The NMAT 2026 question paper with solutions is available for download. It includes questions from Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. Each of the three sections has 36 questions, making a total of 108 questions.

NMAT 2026 Question Paper with Answer Key PDF 

NMAT 2026 Question Paper with Answer Key PDF Download PDF Check Solutions


Question 1:

Evaluate the value of the following expression:
\[ 3^{\left(2+\log_3 5\right)} \div \log_{25} 125 \]

  • (A) 75
  • (B) 40
  • (C) 15
  • (D) 60

Question 2:

What is the value of \(7^{\left(3+\log_7 5\right)} \) ?

  • (A) 1575
  • (B) 3140
  • (C) 1715
  • (D) 3460

Question 3:

There are 3 students from section A, 5 from section B and 4 from section C. In how many ways can they occupy 6 seats such that the leftmost seat is occupied by a student of section A and the remaining seats are occupied by 3 students of section B and 2 students of section C?

  • (A) 10800
  • (B) 14400
  • (C) 18000
  • (D) 21600

Question 4:

A salesman gets a commission of 12% on the sales of products. He sold products worth 67000 last month. This month, the company changed the payment structure. A salesman would get a fixed pay of 5000 and 8% commission on the sales exceeding 32000. If he makes a sale of 67000, his earning from the previous month will reduce by

  • (A) 2%
  • (B) 3%
  • (C) 4%
  • (D) 5%

Question 5:

If \(3a25b\) is divisible by 12, find the maximum value of \(|a-b|\).


Question 6:

Several travellers complain about the bland food provided to them on airlines. Actually, airline food tastes bland due to the combination of low humidity and low cabin pressure at cruising altitude, which suppresses the senses of taste and smell. The dry air dehydrates your nasal passages, and the reduced pressure makes you less sensitive to salty and sweet flavours. Which of the following can be most reasonably inferred from the information in the passage?

  • (A) The complaints about airline food arise mainly from passengers’ preconceived expectations rather than actual taste experience.
  • (B) If airlines were to serve spicier food, passengers would stop complaining about its blandness.
  • (C) Airlines intentionally reduce humidity and cabin pressure to save costs on food preparation.
  • (D) Passengers’ ability to perceive sour and bitter tastes is also reduced during flight.
  • (E) Passengers who consume the same meal on the ground are likely to find it more flavorful than when they eat it in-flight.

Question 7:

During his summer vacation, Ajay plans to learn a new language as a hobby. He has the option to choose between Language A and Language B. Language A is easy to learn, and even his sibling speaks it. Language B, while more challenging to master, has the potential to provide numerous professional advantages in the future. Considering these factors, which of the following arguments would persuade Ajay to select Language A over Language B?

I. He is learning the language solely as a hobby and is not considering it for serious purposes.
II. Only one-third of learners can pass the elementary tests in Language B. Ajay will also struggle to clear the elementary test.
III. It will be comparatively easy for him to master Language A since he can practice speaking it with his sibling.
IV. Language B may not offer as many career opportunities in the future.

  • (A) III
  • (B) I and III
  • (C) II and IV
  • (D) I and II
  • (E) I, II, and III

Question 8:

Country X is rich in flora and fauna and is considered one of the most beautiful places in the world. However, its economy has been struggling in recent times due to a recession. To address this, the government is considering transforming some of its scenic destinations into tourist attractions, intending to generate revenue and improve the country's economic condition. Should the government proceed with this plan?

Arguments:

I. Yes, turning these destinations into tourist spots will attract more foreign visitors, leading to an economic boost.
II. No, it will negatively impact the environment, as heavy tourism may result in population migration and a high influx of visitors, which could harm the country's flora and fauna.
III. No, there are other ways to improve the country's economy without relying on tourism.
IV. Yes, tourism helped boost the economy of neighbouring country Y last year, which was also facing a recession.

  • (A) Only argument IV is strong
  • (B) Only argument II is strong
  • (C) Arguments I and II are strong
  • (D) Arguments I, II, and IV are strong
  • (E) Arguments II and III are strong

Question 9:

A public library located in the heart of the city attracts a large number of visitors every day. Many people spend long hours there, with some occupying the desks continuously for 7--8 hours. The library also has a lobby area with beanbags meant for leisure reading, but most visitors prefer using the desks as the lobby often becomes noisy. The visitors frequently visit a café nearby and bring coffee or tea to their desks. This has resulted in noticeable stains and damage to the furniture due to frequent spills. As the manager of the library, what course of action would you recommend to effectively address this issue?

