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MAT (Management Aptitude Test) 2026 is conducted by AIMA (All India Management Association) across four sessions: February, May, September, and December. The exam has five sections and 150 questions; only four sections contribute to your composite score on a 200-800 scale. AIMA then assigns a percentile to your composite, and B-schools use it as the primary shortlisting filter. MAT May 2026 concluded on June 14, 2026, and the scorecard was expected by the first week of July 2026 at mat.aima.in. This page maps MAT marks vs percentile for every 2026 session and shows what your score means for college admissions.
- A composite score of 750 or above (out of 800) places you at or above the 99th percentile in MAT 2026.
- Most reputed MAT-accepting B-schools require a percentile of 90 or above, which corresponds to a composite of around 650-670.
- MAT composite score counts only 4 of the 5 sections — the Economic and Business Environment section appears on your scorecard but does not count toward percentile.
- MAT May 2026 was held in two modes: PBT on May 31 and CBT on June 14, 2026; both report on the same equated 200-800 scale.
- A raw score of around 90 out of 120 across the four counted sections translates to a composite near 650 and a percentile around 88-94.
- MAT September 2026 is open for registration — PBT is on September 13 and CBT on September 20, 2026.
- The score-to-percentile ladder is very stable across sessions since 2023: a composite of 750 or more has yielded 99th percentile every session.
MAT 2026 Marks vs Percentile: Key Summary
- Conducting body: AIMA (All India Management Association)
- Exam modes: PBT, CBT, IBT — all equated to the same 200-800 composite scale
- Only 4 of 5 sections count toward composite score and percentile
- 99th percentile requires a composite of 750 or more (consistent across all recent sessions)
- 90th percentile requires approximately 650-670 composite score
- Over 600 B-schools across India accept MAT scores for MBA and PGDM admission
What is MAT Marks vs Percentile?
MAT marks vs percentile tells you where your composite score stands relative to every candidate in that session. AIMA does not release an all-India rank for MAT — it assigns a composite percentile alongside your composite score. A percentile of 88 means you scored higher than 88 out of every 100 candidates in that session.
Your MAT scorecard shows two core outputs: the composite score (200-800) and the composite percentile (0-99.99). B-schools use both. Most set a minimum percentile for shortlisting, while some also check the composite score as a secondary filter for final merit lists.
Because MAT runs across multiple sessions and three test modes — PBT, CBT, and IBT — AIMA equates all scores to a common scale before assigning percentiles. Your mode choice does not affect your relative standing in the candidate pool.
Four key distinctions before reading the conversion table:
- Composite score vs raw score: Your raw marks from four sections are scaled to the 200-800 range. Answering all 120 counted questions correctly gives a composite of 800.
- Percentile vs percentage: A 90 percentile does not mean 90% marks. It means you outperformed 90% of all candidates in your session.
- Section 5 is excluded: The Economic and Business Environment section score appears on your scorecard but plays no role in composite score or percentile computation.
- Mode-neutral scoring: PBT, CBT, and IBT scores are equated before percentile assignment, so your format choice does not disadvantage you.
MAT 2026: Important Dates
Upcoming events appear first in chronological order, followed by past events from oldest to most recent.
Event Session Date Status PBT Registration Last Date September 2026 September 7, 2026 Upcoming PBT Admit Card September 2026 September 10, 2026 Upcoming PBT Exam September 2026 September 13, 2026 Upcoming CBT Registration Last Date September 2026 September 14, 2026 Upcoming CBT Admit Card September 2026 September 17, 2026 Upcoming CBT Exam September 2026 September 20, 2026 Upcoming Result / Scorecard September 2026 Last week of September 2026 (Expected) Upcoming All Events December 2026 To be announced by AIMA Upcoming PBT Exam February 2026 March 1, 2026 (Over) Over CBT Exam February 2026 March 8, 2026 (Over) Over Scorecard Released February 2026 April 2026 (Over) Over PBT Exam May 2026 May 31, 2026 (Over) Over CBT Exam May 2026 June 14, 2026 (Over) Over Scorecard Expected May 2026 1st week of July 2026 (Over) Over
Source: - AIMA Official Website
Note on session naming: AIMA names sessions by registration month. The February 2026 session opened for registration in February, but the actual PBT was held on March 1 and CBT on March 8, 2026.
Factors Affecting MAT Marks vs Percentile
Several variables shift the MAT marks vs percentile relationship from one session to the next. Understanding these helps you set a realistic target and choose the right session.
1. Candidate pool size and composition
May and September sessions draw the largest candidate pools. A larger, more competitive pool compresses the top percentile bands. The same composite of 650 may yield 92 percentile in a lean December session but only 89 percentile in a large May session.
2. Paper difficulty across dates and modes
PBT and CBT papers can vary slightly in difficulty across dates within the same session. AIMA’s score equating process corrects for this variation before percentile calculation. A harder paper does not directly lower your composite once equating is applied.
3. Score equating across PBT, CBT, and IBT
All three modes use an identical structure but may differ marginally in item difficulty. AIMA’s statistical equating ensures scores are comparable across modes. Your mode choice affects logistics only — not your composite or percentile.
4. Performance distribution across the four counted sections
The composite is the sum of four scaled section scores. No single section can fully compensate for a very weak one. Candidates at the 90th percentile typically score 75 or above on each scaled section (out of 100). Balanced performance across all four sections consistently outperforms a spike in one area.
5. Impact of negative marking
MAT deducts 0.25 marks per wrong answer. Four incorrect answers erase the gain from one correct answer. At the 600-650 composite band, getting 15 extra questions wrong costs you roughly 4 marks raw — about 20 composite points and 3-5 percentile points. Selective attempt strategies deliver more than attempting all questions randomly.
