MAT 2027: Registration, Exam Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus and Accepting Colleges

MAT 2027 (Management Aptitude Test) is a national-level MBA and PGDM entrance exam conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA). The exam is held four times a year — in February, May, September, and December — and more than 600 MBA and PGDM institutes across India accept MAT scores for admission, making it one of the most widely accepted management entrance tests in the country. As of October 2026, the MAT December 2026 session is open for registration, and the MAT 2027 cycle is set to begin with the February 2027 session in early 2027.

• MAT December 2026 Registration (Open Now): Registration is open at mat.aima.in. The last date for PBT registration is December 14, 2026, and for CBT is December 21, 2026. The exam will be held on December 20, 2026 (PBT) and December 27, 2026 (CBT). The fee is ₹2,300 per mode or ₹4,000 for both PBT and CBT.
• MAT February 2027 Session: The first session of the MAT 2027 cycle is expected in February-March 2027. In 2026, the February session PBT was held on March 1 and CBT on March 8. Registration for the February 2027 session is expected to open in December 2026.
• MAT May 2027 Session: The May 2027 session is expected around May-June 2027. In 2026, the May session result was declared on June 30, 2026. Registration typically opens 6-8 weeks before the exam date.
• MAT Score Validity: MAT scorecards are valid for 1 year from the date of issue. Candidates who appear in MAT December 2026 or any MAT 2027 session can use those scores for 2027-28 MBA admissions at more than 600 participating institutes across India.

What is MAT 2027?

MAT, or Management Aptitude Test, is a standardised national-level entrance exam designed to assess candidates for MBA and PGDM admissions. The exam is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA), a premier national management organisation established in 1957. AIMA introduced MAT in 1988, and it has since grown into one of India’s most established management entrance tests.

MAT is recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and the Ministry of Education, Government of India, as a valid management aptitude test for MBA admissions. This recognition means that participating institutes across the country can rely on MAT scores as a standardised benchmark.

What makes MAT different from most other MBA entrance exams is its frequency. You can appear for MAT four times a year — in February, May, September, and December. This gives you multiple opportunities to improve your score within a single academic cycle. The MAT 2027 cycle covers all four sessions in 2027.

AIMA conducts MAT in the following modes:

• PBT (Paper-Based Test): A traditional pen-and-paper test held at designated test centres across India.
• CBT (Computer-Based Test): An online test conducted at AIMA-authorised computer-based test centres.
• IBT (Internet-Based Test): A remote proctored test that you can take from your home or any location with a stable internet connection, using a desktop or laptop with a webcam.

More than 600 MBA and PGDM institutes across India accept MAT scores for admission. These include institutes in categories rated by AIMA, ranging from well-established business schools to regional and state-level management institutes. The MAT composite score is reported on a scale of 199 to 801, and it is valid for one year from the date of issue.

How Many Candidates Appear for MAT Each Session?

Each session of MAT sees approximately 20,000 candidates appear across all modes. The exam attracts candidates from diverse academic backgrounds — commerce, science, arts, and engineering graduates all appear for MAT. Since there is no minimum percentage requirement in graduation and no age limit, MAT has a broader eligibility base compared to most other management entrance exams. The IBT mode, which allows candidates to appear from home, has grown in popularity and contributed to the exam’s reach across smaller cities and towns.

Source: AIMA Official MAT Portal — mat.aima.in

MAT 2027 Key Highlights

Here is a quick overview of the MAT 2027 exam for easy reference:

MAT 2027 Important Dates

AIMA announces the schedule for each MAT session separately, usually 6-8 weeks before the exam date. As of October 2026, AIMA has released the MAT December 2026 schedule. The MAT 2027 session dates (February, May, September, December) have not yet been officially announced. The dates below combine the confirmed December 2026 schedule with expected timelines for 2027 sessions based on previous year patterns.

The table below shows upcoming events first (in chronological order), followed by past 2026 sessions for reference. Check mat.aima.in for official announcements.

Source: AIMA Official MAT Portal — mat.aima.in

MAT 2027 Eligibility Criteria

The MAT 2027 eligibility criteria are set by AIMA and are straightforward. The exam has one of the most inclusive eligibility structures among national MBA entrance tests — there is no age limit, no minimum percentage requirement from AIMA, and no restriction on the number of attempts.

Educational Qualification

You must hold a bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognised university. This includes BA, B.Sc, B.Com, B.Tech, BCA, BBA, LLB, or any other graduation programme. Professional degree holders such as CA, CS, and ICWA are also eligible to apply.

Final-Year Students

If you are in the final year of your graduation programme, you can apply for MAT 2027. You do not need to wait until you have your final marksheet. However, you must complete your degree before the admission process at your chosen institute begins. Many MBA colleges require you to produce proof of graduation before the course starts.