  • (A) Restrict the study time in the library to two hours, as this would discourage visitors from taking beverage breaks.
  • (B) Provide leak-proof thermosteel flasks to visitors and mandate their use inside the library.
  • (C) Request the nearby café not to offer takeaway beverages to library visitors.
  • (D) Restrict the consumption of beverages to the lobby area only.
  • (E) Impose heavy penalties on visitors found consuming beverages inside the library.

Question 10:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has emerged as a prominent treatment approach for depression and anxiety disorders. By focusing on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors, CBT empowers individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall well-being. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, enabling individuals to challenge and replace unhelpful thinking patterns with more positive and realistic perspectives. Which of the following must be true for this conclusion to be properly drawn?

  • (A) CBT is effective for all mental health disorders.
  • (B) CBT requires medication in conjunction with therapy.
  • (C) CBT aims to change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
  • (D) CBT is solely focused on past traumatic experiences.
  • (E) CBT is a short-term therapy with limited long-term benefits.

Question 11:

A city council is considering the construction of a new sports stadium, arguing that it will stimulate local economic growth by creating jobs and attracting tourists. Proponents believe the stadium will revitalize the area, increase spending, and ultimately benefit the local community. Which of the following assumptions does the argument make?

  • (A) The construction and operation of the new stadium will create jobs for the local population.
  • (B) The local economy is currently in a recession, so adding a sports stadium is necessary to stimulate growth.
  • (C) The new stadium will not harm the existing local businesses.
  • (D) The residents will have more disposable income and spend more money after the stadium is built.
  • (E) The construction of the stadium will be the primary factor contributing to the economic growth of the area.

Question 12:

A sports betting company argues in court that its operations are similar to those of the stock market. Like sports betting, the stock market is also unpredictable even for experts. This often results in many investors losing money. Therefore, the company contends that sports betting should also be legalized in the country. Which of the following arguments would weaken their claim?

  • (A) Stock market investors consistently earn substantial profits over time.
  • (B) While fewer people are familiar with the stock market, a large number of people are interested in sports.
  • (C) Sports betting companies frequently use aggressive marketing tactics that target vulnerable populations.
  • (D) A regulatory body exists in the country to oversee stock market operations.
  • (E) Stock market investments are less addictive than sports betting.

Question 13:

A tech company has launched a new tablet designed specifically for artists, with enhanced stylus sensitivity, high-resolution displays, and a suite of professional-grade creative software. The company believes that the tablet will appeal to both professional and amateur artists looking for a versatile, portable device for digital art creation. Early reviews have praised the tablet's impressive performance and the quality of its drawing features. Which of the following may most reasonably be inferred from the statements above?

  • (A) The tablet has been tested by professional artists before its launch to ensure its suitability for creative work.
  • (B) The tablet may be too specialized for general consumers, possibly limiting its broader market appeal.
  • (C) The company's marketing strategy primarily targets professional artists, rather than casual or amateur creators.
  • (D) The high praise for the tablet's drawing features suggests that the device will appeal to gamers as well as artists.
  • (E) The positive early reviews of the tablet suggest that it will quickly dominate the general tech market.

Question 14:

A recent report on agricultural trends highlights the growing popularity of organic farming practices, citing their benefits for both the environment and public health. Organic farming is said to reduce pesticide use, improve soil quality, and promote biodiversity. Consumers are increasingly seeking organic products due to concerns about chemical residues in conventionally grown produce and the environmental impact of industrial farming. Which of the following may most reasonably be inferred from the statements above?

  • (A) Organic farming is a more profitable venture than conventional farming.
  • (B) All consumers prefer organic products over conventionally grown ones.
  • (C) The long-term effects of organic farming on crop yields are still uncertain.
  • (D) Government policies and subsidies can significantly influence the adoption of organic farming practices.
  • (E) Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and health implications of food production.

Question 15:

Statement: The school has made wearing uniforms compulsory for all students.

Assumptions:

I. Uniforms will improve the academic performance of students.
II. Students from different socio-economic backgrounds cannot be easily identified in uniforms.
III. Uniforms will help to promote a more professional and formal atmosphere within the school.

