NMAT preparation tips and strategy - My journey to SDA Bocconi Asia Center with NMAT 283

I am Shivalay Rathore from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, and I hold a degree in Mechanical Engineering. During my graduation, I completed two six-month internships: one as a Project Engineer Intern at Hindustan Electro Graphite Ltd., and another at Third Flix Pvt. Ltd. Both experiences helped me develop strong technical, analytical, and practical skills.

After graduating, I worked at Vikas Traders as an Operations Assistant, where I gained hands-on exposure to operations, coordination, and process management. Alongside my professional experience, I started preparing for management entrance exams, scored 283 in NMAT, and eventually secured admission to the International Master in Business at SDA Bocconi Asia Center, Mumbai to pursue my management ambitions and advance my career.

Why I Chose NMAT

As a management aspirant, I wanted an entrance exam that balanced speed, logic, and smart preparation. NMAT stood out because it tests your aptitude and decision-making abilities, rather than your ability to memorize.

What truly appealed to me was its student-friendly format—flexible section order, multiple attempts, and a pattern that rewards quick thinking, strategic preparation, and time management.

With top institutes like NMIMS, SDA Bocconi Asia Center, and several global B-schools accepting NMAT scores, it felt like the right platform for someone aiming for an industry-focused management program. The exam matched my strengths—speed, consistency, and logical reasoning—so I committed to a structured preparation plan and performed well.

My Top Tips for NMAT Preparation

1. Understand the Exam Pattern Thoroughly

Before starting my preparation, I studied the structure, number of questions, time limits, scoring system, and section-wise difficulty. NMAT may vary in difficulty, but the format remains consistent—this predictability helps immensely.

2. Focus on Speed + Accuracy (Not Just Accuracy)

With no negative marking, NMAT rewards speed. Daily timed practice was essential. You don’t get time to overthink, so solving questions within strict time limits made a huge difference in my performance.

3. Build Section-Wise Strategies & Choose the Right Order

Always start with the section you're strongest in.

Here’s what worked for me:

• Language Skills: Improve reading speed and vocabulary through quick RC practice.
• Logical Reasoning: Practice puzzles, arrangements, and pattern-based questions regularly.
• Quantitative Skills: Strengthen arithmetic, number systems, and speed calculations.

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4. Use the Official NMAT Mock & Guide

The official mock test is the closest reflection of the actual exam. My first mock served as a reality check and helped me refine my approach.

5. Take Mock Tests Early and Often

I took 12–15 mock tests before the final exam. They helped me recognize my natural strengths and identify improvement areas.

6. Analyse Every Mock in Detail

Analysis matters more than the mock itself. After every test, I evaluated:

• questions that consumed too much time,
• recurring mistakes,
• topics with the highest and lowest accuracy.

This helped me fine-tune my strategy.

7. Prioritize Consistency Over Intensity

Instead of studying 6–7 hours occasionally, I focused on short, high-quality sessions every day. NMAT rewards consistent effort, not sporadic long hours.

Looking back, consistency and learning from each mock were the real game-changers in my journey. With steady effort, your score will rise, and in my case, it played a key role in my admission to SDA Bocconi Asia Center. Stay committed; you’re closer to your goal than you think.

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