Best College Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 235 - 250+ | 98 - 99+ | Outstanding | NMIMS Mumbai (Core MBA), SPJIMR (GMP) |
| 230 - 234 | 96 - 98 | Excellent | NMIMS Mumbai (Many programs), TAPMI, K J Somaiya |
| 220 - 229 | 90 - 95 | Very Strong | NMIMS Bangalore/Navi Mumbai, XIMB, IFMR GSB |
| 200 - 219 | 70 - 90 | Good | NMIMS Hyderabad/Indore, SDA Bocconi, Shiv Nadar University |
| Below 200 | Below 70 | Average/Below | Other NMAT-accepting B-schools |
Related Links
- Check List of NMAT Score accepting Colleges
- Check NMAT Cutoff Trends of last 5 years
- Get details about NMAT Selection Process including GD and PI
This article will help you in understanding what is the relationship between NMAT score, percentile and admission to top MBA colleges.
What is NMAT Score Vs Percentile?
NMAT score is a scaled score you receive after taking exam. Your correct answers (raw scores) are further converted into scaled score through normalisation. The total NMAT Score range from 36 to 360. Most B- schools use this scaled score as primary criteria for shortlisting candidates
Candidates should note that apart from overall scaled score, there is a sectional score range too i.e 12 to 120.
Now talking about NMAT percentile. It is percentage of candidates who scored less than you. NMAT percentile ranges from 0 to 100. For e.g. A percentile of 90 means you outperformed 90% of candidates.
The table below shows NMAT score to percentile mappings based on previous years’ trends
Source: NMAT Percentile Ranking
| NMAT Score (Approx.) | Estimated Percentile |
|---|---|
| 235 - 245+ | 99th Percentile |
| 225 - 234 | 98th Percentile |
| 210 - 224 | 95th Percentile |
| 200 - 209 | 90th Percentile |
This mapping can vary depending upon number of applicants and difficulty level.
Ques. What is the minimum NMAT score required for 70 percentile colleges like IBS Hyderabad?
For colleges like IBS Hyderabad, which fall within the 70th percentile range, a minimum NMAT score of 170-180 is typically required. This score range helps meet the eligibility criteria, though the exact requirement may vary depending on the applicant pool and exam performance. Scoring within this range boosts your chances of securing admission.
What were the NMAT sectional cutoffs for NMIMS Mumbai in 2024 and 2025?
The NMAT sectional cutoffs for NMIMS Mumbai in 2024 and 2025 were as follows:
- Language Skills: 62
- Quantitative Skills: 62
- Logical Reasoning: 62
Note that sectional cutoff is only minimum eligibility to apply; actual cutoff is above 235 score.
NMAT 2025 Sectional Cutoff
A high overall score is not enough. All top NMAT-accepting colleges, particularly NMIMS, have sectional cutoffs that must be cleared in addition to the overall score.
| Section | Scaled Score Range | Max Score | Required for 90th+ Percentile (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Skills (LS) | 12 - 120 | 120 | 70 - 80+ |
| Quantitative Skills (QS) | 12 - 120 | 120 | 70 - 75+ |
| Logical Reasoning (LR) | 12 - 120 | 120 | 70 - 75+ |
The sectional cutoff is same for all NMIMS campuses offering MBA programs, with the expected sectional cutoff of 62 each for LR, LS, and QS, and an overall score of 209 except for the MBA Pharmaceutical Management the NMAT cutoff is expected to be 50 and the total to 190.
| Program | LR | LS | QS | NMAT Cutoff 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA Mumbai | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA HR | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA Business Analytics | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA Digital Transformation | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA Pharmaceutical Management | 50 | 50 | 50 | 190 |
| MBA Bangalore | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA Navi Mumbai | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA Hyderabad | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
| MBA Indore | 62 | 62 | 62 | 209 |
Note on NMIMS Cutoffs: The official minimum overall cutoff for NMIMS MBA programs (Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.) was standardized to 209 (with sectional cutoffs of 62} for all three sections) for the last cycle. However, this is the minimum eligibility score—candidates with scores 230+ range were historically given higher weightage and still have the best chance of final admission for the flagship Mumbai campus due to competition.
Ques. What Score is 70 Percentile in NMAT?