6. Time spent on Section 5 during the exam
The Economic and Business Environment section does not count toward composite or percentile. Spending excessive time on Section 5 reduces the time available for the four sections that actually count. Most high scorers allocate no more than 10-12 minutes to Section 5 after completing the other four.
MAT Marks vs Percentile 2026 Table
The table below maps MAT 2026 composite score bands to expected percentile ranges. Figures are indicative estimates based on session data from May 2024 to February 2026. AIMA does not publish an official score-to-percentile table — use these as planning benchmarks, not official predictions. May 2026 session-specific data will be added once AIMA publishes the full scorecard statistics.
Composite Score (out of 800) Approx Raw Score (4 Sections, out of 120) Expected Percentile College Tier Options 750-800 110-120 99.00-99.99 Great Lakes Chennai, XIMB Bhubaneswar, SDMIMD Mysore, LIBA Chennai 700-749 100-109 95.00-98.99 BIMTECH Greater Noida, XIME Bangalore, JAGSOM Bangalore, Jaipuria Institute Noida 650-699 90-99 88.00-94.99 Rajagiri Business School Kochi, SIMREE Mumbai, Christ University Bangalore, Amity Business School 600-649 80-89 75.00-87.99 IFIM Business School Bangalore, Delhi School of Business, ISBM Pune, CIMP Patna 550-599 70-79 60.00-74.99 IPE Hyderabad, IBS Hyderabad, IMS Ghaziabad, JIMS Rohini Delhi, FOSTIIMA Delhi 500-549 60-69 44.00-59.99 AIMS Institutes Bangalore, GITAM Visakhapatnam, ITM Group of Institutions 450-499 50-59 29.00-43.99 Mid-tier regional B-schools and PGDM programs with lower cutoffs 400-449 40-49 16.00-28.99 Select self-finance programs; options are limited at this composite range Below 400 Below 40 Below 16 Very limited; a retake in September or December 2026 is strongly advisable
Planning note: This table is a guide based on historical session trends — not an official AIMA prediction. Actual percentiles vary by session difficulty and candidate pool size.
Source: - AIMA Official Website
What does a MAT 2026 composite of 650 mean for your admissions chances? Based on data from May 2024 through February 2026, a composite of 650 has consistently placed candidates between the 88th and 94th percentile in all modes and sessions. This band is competitive for a solid set of PGDM programs across India.
MAT Marks vs Percentile: Session and Mode-Wise Analysis
MAT 2026 runs four named sessions. Each session offers PBT, CBT, and IBT modes. The marks-vs-percentile relationship is consistent across all of them, but candidate pool size can create small boundary shifts between sessions.
February 2026 Session (Completed)
The February 2026 session held PBT on March 1 and CBT on March 8. The scorecard was released in April 2026. Data from this session confirms the stable pattern seen since 2023: a composite of 750 or above yielded 99th percentile, and 650-699 gave 88-94 percentile. February session candidates target July-August 2026 admission deadlines.
May 2026 Session (Scorecard Expected)
MAT May 2026 PBT was held on May 31 and CBT on June 14. The scorecard was expected by the first week of July 2026. If you appeared in the May 2026 session, check mat.aima.in for your scorecard download link. May session candidates typically target colleges with August-October 2026 intake deadlines. Section-wise composite score band data for May 2026 will be updated on this page once AIMA releases statistics.
September 2026 Session (Registration Open)
The September 2026 session is now open for registration. PBT is on September 13 and CBT on September 20. Registration for PBT closes September 7 and for CBT on September 14. September is the most popular MAT session, with the largest registered candidate pool of the year. If you are targeting a January 2027 batch admission, this is your best remaining 2026 attempt.
December 2026 Session (Dates Awaited)
AIMA has not yet announced December 2026 dates. Historically, December sessions run in the third or fourth week of December. Check the official AIMA website for the announcement, typically made two to three months in advance.
PBT vs CBT vs IBT: Does the Mode Affect Your Percentile?
All three modes follow the same structure: 150 questions across 5 sections in 120 minutes. AIMA’s score equating removes any advantage or disadvantage from your mode choice — your composite and percentile are mode-neutral.
Mode Format Date Flexibility Score Scale After Equating PBT (Paper Based Test) OMR sheet at a test centre Low — single fixed date 200-800 CBT (Computer Based Test) Online at a test centre Medium — one to two dates 200-800 IBT (Internet Based Test) Online from home, AI-proctored High — multiple date slots 200-800
MAT Marks vs Percentile: Section-Wise Score Bands
Your MAT scorecard shows a scaled score (0-100) for each of the five sections. The composite is built from the four counted sections only. Knowing which section scores drive your composite helps you target your preparation for the September 2026 session.
Section Questions Counted for Composite? Max Scaled Score Language Comprehension (LC) 30 Yes 100 Mathematical Skills (MS) 30 Yes 100 Data Analysis and Sufficiency (DAS) 30 Yes 100 Intelligence and Critical Reasoning (ICR) 30 Yes 100 Economic and Business Environment (EBE) 30 No — excluded from composite Reported separately on scorecard
The composite aggregates all four counted section scores. The table below shows the average scaled section score you need to reach common target percentiles. Balanced performance across all four sections is far more effective than a spike in one with a neglected other.
Target Composite Score Expected Percentile Avg Scaled Score Needed per Section (approx) 750-800 99+ 92 or above 700-749 95-99 83-91 650-699 88-94 75-82 600-649 75-87 67-74 550-599 60-74 58-66 500-549 44-59 50-57
Mathematical Skills and Data Analysis and Sufficiency together account for half of your composite. A weak showing in these two quantitative sections has the single largest negative impact on your overall MAT marks vs percentile outcome. Most candidates at the 90th percentile and above score 75 or more in each of these two sections.
