Introduction to CMAT 2026
An annual national entrance exam administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA) is the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT). It offers admission into AICTE-approved postgraduate programs like MBA and PGDM across various management institutes in India. A CMAT qualification is essential for students aiming to pursue MBA or PGDM programs at reputed B-schools. The test evaluates candidates in Quantitative Techniques, General Awareness, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. This article covers the essential information about CMAT 2026, including key dates, who can apply, the exam pattern, and the syllabus to help candidates prepare effectively for the exam.
CMAT Key Highlights
Here are the main details you need to know about CMAT, including exam pattern, eligibility, and important dates at a glance:
| Particulars | Details |
| CMAT Full Form | Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency |
| CMAT 2026 Exam Date | The last week of January 2026 |
| Exam Level | National |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test |
| Exam Duration | 180 minutes or 3 hours |
| Exam Syllabus | ● Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
● Logical Reasoning ● Language Comprehension & Verbal Ability ● General Awareness ● Innovation and Entrepreneurship |
| Exam Pattern | 100 MCQs |
| Language | English |
| CMAT Exam Fees | INR 2,500 (General category male)
INR 1,250 (General category female/reserved category students) |
| Exam Purpose | Admission to over 1000 MBA colleges |
| Course Offered | MBA/PGDM |
| Number of Test Cities | 107 |
| Exam Helpdesk No. | Helpline No.- 011-40759000(09:30 AM to 06:00 PM during working days) |
| Address | NTAC-20 1A/8, Sector 62IITK Outreach Centre,NOIDA-201309 |
| CMAT Official Website | exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT |
Why You Should Appear in CMAT 2026?
CMAT is one of the most popular national-level MBA entrance exams in India. Here are some key reasons to take the CMAT 2026 exam:
- Accepted by 1000+ Colleges: CMAT scores are accepted by many top AICTE-approved B-schools across India.
- Moderate Difficulty Level: The exam is easier compared to CAT or XAT, making it a good option for many MBA aspirants.
- No Age Limit: Anyone with a graduation degree can apply, making it flexible for freshers and working professionals.
CMAT 2026 Exam Dates
Here are the important dates for CMAT that candidates should keep in mind while planning their preparation and application.
| Events | Dates (Tentative) |
| CMAT Application Process 2026 Start Date | November 2025 |
| CMAT Exam Fee Payment Closing Window | Last Week of December 2025 |
| CMAT Form Correction Window | Last Week of December 2025 |
| CMAT 2026 Admit Card | Third Week of January 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Exam Date | Last Week of January 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Answer Key | Last Week of January 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Result Declaration | February 2026 |
CMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates have to fulfill the eligibility requirements. Noncompliance with those prerequisites may result in disqualification from admission to participating institutions.
| Parameters | Details |
| Education | ● Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline.
● Applicants who are in their last year of a bachelor’s degree, with results before the 2026-2027 session, can also apply. |
| Minimum Score Percentage | ● There is no minimum score percentage criteria to appear for the CMAT 2026 Exam.
● However, to secure admission in MBA colleges, Candidates from the Unreserved and reserved categories must obtain 55% and 50% aggregate marks, respectively. |
| Age Limit | There is no age restriction for appearing in the CMAT 2026 Exam. |
| Nationality | The candidates must be Indian citizens. |
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The table below provides the CMAT 2026 syllabus and exam pattern. The CMAT exam is held online in a computer-based format and lasts for three hours. Check the key details below:
| Particulars | Details |
| CMAT 2026 Sections | ● Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
● Logical Reasoning ● Language Comprehension ● General Awareness ● Innovation & Entrepreneurship |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Maximum Marks | 400 |
| Number of Questions Per Section | 20 |
| CMAT Exam Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| CMAT Marking Scheme | Correct Answers: +4 marks
Incorrect Answers: -1 mark Unattempted Questions: 0 |
Syllabus Overview
Here is an overview of the CMAT syllabus, based on common topics covered in management entrance exams:
| Sections | Key Topics Covered |
| CMAT Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation syllabus | Arithmetic, Mensuration, Algebra, Time-Speed-Distance, Alligation & Mixtures, Geometry, Graph, Quadratic and Linear Equations, Tables & Charts, Bar Graphs. |
| CMAT Logical Reasoning Syllabus | Analytical Reasoning, Linear Arrangements, Number Series, Matrix Arrangements, Blood Relationship Tests, Coding-Decoding, Family Tree, Clocks and Calendars. |
| CMAT Language Comprehension Syllabus | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, English Usage Errors, Fill in the Blanks, Antonyms & Synonyms, Idioms, Word Meaning, Vocabulary, Parajumbles. |
| CMAT General Awareness Ayllabus | Economy, Business, World, Politics, Sports, Culture, Society, Personalities, Awards, Art, Entertainment, Books, Science & Tech, fiscal and monetary policies, and national events. |
| CMAT Innovation & Entrepreneurship Syllabus | Business studies, management, entrepreneurship, start-ups, government schemes, innovation management, key entrepreneurs, terminology (bootstrapping, break-even point), and recent developments in business and policy. |
Final Thoughts
CMAT 2026 is a significant entrance exam for students aspiring to pursue MBA or PGDM programs at top AICTE-approved management institutes across India. By preparing strategically, managing time efficiently, and understanding the exam pattern thoroughly, candidates can enhance their chances of gaining admission to their preferred B-school. For accurate updates, expert preparation tips, and personalized college guidance, you can rely on KollegeApply, a trusted platform that simplifies your MBA admission journey. Start early and take confident steps toward a successful management career through CMAT 2026.
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