The MAT 2026 exam schedule has been released for all the sessions. The MAT exam is conducted in four sessions: February, May, September, and December. The MAT 2026 exam is conducted in two modes: PBT and CBT.
- The MAT exam 2026 December session registration is ongoing. The last date for PBT registration is December 14, 2026.
- The MAT 2026 registration link is available on the official AIMA website at mat.aima.in.
- The MAT 2026 December session CBT registration last date is scheduled for December 21, 2026.
- The MAT exam date 2026 for the December session PBT mode is scheduled for December 20, 2026.
- The MAT 2026 CBT exam for the December session is scheduled for December 27, 2026.
- The registration fee for the MAT 2026 Exam is INR 2,300/- for one mode and INR 4,000/- for both PBT and CBT in the same session.
- The exam has 150 MCQs across 5 sections to be solved in 120 minutes, with +1 for correct and -0.25 for wrong answers.
- The MAT admit card 2026 for the December PBT exam will be released on December 17, 2026, and the CBT admit card on December 24, 2026.
The MAT 2026 September session CBT exam was scheduled for September 20, 2026.
Related Links:
- MAT December 2026 Registration Ongoing, Check Last Date to Apply
- MAT Exam Dates 2026: September Registration Open, PBT & CBT Schedule and Shift Timing
Key Summary
- The MAT 2026 PBT exam for the September session was held on September 13, 2026.
- The MAT September 2026 result is expected in October 2026.
- The MAT 2026 December session result is expected in January 2027.
- The MAT 2026 May session result was declared on June 22, 2026.
- The MAT 2026 February session result was announced on March 24, 2026.
- MAT is a national-level exam conducted online and offline in four sessions.
- MAT scores are useful for admission into MBA and PGDM programs across different government and private institutions.
What is MAT 2026?
MAT stands for Management Aptitude Test. AIMA — All India Management Association — has been conducting it since 1988, making it one of the most established MBA entrance tests in India.
- The Government of India, through the Ministry of Education, recognises MAT as a national-level entrance test for MBA and allied management programmes.
- AIMA holds MAT four times a year — February, May, September, and December.
- Candidates can appear in one or more sessions in a year, and colleges typically consider the best score within the one-year validity window.
- This multi-session format gives you more chances to improve your score than a single-window exam like CAT.
- More than 800 MBA colleges across India accept MAT scores.
- These range from well-known private B-schools like BIMTECH, XIME, and Rajagiri to state university programmes.
- Colleges use MAT scores to shortlist candidates for MBA and PGDM admissions in specialisations like Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, and Business Analytics.
In 2026, MAT is available in two modes: Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT). The Internet-Based Test (IBT) mode was discontinued by AIMA in 2025 and is not offered in 2026. Candidates can choose one or both available modes in the same session.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Management Aptitude Test |
| Short Form | MAT |
| Conducting Body | All India Management Association (AIMA) |
| Recognised By | Ministry of Education, Government of India |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Sessions Per Year | 4 (February, May, September, December) |
| Available Modes (2026) | PBT (Paper-Based Test), CBT (Computer-Based Test) |
| Total Questions | 150 MCQs |
| Total Sections | 5 |
| Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Marking Scheme | +1 (correct), -0.25 (wrong), 0 (unattempted) |
| Composite Score Range | 199 to 801 (based on 4 sections; GK section excluded) |
| Score Validity | 1 year from exam date |
| Colleges Accepting MAT Score | 800+ MBA and PGDM colleges across India |
| Application Fee | Rs 2,300 (one mode); Rs 4,000 (both modes) |
| Official Website | mat.aima.in |
Source: AIMA Official Website
MAT 2026 Important Dates (All Sessions)
AIMA conducts four MAT sessions in 2026. The December session PBT exam is scheduled for December 20, 2026. The December session CBT exam is scheduled for December 27, 2026.
The February and May session exams are over. Check the session-wise exam schedule shared below.