Some colleges apply section-wise minimum score cutoffs. Mathematical Skills and Language Comprehension cutoffs are the most common. Check each target college’s official admission brochure before applying, as a strong composite does not override a section-level shortfall.
MAT Previous Year Marks vs Percentile Trends
The table below tracks how MAT composite scores mapped to percentiles across five recent sessions, from December 2023 to February 2026. The data comes from coaching institute analyses and education portals; AIMA does not publish an official session-wise mapping. The 99th percentile threshold of 750 or above has held without change in every session over this period.
Composite Score Band Dec 2023 May 2024 Sep 2024 May 2025 Feb 2026 750-800 99-99.99 99-99.99 99-99.99 99-99.99 99-99.99 700-749 94-98 95-98 95-98 95-98 95-98 650-699 87-93 88-94 88-94 89-94 88-94 600-649 74-86 75-87 75-88 76-88 75-87 550-599 58-73 60-74 61-74 62-75 60-74 500-549 42-57 44-59 45-60 46-61 44-59 450-499 27-41 29-43 30-44 31-45 29-43 Below 450 Below 27 Below 29 Below 30 Below 31 Below 29
Note: Percentile figures above are indicative estimates based on historical MAT session data. AIMA does not publish an official score-to-percentile conversion chart.
One visible trend: the mid-range band (500-549) has seen a gradual upward drift of 2-3 percentile points over two years. Average student performance in this band is improving. The top bands (650 and above) remain nearly identical across all sessions — you can safely use any recent session’s data as a reliable planning benchmark for September 2026.
MAT May 2026 data will be incorporated into this table once AIMA publishes full session statistics alongside the scorecard release.
What is a Good Score in MAT 2026?
A good MAT score depends on your target college tier. The table below maps composite score and percentile bands to college tiers to help you set a realistic goal.
Performance Level Composite Score Expected Percentile Representative Colleges Exceptional 750-800 99+ Great Lakes Chennai, XIMB Bhubaneswar, SDMIMD Mysore, LIBA Chennai Very Good 700-749 95-99 BIMTECH Greater Noida, XIME Bangalore, JAGSOM Bangalore, Jaipuria Institute Noida Good 650-699 88-94 Rajagiri Business School, SIMREE Mumbai, Christ University Bangalore, Amity Business School Above Average 600-649 75-87 IFIM Business School, Delhi School of Business, ISBM Pune, CIMP Patna Average 550-599 60-74 IPE Hyderabad, IBS Hyderabad, IMS Ghaziabad, FOSTIIMA Delhi Below Average 500-549 44-59 AIMS Institutes Bangalore, GITAM Visakhapatnam, ITM Group Low Below 500 Below 44 Consider reappearing in September or December 2026
For a strong MBA admission, aim for a composite of 650 or above (88th percentile or higher). Most reputed MAT-accepting B-schools set their shortlisting cutoff between 85 and 90 percentile. A composite of 700 or more (95th percentile) opens the top tier of MAT-affiliated colleges.
A good MAT score alone does not guarantee admission. Most B-schools weight Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) performance, academic record, and work experience alongside your MAT marks vs percentile standing. A 90th percentile composite combined with a strong GD-PI performance is typically sufficient for admission to a solid PGDM program.
Planning Around the September 2026 Session
MAT allows you to appear in all four sessions of a year. Many B-schools consider your best score across all valid sessions. If your May 2026 composite is below your target, register for September 2026 before the PBT deadline on September 7. PBT is on September 13 and CBT on September 20. A second attempt before most January 2027 batch deadlines is within reach.
How MAT Percentile is Calculated
AIMA uses a three-step process to convert your raw exam performance into a composite score and percentile.
Step 1: Raw Score Calculation
Each of the five sections has 30 questions. You earn +1 for every correct answer and lose -0.25 for every wrong answer. Unattempted questions carry zero. The maximum raw score for the four counted sections combined is 120. The Economic and Business Environment section is scored but excluded from the composite calculation.
Step 2: Scaling and Composite Score
AIMA scales each section’s raw score to a 0-100 range. This step also accounts for any difficulty differences across PBT, CBT, and IBT modes in the same session. The four scaled section scores are then combined and mapped to the 200-800 composite range using this approximate formula:
Composite Score = (Aggregate Raw Score / 120) x 600 + 200
Three examples: a raw of 108 gives composite 740; a raw of 80 gives composite 600; a raw of 60 gives composite 500. Score equating ensures a PBT candidate is not disadvantaged compared to a CBT candidate even if papers differed in difficulty.
Step 3: Percentile Computation
Once AIMA collects all scaled composites for a session, it ranks all candidates in ascending order. Your percentile is:
Percentile = (Candidates who scored below you / Total candidates in the session) x 100
Each section also gets its own section-level percentile using the same formula. All values appear on your MAT scorecard. Because percentiles are session-specific, the same composite of 660 can yield different percentiles in May and September depending on that session’s candidate pool.
How to Use MAT Marks vs Percentile for College Prediction
Your MAT composite and percentile are the first filters B-schools apply. Here is a four-step guide to using this page for your college shortlist.
Step 1: Find Your Score Band
Once your MAT May 2026 scorecard is available, locate your composite in the core conversion table above. Note the percentile band it falls in. This is your starting filter for a college list.
Step 2: Build a Three-Tier Shortlist
Divide your college list into safe bets (clearly above the cutoff), targets (at or near the cutoff), and stretch colleges (slightly below your current score but within range of a retake). A typical shortlist has three to four colleges in each tier across different states and cities.
