MAT Exam 2025: The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 2025 is one of the most prominent national-level entrance exams conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) for admission into MBA and allied programs. Known for its wide acceptance, MAT scores are considered by over 600 business schools across India, making it a highly sought-after option for management aspirants.
Candidates can check here for the full form, importance, exam structure, and key highlights of MAT 2025, essential for effective preparation and informed decision-making.
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is a national-level entrance exam designed for admission to over 800 business schools offering MBA and PGDM programs across India. Introduced in 1988, the Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is held four times a year. Candidates can choose between Computer-Based Test (CBT) and Paper-Based Test (PBT) formats, making it highly accessible and adaptable to diverse preferences.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, AIMA introduced the Internet-Based Test (IBT) mode to ensure candidate safety and exam continuity. For each session, AIMA releases separate schedules for PBT, CBT, and IBT formats, allowing applicants to select the most convenient mode. What makes MAT particularly appealing is its flexibility—there are no limits on the number of attempts, and scores remain valid for one year. This structure offers candidates ample opportunities to improve their performance and gain admission to their desired management institutes.
The primary aim of the Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is to assess the candidates' readiness and suitability for MBA, PGDM, and other allied management programs. MAT scores are widely accepted by over 600 B-schools and management institutions across the country.
The MAT Exam 2025 offers flexibility with multiple test modes—CBT, PBT, and IBT—held four times a year. It is accepted by over 800 B-schools across India for MBA and PGDM admissions. There is no cap on the number of attempts, and the score remains valid for one year.
Multiple Test Modes:
MAT offers candidates the flexibility of choosing their preferred mode of examination. It is conducted in both paper-based (offline) and computer-based (online) formats. This flexibility allows candidates to opt for the mode that aligns best with their preferences and strengths.
Key Features of MAT Exam 2025 |
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Test Mode |
Conducted in |
Frequency |
Paper-Based Test |
Offline (pen and paper) |
Four times a year: February, May, September, December |
Computer-Based Test |
Online (computer-based) |
Throughout the year (dates vary) |
All-India Reach
MAT is conducted multiple times a year, making it accessible to a broader range of aspirants. This all-India reach ensures that candidates from various regions have the opportunity to appear for the test at a time that suits them best.
Comprehensive Evaluation
MAT assesses candidates' aptitude in various key areas such as Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, and Indian & Global Environment. This comprehensive evaluation helps B-schools select candidates who possess a well-rounded skill set.
Proven Track Record:
MAT has a history of over three decades in successfully assessing management aptitude. It has gained the trust and recognition of both aspirants and B-schools, making it a reputable choice for MBA aspirants.
Accessibility to a Wide Range of B-schools:
MAT scores are accepted by numerous prestigious B-schools in India. This ensures that candidates have access to a diverse portfolio of management programs and institutions to choose from.
MAT Exam follows a consistent pattern across all modes, with a total of 200 multiple-choice questions. It is divided into five sections: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, and Indian & Global Environment. The exam duration is 150 minutes, with +1 mark for each correct answer and -0.25 for every incorrect response.
MAT Exam Pattern and Test Sections |
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Test Section |
Description |
Language Comprehension |
Evaluates reading and language skills. |
Mathematical Skills |
Assesses quantitative aptitude and math skills. |
Data Analysis & Sufficiency |
Measures data interpretation and analysis. |
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning |
Tests logical and critical thinking abilities. |
Indian & Global Environment |
Focuses on current affairs and general knowledge. |
Over 800 B-schools across India accept MAT scores for admission to MBA and PGDM programs. Acceptance varies by institute, so candidates should check individual admission criteria before applying.
Top B-Schools Accepting MAT Scores |
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Business School |
Location |
Programs Offered |
Xavier Institute of Management |
Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
MBA, PGDM, Executive MBA |
Institute of Management |
Bangalore, Karnataka |
MBA, PGDM, Executive MBA |
Great Lakes Institute of Management |
Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
MBA, PGDM, Executive MBA |
T.A. Pai Management Institute |
Manipal, Karnataka |
MBA, PGDM, Executive MBA |
International Management Institute |
Delhi NCR |
MBA, PGDM, Executive MBA |