The CMAT 2026 is going to be organized by the NTA expected in the first or second week of January 2026. The CMAT is a nationwide MBA entrance exam for admission into AICTE-approved MBA/PGDM courses. More than 1,300 MBA institutions throughout India accept the scores of CMAT, as well as the most prominent management institutions.
The CMAT test is to evaluate the candidates on five broad topics: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. The test has 100 objective-type questions, is administered in computer-based test (CBT) mode, and is of a total duration of 180 minutes. With a +4/-1 marking system, speed and accuracy are important to perform well.
To break CMAT 2026, candidates normally need a structured 3 to 6-month preparation strategy. A successful strategy involves being strong in fundamental concepts, keeping yourself updated on general knowledge and current affairs, giving mock tests consistently, and concentrating extra hard on the Innovation & Entrepreneurship part, which is unique to CMAT when compared to other MBA entrance tests.
This Article discusses all that you need to know regarding CMAT 2026, ranging from important dates to the registration process, eligibility, syllabus, pattern, cut-offs, and the best colleges accepting CMAT scores.
CMAT 2026 Latest Trends
- CMAT 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
- What is CMAT
- CMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern
- CMAT 2026 Application Process
- CMAT 2026 Admit Card
- CMAT 2026 Syllabus
- CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy
- CMAT 2026 Answer Key and Response Sheet
- CMAT 2026 Result
- CMAT 2026 Cut Offs
- Top MBA Colleges Accepting CMAT Scores
- FAQs
CMAT 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
The CMAT test, which used to take place in April- May, has been rescheduled to January in recent times. Going by this trend, the following are the tentative dates for CMAT 2026:
CMAT 2026 Events and Dates
| CMAT 2026 Events | Dates (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Registration Starts | Second week of November 2025 |
| Registration Closes | Third week of December 2025 |
| Fee Payment & Correction of Form | Third week of December 2025 |
| City Intimation Slip | Fourth week of January 2026 |
| Release of Admit Card | Fourth week of January 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Exam Date | Fifth week of January 2026 |
| Answer Key & Objection Window | Fifth week of January 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Result | Third week of February 2026 |
What is CMAT
The CMAT is a postgraduate entrance exam conducted by the NTA for MBA and PGDM courses offered by AICTE-approved institutions. It tests the candidates in five major areas and is regarded as one of the easier management exams in India.
The major characteristics of the CMAT exam are:
- Administered once annually in computer-based mode
- Three-hour duration with no sectional time limit
- Accepted by more than 1,300 B-Schools of India
How many times CMAT is held in a year?
The CMAT is held once every year by the NTA, as per the previous years analysis the exam is conducted in the first or second week of January. The exam is conducted in the CBT mode with 100 questions divide into 4 sections in 3 hours
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
- Language Comprehension
- General Awareness
CMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To sit in CMAT 2026, candidates should fulfill the following eligibility criteria. These are widely defined to enable participation from any stream graduate.
- Candidates should have a Bachelor's Degree in any stream from a recognized university.
- Final-year undergraduate students can also sit for the exam.
- There is no age limit for taking the exam.
- Candidates need only passing marks at graduation to be eligible.
Note: The colleges individually accepting CMAT scores may apply a minimum academic score of 50% for General/OBC and 45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The CMAT test is designed to examine a candidate's proficiency in important management-related topics. It is an online test comprising five sections.
CMAT 2026 Exam Structure
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | 20 | 80 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 | 80 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 | 80 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 80 |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
- Exam Duration: 3 hours
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Marking Scheme: +4 for correct, -1 for wrong answers
- No sectional time limit
CMAT 2026 Application Process
The CMAT 2026 application will be made online via the NTA CMAT portal. The entire process, from registration to payment of the fee, is online and involves candidates providing academic and personal information.
The steps to apply for CMAT 2026 are:
- Visit the official website: https://exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT
- Fill in the basic personal details to register as a new user.
- Login through credentials to finish the application form
- Upload the passport-sized photograph, signature, and valid photo ID
- Select four preferred cities to take the test
- Make the application fee online through net banking or credit/debit card
Check: CMAT 2026, Application Form Link@exams.nta.ac.in
CMAT 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / OBC-NCL (Male) | ₹2500 |
| Third Gender, Female candidates, SC/ST/PwD | ₹1250 |
CMAT 2026 Admit Card
CMAT 2026 Admit card will be issued around one week prior to the exam. It will be posted on the official NTA CMAT website and needs to be downloaded and printed for test center entry.
How to download the CMAT admit card:
- Go to - https://exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT
- Click on admit card link
- Enter application number and date of birth for login
- Download admit card in PDF format
Also Check: CMAT Admit Card 2026, Download Link
CMAT 2026 Syllabus
CMAT 2026 syllabus is derived from topics recommended by AICTE. The syllabus consists of common topics on quantitative aptitude, reasoning, English, general awareness, and an innovative section on entrepreneurship.
