MAT 2026 Exam: New Pattern (150 Questions), May Dates, & Registration Fees

MAT 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

MAT Exam 2026 will be conducted in four sessions. Students applying for this session must follow the tables below for the May-June 2026 cycle.

For PBT Exam:

For CBT Exam:

Note: As per the official website, the MAT result for all the test modes will be announced by the 2nd week of June 2026.

The 2026 Exam Pattern & Scoring

To master the MAT, you must understand the 150-question format. The exam is divided into five sections, each containing 30 questions.

• Scoring Scheme: +1 for every correct answer; -0.25 for every wrong answer.
• Composite Score Calculation: While you sit for 150 questions, your percentile is based only on the first four sections (120 questions). The Indian & Global Environment score is reported separately and usually not counted by B-schools for shortlisting.

Syllabus & Recommended Preparation

The MAT 2026 syllabus is designed to test your speed and accuracy. Here is the breakdown:

1. Mathematical Skills: Focus on Arithmetic (Time & Work, Profit/Loss), Algebra, and Mensuration.
2. Data Analysis & Sufficiency: High weightage on Pie Charts, Line Graphs, and Caselets.
3. Language Comprehension: Reading Comprehension, Synonyms/Antonyms, and Para Jumbles.
4. Intelligence & Critical Reasoning: Blood Relations, Puzzles, and Coding-Decoding.
5. Indian & Global Environment: Current business news and static GK (2025-26 highlights).

Which Mode Should You Choose?

We recommend choosing based on your comfort level:

• PBT (Paper Based Test): Best if you prefer physical marking; available in limited cities.
• CBT (Computer Based Test): Standard digital format at designated centers.
• IBT (Remote Proctored): Take the exam from home. Requirements: Windows 10+, 4GB RAM, stable 1Mbps internet, and a functional webcam.

Eligibility Criteria MAT 2026

The applicant should meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Age limit: There is no age limit.
• Educational Qualification: Any discipline graduates can apply. Final year students are also eligible.
• Nationality: Indian citizens and foreign nationals are welcome to appear.

Top B-Schools Accepting MAT (Based on NIRF 2025 Data)

Your MAT score can open doors to prestigious institutions. According to the 2025 NIRF Rankings, some top participating or score-accepting regions include:

• PUMBA, Pune (Consistent top performer in management category)
• Christ University, Bengaluru
• BIMTECH, Greater Noida (Select programs)
• Amity University

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the MAT exam:

1. Visit https://mat.aima.in/
2. Click on the “Register” button.
3. Enter your name, email, phone number, and test option.
4. Once done, tap on the “Register” tab.
5. After registering, you can complete the application by submitting the required documents and fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I apply for MAT 2026?
Visit the official AIMA MAT site and fill out the registration form with your personal and academic details.

Is MAT easier than CAT?
Yes; MAT is generally considered more accessible due to a lower difficulty ceiling in Quant and the absence of sectional time limits.

What is a good MAT score?
A composite score of 600+ is usually decent, while 700+ (90+ percentile) is required for top-tier institutes like PUMBA.

Final Remarks!

In this article, we have provided all the mandatory details regarding your MAT exam. You can check your eligibility, the updated MAT 2.0 pattern, and fee structure. We wish you the best of luck with your 2026 admissions!

References & Authority Links:

• Official AIMA MAT Portal
• NIRF Management Rankings 2025
• Ministry of Education, Government of India