Registration for the additional phase of NMAT 2026 will commence on January 5, 2026, and will close on January 10, 2026. The NMAT Exam 2026 is scheduled to occur from January 13 to January 17, 2026.
The NMAT Score is recognized by leading institutions such as NMIMS Mumbai, XIMB, KJ Somaiya, TAPMI, and SDA Bocconi Asia Centre.
- NMAT Registration involves creating an account, completing the application form, selecting 5 B-Schools, scheduling the exam, and paying the exam fees.
- The NMAT Exam consists of 108 Questions, divided into 3 sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning, with a total time limit of 120 Minutes.
- Results for the NMAT will be available within 48 hours of the exam attempt. The NMAT Cutoff for leading B-Schools typically ranges from 150 to 200 marks, depending on the specific institute and program.
The NMAT Exam will be administered in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. For the most recent updates on scheduling, rescheduling, and scores, please refer to the official NMAT by GMAC website, mba.com/exams/nmat.
Check:
- NMAT Admit Card
- NMAT Previous Year Exam Analysis
- What is the NMAT 2026 Exam?
- NMAT 2026 Dates
- NMAT 2026 Registration
- NMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- NMAT 2026 Scheduling
-
- Courses offered by NMAT 2026
- NMAT Exam Pattern 2026
- NMAT 2026 Detailed Syllabus
- NMAT vs CAT vs XAT vs SNAP
- Books Recommended by Toppers For NMAT 2026
- NMAT 2026 Cutoff
- NMAT Result 2026
- Colleges Accepting NMAT 2026
- NMAT 2026 Exam FAQs
What is the NMAT 2026 Exam?
The NMAT Exam is a nationwide MBA examination organized by GMAC. It will be administered in a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) format and is recognized by prestigious business schools such as NMIMS Mumbai, XIMB, KJ Somaiya, and TAPMI.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | NMAT by GMAC 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) at Test Centres |
| Exam Dates (Additional phase) | January 13th to January 17th, 2026 |
| Registration Dates (Additional phase) | January 5th to January 10th, 2026 |
| Attempts Allowed | Maximum 3 (best score considered) |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Total Questions | 108 (MCQs) |
| Sections | Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for each correct answer, no negative marking |
| Score Range | 36 – 360 |
| Top Institutes Accepting | NMIMS Mumbai, XIMB, KJ Somaiya, TAPMI, SDA Bocconi Asia Centre |
Check:
- NMAT Syllabus vs SNAP Syllabus
NMAT 2026 Dates for Additional Phase
The GMAC has officially announced the NMAT Schedule 2026 for the additional phase. Registration for the NMAT will conclude on January 10, 2026, and the examination will take place from January 13 to January 17, 2026.
| Dates (2026) | Event |
|---|---|
| January 13 - January 17, 2026 | NMAT 2026 Exam Window |
| January 5 - January 10, 2026 | Retake Registration |
| January 5 - January 10, 2026 | Retake Scheduling |
| Within 48 hours post-exam | Scorecard Release |
| January 10, 2026 | Last Date for Registration |
Check:
- NMAT Dates
Ques. What are the Changes in NMAT 2026?
Ans. The NMAT Exam follows a structured format similar to the previous year, with some modifications in dates and scheduling. The NMAT Exam will be conducted in CBT Mode, allowing 3 attempts.
| Feature | NMAT 2024 | NMAT 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Start | August 1, 2024 | August 1, 2026 | No change |
| Registration Last Date | October 12, 2024 | October 18, 2026 | Slightly later closure |
| Exam Window | October 10 – December 19, 2024 | November 5 – December 19, 2026 | Later start in 2026 |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-based (Test Centres) | Computer-based (Test Centres) | Same |
| Attempts Allowed | Maximum 3 | Maximum 3 | No change |
Ques. How Many Times Does NMAT Happen in a Year?
Ans. The NMAT Exam is held once a year, providing candidates with the option of 3 attempts within the exam window. This allows candidates to enhance their scores and secure seats in leading B-Schools.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Window 2026 | November 5 – December 19, 2025 |
| Maximum Attempts | 3 (1 main attempt + 2 retakes) |
| Best Score Considered | Yes, the highest score across attempts |
| Mode | Computer-based at test centres |
NMAT 2026 Registration
The NMAT registration process will be carried out online via the official NMAT website, mba.com/exams/nmat.