MAT December Session Exam Dates 2026
The MAT exam 2026 December session is shared in the table below.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| PBT Registration Last Date | December 14, 2026 |
| PBT Admit Card Release | December 17, 2026 |
| MAT PBT Exam Date 2026 | December 20, 2026 |
| CBT Registration Last Date | December 21, 2026 |
| CBT Admit Card Release | December 24, 2026 |
| MAT CBT Exam Date 2026 | December 27, 2026 |
| Expected Result | First week of January 2027 |
MAT September Session Exam Dates 2026
The MAT exam 2026 September session exam schedule is shared below.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| PBT Registration Last Date | September 7, 2026 |
| PBT Admit Card Release | September 10, 2026 |
| MAT PBT Exam Date 2026 | September 13, 2026 |
| CBT Registration Last Date | September 14, 2026 |
| CBT Admit Card Release | September 17, 2026 |
| MAT CBT Exam Date 2026 | September 20, 2026 |
| Expected Result | First week of October 2026 |
MAT May Session Exam Dates 2026
Students must follow the MAT exam 2026 May session schedule, which is shared below.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| PBT Registration Last Date | May 25, 2026 |
| PBT Admit Card Release | May 28, 2026 |
| MAT PBT Exam Date 2026 | May 31, 2026 |
| CBT Registration Last Date | June 8, 2026 |
| CBT Admit Card Release | June 11, 2026 |
| MAT CBT Exam Date 2026 | June 14, 2026 |
| Expected Result | July 2, 2026 |
MAT February Session Exam Dates 2026
The table shared shows the MAT 2026 February session exam schedule.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| PBT Registration Last Date | February 23, 2026 |
| PBT Admit Card Release | February 26, 2026 |
| MAT PBT Exam Date 2026 | March 1, 2026 |
| CBT Registration Last Date | March 2, 2026 |
| CBT Admit Card Release | March 5, 2026 |
| MAT CBT Exam Date 2026 | March 8, 2026 |
| Expected Result | March 24, 2026 |
Source: AIMA MAT Official Website — mat.aima.in
A video by “Everything For MBA and vidhyaa.in” will help students learn about the complete MAT 2026 guide.
MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
AIMA has kept the MAT 2026 eligibility criteria simple and broad. Both fresh graduates and working professionals can apply. Here is what you need:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university |
| Final-Year Students | Eligible (provisional admission until degree completion is confirmed) |
| Professional Degrees | CA, CS, ICWA/CMA holders also eligible |
| Minimum Marks (for Exam) | No minimum percentage set by AIMA |
| College-Level Requirement | Most institutes expect 50% (General) / 45% (SC/ST/PwD) in graduation |
| Age Limit | No minimum or maximum age restriction |
| Work Experience | Not required |
| Number of Attempts | Unlimited |
| Nationality | Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals eligible |
Also Read: MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Qualification, Work Experience and Attempt Limit
MAT 2026: Check Registration Dates, Fee and Process
MAT December 2026 registration is currently open at mat.aima.in.
- Candidates who want to appear in PBT mode must register before December 14, 2026.
- For CBT mode, the last date of registration is December 21, 2026.
How to Register for MAT 2026?
The steps to register for the MAT exam 2026 are as follows:
- STEP 1: Go to mat.aima.in and click "New Registration" or log in with your existing account
- STEP 2: Fill in personal details — name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number
- STEP 3: Choose your exam mode (PBT, CBT, or both) and preferred test city
- STEP 4: Upload your passport-size photograph and signature in the required format
- STEP 5: Pay the registration fee online through net banking, debit or credit card, or UPI
- STEP 6: Download and save the registration confirmation receipt
MAT 2026 Registration Fees
The MAT 2026 exam registration fees for the PBT and CBT modes are shared below.
| Mode | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| PBT Only | INR 2,300/- |
| CBT Only | INR 2,300/- |
| Both PBT and CBT (Same Session) | INR 4,000/- |
The registration fee is non-refundable once paid. Check all details carefully before you submit payment. AIMA does not allow corrections to personal information after payment in most cases.
MAT 2026 Application Process: How to Apply
The MAT 2026 application is fully online at mat.aima.in. The same process applies for all four sessions in the year. You must complete registration separately for each session you want to appear in.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Step 1 — New Registration: Visit mat.aima.in and click "New Registration." Enter your email ID and mobile number. AIMA sends an OTP verification to both
- Step 2 — Fill the Form: Log in and complete the application form with all personal, contact, and academic details. Double-check every entry before proceeding.
- Step 3 — Choose Mode and City: Select your preferred test mode — PBT, CBT, or both — and choose your exam city from the available list. City choices are subject to availability
- Step 4 — Upload Documents: Upload a recent passport-size photo and your signature. Both should be in JPEG format within the size limits AIMA specifies
- Step 5 — Pay the Fee: Pay online through net banking, debit or credit card, or UPI. The fee is INR 2,300/- for one mode and INR 4,000/- for both PBT and CBT in the same session.
- Step 6 — Download Confirmation: After successful payment, download your registration confirmation slip. This is your proof of registration until your admit card is available
MAT Exam Document Upload Specifications
The specifications of the documents required to be uploaded during the MAT exam registration 2026 are shared below.