Age Limit

AIMA has set no upper or lower age limit for MAT. Candidates of any age can apply — whether they are freshers appearing for the first time or working professionals looking for a career change.

Minimum Marks in Graduation

AIMA does not require any minimum percentage in your graduation degree to appear for MAT. However, this does not mean individual B-schools follow the same policy. Many MBA institutes set their own minimum marks requirement — usually 50% aggregate in graduation for General category candidates and 45% for SC/ST candidates. You should check the specific eligibility criteria of each college you plan to apply to.

Number of Attempts

There is no limit on the number of times you can appear for MAT. You can appear in the same session across multiple modes (PBT and CBT) and in multiple sessions in a year. This flexibility lets you use your best score for admissions.

Nationality

Both Indian nationals and foreign nationals are eligible to appear for MAT, provided they meet the educational qualification criteria. Foreign candidates should also check the individual admission requirements of the institutes they wish to apply to.

MAT 2027 Registration Process

Registration for each MAT 2027 session will be done online at mat.aima.in. You need to register separately for each session — a February 2027 registration does not carry over to the May 2027 session. AIMA opens registration for each session approximately 6-8 weeks before the exam date.

Here is the step-by-step registration process for MAT 2027:

• Step 1 — Register on the Portal: Go to mat.aima.in and create a new account using your email address and mobile number. You will get login credentials once your account is created.
• Step 2 — Fill the Application Form: Log in and fill in your personal details (name, date of birth, category, address), academic qualifications (graduation details, marks), and contact information accurately.
• Step 3 — Upload Documents: Upload a recent passport-size photograph in JPG or JPEG format (size: 10 KB to 50 KB) and your signature (size: 5 KB to 20 KB). Both must be clear and meet AIMA’s specifications.
• Step 4 — Select Exam Mode and Test City: Choose your preferred mode — PBT, CBT, or IBT. For PBT and CBT, select your preferred test city from the available list. For IBT, you will appear from your own location using a laptop or desktop with a webcam.
• Step 5 — Pay the Application Fee: Pay the registration fee online through net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI. The fee is ₹2,300 for a single mode (PBT or CBT) and ₹4,000 if you register for both PBT and CBT in the same session.
• Step 6 — Download Confirmation: After payment, download the registration confirmation slip and save it. This serves as proof of your application.

AIMA does not accept offline or manual applications. All registrations must be completed online at mat.aima.in. The application fee is non-refundable once paid.

IBT Mode: What You Need

If you choose the Internet-Based Test (IBT) mode, you need a working desktop or laptop with a webcam and microphone, a stable internet connection, and a quiet, distraction-free environment. AIMA uses remote proctoring software for IBT. Make sure your system meets the technical requirements before registering for this mode.

MAT 2027 Syllabus

The MAT 2027 syllabus covers five sections. The pattern and syllabus are the same across PBT, CBT, and IBT modes. Here is the topic-wise breakdown for each section:

1. Language Comprehension

This section tests your reading speed, vocabulary, and grammar. You should be comfortable with long passages and be able to identify the main idea, tone, and inference from a paragraph. Key topics include:

• Reading Comprehension (RC) passages with inferential and direct questions
• Fill in the Blanks (grammar and vocabulary-based)
• Sentence Correction and Error Identification
• Para Jumbles (Jumbled Sentences)
• Synonyms, Antonyms, and Vocabulary
• Idioms and Phrases
• One-Word Substitution
• Verbal Reasoning

2. Mathematical Skills

This section covers school-level mathematics and quantitative aptitude. Speed and accuracy both matter here. Key topics include:

• Number System and Number Properties
• HCF and LCM
• Percentages, Profit and Loss
• Simple and Compound Interest
• Ratio and Proportion, Mixture and Alligation
• Averages, Time, Speed and Distance
• Time and Work, Pipes and Cisterns
• Algebra — Equations and Inequalities
• Geometry and Mensuration
• Probability, Permutation and Combination
• Number Series and Sequences

3. Data Analysis and Sufficiency

This section tests your ability to read, interpret, and draw conclusions from data. Key topics include:

• Data Interpretation — Tables, Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs, Mixed Graphs
• Data Sufficiency Problems
• Caselets (Data Interpretation in text format)
• Data Comparison and Data Relationships
• Venn Diagrams

4. Intelligence and Critical Reasoning

This section tests your logical and analytical thinking. It includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Key topics include:

• Coding-Decoding
• Blood Relations
• Direction and Distance Tests
• Syllogisms and Statement-Conclusion
• Puzzles and Seating Arrangements
• Analogy and Classification
• Input-Output Problems
• Critical Reasoning — Strengthen / Weaken Arguments
• Series Completion (Number and Letter)

5. Indian and Global Environment

This section covers current events, business affairs, and general knowledge. Remember that this section does NOT affect your composite percentile, but some institutes may use this section score during shortlisting. Key topics include:

• Current Business and Economic Events in India
• International Trade, Agreements, and Relations
• Government Policies, Schemes, and Union Budget
• Corporate Affairs and Business GK
• Banking, Finance, and Capital Markets
• Sports — National and International
• Science and Technology Developments
• Awards, Honours, and Appointments
• History, Geography, and Indian Polity Basics

MAT 2027 Admit Card

AIMA releases the MAT 2027 admit card separately for each session and each mode (PBT and CBT). The admit card is typically released 3-7 days before the exam. You must download it from the official portal at mat.aima.in — AIMA does not send admit cards by post or email.