To register for NMAT, candidates need to create an account, provide their academic and personal information, select their preferred B-schools, schedule their examination, and pay the application fee.
The registration window for the additional phase of NMAT will be open from January 5th to January 10th, 2026.
NMAT Application Fees
The NMAT application fees encompass registration fees, retake fees, and rescheduling fees.
| Particulars | Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | 3,000 |
| Retake Fee | 3,000 |
| Rescheduling Fee | 1,200 |
Check:
- NMAT Registration Process
Ques. Can I Join NMIMS Without NMAT?
Ans. No, NMIMS only accepts NMAT scores for admission into its MBA/PGDM programs. Other leading B-Schools may accept CAT, XAT, CMAT, or NMIMS scores.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Admission Mode | Only through NMAT |
| Other Exams Accepted | Not applicable for MBA/PGDM |
| Applicable Campuses | Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai, Indore |
| Programs | MBA Core, MBA HR, MBA Pharma, Business Analytics, etc. |
Ques. What are the Fees of the NMAT Form?
Ans. The NMAT application fees vary based on whether it's a new registration, rescheduling, or retake of the exam.
| Process | Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | ₹3,000 + taxes |
| Rescheduling Fee | ₹1,200 + taxes |
| Retake Fee | ₹3,000 + taxes (per retake) |
| Additional Score Report (per B-school beyond 5) | ₹300 + taxes |
NMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements for the NMAT are established by GMAC and apply uniformly to all applicants. There is no age restriction, and candidates may take the exam up to three times during the designated exam period.
The primary requirement is that candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized university.
NMAT Eligibility 2026
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Open to all Indian citizens and international candidates. |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognized university. |
| Minimum Marks | A minimum of 50% marks in graduation is required. |
| Final Year Students | Eligible to apply if they complete their degree prior to admission. |
| Age Limit | No age limits apply. |
| Number of Attempts | Up to 3 attempts allowed within the exam window (highest score considered). |
| Other Requirements | Candidates must meet the specific eligibility criteria set by individual institutes for admission. |
Check:
- NMAT Eligibility Criteria
Ques. Does SP Jain Accept NMAT?
Ans. No, SPJIMR does not accept NMAT scores. It considers CAT, XAT, and GMAT scores for admission to MBA/PGDM programs.
| Institute | Exams Accepted for MBA/PGDM |
|---|---|
| SP Jain Institute of Management (SPJIMR), Mumbai | CAT, XAT, GMAT |
| NMAT Accepted? | No |
| NMIMS (Different Institute) | Yes, accepts NMAT only |
NMAT 2026 Scheduling for Additional Phase
The NMAT scheduling process enables candidates to select their preferred exam date, time, and center via the official website.
- Scheduling for NMAT will occur after completing the registration process and payment.
- Candidates can reschedule and retake their exam within the allowed timeframe.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheduling Date | January 5 to January 10, 2026 |
| Mode of Scheduling | Online via the NMAT official website. |
| Exam Window | January 13 to January 17, 2026 |
| Slot Booking | On a first-come, first-served basis |
| Options Available | Select date, time, and test center / Online proctored exam |
| Rescheduling Option | Yes, available for a fee (subject to slot availability) |
NMAT 2026: Rescheduling & Retake
The NMAT allows candidates to reschedule their exam or retake it within the exam window. Candidates may attempt the exam up to three times, with the highest score being considered for admission.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Attempts | 3 (1 main attempt + 2 retakes) |
| Rescheduling Allowed | Yes, permitted up to 72 hours before the scheduled exam |
| Rescheduling Fee | ₹1,200 + taxes |
| Retake Allowed | Up to 2 additional attempts within the same testing window |
| Retake Fee | ₹3,000 per retake |
| Process |
|
| Best Score Considered | Yes, GMAC takes the highest score from all attempts for admission |
Check:
- NMAT Scheduling
Ques. Does NMIMS Accept Retake NMAT Score?
Ans. Yes, NMIMS accepts the NMAT Retake Score, but only the highest score from the three attempts will be considered for admission. Candidates can retake the NMAT Exam twice after the initial attempt during the exam window, and NMIMS will receive the highest score.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Attempts | 3 (1 main + 2 retakes) |
| Score Considered | Best score among all attempts |
| Applicable for NMIMS? | Yes |
| Score Reporting | Sent directly to NMIMS from GMAC |
| Advantage | Enhances chances of meeting NMIMS cutoff (230+) |
Ques. Which College Accepts NMAT Retake?
