7 Success Tips for IBSAT 2025

The IBSAT 2025 is a crucial online exam for students seeking to pursue an MBA at ICFAI Business Schools. This exam consists of 140 questions that must be answered within 2 hours. The questions test your English, maths, and logical thinking skills. The best part? There’s no negative marking, so you won’t lose marks for wrong answers. To perform well in the exam, it’s essential to follow a well-structured study plan, understand the types of questions, practice regularly, and maintain confidence. Reading books and newspapers helps improve vocabulary, while solving maths problems sharpens calculation speed. Taking mock tests and managing time wisely during the exam can help you answer more questions correctly. With the proper preparation & a positive mindset, anyone can succeed in IBSAT 2025.

1. Understand the IBSAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Before beginning the IBSAT 2025 Preparation, it is important to get familiar with the Exam Pattern. This computer-based test consists of 140 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to be completed in 2 hours. There is no negative marking, which is a major advantage for candidates willing to attempt more questions. The four main sections of the IBSAT exam are:

Key Tip: Since verbal and reading comprehension sections account for more than half of the paper, focusing on improving English language skills is essential. Also, since there's no negative marking, candidates can take calculated risks to maximize scores.

2. Create a Realistic Study Schedule

Consistency is more important than long study hours. Creating a study schedule that balances different sections of the IBSAT exam can help ensure better preparation. Allocate time for:

• Reading comprehension practice every day
• Strengthening vocabulary & grammar
• Solving quantitative aptitude problems
• Practicing data interpretation sets
• Taking sectional quizzes to identify weak areas

Key Tip: Break the preparation into weekly targets. Make sure to revise regularly and adjust the schedule as needed based on progress.

Also Check: IBSAT vs. Other MBA Entrance Exams: What Makes It Unique?

3. Strengthen Reading and Vocabulary Skills

IBSAT places a strong focus on English language proficiency. The Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension sections together form the largest portion of the paper. To perform well in these sections:

• Read newspapers, journals, and articles regularly to improve reading speed and comprehension.
• Build vocabulary using tools like flashcards or apps. Learn synonyms, antonyms, idioms, and common phrases.
• Practice comprehension passages from previous years and mock tests.

Key Tip: Reading editorial pages of reputed newspapers such as The Hindu or The Indian Express can improve both reading skills & vocabulary.

4. Practice Quant and DI with Shortcuts

The Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation sections test candidates on basic mathematical concepts & analytical skills. Focus areas include:

• Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratio, Averages, Profit & Loss)
• Algebra
• Number System
• Geometry
• Tables, Graphs, Charts for DI

Instead of memorising formulas, aim to understand concepts. Once the basics are clear, learn shortcuts & tricks to solve questions faster.

Key Tip: Speed and accuracy are equally important. Keep a formula sheet handy for quick revisions and practice mental calculations regularly.

Also Check: IBSAT 2025 Cut-Offs: Campus-Wise Analysis and Trends

5. Attempt Regular Mock Tests and Analyse Them

One of the most effective ways to succeed in IBSAT 2025 is to take full-length mock tests. Mock tests help in:

• Getting familiar with the exam interface and pattern
• Improving time management
• Building confidence under timed conditions

However, just taking mock tests is not enough. Analysing performance after every mock is the real game-changer. Identify:

• Which sections are consuming the most time
• Accuracy in attempted questions
• Topics with frequent mistakes

Key Tip: Maintain a performance log to track scores across different mocks and focus more on areas where improvement is needed.

6. Avoid Last-Minute Cramming

Many candidates make the mistake of overloading their study schedule during the final few days. This may lead to unnecessary stress and confusion. Instead, in the last 10–15 days:

• Focus on revising key concepts and formulas
• Practice 1–2 mocks per week with proper analysis
• Do light reading to maintain fluency and comprehension

Key Tip: Take care of mental health. A calm and relaxed mind performs better in exams.

7. Stay Positive and Confident

Preparation alone is not enough without the right mindset. A positive attitude and confidence go a long way during exam time.

• Avoid comparing your preparation with others.
• Celebrate minor improvements and milestones.
• Visualise success and believe in your efforts.

Key Tip: Practice breathing exercises or short meditation sessions to stay calm and reduce exam anxiety.

Time Management Strategies During the IBSAT 2025 Exam

IBSAT 2025 is a 2-hour computer-based exam with 140 multiple-choice questions spread across four key sections: Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Interpretation & Data Adequacy. Since there is no negative marking, the exam format encourages speed and accuracy. However, effective time management plays a critical role in maximizing the score. Here are some time-tested strategies to help manage time efficiently during the exam:

1. Understand the Section-Wise Question Distribution: A clear understanding of how many questions appear in each section helps in allocating time wisely:

• Verbal Ability – 50 questions
• Reading Comprehension – 30 questions
• Quantitative Aptitude – 30 questions
• Data Interpretation & Data Adequacy – 30 questions

This means candidates need to answer 140 questions in 120 minutes, giving less than a minute per question on average.

2. Start With Strengths: Begin the exam with the section in which confidence is highest. This builds momentum and saves time early in the test. For example, if Verbal Ability is a strong area, start there and move quickly through familiar questions.

3. Set Time Benchmarks: Divide the 120 minutes across the sections based on comfort level. A general time allocation can be:

• Verbal Ability: 30–35 minutes
• Reading Comprehension: 25–30 minutes
• Quantitative Aptitude: 25–30 minutes
• Data Interpretation & Adequacy: 25–30 minutes

Ensure some buffer time (5–10 minutes) is left at the end for reviewing flagged questions.

4. Don’t Get Stuck on Tough Questions: Since there’s no negative marking, skipping difficult or time-consuming questions initially is a smart move. Attempt all easier questions first, then return to the tougher ones if time permits.

5. Use the Flag and Review Option: If a question seems too lengthy or tricky, flag it. This helps revisit it later without losing time. Managing the “review later” list smartly ensures no question is left unanswered.

6. Maximise Attempts: With no penalty for wrong answers, attempt all 140 questions, even if some are guesses. Smart elimination techniques can increase the chances of selecting the right option in uncertain cases.

7. Practice Full-Length Mock Tests in Exam Conditions: Simulate IBSAT exam scenarios while practising mocks. This not only improves speed & accuracy but also builds the stamina needed for a 2-hour test. Review mock test performance regularly to refine timing strategies further.

Final Thoughts

Cracking IBSAT 2025 requires a balanced approach—a clear understanding of the exam, strong basics, regular practice, and a confident mindset. Start early, stick to a consistent plan, and keep evaluating performance along the way. With no negative marking and a student-friendly exam structure, IBSAT offers an excellent opportunity for MBA aspirants to secure admission into ICFAI Business Schools. With the right preparation and these seven success tips, scoring high in IBSAT 2025 is certainly achievable.