  • (A) All I, II and III implicit
  • (B) Only I and II are implicit
  • (C) Only I and III are implicit
  • (D) Only II and III are implicit
  • (E) Only III is implicit

Question 16:

A software company has released a new software update that incorporates enhanced security features to safeguard user data. The update aims to address growing concerns about data breaches and restore user trust in the company's commitment to data protection. By bolstering its security measures, the company seeks to maintain customer loyalty and prevent sensitive information from falling into unauthorized hands. Which of the following must be true for these conclusions to be properly drawn?

  • (A) The enhanced security features are designed to address concerns about data breaches.
  • (B) The software update will completely eliminate the risk of data breaches.
  • (C) User trust in the company will automatically be restored upon the release of the update.
  • (D) The software update will have no impact on the company's reputation.
  • (E) The software update will increase the company's operating costs.

Question 17:

The increasing use of artificial intelligence in various industries has led to concerns about job displacement and economic inequality. AI-powered automation can perform tasks more efficiently and accurately than humans, potentially leading to job losses in many sectors.

Courses of Action:

I. Governments should invest in education and training programs to equip the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
II. Companies should be mandated to provide retraining and reskilling opportunities to employees whose jobs are affected by automation.
III. A universal basic income should be implemented to provide financial security to those who lose their jobs due to automation.

Which of the following is the most appropriate course of action?

  • (A) Only I
  • (B) Only II
  • (C) Only III
  • (D) Both I and II
  • (E) All I, II, and III

Question 18:

There is increasing concern about the impact of fast-food consumption on public health, particularly among children and adolescents. Studies have linked the rise in fast food consumption to higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues. To address this, many governments have implemented policies to limit the advertising of unhealthy foods to children. Which of the following, if true, would most weaken the argument that limiting food advertising to children can improve public health?

  • (A) Research shows that children are more likely to make healthier food choices when they are involved in food preparation at home.
  • (B) Health experts argue that a balanced diet and regular physical activity are more important factors in preventing obesity than food advertising alone.
  • (C) Studies have shown that limiting food advertising to children has been successful in other countries at improving their overall diet.
  • (D) Children who watch more television are also more likely to engage in sedentary behaviors, such as playing video games.
  • (E) Many children eat fast food regardless of advertising because of the convenience and affordability of these meals.

Question 19:

Oliver has done great work in neurology, but his paper mixes too much of his personal life with his research. The inclusion of so many anecdotes makes it less objective, so the scientific community doesn’t see it as a rigorous study. Which of the following conclusions can be most reasonably drawn from the passage above?

  • (A) The scientific community values objectivity more than personal storytelling in research papers.
  • (B) Oliver’s lack of scientific skill prevents his work from being taken seriously.
  • (C) Anecdotes are never appropriate in any kind of scientific writing.
  • (D) Personal experiences always weaken the quality of academic research.
  • (E) The scientific community is biased against unconventional styles of research.

Question 20:

Fact 1: A town is hosting a 3-day music festival, which will feature a rock band show by local artists for the very first time.
Fact 2: 2000 tickets have been sold for the show.
Fact 3: The ticket sale will end next Monday.
Fact 4: The organizing committee has been working for the past 10 weeks to organize this event.

If the above statements are facts, which of the statements below must also be facts?

I. A few hundred seats will remain empty during the festival.
II. The family members of the rock band performers will be present at the festival.
III. Since the preparation started 10 weeks ago, all tickets will be sold by Monday.

  • (A) Only I
  • (B) Only III
  • (C) Only I and II
  • (D) Only II and III
  • (E) None of them

NMAT 2026 Exam Pattern and Preparation Tips

NMAT Question Paper: Topic-Wise Weightage & Difficulty

Section High-Weightage Topics Questions (Approx.) Difficulty Level
Quantitative Skills Arithmetic (Profit & Loss, TSD, Averages), Data Interpretation (2 Sets), Data Sufficiency 22–24 Difficult (Calculation-heavy)
Modern Math (P&C, Probability), Algebra, Number System 12–14 Moderate
Logical Reasoning Critical Reasoning (Assumption, Inference, Strengthening), Analytical Puzzles 18–20 Moderate
Verbal Reasoning (Syllogisms, Blood Relations, Input-Output) 16–18 Easy to Moderate
Language Skills Reading Comprehension (3 Passages), Para Jumbles 16 Easy to Moderate
Grammar (Error Spotting, Prepositions), Vocabulary (Analogies, Fillers) 20 Easy