Ans. The 70th percentile in NMAT is expected to be a moderate score for the candidates, making them eligible for new and Tier-3 B-Schools.
| Estimated NMAT Score | Approximate Percentile |
|---|---|
| 215 | 70 |
| 213 – 215 | 68 – 70 |
| 210 | 66 |
Ques. What is 95 Percentile in NMAT?
Ans. The 95th Percentile is considered an excellent score in NMAT, which is sufficient for all the colleges accepting the NMAT Score except the NMIMS Mumbai.
| Percentile | Estimated NMAT Score |
|---|---|
| 95 | 241 – 243 |
| 94 | 239 – 240 |
| 93 | 238 |
NMAT Cutoff for Top 5 Colleges
| Rank | Institute | Program (Focus) | Expected NMAT Score (Scaled) | Estimated Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | K J Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai | MBA | 220 - 230+ | 95 - 98+ |
| 2 | TAPMI (T. A. Pai Management Institute), Manipal | MBA (All Specializations) | 220 - 225+ | 90 - 95+ |
| 3 | Xavier University, Bhubaneswar (XIMB) | MBA-HRM (Highest Cutoff) | 210 - 225+ | 90 - 95+ |
| 4 | SDA Bocconi Asia Center, Mumbai | International Master in Business (IMB) | 200 - 215+ | 80 - 90+ |
| 5 | IFMR Graduate School of Business | MBA | 200 - 215+ | 80 - 90+ |
Ques. What NMAT score is required for 99 percentile in 2025?
To achieve a 99 percentile in the NMAT 2025, a scaled score of 230-240 is required. This score range is generally considered competitive for securing a 99th percentile ranking
Good Score in NMAT 2025
A Good score in NMAT is expected to be between 220 to 250+, which depends on the college the candidate is targeting.
- NMAT is a scaled score exam with a score range of 36 to 360, with no negative marking.
- Candidates can also improve their score by taking a retake attempt and by getting an estimation of their score with the NMAT Score calculator.
- Most of the top B-Schools accept scores with a range of 210 to 230, which generally makes this a good score.
NMAT 2025 Good Score
| Score Range | Performance Level | College Opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| 250 – 360 | Excellent | NMIMS Mumbai (Core), Top profile-based shortlists |
| 230 – 249 | Very Good | NMIMS Bengaluru, Navi Mumbai, KJ Somaiya, XIMB |
| 210 – 229 | Good | NMIMS Indore/Hyderabad, SDA Bocconi, IFMR GSB |
| 190 – 209 | Moderate | Woxsen, ISBR, Alliance University |
| < 190 | Low | Fewer options, retake advised for better college options |
Ques. What counts as a good NMAT 2025 score?
Ans. The scores which counts as a good NMAT 2025 score are:
- 230+ marks: Outstanding performance, usually lands in the 99+ percentile, ideal for top B-schools.
- 220–230 marks: Very competitive score, can secure admission in many reputed institutes.
- 200+ marks: Decent score, may open opportunities in good B-schools depending on the competition and cutoffs.
- Scores below 200 may still give chances in mid-tier institutes but may require strong overall profiles.
Ques. Is percentile alone enough for admission?
Ans. No. While a high percentile strengthens your application, top B-schools consider other factors too:
- Academic record and consistency.
- Relevant work experience.
- Performance in interviews, group discussions, and essays.
A holistic approach is used, so even with a high percentile, other aspects of your profile matter.
MBA Colleges with lower NMAT Score Cutoff
If your NMAT Scaled Score is less than 220-230 score, there are still many reputable MBA and PGDM programs that accept scores in the 160-210 range. These colleges offer strong programs with good Return on Investment (ROI), especially for candidates who may have a decent score but did not meet the very high cutoffs of Tier 1 institutes like NMIMS Mumbai.