- The photo should be a recent colour photograph with a white or light-coloured background.
- The signature should be on a white background in black or blue ink.
- Do not upload blurry, old, or pencil-signed images — they may cause your registration to be rejected.
| Document | Format | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Passport-size Photograph | JPEG / JPG | 20 KB to 100 KB |
| Signature | JPEG / JPG | 10 KB to 50 KB |
Related Links:
MAT 2026: Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The MAT 2026 exam pattern is the same for PBT and CBT modes.
- The exam has 150 multiple-choice questions across 5 sections, to be completed in 120 minutes.
- There is no separate time limit for individual sections.
- Candidates can divide the full 120 minutes across sections as they prefer.
Section-wise Question Distribution
The section-wise question distribution of the MAT exam 2026 is shared below.
| Section No. | Section Name | Questions | Marks | Counted in Composite Score? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language Comprehension | 30 | 30 | Yes |
| 2 | Intelligence and Critical Reasoning | 30 | 30 | Yes |
| 3 | Data Analysis and Sufficiency | 30 | 30 | Yes |
| 4 | Mathematical Skills | 30 | 30 | Yes |
| 5 | Indian and Global Environment (GK) | 30 | 30 | No — reported separately |
| Total | 150 | 150 | — | |
Remember: The Indian and Global Environment section (Section 5 / GK) score is shown on your scorecard but is NOT counted in the composite scaled score or percentile calculation. Only Sections 1 to 4 determine your MAT percentile used by colleges for shortlisting.
MAT 2026 Marking Scheme
The MAT exam marking scheme 2026 is provided below.
| Answer Type | Marks |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +1 |
| Wrong Answer | -0.25 (negative marking) |
| Unattempted | 0 (no penalty) |
How is the MAT Composite Score Calculated?
- Raw marks from Sections 1 to 4 are totalled (GK section excluded)
- AIMA converts these raw marks to a composite scaled score between 199 and 801 through a normalisation process
- Your MAT percentile is then calculated based on this composite scaled score relative to all candidates in that session
- Normalisation ensures fair comparison between PBT and CBT candidates across the same session, regardless of any variation in paper difficulty
MAT 2026: PBT vs CBT: Key Differences
Students must go through the key differences between the MAT PBT and CBT exam 2026 through the details shared.
| Feature | PBT (Paper-Based) | CBT (Computer-Based) |
|---|---|---|
| Answer Mode | OMR sheet (pen on paper) | On-screen selection (mouse click) |
| December 2026 Date | December 20, 2026 | December 27, 2026 |
| Exam Pattern | Same as CBT | Same as PBT |
| Rough Work | On question booklet | On provided rough sheets |
| Composite Score Calculation | Same method as CBT | Same method as PBT |
MAT 2026 Syllabus: Section-wise Topics
The MAT 2026 syllabus covers five areas. You should focus your preparation time on Sections 1 to 4, as they form the composite percentile. The GK section requires ongoing current affairs reading rather than structured textbook study.
Section 1: Language Comprehension
Students must check the MAT Language Comprehension syllabus topics shared below.
| Topics | Important Subjects |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Passage-based questions, main idea, inference, tone, author's purpose |
| Vocabulary | Word meanings, contextual vocabulary |
| Synonyms and Antonyms | Similar and opposite words |
| Grammar | Parts of speech, nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs |
| Sentence Correction | Grammatical errors, sentence improvement |
| Fill in the Blanks | Vocabulary-based and grammar-based blanks |
| Para Jumbles | Sentence rearrangement, paragraph formation |
| Idioms and Phrases | Meaning and usage of common expressions |
| One-Word Substitution | Single words replacing phrases |
| Error Spotting | Subject-verb agreement, tense, articles, prepositions |
| Verbal Ability | Sentence completion, logical flow, verbal reasoning |
Section 2: Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
The MAT 2026 syllabus topics of the Intelligence and Critical Reasoning paper are listed below.
