CMAT Latest Updates
06 Dec, 2025 CMAT 2026 exam date has been released on cmat.nta.nic.in. The Date of Examination is January 25, 2026. Check Here.
The NTA will conduct the CMAT 2026 on 25 January 2026 in two sessions, with the admit card expected to be released around January 20, 2026, on the official website- cmat.nta.nic.in/
The exam will be conducted in 120+ cities in CBT Mode. The test duration will be 180 minutes or 3 hours, with 100 questions, each carrying 4 marks.
In CMAT, Quantitative & Logical Reasoning will have 40–45% of questions, Language Comprehension 25–30%, and General Awareness & Innovation/Entrepreneurship 25–30%.
With only a few days left for the exam, experts suggest revising key formulas, practicing mock tests, and focusing on strong sections to maximize scores.
In the past, a score of 300+ gave a 99+ percentile, while 250–270 gave a 90–94 percentile, showing the importance of focusing on all sections.
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Key Summary
- CMAT is a national-level MBA/PGDM entrance exam conducted by NTA for 1,000+ AICTE-approved institutes.
- Sections: Quantitative & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
- Percentiles, not raw scores, determine shortlisting for top B-schools; a score of 300+ generally gives 99+ percentile.
- Result expected on 13 February 2026; valid for 1 academic year.
- Top colleges like JBIMS/SIMSREE require 99.9+ percentile; other good B-schools accept 85–95 percentile.
- Preparation focus: mock tests, past papers, section-wise strategy, and accuracy.
- What is CMAT?
- CMAT 2026 Important Dates
- CMAT Registration Statistics (2025-2022)
- CMAT Admit Card
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- CMAT 2026 Strategy for 100%ile Complete Prep Plan
- Top Colleges accepting CMAT Scores
- CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern
- What is the syllabus of the CMAT MBA?
- CMAT Results
- CMAT Previous Year Cutoffs
- CMAT 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
What is CMAT?
The CMAT (Common Management Admission Test) is a national-level entrance exam in India conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is designed for admission to management programs like MBA and PGDM offered by over 1,000 AICTE-approved institutes across India.
CMAT is a business aptitude test of 3 hours, designed to test candidates on quantitative ability, logical reasoning, language skills, general awareness, and entrepreneurial thinking.
The exam is considered to be of a moderate difficulty level and can be cracked with basic to structured preparation, as reflected in the reference provided.
What it’s used for:
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)
- MMS and other AICTE-approved management programmes
Key highlights of the CMAT exam:
- Fully online Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Conducted once a year by NTA
- 3 hours (180 minutes) exam duration
- 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- No sectional time limit
CMAT 2026 Important Dates
| Official / Confirmed Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Mid-January 2026 | City Intimation Slip Release |
| 20–22 January 2026 | Admit Card Release |
| 25 January 2026 | CMAT 2026 Exam Date |
| Last week of January 2026 | Answer Key Release |
| 1–2 days after the answer key | Answer Key Challenge Window |
| Second week of February 2026 | Result Declaration |
|
| Application Correction Window (Over) |
Ques. What is the date of the CMAT exam in 2026?
Ans. The CMAT 2026 will be held on January 25, 2026.
Ques. What is the pattern of CMAT 2026 exam?
Ans. The CMAT 2026 will be computer-based test conducted online for admission to AICTE-approved MBA/PGDM programs for 3 hours (180 minutes) and consists of 100 MCQs, each carrying 4 marks and a negative marking of 1 mark for every incorrect answer, making a total of 400 marks. he CMAT 2026 paper will be divided into 5 sections: with 20 questions each: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
Ques. Will the CMAT 2026 date be extended?
Ans. As of now there has been no official announcement for any extension of the CMAT 2026 date, the NTA has currently scheduled for January 25, 2026.
In the previous years the NTA has occasionally extended the application deadlines or made adjustments to the exam schedules due to any unforseen circumstances.
Ques. How many times CMAT exam is held in a year?
Ans. The NTA conducts the CMAT exam once a years, usually in January, the candidates can register for the exam during the official window of registration which will start from 14th November 2025.
Ques. When will the CMAT 2026 result be announced?
Ans. The CMAT 2026 result is expected to be declared in the second or third week of February 2026. In 2025 the CMAT result was released on 13 February 2025.
CMAT Registration Statistics (2025-2022)
The CMAT registration data of the previous years 2022-2025 shows a stable participation with a slight change annually.
- The CMAT registration started increasing from 58,956 in 2022 to around 75,000–77,000 between 2023 and 2025, reflecting a steady growth in the interest among MBA aspirants.
- The attendance rate have also increased and have remind strong, with the highest rate at 86.8% in 2022 and 85.32% in 2025.