The table below provides estimated cutoffs for colleges that are excellent options for candidates with moderate NMAT scores
| Institute (Location) | Program Type | Expected NMAT Score Range | Estimated Percentile | Key Feature / ROI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICFAI Business School (IBS), Hyderabad | MBA/PGDM | 150 - 180+ | 55 - 75% | Known for its large alumni base & case-study methodology. |
| Shiv Nadar University (SNU), Greater Noida | MBA / Global MBA | 160 - 180+ | 60 - 75% | Focus on innovation and global exposure; strong placements. |
| Alliance School of Business, Bangalore | MBA | 160 - 180+ | 60 - 75% | Strong reputation in the South; known for placements in IT/ITES. |
| Woxsen University, Hyderabad | MBA/PGDM | 160 - 180+ | 60 - 75% | Offers modern curriculum with strong international exchange options. |
| Thapar School of Management (LMTSM), Mohali | MBA | 150 - 170+ | 50 - 65% | Backed by the Thapar Group; good industry connections. |
| BML Munjal University (BMU), Gurgaon | MBA | 150 - 170+ | 50 - 65% | Strategic partnership with Imperial College London. |
| ITM Business School, Navi Mumbai | PGDM iConnect | 160 - 190+ | 60 - 78% | Excellent ROI option in the Mumbai region; diverse specializations. |
| Amity Business School, Noida/Gurgaon | MBA (Various) | 150 - 170+ | 50 - 65% | Wide range of specialized programs; large intake. |
NMAT Score vs percentile Previous Year Trends
| NMAT Score Range | Estimated Percentile |
|---|---|
| 264 – 360 | 100 |
| 254 – 263 | 99 |
| 246 – 253 | 97 – 98 |
| 241 – 245 | 95 – 96 |
| 233 – 240 | 90 – 94 |
| 225 – 232 | 82 – 89 |
| 215 – 224 | 70 – 81 |
| 205 – 214 | 56 – 69 |
| 195 – 204 | 42 – 55 |
| 185 – 194 | 30 – 41 |
| 175 – 184 | 20 – 29 |
| 160 – 174 | 10 – 19 |
| 140 – 159 | 5 – 9 |
| 120 – 139 | 2 – 4 |
| Below 120 | 0 – |
- With an NMAT Score of 240+, candidates will get a 99+ percentile, which is required for the top institutes like NMIMS Mumbai.
- With a score range of 230-240, candidates will get a percentile between 90-94, which is required for colleges NMIMS and XIMB.
- With a score of 215-225, candidates will get around 70-81 percentile, which makes them eligible for colleges like K.J. Somaiya, Woxsen and ISBR.
- With a score below 180, candidates will get a percentile below 25, through which only limited options will be available for them, of low-tier or new B-Schools.
NMAT Score vs Percentile 2025 College-Wise
The B-Schools accepting the NMAT Score have different cutoffs and percentiles depending upon the college reputation, total seats and selection criteria.
The GMAC will not release official percentiles, but according to the previous year trends, the top colleges accept scores between 210 to 250, which ranges between 90-99 percentiles.
Expected College-Wise NMAT Score vs percentile 2025
- Among all the colleges, NMIMS Mumbai is the most competitive NMAT College, which requires a 235+ score, which places it in the 98+ percentile, with a sectional score of 62 for each section.
- The Tier 1 institutes like K.J. Somaiya and XIMB require more than 210-230 scores, which is equal to around 90-95 percentile.
- The Tier 2 Institutes like IFMR, Woxsen and SDA Bocconi offer flexibility by accepting scores in the range of 190-215 with around 75-90 percentile.
- Candidates with a score below 200 should target new B-Schools or can also improve their score by taking the re-exam.
- Candidates should aim for a score of above 225, which makes them eligible for top institutes.
NMAT Score vs percentile for NMIMS
| Campus/Program | Expected Score (2025) | Estimated Percentile | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| NMIMS Mumbai (MBA Core) | 235 – 250 | 96 – 99+ | Sectional cutoff: 62+ |
| NMIMS Mumbai (MBA HR/Pharma) | 209 – 220 | 75 – 85 | Lower cutoff for Pharma |
| NMIMS Bengaluru | 225 – 235 | 90 – 95 | Competitive profile |
| NMIMS Navi Mumbai | 220 – 230 | 88 – 93 | Sectionals apply |
| NMIMS Hyderabad | 210 – 225 | 80 – 90 | Acceptable with lower scores |
NMAT Score vs percentile for XIMB
| Program | Expected Score (2025) | Estimated Percentile | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA – Business Mgmt | 210 – 220 | 90 – 95 | Sectionals may apply |
| Other PGDM Programs | 200 – 210 | 85 – 90 | Includes HR/SM options |
NMAT Score vs percentile for KJ Somaiya Institute of Management
| Program | Expected Score (2025) | Estimated Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| All Programs | 225 – 230 | 90 – 94 |
NMAT Score vs percentile for other B-Schools Accepting NMAT Scores
| Institute | Expected Score | Percentile Range | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| SDA Bocconi Asia Centre (Mumbai) | 200 – 215 | 80 – 90 | Profile-based selection |
| Woxsen University (Hyderabad) | 190 – 210 | 70 – 85 | Accepts moderate scores |
| IFMR GSB (Krea University) | 200 – 215 | 80 – 90 | Balanced academics preferred |
| ISBR Business School (Bangalore) | 180 – 200 | 60 – 75 | Low score threshold |
| Alliance University (Bangalore) | 170 – 190 | 50 – 70 | Accepts lower NMAT scores |
Ques. What Percentile is 240 on the NMAT?