Ans. The colleges accepting NMAT Scores for retakes follow a best score policy as established by GMAC.
Major Colleges Accepting NMAT Retake Scores (2026)
| Institute / B-School | Location | Retake Score Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NMIMS University (Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai) | Multiple Cities | Yes | Only the best score is considered; NMIMS cutoff is the highest (230+) |
| Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB) | Bhubaneswar | Yes | Accepts the best retake score |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management | Mumbai | Yes | Retake allowed, best score sent |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Centre | Mumbai | Yes | International B-school in India |
| IFMR GSB (Krea University) | Sri City | Yes | Considers retake score |
| Alliance School of Business | Bengaluru | Yes | Accepts best attempt |
| Jindal Global Business School (JGBS) | Sonipat | Yes | Flexible admission process |
| Athena School of Management | Mumbai | Yes | Accepts retakes |
| Bennett University | Greater Noida | Yes | Retake scores are valid |
Courses Offered for NMAT 2026
The NMAT 2026 Exam is organized for admissions into MBA/PGDM Programs at leading B-Schools across India.
Several top institutes accept NMAT Scores for various management specializations, such as finance, marketing, operations, and human resources.
| Institute / B-School | Programs Available (MBA/PGDM Specializations) |
|---|---|
| NMIMS Mumbai | MBA in Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, IT & Business Analytics |
| XIMB Bhubaneswar | MBA in General Management, Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations |
| KJ Somaiya Institute | MBA / PGDM in Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Analytics |
| TAPMI Manipal | PGDM in Marketing, Finance, Operations, HR, Business Analytics |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Center | MBA / Executive MBA in General Management, Strategy, Finance, Marketing |
Check:
- Top Colleges in India Accepting NMAT Score
NMAT Exam Pattern 2026
The NMAT 2026 Exam is held in CBT Mode at designated centres. It consists of three sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning, totaling 108 questions.
Check:
- NMAT Exam Pattern
Ques. Is NMAT Easier than CAT?
Ans. Yes, NMAT is generally easier than CAT due to its moderate difficulty level, absence of negative marking, and flexible attempts. In contrast, CAT is more competitive and presents greater sectional difficulty.
| Feature | NMAT | CAT |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty Level | Moderate | High |
| Negative Marking | No | Yes (-1 per wrong answer) |
| Attempts Allowed | Up to 3 per year | 1 per year |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based (test centres) | Computer-based (test centres) |
| Competition Level | 70,000–80,000 candidates | 3+ lakh candidates |
NMAT 2026 Comprehensive Syllabus
The NMAT syllabus evaluates candidates' proficiency and abilities in language, quantitative reasoning, and logical thinking.
In the NMAT, each segment emphasizes key MBA topics, and by grasping the subtopics, candidates can prepare effectively while managing their time wisely.
NMAT Syllabus: Language Skills
| Topics | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Passage-based questions, inference, main idea, tone |
| Para Jumbles / Paragraph Formation | Sentence rearrangement, logical flow |
| Sentence Completion | Fill in the blanks, vocabulary usage |
| Grammar / Error Spotting | Correct grammar, punctuation, sentence correction |
| Vocabulary / Analogies | Synonyms, Antonyms, Word analogies |
… Read More Read Less
NMAT Syllabus: Quantitative Skills
| Topics | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Time, Speed & Distance, Simple & Compound Interest |
| Algebra | Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, Polynomials |
| Number Properties | Divisibility, LCM & HCF, Prime Numbers, Odd/Even Numbers |
| Probability & Permutations & Combinations | Basic probability, counting principles, arrangement problems |
| Data Interpretation (DI) | Tables, Graphs, Charts, Caselets |
| Sequences & Series | Arithmetic Progression (AP), Geometric Progression (GP) |
NMAT Syllabus: Logical Reasoning
| Topics | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Critical Reasoning | Assumptions, Conclusions, Strengthen / Weaken Arguments |
| Analytical Puzzles | Arrangement, Scheduling, Circular, Matrix, Binary puzzles |
| Series / Pattern Recognition | Number series, Letter series, Coding-decoding |
| Deductions / Syllogisms | Logical deductions, Venn diagrams, Statement-conclusion |
Check:NMAT Syllabus
- NMAT Syllabus
What is the Topic-wise weightage for NMAT 2026?
The NMAT consists of three sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. Each section comprises 36 questions and is scored between 12 to 120. Candidates can select their preferred section order.