| Topics | Important Subjects |
|---|---|
| Blood Relations | Family trees, relationship identification |
| Coding-Decoding | Letter, number, and symbol coding |
| Seating Arrangement | Linear, circular, and other arrangements |
| Puzzles | Logical puzzles, ordering and grouping |
| Series | Number series, alphabet series, pattern recognition |
| Syllogisms | Statements, conclusions, logical relationships |
| Statement and Arguments | Strong and weak arguments |
| Statement and Conclusion | Valid conclusions, logical deductions |
| Course of Action | Choosing appropriate actions based on a situation |
| Analogies | Word, number, and relationship-based analogies |
| Direction Sense | Directions, distance, and position |
| Calendars | Dates, days and calendar-based problems |
| Clocks | Time, angles and clock-based reasoning |
| Visual Reasoning | Figures, patterns, mirror images and series |
| Venn Diagrams | Sets, groups and relationships |
| Input-Output | Logical arrangement and pattern transformation |
| Critical Reasoning | Assumptions, inferences, arguments and deductions |
| Numeric Grid | Number patterns and missing values |
Section 3: Data Analysis and Sufficiency
The MAT 2026 Data Analysis and Sufficiency syllabus topics are shared below.
| Topics | Important Subjects |
|---|---|
| Tables | Tabular data, comparisons, calculations |
| Bar Graphs | Simple, multiple, and stacked bar graphs |
| Pie Charts | Sector angles, percentage distribution |
| Line Graphs | Trends, changes, and comparisons |
| Data Comparison | Comparing values, ratios, and differences |
| Caselet-Based Data | Paragraph-based numerical information |
| Data Sufficiency | Determining whether given statements provide enough information |
| Mixed Graphs | Questions combining tables, graphs, and charts |
| Venn Diagrams | Group-based numerical data |
| Data Interpretation | Percentage, ratio, average, and growth calculations |
| Missing Data | Finding unknown values in tables or charts |
| Quantitative Comparison | Comparing quantities using numerical information |
Section 4: Mathematical Skills
Students must go through the MAT 2026 Mathematical Skills syllabus topics shared below.
| Topics | Important Subjects |
|---|---|
| Number System | Integers, fractions, divisibility, factors, multiples |
| Percentages | Percentage change, successive percentages |
| Ratio and Proportion | Ratios, proportions, direct and inverse variation |
| Profit and Loss | Cost price, selling price, discount, profit percentage |
| Simple and Compound Interest | Interest calculations, principal, amount |
| Averages | Arithmetic average, combined average |
| Time and Work | Work efficiency, combined work, pipes and cisterns |
| Time, Speed and Distance | Relative speed, trains, boats and streams |
| Mixtures and Alligation | Mixture ratios, replacement problems |
| Algebra | Algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities |
| Linear and Quadratic Equations | Solving equations, roots and applications |
| Geometry | Lines, angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons |
| Mensuration | Area, perimeter, surface area & volume |
| Circles | Chords, tangents, circumference and area |
| Permutations and Combinations | Counting principles, arrangements, selections |
| Probability | Basic probability and events |
| Set Theory | Sets, subsets, union, intersection |
| Sequence and Series | Arithmetic and geometric progressions |
| Indices and Surds | Exponents, roots and simplification |
| Logarithms | Logarithmic identities and calculations |
| Trigonometry | Basic ratios, identities and applications |
| Heights and Distances | Angles of elevation and depression |
| Complex Numbers | Basic operations and properties |
| Binomial Theorem | Expansions and coefficients |
Section 5: Economic and Business Environment
The MAT syllabus 2026 topics for the Economics and Business Environment paper are shared below.
| Topics | Important Subjects |
|---|---|
| Current Affairs | National and international events |
| Business and Corporate News | Company developments, mergers and acquisitions |
| Indian Economy | Economic growth, GDP, inflation, employment |
| Global Economy | International trade, global economic developments |
| Banking and Finance | RBI, monetary policy, banking terminology |
| Government Policies | Economic initiatives, schemes and reforms |
| Business Awareness | Industries, brands, products and business leaders |
| Important Appointments | Heads of institutions, CEOs and key officials |
| Awards and Honours | Major national and international awards |
| International Organisations | IMF, World Bank, WTO, United Nations |
| Static General Knowledge | Countries, capitals, currencies and important institutions |
| Corporate Social Responsibility | CSR initiatives and business ethics |
| Entrepreneurship | Startups, innovation and business development |
| Digital Economy | E-commerce, digital payments and fintech |
| Trade and Investment | FDI, trade agreements, exports and imports |
| Economic Indicators | Fiscal deficit, balance of payments and interest rates |
| Sustainable Development | Environmental policies and sustainable business practices |
| Business Terminology | Common economic and management terms |
Also Read:
- List of Top Questions Asked in MAT Examination
- MAT Mathematical Skills Syllabus 2026: Subject-Wise Topics, Section-Wise Weightage and PDF Download
- MAT Language Comprehension Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Topics, Subject-Wise Weightage and PDF Download
- MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning Syllabus 2026: Topic-Wise Syllabus, Section-Wise Topics, Weightage and PDF Download
A Reddit user asked about a MAT 2026 study resources guide.