CMAT 2026 Syllabus Topic wise
| Section | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Language Comprehension |
|
| Logical Reasoning |
|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation |
|
| General Awareness |
|
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship |
|
Read: CMAT Syllabus
CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy
Having a well-thought-out strategy of preparation is necessary to crack CMAT with a good score. The candidates usually require 4 to 6 months of intense preparation, including clarity of concepts and continuous practice.
The plan of preparation must include:
- Study from suggested CMAT preparation books
- Solving sample question papers and sample tests of previous year
- Taking frequent mock tests to practice exam atmosphere
- Revising formulas, current affairs, and GK topics on weekly basis
It is advisable to divide the study plan into phases: 6-month, 3-month, and last 1-month revision periods.
Read: CMAT Previous Year Question Papers
Can I clear CMAT in 3 months?
Yes, it is possible to clear the CMAT within 3 months, with a clear idea about the CMAT syllabus and with a disciplined and structured approach. The CMAT Exam is moderate in difficulty level compared to other MBA entrance exams such as CAT and XAT. With a well-planned 3-month study plan, you can expect good performance.
The CMAT is a 3-hour computer-based test containing 100 multiple-choice questions spread over 5 sections:
- Language Comprehension – 20 questions
- Logical Reasoning – 20 questions
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation – 20 questions
- General Awareness – 20 questions
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship – 20 questions
Each correct answer will be awarded 4 marks, and -1 for every incorrect answer.
3-Month Study Plan for CMAT 2026
CMAT 2026: The phase-wise preparation strategy of the 3 months will help the candidate in preparing well for the exam and help in scoring well in the CMAT 2026.
| Phase | Week | Focus Area | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1: Foundation Building | Weeks 1–3 | Focus on Quantitative Techniques, Logical Reasoning, and Language Comprehension | Use standard textbooks and online resources |
| Weeks 4–6 | Start studying about General Awareness and Innovation & Entrepreneurship sections | Study current affairs, government policies, startup ecosystems | |
| Weeks 4–6 | Study topics of business, economics, and entrepreneurship | Concentrate on current affairs and static GK related to business and economics | |
| Phase 2: Practice and Application | Weeks 7–9 | Taking weekly mock tests can help in simulating exam conditions | Take weekly mock tests under simulated exam conditions |
| Weeks 7–9 | Practice each section, focusing on time management and accuracy | Allocate specific days for each section and track time per question | |
| Weeks 7–9 | Analyze performance after each mock test to identify mistakes and improve | Review mock tests and analyze mistakes to refine approach | |
| Phase 3: Revision and Final Touches | Weeks 10–12 | Revise all topics, focusing on weak areas identified during mock tests | Focus on revision and practicing difficult areas |
| Weeks 10–12 | Conduct full-length mock tests under timed environments to generate stamina and confidence | Conduct full-length mock tests under real exam time limitations | |
| Weeks 10–12 | Formulate a test-taking plan and determine the section sequence and time management style | Refine test-taking plan and maximize time management |
CMAT 2026 Answer Key and Response Sheet
The provisional answer key will be published within 3–5 days of the exam. Individual response sheets will also be made available to the candidates for comparison with their answers.
The steps to challenge the answer key are:
- Logging in with credentials at the NTA website
- Examining the provisional answer key
- Filing objections with reasons
- Payment of ₹200 per question to challenge
CMAT 2026 Result
The result will be declared around 10 days from the time the answer key is released. It comprises the scorecard and percentile obtained by the candidate.
How to download CMAT 2026 Result:
- Go to the official NTA CMAT website
- Click on the 'CMAT Scorecard' option
- Enter application number and date of birth
- Download the result PDF
CMAT 2026 Cut Offs
Top MBA institutes accepting CMAT scores release their cut-offs post-result. These are usually in the range of 85–99 percentile.
Check: CMAT Score vs Percentile 2026
Approximate cut-off percentiles for top institutes:
| Institute | Expected Cut Off (Percentile) |
|---|---|
| JBIMS, Mumbai | 99.9 |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai | 95-99 |
| Goa Institute of Management | 95-99 |
| SIMSREE, Mumbai | 99 |
| Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai | 95-99 |
| Xavier Institute of Social Service, Ranchi | 95 |
| Welingkar Institute (Mumbai/Bangalore) | 80–85 |
| NIBM, Pune | 85 |
Top MBA Colleges Accepting CMAT Scores
Several well-known institutions in India use CMAT scores to admit students into their MBA/PGDM courses. These institutions provide broad ranges of specializations and are known for academic excellence.
Some of the most prominent CMAT accepting colleges are:
- Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai
- KJ Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai
- Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai
- Goa Institute of Management, Goa
- BIMTECH, Greater Noida
- Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai & Bangalore
- Xavier Institute of Social Service, Ranchi
- Christ University, Bangalore
- KIIT School of Management, Bhubaneswar
- Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Hyderabad
- LPU - Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar
- Amity University, Noida
FAQs
1. What is CMAT and who administers it?
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national-level entrance examination administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to MBA and PGDM courses of AICTE-approved institutions in India. It is conducted annually in online computer-based mode and is accepted by more than 1300 B-schools.