- While the CMAT 2025 saw a slight drop in total registrations of 74,012, the attendance rate improved, indicating better candidate commitment.
| Year | Registered Candidates | Candidates Appeared | Attendance % |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMAT 2025 | 74,012 | 63,145 | 85.32% |
| CMAT 2024 | 76,745 | 65,127 | 84.8% |
| CMAT 2023 | 75,209 | 58,035 | 77.1% |
| CMAT 2022 | 58,956 | 51,144 | 86.8% |
CMAT Admit Card
The NTA will release the CMAT 2026 Admit card around 20 January 2026. It is a mandatory document to get entry into the exam center, which contains crucial details like the candidate’s name, roll number, exam date, shift timing, test city, centre address, and important exam-day instructions.
Candidates must download the admit card from the official website using their application number and date of birth.
The NTA will not send the hard copy by post; candidate must download and print their Admit cards as it is required on exam day along with a valid photo ID.
Based on past trends, the CMAT admit card is usually released 7–10 days before the exam.
CMAT 2026 Mock Test
The CMAT mock tests help in simulating the actual exam environment, which helps the candidates familiarise the CMAT exam pattern, identify the Strengths and Weaknesses, improve time management, and Enhance Accuracy.
CMAT Previous Year Question Paper
| CMAT Question Paper | Download PDF |
|---|---|
| CMAT 2025 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2024 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2023 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2022 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2021 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2020 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2019 Question Paper | Download PDF |
| CMAT 2018 Question Paper | Download PDF |
CMAT 2026 Strategy for 100%ile Complete Prep Plan
Scoring 100 percentile in CMAT 2026 is not about solving CAT-level questions or mastering complex questions; it is about covering the syllabus smartly, disciplined Mock practice, and exploiting CMAT’s question paper pattern.
With only a few days left for the CMAT 2026 exam, here is a strong preparation strategy for the preparation.
As per the experts, Many 70-percentile CAT scorers have secured CMAT AIR 1.
| Section | Data Insights (Based on Recent CMAT Trends) | Daily Study Hours | Daily / Weekly Plan | Scoring Strategy & Key Insights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation (QTDI) | Arithmetic + DI contribute 45–55% of questions.CMAT focuses on concept clarity | 1–1.5 hr | 1–2 topics/day30–40 questions/topicDI sets alternate days | Accuracy > speed.Target 14–16 correct answers. |
| Logical Reasoning (LR) | CMAT LR is predictable and non-experimental. Critical Reasoning ~3–5 questions | 0.5–1 hr | 15–20 questions/dayDiagram-based solvingSectional tests every 3 days | High scoring section.Target 16–18 correct with accuracy. |
| Language Comprehension (VARC) | Vocabulary + RC = 70–75% of the section.RCs short & direct | 0.5 hr | Daily reading (30–45 min)1 RC/day10–15 vocab words/day | Silent rank booster.Clarity beats speed.Target 14–16 correct. |
| General Awareness (GA) | 80–85% Static GK.Only 12–13 correct answers are enough | 0.5 hr | Static GK daily (45 min)Current Affairs: last 6–12 monthsWeekly revision | Biggest differentiator.Static GK is reliable. |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IE) | New-age section; conceptual + current | 0.25–0.5 hr | 20–30 min daily business readingWeekly caselet practiceUpdated content only | Easy to score if concepts are clear.Target 13–15 correct. |
Also Check:
- How to Prepare for CMAT, Study Plan, Section-wise Preparation, Tips & Strategy
- Check Section-wise Best Books for CMAT Preparation, Other Study Materials
Top Colleges accepting CMAT Scores
| College Name | Program | Expected CMAT Cutoff (Percentile) | Average Placement (₹ LPA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| JBIMS, Mumbai | MMS | 99.9+ | 28 |
| SIMSREE, Mumbai | MMS | 99.9+ | 15–16 |
| GIM, Goa | PGDM | 95+ | 10–11 |
| Great Lakes, Chennai | PGDM | 95+ | 12–17 |
| Great Lakes, Gurgaon | PGDM | 96+ | 13-17 |
| KJ Somaiya, Mumbai | MBA/PGDM | 95–99 | 12–13 |
| BIMTECH, Greater Noida | PGDM | 90–95 | 10–11 |
| NIBM, Pune | PGDM | 95+ | 14 |
| IMT Nagpur | PGDM | 90–95 | 10–12 |
| IMT Hyderabad | PGDM | 91-94 | 11-12 |
| IFMR, Krea University | MBA/PGDM | 85–90 | 13 |
Also Read:
- List of Colleges in India Accepting CMAT
- Find the Best Colleges Based on Your CMAT Score
- Good Score in CMAT 2026
- CMAT Score vs Percentile 2026
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The CMAT 2026 Exam will have 100 questions for 400 marks in total, divided into 5 sections: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical & Analytical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Knowledge & Current Affairs, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 400 |
| Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Medium | English |
Ques. Are there any changes in the exam pattern for CMAT 2026?