For the upcoming MAT December 2026 session, the admit card for PBT will be released on December 17, 2026, and for CBT on December 24, 2026. For MAT 2027 sessions, admit card dates will be announced along with each session’s schedule on mat.aima.in.

How to Download the MAT 2027 Admit Card

• Go to mat.aima.in and log in with your registered email address and password.
• Go to your Applicant Dashboard and look for the "Admit Card" link for the relevant session and mode.
• Click on "Download Admit Card" and save the file.
• Check all details on the admit card (name, roll number, exam venue, exam date, and exam time).
• Take a printout and keep it safely until the entire admission process is over.

What is Printed on the MAT Admit Card?

• Your name, roll number, and registration number
• Exam date, reporting time, and exam timing
• Exam venue address (for PBT and CBT) or login instructions for IBT
• Your photograph and signature
• Exam day instructions and rules

You must carry your MAT admit card to the test centre on exam day. Without it, you will not be allowed into the exam hall. Also carry a valid government-issued photo ID — Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or passport.

MBA Colleges Accepting MAT Score 2027

More than 600 MBA and PGDM institutes across India accept MAT scores. These include private B-schools, deemed universities, and state-level management institutes spread across every region of the country. AIMA rates the participating institutes and publishes the full list on mat.aima.in. You can search for institutes by state, rating, and specialisation on the portal.

Here are some well-known MBA colleges that accept MAT scores:

The full list of MAT 2027 participating institutes is published on mat.aima.in. Check each college’s official website for its specific MAT percentile cutoff, selection process, programme fees, and admission timeline for the 2027-28 academic year.

Source: AIMA Participating Institute List — mat.aima.in

MAT 2027 Preparation Tips

MAT 2027 covers five sections, and each needs a different preparation approach. Here is a section-wise strategy to help you prepare effectively:

Language Comprehension

• Read English newspapers (The Hindu, Business Standard) daily to build reading speed and vocabulary.
• Practise Reading Comprehension passages — time yourself to answer within limits.
• Build vocabulary using Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis.
• Revise grammar rules from Wren & Martin’s High School English Grammar and Composition.
• Practise Para Jumbles regularly — they need pattern recognition and logical sequencing.

Mathematical Skills

• Start with NCERT Maths (Classes 8-10) to build your fundamentals in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
• Use R.S. Aggarwal’s Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations for topic-wise practice.
• Learn shortcut methods and formulas — speed is as important as accuracy in this section.
• Take section-wise timed tests every week to track your improvement.
• Focus more on Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, and Algebra — these are high-frequency MAT topics.

Data Analysis and Sufficiency

• Practise DI sets from previous year MAT papers — get comfortable with all chart types: bar, pie, line, and table.
• For Data Sufficiency, learn to identify quickly whether given statements are individually or jointly sufficient.
• Work on speed — DI sets are time-consuming if you try to calculate everything. Learn estimation techniques.

Intelligence and Critical Reasoning

• Practise puzzles and seating arrangements daily — these are time-intensive and need focus.
• Use R.S. Aggarwal’s A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning for systematic practice.
• For Critical Reasoning, practise from GMAT Official Guide — the question formats are similar to MAT.
• Work on Syllogisms and Blood Relations through short timed sets.

Indian and Global Environment

• Follow current events — read a business newspaper or a monthly GK capsule.
• Make weekly notes of key economic events, government schemes, business GK, and sports updates.
• This section does NOT affect your composite percentile, so 20-30 minutes of daily reading is enough.
• Do not ignore it completely — some institutes consider this section score during shortlisting.

Overall Strategy for MAT 2027

• Start your preparation at least 3-6 months before your target session.
• Take full-length MAT mock tests regularly and analyse your mistakes section by section.
• In the exam, attempt Indian & Global Environment last since it does not affect your percentile — use remaining time for it.
• Aim for accuracy over speed in Mathematical Skills and Data Analysis — negative marking at -0.25 adds up quickly.
• If you are not confident about an answer, skip it rather than guessing randomly.
• One of MAT’s biggest advantages is that you can appear four times a year. If your first attempt score is not satisfying, use the next session to improve.