Replying to that, another user said that you should focus more on speed improvement and use Rodha / MBA Pathshala for quants & LRDI basics, previous MAT papers, and appear for mock tests regularly.
Source: Reddit
MAT 2026 Preparation Tips: Section-wise Strategy
With about 2 months left before the MAT December 2026 PBT (December 20), this is the time to shift from concept building to intensive practice. Here is a practical, section-wise MAT 2026 preparation guide.
| Section | What to Focus On | Preparation Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar | Read newspapers and editorials daily, improve vocabulary with word lists, practice grammar rules, and solve RC passages regularly. |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | Logical reasoning, Analytical reasoning, Arrangements, Series | Practice different reasoning question types daily, focus on accuracy, and learn shortcut techniques for puzzles and logical sets. |
| Mathematical Skills | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Number System | Strengthen basic concepts first, memorize formulas, solve sectional quizzes, and practice calculations to improve speed. |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | Data Interpretation, Charts, Tables, Graphs, Data Sufficiency | Practice interpreting graphs and tables quickly, learn approximation techniques, and solve timed DI sets regularly. |
| Indian & Global Environment | Current Affairs, Business, Economy, Awards, Sports, Government Schemes | Read monthly current affairs, revise important events from the last 6–12 months, and practice GK quizzes regularly. |
| Overall Preparation | Time Management & Mock Tests | Attempt 1–2 full-length mock tests every week, analyze mistakes, revise weak areas, and improve speed and accuracy through consistent practice. |
Also Read:
How can Working Professionals Prepare for MAT 2026?
Preparing for MAT 2026 while managing a full-time job requires consistency rather than long study hours.
- Work regularly with daily practice, weekly mocks, and revision to achieve a competitive MAT percentile.
- Focus on strengthening weak areas first and make use of short study sessions during weekdays.
| Preparation Strategy | Details |
|---|---|
| Create a Realistic Study Plan | Dedicate 1–2 hours on weekdays and 3–4 hours on weekends. Divide time equally among all five sections. |
| Focus on High-Weightage Topics | Prioritize Arithmetic, Algebra, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Current Affairs. |
| Solve Previous Year Papers | Practice MAT previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern, question difficulty, and frequently asked topics. |
| Take Weekly Mock Tests | Attempt at least one full-length mock test every week and gradually increase the frequency to two per week in the final month. |
| Analyze Every Mock | Review incorrect answers, identify weak topics, and revise concepts before taking the next mock test. |
| Improve Speed and Accuracy | Practice timed sectional quizzes daily to enhance calculation speed and reduce errors. |
| Read Daily | Spend 20–30 minutes reading newspapers or business magazines to improve Reading Comprehension and General Awareness. |
| Revise Regularly | Reserve one day every week for revision of formulas, vocabulary, shortcuts, and important concepts. |
| Use Short Study Sessions | Utilize commute time or lunch breaks to revise vocabulary, formulas, or solve quick aptitude questions using mobile apps. |
| Maintain Consistency | Avoid studying only on weekends. Daily practice, even for a short duration, is more effective than irregular long sessions. |
Download and Practice MAT Sample Papers
Also Read:
MAT 2026 Admit Card
AIMA releases the MAT admit card separately for each mode within each session. You can download it by logging into mat.aima.in using your registered email ID and password. AIMA does not send the admit card by post or email — you must download and print it yourself.
| Mode & Session | Expected Admit Card Date | Exam Date |
|---|---|---|
| September 2026 — PBT | September 10, 2026 | September 13, 2026 |
| September 2026 — CBT | September 17, 2026 | September 20, 2026 |
| December 2026 — PBT | December 17, 2026 | December 20, 2026 |
| December 2026 — CBT | December 24, 2026 | December 27, 2026 |
| February 2026 — PBT | February 26, 2026 | March 1, 2026 |
| February 2026 — CBT | March 5, 2026 | March 8, 2026 |
| May 2026 — PBT | May 28, 2026 | May 31, 2026 |
| May 2026 — CBT | June 11, 2026 | June 14, 2026 |
How to Download MAT 2026 Admit Card?
The steps to download the MAT admit card 2026 are shared below.
Documents to Carry on MAT 2026 Exam Day
The following documents are required to be carried on the MAT 2026 examination day along with the admit card.
Students must go through a Reddit discussion on the MAT 2026 February session examination shared below.
