A low percentile in CMAT doesn’t end your MBA dream. Several B-schools still have open applications for the 2026-28 batch. With the MAT 2026 exam just around the corner, you have an excellent alternative to improve your score and secure a seat in any top MBA college in India.
- MAT is held four times a year in PBT and CBT modes.
- For students, MAT offers a more accessible path to a high percentile compared to other MBA entrance exams.
- Over 600 B-schools across India accept MAT scores, providing vast opportunities even if you miss the CMAT cutoff.
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Key Summary
- A low CMAT percentile doesn’t end MBA chances; multiple B-schools still accept alternative exam scores.
- MAT is an easier, flexible exam conducted four times yearly, accepted by 600+ MBA colleges.
- MAT registration is ongoing until Feb 23rd for PBT mode and March 2nd for CBT mode.
- MAT exam is scheduled for the 26th for PBT, while CBT mode is scheduled for March 5th.
- Many reputed MBA colleges accept MAT scores between 70-90 percentile with good ROI.
Top MBA Alternatives after CMAT
If you think your CMAT percentile is going to be low or unsatisfactory, many candidates switch to alternative MBA exams. Currently, there are several entrance exam registrations already live.
- MAH MBA CET is widely considered easier than many entrance exams and opens doors for JBIMS and SIMREE.
- MAT is a safety net, with exams being conducted multiple times a year.
- Other reputed exams like BITSAT and AP ICET offer wonderful opportunities for MBA enthusiasts.
| Exam | Registration deadline | Exam Date | Top Accepting Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAH MBA CET | Feb 20, 2026 | April 6 - 8 & May 9, 2026 | JBIMS, SIMSREE, PUMBA, Welingkar |
| MAT | Feb 23 (PBT) / Mar 2 (CBT) | March 1 & 8, 2026 | 600+ B-schools (BIMTECH, Jaipuria, IPE) |
| BITSAT | Feb 16 | March 29, 2026 | BITS Pilani |
| AP ICET | March 2nd | May 2 2026 | Universities in Andhra Pradesh |
As per the r/MBAIndia thread on Reddit, a low CMAT percentile isn’t the end. MAT, ATMA, MAH, and MBA CET are a few options one can consider for their MBA dream. Direct admissions are also possible in decent B-schools.
Why MAT is a Great Alternative to CMAT?
MAT is conducted 4 times annually. MAT prioritizes flexibility, accessibility, and multiple opportunities in a single year.
- MAT is considered easy to moderate in difficulty level
- The MAT exam is offered in
- Over 600 colleges across India accept MAT for their MBA programmes.
- MAT generally doesn’t have a minimum percentage requirement to sit in the exam
| Feature | MAT Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Four times (Feb, May, Sep, Dec) |
| Difficulty level | Moderate |
| Number of questions | 150 |
| Time duration | 120 Minutes |
| Marking Scheme | Correct: +1Incorrect: -0.25 |
| Colleges Accepting | 600+ |
MAT Exam February 2026 Dates
The paper-based MAT is scheduled for March 1st. The computer-based MAT is on the 8th March. Registration lasts until 23rd February 23rd for paper-based MAT and until March 2nd for CBT.
| Paper-Based Test | Computer-Based Test | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 23rd February | 2nd March | Registration Last Date |
| 26th February | 5th March | Admit Card Release |
| March 1st | 8th March | Exam Date |
| Late March 2026 | Late March 2026 | Result Declaration |
Source: MAT official website
Check: Exam dates for MAT 2026 February session
Ques. Is the MAT in the February slot registration live right now?
Ans. Yes, the MAT exam for February registration is live on the official AIMA website. You have to register before Feb 26th for the paper-based MAT and March 2nd for the computer-based MAT.
Ques. What are the exam dates for MAT in February 2026?
Ans. The paper-based MAT exam happens on March 1st, and the computer-based exam happens on March 8th.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting MAT Scores
Even with a low CMAT percentile, MAT opens doors for solid MBA colleges. Many accept MAT scores in the 70-90 percentile. These colleges offer good placements and are AICTE-approved.
| College | Location | MAT expected cutoff percentile | Approx. Fees (in Lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BIMTECH | Greater Noida | 95+ | 14 |
| XIME | Bangalore | 94-96 | 11.5 |
| Jaipuria Institute | Noida | 80-90 | 12 |
| Christ University | Bangalore | 80+ | 9 |
| ITM Business School | Navi Mumbai | 70-80 | 13.45 |
| JAGSoM | Bangalore | 80-90 | 12 |
| IPE Hyderabad | Hyderabad | 75-85 | 8 |
| SIES Mumbai | Mumbai | 80+ | 9 |
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Ques. What are some good MBA colleges through MAT with 85 percentile?
Ans. An 85 percentile can get you into Jaipuria Institute, ITM Business School, or IPE Hyderabad.
Ques. Which MAT-accepting colleges have good ROI and placements?
Ans. Colleges like JAGSoM Bangalore and SIES Mumbai accept MAT and provide good ROI with placements around 8-10 LPA.
A low CMAT percentile is not the end for an MBA. MAT offers a fresh start. With the date approaching, register soon and prepare smartly. Many have turned low CMAT scores into successful MBAs via MAT.
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