Quantitative Skills: Topic-wise Weightage
Total Questions: 36
Time Allotted: 52 minutes
| Topics | Expected Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Modern Math | 7 questions |
| Algebra | 3 questions |
| Arithmetic | 8 questions |
| Numbers | 2 questions |
| Data Interpretation | 12 questions |
| Data Sufficiency | 4 questions |
Logical Reasoning: Topic-wise Weightage
Total Questions: 36
Time Allotted: 40 minutes
| Topics | Expected Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Sequential Output | 8-10 questions |
| Syllogisms | 3-4 questions |
| Ranking | 1-2 questions |
| Venn Diagram | 2-3 questions |
| Grouping | 4-5 questions |
| Statement, Assumption and Conclusion | 2-3 questions |
| Critical Reasoning | 4-5 questions |
| Puzzle | 2-3 questions |
| Course of Action | 4-5 questions |
| Arguments | 2-3 questions |
Language Skills: Topic-wise Weightage
Total Questions: 36
Time Allotted: 28 minutes
| Topics | Expected Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension Passages (3-4 sets) | 12-14 questions |
| Error Detection | 4-5 questions |
| Para Jumbles | 4-5 questions |
| Fill in the Blanks (Grammar Usage & Vocabulary) | 5-6 questions |
| Analogies | 5-6 questions |
Ques. How to Manage Time in NMAT 2026?
Ans. Effective time management is crucial for achieving a high score in the NMAT 2026 exam. As each section has its own time limit, your approach should be strategic and focused. Here are some tips for managing time efficiently during the exam:
Select the Appropriate Section Order
- Begin with your strongest section to build momentum and confidence right from the outset.
- Follow up with your weakest section. After gaining some confidence, tackle the most challenging section while you still have energy and time.
- Conclude with a section you feel comfortable with to ensure a positive finish and a balanced overall performance.
Smart Time Management During the Exam
- Keep a close watch on the timer. Each section has its own time constraints, so stay vigilant and allocate time wisely for every question.
- Avoid lingering on difficult questions. If a question appears too challenging or time-consuming, skip it and return later if time permits.
- Implement the 15-second rule: If you can't comprehend a question within 15 seconds, move on. This helps prevent getting stuck and wasting precious time.
- Enhance your calculation speed. Refresh basic multiplication tables, squares, cubes, and common fractions to save valuable time in the Quant and Reasoning sections.
Practice with Intent
- Regularly take mock tests. Engage in both full-length and sectional mocks to familiarize yourself with the format, timing, and pressure.
- After each mock, review your performance and analyze your results. Identify which sections or question types require more focus and adjust your preparation accordingly.
- Balance speed with accuracy. Avoid rushing through questions; prioritize getting answers correct while maintaining a good pace.
- Equally prepare all sections. Even if you excel in one area, do not neglect the others, as all three sections hold equal importance.
- Utilize mental math and elimination techniques. Practice performing quick calculations mentally and use elimination strategies to narrow down answer choices, saving time.
NMAT vs CAT vs XAT vs SNAP
Understanding the various entrance examinations is crucial in selecting the one that aligns with your academic and career aspirations.
Below is a comprehensive comparison of NMAT, CAT, XAT, and SNAP.
| Exam | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| NMAT |
|
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| CAT |
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| XAT |
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| SNAP |
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NMAT vs CAT vs XAT vs SNAP: Overview
- NMAT is organized by GMAC and accepted by institutions like NMIMS and K J Somaiya, with program costs ranging from 22 to 25 lakh, primarily focusing on finance and marketing.
- CAT is a prestigious test conducted by IIMs, recognized by IIMs and most B schools in India. New IIMs charge approximately 17 lakhs per program, while older IIMs have fees around 25 to 26 lakhs.
- Conducted by XLRI, the XAT exam is accepted by top MBA colleges such as XLRI and XIMB, focusing mainly on human resource management and business management, with PGDM and MBA courses costing about 30 to 32 lakhs.
- The SNAP exam applies to MBA programs in Symbiosis Institutes, with program costs ranging from 20 to 25 lakhs.
