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
- Quantitative Skills
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Time-Speed-Distance)
- Modern Math (P&C, Probability)
- Logical 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.