MAT 2026 CBT Feb Session Live Updates: Exam Analysis, Difficulty Level, and Good Attempts

The MAT 2026 exam will end at 12:00 pm. There is only a single session in the MAT CBT exam, so there will be no score normalization. MAT percentile will be calculated from the raw scores obtained by candidates.

Expected Cutoff (Overall Percentile): MAT 2026 – CBT vs PBT

Most business schools that accept MAT 2026 CBT scores set their own cutoffs based on expected competition and past trends. Here’s a broad idea of the expected overall percentile cutoffs for popular MBA/PGDM programs:

Also Check: MAT Cutoff 2026: Check Cutoff of Top MBA Colleges 

Total Questions: 150 (same as PBT)

Negative Marking: –0.25 for each wrong answer

Strategy: Accuracy matters more than sheer attempts

Key Tip: In CBT, digital navigation allows easy review and correction of answers, so candidates can attempt questions strategically to maximize accuracy.

The MAT 2026 CBT exam has started. The test is being conducted from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in offline (paper-based) mode. There is no break during the examination.

Most Expected Questions / Topics in a format adapted for the computer-based test:

Difficulty level is similar in both modes; the main difference is exam experience and navigation. 

For the MAT 2026 exam (February/March session), the number of test cities/centres differs between CBT and PBT modes:

• MAT 2026 CBT (Computer‑Based Test) is conducted in fewer cities compared to the PBT mode but still covers many major centres across India.
• MAT 2026 PBT (Paper‑Based Test) is held in more cities overall, giving a wider geographical reach for offline test‑takers.

According to recent official details:

• PBT Mode: around 54 test cities/centres across India.
• CBT Mode: around 31 test cities/centres across India.

The MAT 2026 CBT exam will begin at 10:00 AM and conclude at 12:00 PM. Based on previous session trends and expert insights, the overall difficulty level of MAT CBT is expected to be easy to moderate.

Section-wise Expected Difficulty

Language Comprehension – Expected to be Easy to Moderate

Intelligence & Critical Reasoning – Expected to be Moderate

Mathematical Skills – Expected to be Moderate

Data Analysis & Sufficiency – Expected to be Moderate

Economic & Business Environment – Expected to be Easy to Moderate

Candidate verification will be conducted at the test centre on the day of the MAT 2026 CBT exam as part of the identification process.

• Admit card and original photo ID will be checked at the entry gate.
• Candidates will be required to sign the attendance sheet in the presence of the invigilator.
• A recent passport-size photograph (same as uploaded in the application form) must be pasted on the attendance sheet.
• Biometric verification (photograph and/or thumb impression) may be captured at the test centre for identity confirmation.
• Candidates will be seated at designated computer terminals for the CBT exam after verification.
• Personal items such as mobile phones, calculators, or electronic gadgets are not allowed inside the test hall.

Candidates are required to report to the exam centre by 8:30 AM to complete verification, biometric checks, and security procedures.

• Gate Closing Time: Around 9:30 AM (entry strictly not allowed after this) 
• Exam Start: 10:00 AM 
• Exam End: 12:00 PM 

It’s advised to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before reporting time to avoid a last-minute rush.

Based on student feedback and previous MAT sessions, Mathematical Skills (MS) is expected to be the most time-consuming section in MAT 2026 CBT.

• Candidates report that this section involves intensive calculations, multi-step problem solving, and accuracy checks, which can increase time pressure.
• Topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, and Modern Math usually require detailed work, making it slower than other sections.
• Even well-prepared candidates often spend more time on MS compared to Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, or Data Interpretation.
• Data Analysis & Sufficiency (DI & DS) can also be time-consuming in CBT mode due to lengthy sets with tables, graphs, and percentage-based calculations.

Also check: MAT Paper Analysis 2026- Check Detailed Analysis, Students' Reaction and Previous Year Analysis

• Admit Card: One printed copy (A4 size) to be carried to the exam centre.
• Photo ID: Original valid ID (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
• Photograph: One recent passport-size photo (same as uploaded in the application form), if required for verification.
• Stationery: Blue/black ballpoint pens for rough work (carry at least two).
• Other Essentials: Transparent water bottle (if allowed) and a simple watch without smart features (optional).
• Additional CBT Note: No electronic devices such as calculators, mobiles, or smartwatches are allowed inside the computer-based exam hall.

• Late arrival causing stress and delays. Arrive 60–90 mins early.
• Missing documents like admit card or photo ID.
• Heavy clothing or accessories causing frisking delays.
• Electronic gadgets found in pockets, not allowed.
• Login errors due to incorrect credentials.
• Poor time management, spending too long on tough questions.
• Ignoring instructions or rough work rules leading to mistakes.

Tip: Check documents, dress light, and follow instructions to avoid delays and errors.

• No strict official dress code; wear light, comfortable clothes like T-shirts, shirts, trousers, or salwar suits.
• Avoid metallic items, heavy jewellery, watches, or layered clothing to speed up security checks.
• Footwear should be light; no thick-soled shoes or boots.
• Electronic devices like mobiles, smartwatches, and calculators are not allowed.
• Follow frisking and biometric verification at the exam centre.

Quick Tip: Simple attire ensures smooth entry and avoids delays at the MAT 2026 CBT exam.

Candidates arriving after the gate closing time may not be allowed to enter the examination hall, so it is recommended to reach the center at least 60 minutes before the exam begins.

Candidates are not allowed to carry the following items inside the exam center:

Candidates must carry the following documents:

• MAT 2026 CBT Admit Card (printed copy)
• Valid Photo ID Proof such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Driving License, or Voter ID

Failure to present these documents may lead to denial of entry to the examination hall.

The exam will consist of 150 multiple-choice questions divided across five sections, and candidates will get 120 minutes to complete the test.

• Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer
• Negative Marking: −0.25 for each incorrect answer

This section tests general awareness related to business, economics, and current affairs. Note that scores in this section are not counted for percentile calculation, but they may be used by some MBA colleges during selection.

Good Attempts: 18–22 questions

Expected Topics

This section checks analytical and data interpretation skills. Most DI sets will involve simple calculations but require speed and accuracy.

Good Attempts: 20–23 questions

This section generally tests basic quantitative aptitude concepts from class 10–12 level mathematics. Arithmetic questions are expected to dominate the section.

Good Attempts: 19–22 questions

Expected Topic Distribution

The reasoning section in MAT is usually moderate in difficulty, with a mix of verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions. Some puzzles may take slightly longer to solve, but most questions will be logic-based and manageable.

Good Attempts: 21–24 questions

Language Comprehension: This section is usually one of the easiest parts of the MAT exam and is expected to remain similar this year. The Reading Comprehension passages are expected to be short and factual, focusing on business, economics, or social themes.

Good Attempts: 22–25 questions