Top 5 Upcoming MBA Entrance Exams in India 2023
Anil Solonki2 Aug, 2023
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MBA entrance exams are the gateway to some of the most prestigious B-schools in India. These exams assess aspiring MBA candidates' aptitude, analytical skills, and knowledge. By successfully clearing these exams, you can secure admission to renowned institutions and kickstart your journey toward a successful career in business and management.
Among India's top MBA entrance exams are several popular options: CAT, XAT, SNAP, NMAT, CMAT, IIFT, MAT, MAH CET, IBSAT, and more. Understanding these exams is crucial for MBA aspirants planning to pursue the course in the 2023 or 2024 academic sessions. Appearing for MBA entrance exams is mandatory for admission to the course, and thus, aspirants must gather comprehensive information about each test to choose the one that suits them best. For instance, CAT is necessary for those aspiring for IIMs, while CMAT or MAT may be more suitable for Tier-2 private MBA colleges.Best MBA Entrance Examination In India Overview
The CAT, administered by IIMs, holds the title of India's most popular MBA entrance exam, with over 1,200 MBA colleges selecting candidates based on CAT scores. Following closely, the CMAT conducted by the NTA is the second most popular exam, accepted by 1,000 MBA colleges across the country. The third most popular MBA entrance exam is XAT, conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, with scores accepted by over 800 MBA colleges. The top MBA entrance exams for the 2023 academic session, including CAT, XAT, IIFT, SNAP, TISSNET, IBSAT, CMAT, and others, are typically conducted between November 2023 and April 2024. Additionally, MBA aspirants can consider exams like MAT, ATMA, MAH-CET, GMAT, OJEE, KMAT, APICET, TSICET, and various state-level entrance exams from February to May 2024. While CAT, XAT, SNAP, and IIFT exams for 2023 are already over, registrations for MAT and ATMA are still ongoing. Understanding the registration process, eligibility criteria, fees, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation strategies for each MBA entrance exam is essential. This information will play a vital role in deciding which exam to take and which MBA colleges to apply to for aspiring candidates.Common Admission Test (CAT)
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India's holy grail of MBA entrance exams. It is conducted by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis, and cracking CAT is a dream for many MBA aspirants. The exam is renowned for its difficulty level and is crucial in securing admission to the IIMs and other top B-schools. CAT 2023 is scheduled for November 26, 2023, and the official notification will be released soon.Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is another highly esteemed MBA entrance exam by XLRI Jamshedpur. XAT is renowned for comprehensively evaluating candidates' aptitude, English language skills, mathematics, and general knowledge. More than 150 B-schools across India accept it. The registration process for XAT 2024 has already commenced, and the exam is scheduled for January 7, 2024.Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)
If you aim to secure admission to one of the 15 Symbiosis Institutes across India, the Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is your exam. SNAP is conducted by Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune and evaluates candidates' aptitudes in various areas. The exam will likely be held in the last week of December 2023, and the official notification will be released soon.Common Management Aptitude Test (CMAT)
The Common Management Aptitude Test (CMAT) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It serves as a gateway to numerous management courses in various participating institutes. CMAT is a computer-based test that assesses candidates' proficiency in language comprehension, quantitative techniques, and general awareness. The official information bulletin for CMAT April 2024 will be released soon.Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is accepted by over 400 management institutes across India. MAT is conducted twice yearly in February, May, September, and December. The exam is available in computer-based and paper-based modes, providing flexibility to the candidates. The MAT September session is scheduled for September 3 and 17, 2023.Also Read: AIMA MAT 2023 Exam Registration (September Session): IBT, PBT and CBT Mode
Comparison of the Top MBA Entrance Exams
Each MBA entrance exam mentioned above has unique features, eligibility criteria, exam patterns, and syllabi. To help you make an informed decision, let's compare these exams based on their key features:| Exam | Conducting Body | Exam Date | Duration | Accepted by |
| CAT | One of the IIMs | November 26, 2023, | 180 minutes | IIMs, FMS Delhi, IIT DoMs, SPJIMR, MDI, and 500+ MBA colleges |
| XAT | XLRI Jamshedpur | January 7, 2024, | 180 minutes | XLRI, IMT, XIMB, TAPMI, and 150+ MBA colleges |