Step 3: Check Eligibility Beyond the Score
Most B-schools set minimum academic criteria alongside the percentile cutoff — typically 50% in graduation. Some require at least one year of work experience for certain specialisations. A 90 percentile MAT score does not override an eligibility shortfall — check the college’s admissions criteria first.
Step 4: Plan for a Retake if Needed
MAT happens four times a year. If your May 2026 composite is below target, register for the September 2026 session — PBT on September 13 and CBT on September 20. Most colleges that accept MAT consider your best score across sessions. Appearing in September 2026 gives you a direct second attempt before most January 2027 batch deadlines close.
MAT Marks vs Percentile FAQs
Ques. What is the maximum composite score in MAT 2026?
Ans. The maximum composite score in MAT is 800. AIMA reports composite scores on a 200-800 scale. Achieving 800 requires near-perfect performance across all four counted sections: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Intelligence and Critical Reasoning. Very low scores are reported as 199 rather than dropping below 200.
Ques. What MAT percentile do I need for BIMTECH Greater Noida or XIME Bangalore?
Ans. XIME Bangalore and the top programs at BIMTECH Greater Noida typically require 95 percentile or above. BIMTECH’s core PGDM program sets a cutoff in the 90-95 percentile range for MAT applicants. For Christ University Bangalore and SIMREE Mumbai, the usual threshold is 85-90 percentile. Always verify the current year’s cutoff on the official college admissions page, as these figures can shift cycle to cycle.
Ques. Does MAT give an all-India rank like JEE or NEET?
Ans. No. AIMA does not publish an all-India rank for MAT. Your scorecard shows a composite score (200-800) and a percentile. Colleges use the percentile to compare candidates across sessions and modes. There is no published merit list or rank card for MAT at any level.
Ques. How long is a MAT score valid for college admissions?
Ans. Most B-schools accept MAT scores for the admission cycle immediately following the session. A May 2026 score is generally valid for the 2026-27 admissions cycle. Some colleges accept scores from the last one or two sessions. Validity rules vary by institution — check the admissions policy on each college’s official website before applying.
Ques. Which sections are counted for the MAT 2026 composite score?
Ans. Four sections count toward the MAT composite: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Intelligence and Critical Reasoning. The fifth section, Economic and Business Environment, appears on your scorecard with its own scaled score and percentile — but it does not contribute to the composite or the overall percentile that colleges use for shortlisting.
Ques. What is the difference between MAT composite score and percentile?
Ans. Your composite score (200-800) is an absolute measure of your scaled performance across the four counted sections. Your percentile is a relative measure — it tells you what share of that session’s candidates scored below you. The same composite of 650 may yield 92 percentile in one session and 88 in another, depending on the candidate pool. Both values appear on your official scorecard, and colleges evaluate both.
Ques. Is 90 percentile a good score in MAT 2026?
Ans. Yes, 90 percentile is a strong score in MAT 2026. It corresponds to a composite of roughly 650-670 and makes you competitive at colleges like SIMREE Mumbai, Christ University Bangalore, and Amity Business School. For the highest-tier MAT-accepting colleges such as XIME and top BIMTECH programs, you need 95 percentile or above. For most well-regarded PGDM programs across India, 90 percentile is a comfortable shortlisting score.
Ques. What does a MAT composite score of 600 mean for admissions?
Ans. A composite of 600 places you in the 75th-87th percentile range. This is an above-average performance. Colleges including IFIM Business School Bangalore, Delhi School of Business, and CIMP Patna typically set their MAT cutoffs at or below this band. You are competitive at a solid set of PGDM programs, though top-tier MAT colleges require a higher composite.
Ques. How do PBT and CBT scores compare in MAT 2026?
Ans. PBT and CBT scores are equated by AIMA before percentile assignment. Your mode choice plays no role in your relative standing. A composite of 700 earned in PBT and a composite of 700 earned in CBT represent the same performance level post-equating. Colleges receive only the final equated composite and percentile — there is no indicator on the scorecard of which mode you used.
Ques. How many times can I take MAT in 2026?
Ans. You can appear in all four MAT 2026 sessions: February (over), May (over), September (PBT September 13, CBT September 20), and December (dates to be announced). Within each session, you can choose one mode: PBT, CBT, or IBT. That gives a maximum of four MAT attempts in 2026. Many students take two sessions — May and September — to have two scored attempts before the main January 2027 batch deadline cycle.
Ques. When does MAT September 2026 registration close?
Ans. MAT September 2026 PBT registration closes on September 7, 2026. The CBT registration deadline is September 14, 2026. The PBT exam is on September 13 and CBT on September 20. Admit cards for PBT are available from September 10 and for CBT from September 17. Register at mat.aima.in before the deadline for your preferred mode.
Ques. Does negative marking significantly affect the MAT composite score?
Ans. Yes, significantly. Each wrong answer costs -0.25 marks. Scoring 80 correct and 20 wrong across four sections gives you an effective raw of 75, not 80. That 5-mark gap translates to 25 composite points. In the 600-650 composite band, 25 points can shift your percentile by 5-8 points — enough to move you into or out of a target college’s shortlist. Calibrate your attempt count carefully rather than guessing randomly on uncertain questions.
*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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MAT (Management Aptitude Test) 2026 is conducted by AIMA (All India Management Association) across four sessions: February, May, September, and December. The exam has five sections and 150 questions; only four sections contribute to your composite score on a 200-800 scale. AIMA then assigns a percentile to your composite, and B-schools use it as the primary shortlisting filter. MAT May 2026 concluded on June 14, 2026, and the scorecard was expected by the first week of July 2026 at mat.aima.in. This page maps MAT marks vs percentile for every 2026 session and shows what your score means for college admissions.