This is a detailed comparison of the exams and the institutions, highlighting costs and the primary focus of the courses offered.
| Exam | Conducted by | Top colleges | College fees | Primary focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMAT | GMAC | NMIMS, KJ Somaiya | 22 lakh - 25 lakh | Finance, Marketing, Corporate exposure |
| CAT | IIMs | IIMs, FMS, SPJIMR, etc | 17 lakhs - 27 lakhs | General management, Consulting, Finance. |
| XAT | XLRI | XLRI, XIMB, etc | 30 lakh - 32 lakh | Human resource Management, Business Management. |
| SNAP | Symbiosis International | Symbiosis Institutes | 20 lakhs - 25 lakhs | Marketing, Operations, Entrepreneurship |
Books Suggested by Top Performers for NMAT 2026
Books serve as an essential tool for preparing for the NMAT exam. To help you begin, here are some of the top books for NMAT 2026 recommended by successful candidates:
| Book Name | Author/Publication |
|---|---|
| NMAT by GMAC Official Guide | GMAC |
| Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | Ajay Singh |
See Also:
- NMAT Books
- NMAT Preparation Tips
NMAT 2026 Cutoff
The NMAT Cutoff indicates the minimum score necessary for leading B-Schools to shortlist applicants.
Numerous prestigious institutions, including NMIMS, XIMB, and KJ Somaiya, recognize the NMAT Score. The cutoff varies across different colleges and programs.
NMAT 2026 Anticipated Cutoff (Leading Colleges)
- NMIMS Mumbai has the highest cutoff at over 230 marks, while other universities generally accept scores ranging from 200 to 210 marks.
- Institutions such as SDA Bocconi and IFMR maintain flexible cutoffs, accepting scores around 200 and above.
- The NMAT permits candidates to attempt the exam multiple times, with those aiming for admission into top B-Schools needing to achieve over 230 marks in at least one of their attempts.
| Institute / B-School | Expected NMAT 2026 Cutoff (Score Range) |
|---|---|
| NMIMS Mumbai (MBA Core) | 230 – 235+ |
| NMIMS Bengaluru / Hyderabad | 210 – 220 |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management | 215 – 220 |
| Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB) | 220 – 225 |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Center | 200 – 210 |
| Alliance University | 200 – 205 |
| IFMR Graduate School of Business | 200 – 210 |
| Jindal Global Business School | 195 – 200 |
Check: NMAT Cutoff
NMAT Result 2026
The NMAT Result is set to be announced within 48 hours following the examination on the official NMAT Website. Candidates will be able to access their scaled scores, percentiles, and overall performance by logging in with their registered credentials.
- The scores will be determined based on the various sections, with the overall score for candidates ranging from 36 to 360 marks.
- The scores will remain valid for the current admission cycle from 2026 to 2026.
- Candidates can obtain their Scorecard in PDF format from the official NMAT Website.
Colleges Accepting NMAT 2026
The NMAT by GMAC score is recognized by over 40 leading B-Schools across India and various international institutions in the Philippines, South Africa, and Nigeria.
Key Colleges Accepting NMAT 2026 in India
| Institute / B-School | Location | Programs Offered (via NMAT) |
|---|---|---|
| NMIMS University (Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai) | Multiple Cities | MBA, MBA HR, MBA Pharmaceutical, MBA in Business Analytics |
| Xavier University (XIMB) | Bhubaneswar | MBA in Business Management |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management | Mumbai | MBA, MBA Healthcare Management |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Centre | Mumbai | International Master in Business (IMB) |
| IFMR Graduate School of Business (Krea University) | Sri City | MBA |
| Alliance School of Business | Bengaluru | MBA |
| Jindal Global Business School (JGBS) | Sonipat | MBA |
| Athena School of Management | Mumbai | PGPM |
| Bennett University | Greater Noida | MBA |
NMAT 2026 Exam FAQs
Ques. Is there a negative marking in the NMAT exam?
Ans. No, there is no negative marking in the NMAT exam. According to the marking scheme, each correct response earns +3 marks, and there are no penalties for incorrect answers.
Ques. Is an online screen calculator available for the NMAT exam?
Ans. No, an online screen calculator is not available during the NMAT exam. Students are required to perform calculations manually.
Ques. Do I need to apply separately for NMIMS after registering for NMAT?
Ans. Yes, candidates must complete a separate registration for NMIMS via the official NMIMS website after registering for NMAT. The registration process for NMIMS will commence on their official platform.
Ques. What is the typical NMAT cutoff score for NMIMS Mumbai?
Ans. The cutoff score for NMIMS varies each year. Typically, NMIMS expects a minimum score of 235+ due to intense competition. This score is considered a high benchmark among various institutions.