The NMAT (Narsee Monjee Aptitude Test), administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), is a top MBA entrance exam in India. Accepted by NMIMS and a number of other India’s top business schools and overseas as well, NMAT gives test-takers the advantage of multiple attempts and a candidate-friendly format.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of NMAT 2025 syllabus, pattern, eligibility, colleges accepting NMAT, registration process, and preparation tips.
NMAT 2026 – Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | NMAT by GMAC |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based (Online) |
| Frequency | Multiple attempts (up to 3 times) |
| Accepting Colleges | NMIMS, ISB (Advanced Management Program), XUB, KJ Somaiya, SDA Bocconi, and more |
| Official Website | https://careermantra.net/blog/tag/nmat/ |
NMAT 2025 – Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Score Range |
| Language Skills | 36 | 28 minutes | 12–120 |
| Quantitative Skills | 36 | 52 minutes | 12–120 |
| Logical Reasoning | 36 | 40 minutes | 12–120 |
| Total | 108 | 120 minutes | 36–360 |
- Each section is individually timed.
- No negative marking.
- Candidates can choose the order of sections.
NMAT 2026 – Key Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date Range (Expected) |
| Registration Window | August – October 2025 |
| Scheduling Window | August – October 2025 |
| Exam Delivery Window | October – December 2025 |
| Result Declaration | January 2026 |
| Retake Registration Window | Within 15 days of first attempt |
NMAT 2025 – Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree with 50% minimum aggregate marks |
| Age Limit | No age restriction |
| Number of Attempts | Up to 3 attempts (1 main + 2 retakes) |
| Work Experience | Preferred but not mandatory (varies by college) |
NMAT 2026 – Syllabus
- Language Skills
- Reading Comprehension
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Sentence Correction
- Para Jumbles
- Grammar & Vocabulary
- Analogies
- Quantitative Skills
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Time-Speed-Distance)
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Modern Math (P&C, Probability)
- Data Interpretation
- Number Systems
- Logical Reasoning
- Statement & Assumptions
- Puzzles
- Coding-Decoding
- Syllogisms
- Series & Blood Relations
- Critical Reasoning
Top Colleges Accepting NMAT 2026
| College/Institute | Location | Program Offered | Cutoff Range (Score) |
| NMIMS Mumbai | Mumbai | MBA, MBA HR, MBA Analytics | 230–250 |
| ISB (Advanced Mgmt. Program) | Hyderabad | Advanced Management Program | Profile-Based |
| Xavier University (XUB) | Bhubaneswar | MBA Business Management | 200–220 |
| KJ Somaiya Institute | Mumbai | PGDM Programs | 210–230 |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Center | Mumbai | International Master in Business | 200+ |
| IFMR GSB (Krea University) | Sri City | MBA | 190–210 |
| Shiv Nadar University | Greater Noida | MBA | 200+ |
NMAT Registration & Exam Process
| Step | Details |
| Registration | Online via official NMAT portal |
| Fees | ₹2,800 + taxes (approx) |
| Scheduling | Candidates select their exam slot |
| Test Mode | Center-based or Online Proctored at Home |
| Retakes | Can be scheduled 15 days after previous attempt |
| Score Sending | Can select 5 B-Schools for free, additional with a fee |
FAQs
- How many times can I attempt NMAT?
You can attempt it 3 times: once initially and twice as retakes. - Does NMAT have negative marking?
No, there is no negative marking in NMAT. - Is NMAT tougher than CAT or XAT?
NMAT is generally considered more moderate and speed-based, with no negative marking and flexibility. - How long is the NMAT score valid?
The score is valid only for the current academic session. - Can I select the order of sections in NMAT?
Yes, NMAT allows candidates to choose the order of test sections. - Is work experience necessary for NMAT?
Not mandatory, but preferred by some institutes.
Preparation Tips for NMAT 2026
- Focus on speed and accuracy – practice time-bound mocks.
- Prioritize vocabulary and arithmetic basics.
- Regularly solve logical puzzles and RCs.
- Analyze previous NMAT papers and mock test patterns.
- Use apps or flashcards for daily vocab drills.
Conclusion
NMAT 2026 is a lenient, candidate-friendly MBA admission test best suited for those applying to top B-schools such as NMIMS and other new-generation colleges. With careful preparation, multiple attempts, and a balanced profile, NMAT can become your passport to a successful top management career.
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