- A composite score of 750 or above (out of 800) places you at or above the 99th percentile in MAT 2026.
- Most reputed MAT-accepting B-schools require a percentile of 90 or above, which corresponds to a composite of around 650-670.
- MAT composite score counts only 4 of the 5 sections — the Economic and Business Environment section appears on your scorecard but does not count toward percentile.
- MAT May 2026 was held in two modes: PBT on May 31 and CBT on June 14, 2026; both report on the same equated 200-800 scale.
- A raw score of around 90 out of 120 across the four counted sections translates to a composite near 650 and a percentile around 88-94.
- MAT September 2026 is open for registration — PBT is on September 13 and CBT on September 20, 2026.
- The score-to-percentile ladder is very stable across sessions since 2023: a composite of 750 or more has yielded 99th percentile every session.
MAT 2026 Marks vs Percentile: Key Summary
- Conducting body: AIMA (All India Management Association)
- Exam modes: PBT, CBT, IBT — all equated to the same 200-800 composite scale
- Only 4 of 5 sections count toward composite score and percentile
- 99th percentile requires a composite of 750 or more (consistent across all recent sessions)
- 90th percentile requires approximately 650-670 composite score
- Over 600 B-schools across India accept MAT scores for MBA and PGDM admission
What is MAT Marks vs Percentile?
MAT marks vs percentile tells you where your composite score stands relative to every candidate in that session. AIMA does not release an all-India rank for MAT — it assigns a composite percentile alongside your composite score. A percentile of 88 means you scored higher than 88 out of every 100 candidates in that session.
Your MAT scorecard shows two core outputs: the composite score (200-800) and the composite percentile (0-99.99). B-schools use both. Most set a minimum percentile for shortlisting, while some also check the composite score as a secondary filter for final merit lists.
Because MAT runs across multiple sessions and three test modes — PBT, CBT, and IBT — AIMA equates all scores to a common scale before assigning percentiles. Your mode choice does not affect your relative standing in the candidate pool.
Four key distinctions before reading the conversion table:
- Composite score vs raw score: Your raw marks from four sections are scaled to the 200-800 range. Answering all 120 counted questions correctly gives a composite of 800.
- Percentile vs percentage: A 90 percentile does not mean 90% marks. It means you outperformed 90% of all candidates in your session.
- Section 5 is excluded: The Economic and Business Environment section score appears on your scorecard but plays no role in composite score or percentile computation.
- Mode-neutral scoring: PBT, CBT, and IBT scores are equated before percentile assignment, so your format choice does not disadvantage you.
MAT 2026: Important Dates
Upcoming events appear first in chronological order, followed by past events from oldest to most recent.
| Event | Session | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PBT Registration Last Date | September 2026 | September 7, 2026 | Upcoming |
| PBT Admit Card | September 2026 | September 10, 2026 | Upcoming |
| PBT Exam | September 2026 | September 13, 2026 | Upcoming |
| CBT Registration Last Date | September 2026 | September 14, 2026 | Upcoming |
| CBT Admit Card | September 2026 | September 17, 2026 | Upcoming |
| CBT Exam | September 2026 | September 20, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Result / Scorecard | September 2026 | Last week of September 2026 (Expected) | Upcoming |
| All Events | December 2026 | To be announced by AIMA | Upcoming |
| PBT Exam | February 2026 | March 1, 2026 (Over) | Over |
| CBT Exam | February 2026 | March 8, 2026 (Over) | Over |
| Scorecard Released | February 2026 | April 2026 (Over) | Over |
| PBT Exam | May 2026 | May 31, 2026 (Over) | Over |
| CBT Exam | May 2026 | June 14, 2026 (Over) | Over |
| Scorecard Expected | May 2026 | 1st week of July 2026 (Over) | Over |
Source: - AIMA Official Website
Note on session naming: AIMA names sessions by registration month. The February 2026 session opened for registration in February, but the actual PBT was held on March 1 and CBT on March 8, 2026.
Factors Affecting MAT Marks vs Percentile
Several variables shift the MAT marks vs percentile relationship from one session to the next. Understanding these helps you set a realistic target and choose the right session.
1. Candidate pool size and composition
May and September sessions draw the largest candidate pools. A larger, more competitive pool compresses the top percentile bands. The same composite of 650 may yield 92 percentile in a lean December session but only 89 percentile in a large May session.
2. Paper difficulty across dates and modes
PBT and CBT papers can vary slightly in difficulty across dates within the same session. AIMA’s score equating process corrects for this variation before percentile calculation. A harder paper does not directly lower your composite once equating is applied.
3. Score equating across PBT, CBT, and IBT
All three modes use an identical structure but may differ marginally in item difficulty. AIMA’s statistical equating ensures scores are comparable across modes. Your mode choice affects logistics only — not your composite or percentile.
4. Performance distribution across the four counted sections
The composite is the sum of four scaled section scores. No single section can fully compensate for a very weak one. Candidates at the 90th percentile typically score 75 or above on each scaled section (out of 100). Balanced performance across all four sections consistently outperforms a spike in one area.
5. Impact of negative marking
MAT deducts 0.25 marks per wrong answer. Four incorrect answers erase the gain from one correct answer. At the 600-650 composite band, getting 15 extra questions wrong costs you roughly 4 marks raw — about 20 composite points and 3-5 percentile points. Selective attempt strategies deliver more than attempting all questions randomly.
6. Time spent on Section 5 during the exam
The Economic and Business Environment section does not count toward composite or percentile. Spending excessive time on Section 5 reduces the time available for the four sections that actually count. Most high scorers allocate no more than 10-12 minutes to Section 5 after completing the other four.