Source: Reddit
MAT 2026 Result and Scorecard
AIMA declares the MAT result in the form of a scorecard on the official candidate portal at mat.aima.in.
- The scorecard is the official result document — AIMA does not issue a separate result list or rank card.
- The May 2026 result was declared on June 22, 2026, for both PBT (May 31) and CBT (June 14) modes.
- The September 2026 result is expected in the first week of October 2026, following a similar 3–4-week window after the CBT exam date.
MAT 2026 Session-wise Result Status
The MAT 2026 result status of different sessions is shared below.
| Session | Exam Date | Result Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 2026 — PBT | December 20, 2026 | Expected in January 2027 | Upcoming |
| December 2026 — CBT | December 27, 2026 | Expected in January 2027 | Upcoming |
| September 2026 — PBT | September 13, 2026 | Expected October 2026 | Upcoming |
| September 2026 — CBT | September 20, 2026 | Expected October 2026 | Upcoming |
| February 2026 — PBT | March 1, 2026 | March 24, 2026 | (Out) |
| February 2026 — CBT | March 8, 2026 | March 24, 2026 | (Out) |
| May 2026 — PBT | May 31, 2026 | June 22, 2026 | (Out) |
| May 2026 — CBT | June 14, 2026 | June 22, 2026 | (Out) |
What the MAT Scorecard 2026 Shows
The MAT Scorecard 2026 consists of the following details:
- Candidate name, photograph, and registration number
- Exam session, mode, and date
- Section-wise scaled scores for all 5 sections
- Composite scaled score (from 4 sections — GK section excluded)
- Overall percentile based on the composite score
How to Download MAT 2026 Scorecard?
The steps to download the MAT scorecard 2026 are as follows:
Related Link: MAT Result 2026: Check Session-Wise Release Date, Direct Download Link, Steps to Download, and Details Mentioned
MAT 2026 Score vs Percentile: What to Expect?
Your MAT percentile shows where you stand among all candidates who appeared in that session. The same raw score can give different percentiles across sessions — the outcome depends on the number of test-takers and the difficulty level of that particular paper.
The table below gives indicative score-to-percentile ranges based on previous MAT session trends.
| Raw Score (out of 120, 4 sections) | Composite Scaled Score (approx.) | MAT Percentile (approx.) | College Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| 105 – 120 | 700 – 801 | 95 – 99+ | Top MAT-accepting B-schools |
| 90 – 104 | 600 – 699 | 85 – 94 | Well-reputed MBA colleges |
| 72 – 89 | 500 – 599 | 75 – 84 | Mid-tier MBA colleges |
| 55 – 71 | 400 – 499 | 60 – 74 | Lower-ranked colleges |
| Below 55 | Below 400 | Below 60 | Limited options |
What is a Good MAT 2026 Score?
A composite score of 600+ out of 800 typically ranks as strong and opens doors to many solid MBA programs.
- A percentile above 85–90 is widely viewed as competitive for mid-to-top B-schools accepting MAT scores.
- Scores in the 500–599 range remain acceptable for several regional and newer institutes with decent placements.
- Aiming higher than the previous year’s cut-offs for your target colleges improves admission chances significantly.
| Score Range (out of 800) | Approximate Percentile | Admission Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| 700 – 800 | 95+ | Excellent – strong chance at top MAT-accepting institutes |
| 600 – 699 | 85 – 95 | Good – competitive for most reputable B-schools |
| 500 – 599 | 70 – 85 | Average to Decent – suitable for many mid-tier colleges |
| Below 500 | Below 70 | Limited options – may need to target newer or regional programs |
Related Link: MAT Score vs Percentile 2026: Check Session-Wise Scorecard Download Link, Steps Required and Details Mentioned
MAT 2026 Cutoff for Top MBA Colleges
MAT does not have a single centralised cutoff. Each college sets its own MAT percentile threshold for shortlisting candidates. The cutoffs below are based on 2025 session data and are expected to remain broadly similar in 2026.