2. In which month is CMAT 2026 going to be conducted?
The CMAT 2026 test will probably be held in January 2026 according to the timetable announced in 2025 after it was revised. The last date of the test will be mentioned in the CMAT notice that will be published in November 2025.
3. Who can apply for CMAT 2026?
Any bachelor's degree holder from any stream from a reputed university can appear for CMAT. Even final year students appearing for the final year are eligible. No percentage is needed to appear for the test itself, but institutes will have their cutoffs based on academics.
4. How do I apply for CMAT 2026?
To register for CMAT 2026, the candidates are required to do online registration at the official NTA CMAT website: exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT. The process of registration involves filling personal and academic information, uploading documents, choosing test cities, and paying the fee.
5. What is the syllabus and exam pattern for CMAT 2026?
There are five sections in CMAT 2026: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. There are 100 questions in the question paper, and it lasts for 180 minutes with a +4/-1 marking system.
6. How do I prepare for CMAT 2026?
CMAT preparation has to begin at least 4–6 months before the test. Focus on conceptual formation, solving previous year question papers, and frequent mock tests. Take special care of current affairs and the Innovation & Entrepreneurship section, CMAT's unique offering.
7. Which are the top colleges accepting CMAT 2026 scores?
Some of the top colleges that accept CMAT scores are JBIMS Mumbai, KJ Somaiya, Goa Institute of Management, Great Lakes Institute of Management, Welingkar Mumbai & Bangalore, BIMTECH, and Christ University, among others. Most of these colleges need a percentile of 85 to 95.
8. What is a good score in CMAT 2026 to get into top B-schools?
A CMAT score of 300+ or 95 percentile and above is seen as competitive for top colleges like JBIMS, KJ Somaiya, and Goa Institute of Management. Cut-offs vary from year to year and institution to institution, and candidates should, therefore look at the official cut-off after result declaration.
9. What is the entrance exam for the MBA in 2026?
The entrance exam for the MBA in 2026:
- CMAT: The CMAT exam is conducted by the NTA once a year, usually in the first or second week of January the exam consists of 100 mcqs divided into 5 sections: Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship in CBT mode.
- CAT: The CAT is conducted by the IIMs once a year, generally in November. The exam is divided into 3 sections: QA, DILR, and VARC in 180 minutes (3 hours). In CBT mode.
- GMAT: The GMAT is conducted by the GMAC. The candidate can have multiple attempts of the GMAT in a year. The exam is divided into 4 sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative Reasoning (QR), and Verbal Reasoning (VR). The exam consists of a total of 80 questions in 3 hours 7 minutes.
- XAT: The XAT is conducted by the XLRI once a year for 3 hours in CBT mode. The exam is divided into 4 sections: Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA), Decision Making (DM), Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI), and General Knowledge (GK).
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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CMAT is a three hours Computer Based Online examination which candidates have to appear for from their allotted examination centre.
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) for the year 2024 is scheduled to take place in May 2024. Although the exact date has not been announced yet, you can expect it to occur during that month. Here are some key details about CMAT 2024:
The CMAT exam is scheduled to take place in May 2024. The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct the exam in more than 110 major Indian cities via online computer-based testing (CBT). Registration for the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2024 has been delayed and will open in the fourth week of March.
4 May 2024 is the date of the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2024. The registration opened from 13 Feb–13 Mar 2023.
4 May 2024 is the date of the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2024. The registration opened from 13 Feb–13 Mar 2023. Follow these steps to fill te application form:
Last date to apply for the CMAT exam 2024 is expected to be 31st March. 4th May is the date of CMAT examination.
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It is expected that the CMAT 2024 Registration process will begin very soon, probably in the second week of February 2024. Await the official announcement if you intend to sit for the CMAT exam. The deadline to register will be available until the second week of March 2024.
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After you have paid the CMAT registration and exam fee, you can download and print the Confirmation Page. You will receive a confirmation email and SMS on your registered mail ID or mobile phone.
It is expected that the CMAT 2024 registration period would open in the second week of March 2024. The National Testing Agency (NTA) is anticipated to administer the CMAT 2024 exam in May of that year. In the final week of May 2024, the NTA will declare the results of the CMAT exam.
To complete your CMAT Registration 2024, do the following steps: Go to cmat.nta.nic.in, the CMAT 2024 official website. Select the link labelled "Fill Online Application Form." Select the "New Registration" tab located under the "New Candidate Registration" section. Fill in all the details, upload the documents, and pay the fees.
CMAT Registration 2024 involves the following steps.
It is a satisfactory college in terms of placements and infrastructure. Almost all the students got placed through college placements. The average salary package offered to students was around 4-5 LPA.
To fill up CMAT exam form follow the below mentioned steps
CMAT 2024 registration process is expected to open on February 15 or 16, 2024. Please keep a check on this page of CollegeDunia or the official website of CMAT for the confirmed date. The closing date for registration will be end of February (tentatively).