| SNAP | Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune | December 2023 | 120 minutes | 15 Symbiosis Institutes |
| CMAT | National Testing Agency (NTA) | April 2024 | 180 minutes | Various participating institutes |
| MAT | All India Management Association (AIMA) | September 3 and 17, 2023 | 150 minutes | Over 400 management institutes |
Top MBA Entrance Examination Dates
Here are the top MBA Entrance Examination Dates| MBA Entrance Exam | Last Date to Apply | Exam Date |
| CAT 2023 | 13-Sep-2023 | 26-Nov-2023 |
| SNAP 2023 | To be Announced | To be Announced |
| MAT 2023 | 03-Sep-23 (PBT) | 29-Aug-23 (PBT) |
| 17-Sep-23 (CBT) | 12-Sep-23 (CBT) | |
| 02-Sep-23 (IBT) | 30-Aug-23 (IBT) | |
| 09-Sep-23 (IBT) | 06-Sep-23 (IBT) | |
| 10-Sep-23 (IBT) | 07-Sep-23 (IBT) | |
| 16-Sep-23 (IBT) | 13-Sep-23 (IBT) | |
| CMAT 2024 | To be announced | To be announced |
| IIFT 2024 | To be announced | To be announced |
| XAT 2024 | 30-Nov-2023 | 07-Jan-2024 |
| ATMA 2023 | 16-Jul-23 | 23-Jul-2023 |
| OJEE 2023 | 20-Mar-2023 | 08-May-2023 to 12-May-2023 |
| IBSAT 2023 | 16-Dec-2023 | To be announced |
| TISSNET 2024 | To be announced | To be announced |
| TANCET 2023 | 01-Feb-2023 | 25-Mar-2023 |
| TSICET 2023 | 16-May-2023 | 26-May-2023 and 27-May-2023 |
| KMAT 2023 | 31-Aug-2023 | To be Announced |
| MAH-CET 2023 | 11-Mar-2023 | 25-Mar-2023 and 26-Mar-2023 |
| NMAT By GMAC 2023 | To be Announced | To be Announced |
| MICAT 2024 | To be Announced | To be Announced |
| KIITEE MBA 2024 | To be Announced | To be Announced |
| APICET 2023 | 15-May-2023 | 25-May-2023 to 26-May-2023 |
| Karnataka PGCET 2023 | To be Announced | To be Announced |
Tips for Success in MBA Entrance Exams
Preparing for MBA entrance exams requires dedication, strategic planning, and effective time management. Here are some valuable tips to help you maximize your chances of success:Start Early and Create a Study Plan.
Begin your preparation well in advance to ensure sufficient time for studying and revision. Create a comprehensive study plan that covers all the important topics and allows for regular practice.Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus of the specific entrance exam you are targeting. This will help you allocate your time and resources effectively and focus on the more important areas.Solve Previous Year's Question Papers
Practice solving previous year's question papers to get acquainted with the exam format and types of questions asked. This will also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to work on them accordingly.Take Mock Tests
Regularly take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and assess your progress. Analyze your performance, identify areas of improvement, and strategize accordingly.Stay Updated with Current Affairs.
Stay updated with the latest business, economic, and political happenings. This will help you in the general awareness section and enhance your overall knowledge and understanding.Improve Time Management Skills
Time management is crucial during the exam—practice solving questions within the stipulated time to improve your speed and accuracy. Develop effective time management strategies to maximize your score.Seek Guidance and Coaching if Required.
Consider enrolling in a coaching program or seeking guidance from experienced mentors. They can provide valuable insights, tips, and tricks to enhance your preparation and confidence.Choosing the Right MBA Entrance Exam
Choosing the right MBA entrance exam is critical to shaping your future. Consider the following factors while making your choice:- Reputation and ranking of the participating institutes
- Eligibility criteria and admission process
- Exam pattern, difficulty level, and syllabus
- Personal strengths and interests
- Location and affordability of the institutes.
MBA Entrance Examination FAQ
Q.1 Can I apply for multiple MBA entrance exams? Ans. Yes, you can apply for multiple MBA entrance exams to increase your chances of admission to your preferred B-school. However, check each exam's eligibility criteria and application deadlines before applying. Q.2 How can I prepare for these entrance exams effectively? Ans. To prepare for these MBA entrance exams, consider joining coaching classes or online courses, practicing with previous year's question papers, taking mock tests, and improving your time management and problem-solving skills. A disciplined study schedule and dedication are key to success. Q.3 What are the top 5 upcoming MBA entrance exams in India? Ans.- IIM-CAT 2023: Common Admission Test conducted by Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
- XLRI-XAT 2024: Xavier Aptitude Test accepted by over 150 B-schools across India.
- IIFT 2024: Indian Institute of Foreign Trade MBA (IB) entrance exam conducted by NTA.
- NMAT by GMAC 2023: NMIMS Management Aptitude Test for admission to NMIMS and other B-schools.
- SNAP 2023: Symbiosis National Aptitude Test for admission to 15 Symbiosis Institutes.
- CAT: November
- XAT: January
- IIFT: January
- NMAT: October to December
- SNAP: December
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