Final 2026 cutoffs will be set by individual colleges after each session’s results are declared.
| College | Location | Expected MAT 2026 Cutoff (Percentile) | Programme |
|---|---|---|---|
| BIMTECH (Birla Institute of Management Technology) | Greater Noida | 90+ | PGDM |
| XIME (Xavier Institute of Management & Entrepreneurship) | Bangalore / Chennai | 85+ | PGDM |
| Christ University (School of Business) | Bangalore | 85+ | MBA |
| Amity Business School | Noida | 85+ | MBA |
| SOIL Institute of Management | Gurgaon | 85+ | PGDM |
| JAGSOM (Jain Global School of Management) | Bangalore | 80+ | PGDM |
| IPE Hyderabad (Institute of Public Enterprise) | Hyderabad | 80+ | MBA |
| IMS Ghaziabad | Ghaziabad | 80+ | MBA |
| Rajagiri Business School | Kochi | 75+ | MBA |
| Jaipuria Institute of Management | Noida / Jaipur / Lucknow | 70+ | PGDM |
MAT 2026 Counselling Process
MAT does not have a centralised counselling or seat-allotment process. Unlike JEE or NEET, there is no single body that allocates seats. Each college using MAT scores runs its own independent admission process, and you must apply separately to every college where you want admission.
Step-by-Step Counselling Process After MAT 2026
The MAT counselling process 2026 details are shared below.
Typical Selection Criteria Weightage
To qualify for the MAT exam 2026, students need to secure the minimum marks required. The minimum marks percentage range required in all the steps is shared below.
| Component | Typical Weightage Range |
|---|---|
| MAT Score / Percentile | 40 – 60% |
| Personal Interview (PI) | 20 – 30% |
| Group Discussion / WAT | 10 – 20% |
| Academic Record (10th, 12th, Graduation) | 10 – 20% |
| Work Experience | 0 – 10% |
Weightages vary significantly across colleges. Always check the official admission brochure of each college before applying.
Documents Required for MAT 2026 MBA Admission
The following documents are required during the MAT 2026 MBA admission procedure.
- MAT 2026 scorecard (downloaded from mat.aima.in)
- Class 10 and Class 12 marksheets and passing certificates
- All semester-wise or year-wise graduation marksheets and degree certificate
- Work experience certificates (adds value in shortlisting and PI rounds)
- Government-issued photo ID — Aadhaar, PAN, or passport
- Category certificate for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates claiming reservation
- Recent passport-size photographs
FAQs on MAT 2026
Ques. When is the MAT December 2026 exam?
Ans. MAT December 2026 PBT is on December 20, 2026, and CBT is on December 27, 2026. Registration is currently open at mat.aima.in. The last date to register for PBT is December 14, 2026, and for CBT is December 21, 2026. The registration fee is INR 2,300/- for one mode and INR 4,000/- for both modes in the same session.
Ques. Is the MAT May 2026 result out?
Ans. Yes. MAT May 2026 result was declared on June 22, 2026, covering both PBT (May 31) and CBT (June 14) modes. Candidates can log in to mat.aima.in with their registered email ID and password to download their scorecard. The scorecard shows section-wise scaled scores and the composite percentile.
Ques. What is a good MAT 2026 score for top MBA colleges?
Ans. A composite scaled score of 600+ or 85+ percentile is considered good for well-known MAT-accepting B-schools. For top colleges like BIMTECH, XIME, and Christ University, aim for 90+ percentile. A score of 91+ percentile puts you in a strong shortlisting position at most reputed MAT colleges. Mid-tier colleges typically shortlist at the 70–85 percentile.
Ques. What are the MAT 2026 eligibility criteria?
Ans. You need a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university. Final-year students can also apply. AIMA does not prescribe any minimum percentage or age limit. Holders of CA, CS, and CMA qualifications are eligible without a conventional degree. Colleges may set their own percentage cutoffs independently of AIMA.
Ques. What is the MAT 2026 exam pattern?
Ans. MAT 2026 has 150 MCQs across 5 sections — Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, and Indian and Global Environment — each with 30 questions. The duration is 120 minutes. Marking: +1 for correct, -0.25 for wrong, 0 for unattempted. The Indian and Global Environment (GK) section score is shown on the scorecard but not counted in the composite percentile.
Ques. Is IBT mode available in MAT 2026?
Ans. No. AIMA discontinued the IBT (Internet-Based Test) mode in 2025. From 2026, MAT is available only in PBT (Paper-Based Test) and CBT (Computer-Based Test) modes. Both require you to appear at an AIMA-designated exam centre. You can choose one or both modes within the same session.
Ques. How is the MAT composite score calculated?
Ans. The MAT composite score is calculated from the first four sections only — Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Mathematical Skills. The GK (Indian and Global Environment) section is excluded. AIMA converts your raw marks from these four sections into a composite scaled score ranging from 199 to 801 through a normalisation process. Your percentile is then based on this composite scaled score relative to all candidates in that session.
Ques. How many colleges accept MAT 2026 scores for MBA admission?
Ans. More than 800 MBA and PGDM colleges across India accept MAT scores. These colleges are spread across all major cities and states. Since there is no centralised counselling, you must apply separately to each college using your MAT scorecard. The AIMA official website lists all participating institutions.