Ans. The NTA has not released any latest update, so no major changes have been officially announced for the CMAT 2026 exam pattern, the pattern is expected to remain similar to CMAT 2025.
Ques. Does the CMAT syllabus change every year?
- Ans. No, the CMAT Syllabus does not change every year. The NTA has not changed the syllabus it has been fairly stable over the past years, including primarily five sections:
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation (QT & DI): Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Data Interpretation, and basic mathematics.
- Logical Reasoning (LR): Analytical reasoning, puzzles, sequences, syllogisms, and problem-solving.
- Language Comprehension (LC): Reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and verbal ability.
- General Awareness (GA): Current affairs, static GK, business, and general knowledge.
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship (I&E): Concepts of innovation, business, startups, and entrepreneurship fundamentals.
Ques. Is there any sectional cut-off in CMAT 2026?
Ans. No, CMAT does not have any sectional cutoff, which means the candidates are not required to meet a minimum score in each section to qualify for CMAT 2026.
Also Check: What is the CMAT Marking Scheme?
CMAT Exam Structure
CMAT has topics like Quantitative techniques & data interpretation, logical reasoning, language comprehension, general awareness, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | 20 | 80 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 | 80 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 | 80 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 80 |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
What is the Syllabus of the CMAT MBA?
| Section | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | Arithmetic (Profit & Loss, SI/CI, Time-Speed-Distance, Time & Work, Ratio-Proportion), Algebra, Geometry & Mensuration, Number Systems, Modern Math (P&C, Probability, Set Theory), Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts, Pie Charts) |
| Logical Reasoning | Blood Relations, Coding-Decoding, Series (Number & Letter), Direction Sense, Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogisms, Statements & Conclusions, Analogy, Ranking |
| Language Comprehension | Reading Comprehension, Grammar (Error Detection, Sentence Correction), Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms), Fill in the Blanks, Para Jumbles, Idioms, Sentence Completion |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs (6–12 Months), Business & Economy, Indian Constitution, Politics, History, Geography, Science & Tech, Books & Authors, Awards, Sports, International Events |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | Basics of Innovation, Types of Entrepreneurs, Startup Ecosystem, Govt Schemes (Startup India, Make in India), IPR (Patents, Copyrights), Business Models, Incubation, Recent Trends |
Ques. Is the CMAT syllabus the same as other MBA entrance exams?
Ans. No, the CMAT syllabus is not same as the other MBA entrance exams, though there is an overlap in some areas.
- In CMAT, there is an Innoation & Entrepreneurship (I&E) section, which focuses on startup and business ideas, which is not in the syllabus of CAT, SNAP, or MAT.
- In CAT there is more emphasis on higher-level quantitative reasoning and data interpretation, but it does not include an I&E section.
- XAT covers Decision Making and General Knowledge sections, with the Decision Making section being unique to XAT.
- In MAT the most unique section is Indian & Global Environment (GK) section, and has less focus on complex logical reasoning.
Check: Download Subject-wise PDF and Check Topic-Wise Syllabus
CMAT Reference Books
To prepare for the CMAT, students should clarify their concepts. Given below are some references to prepare for the examination, i.e., A modern approach for logical reasoning, Lucent’s general knowledge, Word Power Made Easy, etc.
| Section | Recommended Books | Author / Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma | |
| Data Interpretation | Arun Sharma / Nishit K. Sinha | |
| Logical Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT | Arun Sharma | |
| Language Comprehension | Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi | |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | |
| General Awareness | Manorama Year Book | Malayala Manorama |
| Lucent’s General Knowledge | Dr. Binay Karna and Team | |
| Monthly Current Affairs Magazines / Newspapers | (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan, The Hindu, etc.) | |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development | E-GyanKosh (IGNOU Material) |
| Entrepreneurship Development | S.S. Khanka | |
| NITI Aayog & Government PDFs on Startup India, Make in India, etc. | (Official Sources) |
CMAT Results
The NTA will release the CMAT 2026 Result tentatively on 13 February 2026 on the official website - exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT.
The candidates can check and download their results by using their Registration Number and Date of Birth. The CMAT 2026 score will be valid for only 1 academic year i.e, 2026.