MAT Marks vs Percentile 2026 Table
The table below maps MAT 2026 composite score bands to expected percentile ranges. Figures are indicative estimates based on session data from May 2024 to February 2026. AIMA does not publish an official score-to-percentile table — use these as planning benchmarks, not official predictions. May 2026 session-specific data will be added once AIMA publishes the full scorecard statistics.
| Composite Score (out of 800) | Approx Raw Score (4 Sections, out of 120) | Expected Percentile | College Tier Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 750-800 | 110-120 | 99.00-99.99 | Great Lakes Chennai, XIMB Bhubaneswar, SDMIMD Mysore, LIBA Chennai |
| 700-749 | 100-109 | 95.00-98.99 | BIMTECH Greater Noida, XIME Bangalore, JAGSOM Bangalore, Jaipuria Institute Noida |
| 650-699 | 90-99 | 88.00-94.99 | Rajagiri Business School Kochi, SIMREE Mumbai, Christ University Bangalore, Amity Business School |
| 600-649 | 80-89 | 75.00-87.99 | IFIM Business School Bangalore, Delhi School of Business, ISBM Pune, CIMP Patna |
| 550-599 | 70-79 | 60.00-74.99 | IPE Hyderabad, IBS Hyderabad, IMS Ghaziabad, JIMS Rohini Delhi, FOSTIIMA Delhi |
| 500-549 | 60-69 | 44.00-59.99 | AIMS Institutes Bangalore, GITAM Visakhapatnam, ITM Group of Institutions |
| 450-499 | 50-59 | 29.00-43.99 | Mid-tier regional B-schools and PGDM programs with lower cutoffs |
| 400-449 | 40-49 | 16.00-28.99 | Select self-finance programs; options are limited at this composite range |
| Below 400 | Below 40 | Below 16 | Very limited; a retake in September or December 2026 is strongly advisable |
Planning note: This table is a guide based on historical session trends — not an official AIMA prediction. Actual percentiles vary by session difficulty and candidate pool size.
Source: - AIMA Official Website
What does a MAT 2026 composite of 650 mean for your admissions chances? Based on data from May 2024 through February 2026, a composite of 650 has consistently placed candidates between the 88th and 94th percentile in all modes and sessions. This band is competitive for a solid set of PGDM programs across India.
MAT Marks vs Percentile: Session and Mode-Wise Analysis
MAT 2026 runs four named sessions. Each session offers PBT, CBT, and IBT modes. The marks-vs-percentile relationship is consistent across all of them, but candidate pool size can create small boundary shifts between sessions.
February 2026 Session (Completed)
The February 2026 session held PBT on March 1 and CBT on March 8. The scorecard was released in April 2026. Data from this session confirms the stable pattern seen since 2023: a composite of 750 or above yielded 99th percentile, and 650-699 gave 88-94 percentile. February session candidates target July-August 2026 admission deadlines.
May 2026 Session (Scorecard Expected)
MAT May 2026 PBT was held on May 31 and CBT on June 14. The scorecard was expected by the first week of July 2026. If you appeared in the May 2026 session, check mat.aima.in for your scorecard download link. May session candidates typically target colleges with August-October 2026 intake deadlines. Section-wise composite score band data for May 2026 will be updated on this page once AIMA releases statistics.
September 2026 Session (Registration Open)
The September 2026 session is now open for registration. PBT is on September 13 and CBT on September 20. Registration for PBT closes September 7 and for CBT on September 14. September is the most popular MAT session, with the largest registered candidate pool of the year. If you are targeting a January 2027 batch admission, this is your best remaining 2026 attempt.
December 2026 Session (Dates Awaited)
AIMA has not yet announced December 2026 dates. Historically, December sessions run in the third or fourth week of December. Check the official AIMA website for the announcement, typically made two to three months in advance.
PBT vs CBT vs IBT: Does the Mode Affect Your Percentile?
All three modes follow the same structure: 150 questions across 5 sections in 120 minutes. AIMA’s score equating removes any advantage or disadvantage from your mode choice — your composite and percentile are mode-neutral.
| Mode | Format | Date Flexibility | Score Scale After Equating |
|---|---|---|---|
| PBT (Paper Based Test) | OMR sheet at a test centre | Low — single fixed date | 200-800 |
| CBT (Computer Based Test) | Online at a test centre | Medium — one to two dates | 200-800 |
| IBT (Internet Based Test) | Online from home, AI-proctored | High — multiple date slots | 200-800 |
MAT Marks vs Percentile: Section-Wise Score Bands
Your MAT scorecard shows a scaled score (0-100) for each of the five sections. The composite is built from the four counted sections only. Knowing which section scores drive your composite helps you target your preparation for the September 2026 session.
| Section | Questions | Counted for Composite? | Max Scaled Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Comprehension (LC) | 30 | Yes | 100 |
| Mathematical Skills (MS) | 30 | Yes | 100 |
| Data Analysis and Sufficiency (DAS) | 30 | Yes | 100 |
| Intelligence and Critical Reasoning (ICR) | 30 | Yes | 100 |
| Economic and Business Environment (EBE) | 30 | No — excluded from composite | Reported separately on scorecard |
The composite aggregates all four counted section scores. The table below shows the average scaled section score you need to reach common target percentiles. Balanced performance across all four sections is far more effective than a spike in one with a neglected other.
| Target Composite Score | Expected Percentile | Avg Scaled Score Needed per Section (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| 750-800 | 99+ | 92 or above |
| 700-749 | 95-99 | 83-91 |
| 650-699 | 88-94 | 75-82 |
| 600-649 | 75-87 | 67-74 |
| 550-599 | 60-74 | 58-66 |
| 500-549 | 44-59 | 50-57 |
Mathematical Skills and Data Analysis and Sufficiency together account for half of your composite. A weak showing in these two quantitative sections has the single largest negative impact on your overall MAT marks vs percentile outcome. Most candidates at the 90th percentile and above score 75 or more in each of these two sections.