Ans. In NMAT, a score range of 240 will rank the candidates in the percentile range of 94 to 96, which is sufficient for colleges like NMIMS Bengaluru, K.J. Somaiya and XIMB.
But the score range of 245 will still be less for NMIMS Mumbai.
Ques. How Much NMAT Score is Required for KJ Somaiya?
Ans. The K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management is amongst the top B-schools that accept the NMAT Score, with a proper profile-based selection process as well.
| Program | Expected Score (2025) | Estimated Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| MBA/PGDM | 225 – 230 | 90 – 94 |
Ques. How much percentile is 170 in NMAT?
Ans. A score of 170 in NMAT typically corresponds to around 17-18 percentile, based on the official NMAT 2024 score-percentile data released by GMAC.
- A score of 160-165 is around 11-13 percentile.
- A score of 170-172 is around 17-18 percentile.
- A score of 180 reaches roughly 25 percentile.
Percentiles may vary slightly each year depending on the overall performance of candidates, but 170 is generally considered below the median range in NMAT.
How to calculate the NMAT 2025 Score?
The NMAT Score calculator will be based on the number of correct answers given by the candidates. The NMAT has 3 sections, each will be scored separately and with a scaled score in the range of 12 to 120.
The total NMAT Score will range from 36 to 360, whereas the raw scores will be converted into scaled scores by ensuring fairness among each shift.
Ques. How is raw score converted to scaled score in NMAT 2025?
Ans. The raw score are converted to scaled score by following the steps given below:
- Each correct answer fetches 1 mark.
- No negative marks for wrong or skipped questions.
- The raw total (sum of corrects) is then scaled to adjust for exam difficulty across sessions.
- GMAC uses a normalization algorithm to derive the scaled scores.
Ques. How does scaling work in NMAT 2025?
Ans. Raw marks are converted into a scaled score so that no test window is unfairly easy or difficult compared to others. The exact formula is not disclosed, but scaling ensures fairness across all sessions.
Ques. Does GMAC publish the exact score to percentile conversion formula for NMAT?
Ans. No, the precise conversion / normalization formula is not made public. But a scaled score and percentile is given in your scorecard of the candidate.
NMAT 2025 Exam Structure & Scoring
| Section | No. of Questions | Score Range | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Skills | 36 | 12 – 120 | 28 minutes |
| Quantitative Skills | 36 | 12 – 120 | 52 minutes |
| Logical Reasoning | 36 | 12 – 120 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 108 | 36 – 360 | 120 minutes |
Ques. What are the scoring rules in NMAT 2025?
Ans. The NMAT 2025 scoring system is very student-friendly and follows the following scoring rules:.
- Every correct answer gives you +1 mark.
- There is no penalty for wrong or skipped answers.
- Scores are reported on a scaled system to balance difficulty across test slots.
- Each section is scored between 12 and 120.
- The overall score ranges from 36 to 360.
- Your percentile is calculated based on these scaled scores.
NMAT Score Calculator: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Raw Score Calculation
- Each Correct Answer will give the candidate +3 marks.
- No Negative marking for wrong answers.
Step 2: Scaled Score Conversion
The Raw Score of the candidates will be converted into a scaled score between 12 to 120 for each section, by equating and normalising the score and with different difficulty levels among each exam shift and date.
Example: NMAT Score Calculation
Let’s assume a candidate gets the following number of correct responses:
| Section | Correct Answers (Raw Score) | Estimated Scaled Score |
|---|---|---|
| Language Skills | 28 / 36 | 94 |
| Quantitative Skills | 30 / 36 | 102 |
| Logical Reasoning | 25 / 36 | 90 |
| Total | 83 / 108 | 94 + 102 + 90 = 286 |
The final NMAT score of the candidate would be approximately 286 (scaled out of 360).
*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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