Also Check:
CMAT Previous Year Cutoffs
| Institute Name | Category | Approximate Cutoff Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| All India Management Association (AIMA) | General | 85 – 90 |
| Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM), Delhi | General | 90 – 95 |
| Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Ghaziabad | General | 85 – 90 |
| Jaipuria Institute of Management | General | 80 – 85 |
| Christ University, Bangalore | General | 70 – 80 |
| Shiv Nadar University | General | 70 – 75 |
| SP Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) | General | Usually requires CAT/XAT; CMAT not accepted |
Check:
- Check Good Score & Marks vs Percentile for Top MBA Colleges
- Best Private B-schools Accepting CMAT 2026 Scores
CMAT 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
Ques. What kind of questions are asked in CMAT?
Ans. Multiple choice questions are asked in the CMAT exam and questions are based on the following topics:
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
- Language Comprehension
- General Awareness
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Ques. How many hours in CMAT?
Ans. 3 hours are allotted for CMAT exam to attempt 100 questions each carrying 4 marks.
Ques. Is CMAT easier than GMAT?
Ans. CMAT is easier than GMAT in terms of question difficulty and competition. However, GMAT opens international opportunities, while CMAT is mainly for Indian B-schools.
Ques. What is a good score on the CMAT?
Ans. A good score depends on your preferences. Here is a complete detail:
- For top B-schools → 320+ is safe.
- For good colleges → 280–300+ is competitive.
Ques. What are the guidelines for CMAT exam?
Ans. Here are the guidelines for examination:
- Admit Card:
- Download from the NTA website and carry a printed copy.
- Check details (name, photo, signature, exam centre, timings).
- Documents to Carry:
- Admit card (mandatory).
- Valid photo ID (Aadhar card, Passport, Driving License, PAN card, Voter ID).
- Passport-size photo (same as uploaded in form).
- Reporting Time:
- Reach the centre at least 1.5 hours before the exam.
- Gates usually close 30 minutes before start time.
Ques. What are the subjects covered in CMAT?
Ans. There are 5 subjects covered in CMAT examination:
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
- Language Comprehension
- General Awareness
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
Comments
Found 57 Comments
For CMAT, focus on Quantitative Techniques (Algebra, Geometry, Arithmetic, Mensuration), Logical Reasoning (Blood Relations, Series, Puzzles), Language Comprehension (Reading Comprehension, Synonyms, Antonyms, Grammar), General Awareness (Current Affairs, Banking, Economics, Awards, Sports), and Innovation & Entrepreneurship basics. Practice previous year GK questions and mock tests for better scoring.
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You can check here for the CMAT Preparation 2025: Check How to Prepare for CMAT, Study Plan, Section-wise Preparation, Tips & Strategy
CMAT 2026 exam date has been released on cmat.nta.nic.in. The Date of Examination is January 25, 2026.
Many colleges have a centralized registration portal for CMAT-based admission, like Xavier Institute, IMT, and others. It’s better to check each college’s official site for exact registration dates.
You can check here for the CMAT Mock Test 2025 (Free), Attempt Online Mock Test, and Download PDF. Click on take test, and register for free. You can attempt the test free of cost here.
You can check here for the Top MCA Colleges in India based on the 2025 Ranking. MCA admissions are based on TANCET, MAH MCA CET, APICET, NIMCET, CUET-PG, Karnataka PG-CET, SRMJEE-PG, TANCET, and university-based entrance exams, followed by a GD/PI round.
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The CMAT syllabus consists of five main parts: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship with a mark comprising 20 percent of the total marks.
You can check here for the CMAT Syllabus 2026- Download PDF, Check Topic-Wise Syllabus, Preparation Tips, and PYQs
The CMAT 2026 syllabus is designed to test candidates’ aptitude for management studies. It includes Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Logical Reasoning evaluates analytical thinking, patterns, and puzzles.
Language Comprehension tests English skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. General Awareness focuses on current affairs, business, and general knowledge. Each section contains multiple-choice questions, and preparation requires conceptual understanding, problem-solving speed, and regular practice
You can check here for the CMAT Syllabus 2026- Download PDF, Check Topic-Wise Syllabus, Preparation Tips, and PYQs
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You can check here for the CMAT Mock Test 2025 (Free), Attempt Online Mock Test, Download PDF
The syllabus of the CMAT is mentioned below:
The CMAT syllabus for pursuing an MBA in Hospital Administration is the same as for all CMAT candidates because the exam does not have stream-specific sections. CMAT tests four major areas: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, and General Awareness, along with an optional Innovation and Entrepreneurship section. Questions cover arithmetic, algebra, reasoning puzzles, grammar, vocabulary, current affairs, and business knowledge. Your hospital administration specialization is chosen after admission, not through a separate CMAT syllabus.
CMAT is a three hours Computer Based Online examination which candidates have to appear for from their allotted examination centre.