Some colleges apply section-wise minimum score cutoffs. Mathematical Skills and Language Comprehension cutoffs are the most common. Check each target college’s official admission brochure before applying, as a strong composite does not override a section-level shortfall.
MAT Previous Year Marks vs Percentile Trends
The table below tracks how MAT composite scores mapped to percentiles across five recent sessions, from December 2023 to February 2026. The data comes from coaching institute analyses and education portals; AIMA does not publish an official session-wise mapping. The 99th percentile threshold of 750 or above has held without change in every session over this period.
| Composite Score Band | Dec 2023 | May 2024 | Sep 2024 | May 2025 | Feb 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 750-800 | 99-99.99 | 99-99.99 | 99-99.99 | 99-99.99 | 99-99.99 |
| 700-749 | 94-98 | 95-98 | 95-98 | 95-98 | 95-98 |
| 650-699 | 87-93 | 88-94 | 88-94 | 89-94 | 88-94 |
| 600-649 | 74-86 | 75-87 | 75-88 | 76-88 | 75-87 |
| 550-599 | 58-73 | 60-74 | 61-74 | 62-75 | 60-74 |
| 500-549 | 42-57 | 44-59 | 45-60 | 46-61 | 44-59 |
| 450-499 | 27-41 | 29-43 | 30-44 | 31-45 | 29-43 |
| Below 450 | Below 27 | Below 29 | Below 30 | Below 31 | Below 29 |
Note: Percentile figures above are indicative estimates based on historical MAT session data. AIMA does not publish an official score-to-percentile conversion chart.
One visible trend: the mid-range band (500-549) has seen a gradual upward drift of 2-3 percentile points over two years. Average student performance in this band is improving. The top bands (650 and above) remain nearly identical across all sessions — you can safely use any recent session’s data as a reliable planning benchmark for September 2026.
MAT May 2026 data will be incorporated into this table once AIMA publishes full session statistics alongside the scorecard release.
What is a Good Score in MAT 2026?
A good MAT score depends on your target college tier. The table below maps composite score and percentile bands to college tiers to help you set a realistic goal.
| Performance Level | Composite Score | Expected Percentile | Representative Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exceptional | 750-800 | 99+ | Great Lakes Chennai, XIMB Bhubaneswar, SDMIMD Mysore, LIBA Chennai |
| Very Good | 700-749 | 95-99 | BIMTECH Greater Noida, XIME Bangalore, JAGSOM Bangalore, Jaipuria Institute Noida |
| Good | 650-699 | 88-94 | Rajagiri Business School, SIMREE Mumbai, Christ University Bangalore, Amity Business School |
| Above Average | 600-649 | 75-87 | IFIM Business School, Delhi School of Business, ISBM Pune, CIMP Patna |
| Average | 550-599 | 60-74 | IPE Hyderabad, IBS Hyderabad, IMS Ghaziabad, FOSTIIMA Delhi |
| Below Average | 500-549 | 44-59 | AIMS Institutes Bangalore, GITAM Visakhapatnam, ITM Group |
| Low | Below 500 | Below 44 | Consider reappearing in September or December 2026 |
For a strong MBA admission, aim for a composite of 650 or above (88th percentile or higher). Most reputed MAT-accepting B-schools set their shortlisting cutoff between 85 and 90 percentile. A composite of 700 or more (95th percentile) opens the top tier of MAT-affiliated colleges.
A good MAT score alone does not guarantee admission. Most B-schools weight Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) performance, academic record, and work experience alongside your MAT marks vs percentile standing. A 90th percentile composite combined with a strong GD-PI performance is typically sufficient for admission to a solid PGDM program.
Planning Around the September 2026 Session
MAT allows you to appear in all four sessions of a year. Many B-schools consider your best score across all valid sessions. If your May 2026 composite is below your target, register for September 2026 before the PBT deadline on September 7. PBT is on September 13 and CBT on September 20. A second attempt before most January 2027 batch deadlines is within reach.
How MAT Percentile is Calculated
AIMA uses a three-step process to convert your raw exam performance into a composite score and percentile.
Step 1: Raw Score Calculation
Each of the five sections has 30 questions. You earn +1 for every correct answer and lose -0.25 for every wrong answer. Unattempted questions carry zero. The maximum raw score for the four counted sections combined is 120. The Economic and Business Environment section is scored but excluded from the composite calculation.
Step 2: Scaling and Composite Score
AIMA scales each section’s raw score to a 0-100 range. This step also accounts for any difficulty differences across PBT, CBT, and IBT modes in the same session. The four scaled section scores are then combined and mapped to the 200-800 composite range using this approximate formula:
Composite Score = (Aggregate Raw Score / 120) x 600 + 200
Three examples: a raw of 108 gives composite 740; a raw of 80 gives composite 600; a raw of 60 gives composite 500. Score equating ensures a PBT candidate is not disadvantaged compared to a CBT candidate even if papers differed in difficulty.
Step 3: Percentile Computation
Once AIMA collects all scaled composites for a session, it ranks all candidates in ascending order. Your percentile is:
Percentile = (Candidates who scored below you / Total candidates in the session) x 100
Each section also gets its own section-level percentile using the same formula. All values appear on your MAT scorecard. Because percentiles are session-specific, the same composite of 660 can yield different percentiles in May and September depending on that session’s candidate pool.
How to Use MAT Marks vs Percentile for College Prediction
Your MAT composite and percentile are the first filters B-schools apply. Here is a four-step guide to using this page for your college shortlist.