Ques. Is there negative marking in MAT 2026?
Ans. Yes. MAT 2026 carries negative marking. You get +1 for each correct answer and lose 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. Questions left blank carry no marks and no penalty. Avoid random guessing — if you are not confident about a question, skipping it is safer than risking a -0.25 deduction. This discipline matters most in the Mathematical Skills and Data Analysis sections.
Ques. Can I appear in more than one MAT 2026 session?
Ans. Yes. AIMA does not restrict the number of sessions you appear in. You can appear in the September 2026 and December 2026 sessions, and within each session, you can choose both PBT and CBT. Colleges consider your best score from within the one-year validity window. Appearing in multiple sessions gives you more chances to improve your score and maximise your college options.
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A MAT composite score of 460.5, which is your scaled score rather than your percentile, is on the lower side. You have two main options: apply immediately to Tier-3 management institutes that accept this range, or retake the exam in September or December 2026 to target better business schools.
Admission based on the MAT (Management Aptitude Test) score is available in many MBA colleges across India. First, appear for the MAT exam conducted by the All India Management Association. After the results, apply to MBA colleges accepting MAT scores, fill their application forms, attend counselling or interviews, and secure admission based on your MAT score and eligibility criteria.
You can check here for the MAT Syllabus. You can check here for the MAT Question Paper: Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs
The last date to register for the Paper-Based Test (PBT) is 7 December 2025, the admit card will be released on 10 December 2025, and the exam date is 13 December 2025. For the Computer-Based Test (CBT), the registration will close on 15 December 2025, with the admit card release on 18 December 2025, exam date on 21 December 2025.
The last date to fill the application form for the MAT (Management Aptitude Test) depends on the mode of exam. For the December 2025 session:
The MAT exam 2026 (conducted by All India Management Association, AIMA) is held four times a year, in February, May, September, and December. For the 2026 cycle, one session is expected around March 2026 (Paper-Based Test mid-March, Computer-Based Test late-March). You can check here for the List of Top Colleges in India Accepting MAT Based on 2025 Ranking
The MAT is divided into 5 sections, each with 30 questions with 20% weightage: Language Comprehension, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, Economic and Business Environment, and Intelligence & Critical Reasoning. The MAT syllabus is designed to test your aptitude, quantitative ability, language skills, and general awareness.
No, it has not yet started, the tentative dates are mentioned below:
You can check here for the MAT Question Paper: Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs and Mock Tests
The All India Management Association, or AIMA, administers the national entrance exam known as MAT 2025. Held four times annually, it evaluates skills in language comprehension, reasoning, quantitative aptitude, data analysis, and general awareness. Students wishing to enroll in MBA programs and other management courses at different Indian business colleges take the exam.
The AIMA has announced the MAT December 2025 exam dates. The MAT exam will be held in 2 sessions: Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT). Scores are valid for one year and accepted by top institutes like Christ University, XIME Bangalore, and Jaipuria Institutes.
You can check here for the MAT Question Paper: Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs and Mock Tests
You can check here for the MAT Question Paper: Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs and Mock Tests
You can check here for the MAT Question Paper: Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs and Mock Tests
You can check here for the MAT Question Paper: Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs and Mock Tests
Collegedunia has model question papers and previous year's papers that have been created using in-depth MAT analysis and professional guidance. These exam papers will undoubtedly aid candidates in their exam preparation. The links to the MAT sample papers and question papers from previous years are provided below. These are available for free download. To ace the MAT exam, practice them frequently. Download MAT Previous Year Question Paper PDFs and Mock Tests
The dates of the MAT 2024 exams in both PBT and CBT formats are February 25, 2024, and March 10, 2024, respectively. Exam dates for the MAT 2024 February session IBT mode are set for February 24, March 3, and February 8, 2024.
The conducting body will soon confirm the November 24, 2024, date of the CAT exam. The date of the CAT exam registration is still unknown, but you can anticipate that it will open by the first week of August 2024. By the final week of July 2024, CAT notification will be made available prior to registration.
MAT scores are accepted by about 104 government MBA programs in India. With first-rate facilities, these MBA schools provide excellent placement opportunities. The best public MBA schools that accept MAT scores are listed in the table below along with the most recent cut-off percentile. You can check the colleges in which your MAT score will be eligible by clicking the link here.
AIMA will not have a centralized MAT counseling process by 2024. Nonetheless, the counseling process is carried out by each participating institute. Each participating institute has a different counseling schedule as well.