MAT Exam 2026: Dates, Registration, Eligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern
MAT exam 2026 is a national MBA entrance test by AIMA, conducted four times yearly in CBT, PBT, and IBT modes. MAT Feb 2026 exam date is expected in mid-February, with registration likely closing in early February 2026.
MAT Exam 2026 is a national-level entrance test conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) for students aiming to pursue MBA and other management programs. Accepted by over 600 business schools across India, MAT offers candidates the flexibility to choose between computer-based, paper-based, and internet-based test modes. Held four times a year, MAT serves as an important opportunity for aspirants looking to kickstart their management careers with a recognized score and entry into top-tier institutes.
MAT Exam 2026 Overview
The MAT exam is held multiple times a year, typically in February, May, September, and December. It is unique for offering candidates three testing modes: Computer-Based Test (CBT), Paper-Based Test (PBT), and Internet-Based Test (IBT).
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MAT Exam 2026 Overview |
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Feature |
Details |
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Exam Name |
Management Aptitude Test (MAT) |
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Conducting Body |
All India Management Association (AIMA) |
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Exam Frequency |
Four times a year (Feb, May, Sept, Dec) |
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Exam Mode |
CBT, PBT, and IBT |
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Total Questions |
200 Questions (reduced to 150 in recent patterns) |
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Duration |
120 Minutes |
MAT Exam Date 2026
Understanding the schedule is crucial for effective preparation. While official notifications for 2026 are released closer to the cycle, candidates can expect the following tentative schedule based on historical patterns:
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MAT Feb 2026 Exam Date: Expected to take place in the second and third weeks of February 2026.
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Registration Window: Likely to open in the last week of December 2025.
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Admit Card Release: Usually available 4-7 days before the respective exam date.
MAT Registration 2026
MAT registration 2026 process is entirely online. Candidates must visit the official AIMA website to complete their application.
Step-by-Step Registration Process:
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New Log In: Create a user profile using a valid email ID and mobile number.
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Fill Application Form: Enter personal, academic, and professional details accurately.
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Upload Documents: Provide a scanned photograph and signature in the prescribed format.
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Payment: Pay the registration fee via credit/debit card or net banking.
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Select Test Mode: Choose between PBT, CBT, or IBT (candidates can also opt for multiple modes by paying an additional fee).
MAT Exam 2026 Registration Last Date
The deadline for registration typically falls 10-15 days before the exam date for the chosen session. For the February cycle, the MAT exam 2026 registration last date is expected to be in early February 2026.
MAT Exam 2026 Syllabus
MAT exam 2026 syllabus is designed to test a candidate's general aptitude for management studies. The question paper is divided into five main sections:
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Language Comprehension: Includes reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
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Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: Covers analytical reasoning, analogies, and logical puzzles.
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Mathematical Skills: Focuses on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems.
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Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Involves interpreting tables, graphs, and charts.
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Indian and Global Environment: General awareness regarding current affairs and business environment (Note: This section score is typically not included in the composite score but is reported separately).
MAT Exam Pattern 2026
The exam follows a multiple-choice question (MCQ) format. Candidates should be aware of the marking scheme to plan their attempts:
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MAT Exam Pattern 2026 |
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Component |
Details |
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Exam Mode |
CBT (Computer-Based Test), PBT (Paper-Based Test), IBT (Internet-Based Test) |
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Question Type |
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) |
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Total Questions |
200 (in some recent formats reduced to 150) |
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Sections |
5 Sections |
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Duration |
120 Minutes |
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Scoring |
+1 for each correct answer |
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Negative Marking |
-0.25 for each incorrect answer |
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Unattempted Questions |
No marks deducted |
MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the following eligibility requirements:
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Educational Qualification: A graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
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Minimum Marks: There is no specific minimum percentage required by AIMA, though individual B-schools may have their own cut-offs.
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Age Limit: No upper age limit for appearing in the exam.
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Final Year Students: Students awaiting their final year results are also eligible to apply.
Preparation Tips for MAT 2026
To excel in the MAT exam, candidates should adopt a structured preparation strategy:
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Take Mock Tests: Practice with previous years' papers and mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
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Focus on Fundamentals: Build strong basics in mathematics and logical reasoning.
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Time Management: Learn to allocate specific time slots for each section during the exam.
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Stay Updated: Regularly read news and business journals for the Indian and Global Environment section.