Step 1: Find Your Score Band
Once your MAT May 2026 scorecard is available, locate your composite in the core conversion table above. Note the percentile band it falls in. This is your starting filter for a college list.
Step 2: Build a Three-Tier Shortlist
Divide your college list into safe bets (clearly above the cutoff), targets (at or near the cutoff), and stretch colleges (slightly below your current score but within range of a retake). A typical shortlist has three to four colleges in each tier across different states and cities.
Step 3: Check Eligibility Beyond the Score
Most B-schools set minimum academic criteria alongside the percentile cutoff — typically 50% in graduation. Some require at least one year of work experience for certain specialisations. A 90 percentile MAT score does not override an eligibility shortfall — check the college’s admissions criteria first.
Step 4: Plan for a Retake if Needed
MAT happens four times a year. If your May 2026 composite is below target, register for the September 2026 session — PBT on September 13 and CBT on September 20. Most colleges that accept MAT consider your best score across sessions. Appearing in September 2026 gives you a direct second attempt before most January 2027 batch deadlines close.
MAT Marks vs Percentile FAQs
Ques. What is the maximum composite score in MAT 2026?
Ans. The maximum composite score in MAT is 800. AIMA reports composite scores on a 200-800 scale. Achieving 800 requires near-perfect performance across all four counted sections: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Intelligence and Critical Reasoning. Very low scores are reported as 199 rather than dropping below 200.
Ques. What MAT percentile do I need for BIMTECH Greater Noida or XIME Bangalore?
Ans. XIME Bangalore and the top programs at BIMTECH Greater Noida typically require 95 percentile or above. BIMTECH’s core PGDM program sets a cutoff in the 90-95 percentile range for MAT applicants. For Christ University Bangalore and SIMREE Mumbai, the usual threshold is 85-90 percentile. Always verify the current year’s cutoff on the official college admissions page, as these figures can shift cycle to cycle.
Ques. Does MAT give an all-India rank like JEE or NEET?
Ans. No. AIMA does not publish an all-India rank for MAT. Your scorecard shows a composite score (200-800) and a percentile. Colleges use the percentile to compare candidates across sessions and modes. There is no published merit list or rank card for MAT at any level.
Ques. How long is a MAT score valid for college admissions?
Ans. Most B-schools accept MAT scores for the admission cycle immediately following the session. A May 2026 score is generally valid for the 2026-27 admissions cycle. Some colleges accept scores from the last one or two sessions. Validity rules vary by institution — check the admissions policy on each college’s official website before applying.
Ques. Which sections are counted for the MAT 2026 composite score?
Ans. Four sections count toward the MAT composite: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Intelligence and Critical Reasoning. The fifth section, Economic and Business Environment, appears on your scorecard with its own scaled score and percentile — but it does not contribute to the composite or the overall percentile that colleges use for shortlisting.
Ques. What is the difference between MAT composite score and percentile?
Ans. Your composite score (200-800) is an absolute measure of your scaled performance across the four counted sections. Your percentile is a relative measure — it tells you what share of that session’s candidates scored below you. The same composite of 650 may yield 92 percentile in one session and 88 in another, depending on the candidate pool. Both values appear on your official scorecard, and colleges evaluate both.
Ques. Is 90 percentile a good score in MAT 2026?
Ans. Yes, 90 percentile is a strong score in MAT 2026. It corresponds to a composite of roughly 650-670 and makes you competitive at colleges like SIMREE Mumbai, Christ University Bangalore, and Amity Business School. For the highest-tier MAT-accepting colleges such as XIME and top BIMTECH programs, you need 95 percentile or above. For most well-regarded PGDM programs across India, 90 percentile is a comfortable shortlisting score.
Ques. What does a MAT composite score of 600 mean for admissions?
Ans. A composite of 600 places you in the 75th-87th percentile range. This is an above-average performance. Colleges including IFIM Business School Bangalore, Delhi School of Business, and CIMP Patna typically set their MAT cutoffs at or below this band. You are competitive at a solid set of PGDM programs, though top-tier MAT colleges require a higher composite.
Ques. How do PBT and CBT scores compare in MAT 2026?
Ans. PBT and CBT scores are equated by AIMA before percentile assignment. Your mode choice plays no role in your relative standing. A composite of 700 earned in PBT and a composite of 700 earned in CBT represent the same performance level post-equating. Colleges receive only the final equated composite and percentile — there is no indicator on the scorecard of which mode you used.
Ques. How many times can I take MAT in 2026?
Ans. You can appear in all four MAT 2026 sessions: February (over), May (over), September (PBT September 13, CBT September 20), and December (dates to be announced). Within each session, you can choose one mode: PBT, CBT, or IBT. That gives a maximum of four MAT attempts in 2026. Many students take two sessions — May and September — to have two scored attempts before the main January 2027 batch deadline cycle.
Ques. When does MAT September 2026 registration close?
Ans. MAT September 2026 PBT registration closes on September 7, 2026. The CBT registration deadline is September 14, 2026. The PBT exam is on September 13 and CBT on September 20. Admit cards for PBT are available from September 10 and for CBT from September 17. Register at mat.aima.in before the deadline for your preferred mode.
Ques. Does negative marking significantly affect the MAT composite score?
Ans. Yes, significantly. Each wrong answer costs -0.25 marks. Scoring 80 correct and 20 wrong across four sections gives you an effective raw of 75, not 80. That 5-mark gap translates to 25 composite points. In the 600-650 composite band, 25 points can shift your percentile by 5-8 points — enough to move you into or out of a target college’s shortlist. Calibrate your attempt count carefully rather than guessing randomly on uncertain questions.
*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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