MAT Exam 2025 PBT vs CBT: Which is the Best Exam Mode to Select

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Update on 7 Nov, 2025, 04:53 PM IST

MAT Exam 2025 offers flexibility with its two modes: Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT), both conducted by AIMA. MAT Exam, PBT is held once or twice a year and suits candidates comfortable with pen-and-paper exams, but is available only in select cities. MAT Exam, CBT can be taken multiple times annually and allows quicker results and answer changes before submission, requiring good computer skills and similar city restrictions. The fee for either mode is INR 2200, with an additional INR 1500 to appear in both during the same phase. When choosing “MAT Exam PBT, or CBT, which is better,” consider your digital comfort, test centre location, and exam scheduling preferences. Candidates who intend to participate in the MAT 2025in the September or December phase must be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

 

Table of Contents
  1. MAT Exam 2025 PBT vs CBT: Important Highlights
  2. Which One to Choose: MAT CBT or PBT?
  3. Preparation Tips for MAT Exam
  4. Eligibility Criteria for MAT Exam

 

MAT Exam 2025 PBT vs CBT: Important Highlights

Particulars

MAT PBT

MAT CBT

Full form

Paper Based Test

Computer Based Test

Test form

OMR sheet

Computer system

Venue

Designated Test Centre

Designated Test Centre

Exam duration

120 minutes

120 minutes

Chance of correction

No

Yes (before final submission)

Chance of technical error

Low

High

Chance of paper leak

High

Low

Know more about: MAT Exam 2025 Application Process

 

Which One to Choose: MAT CBT or PBT?

MAT Exam, PBT suits candidates comfortable with pen-and-paper exams, following the same syllabus and schedule as CBT. It’s offered only in select cities, requiring travel if unavailable locally. MAT PBT involves filling an OMR sheet, where answers can’t be erased, demanding caution while marking.

 

MAT Exam, CBT offers flexibility to change answers before submission and faster processing, but requires good mouse control and saving responses to avoid losing marks. Both modes have specific centres, so candidates must choose based on comfort with digital exams and test location availability.

Aspect

MAT PBT

MAT CBT

Test Format

Traditional pen and paper

Online (Computer-based)

Test Mode

Offline mode

Online mode

Availability

Held once or twice a year, limited locations

Multiple test dates, more test centers across the country

Question Paper

Fixed set of questions on paper

Same questions in a digital format

Time Duration

2.5 hours

2.5 hours

Number of Questions

200 questions (40 in each of 5 sections)

200 questions (same structure as PBT)

Selection of Mode

It is based on preference provided.

It is based on availability.

Pros

Familiar format, no technical skills required

Flexible dates, more centers, digital interface

Cons

Fixed dates, fewer centers, pen and paper format might be less comfortable for some

Requires comfort with computers, some may find it unfamiliar

Results

Results may take time due to manual evaluation

Faster results due to automated evaluation

Know more about: MAT Exam Pattern

 

Preparation Tips for MAT Exam

Preparation tips for the MAT Exam are almost the same as any other management exam that is conducted in India. Candidates are expected to regularly check the AIMA website for regular updates regarding the same:

  • Practice Regularly: Take practice tests frequently to enhance your time management skills.
  • Strengthen Basics: Improve core skills in math, English, and reasoning for better performance.
  • Stay Updated: Follow current news and GK websites to excel in the General Awareness section.
  • Review Past Papers: Analyse last year's papers to understand question patterns and difficulty.
  • Set Time Limits: Simulate exam conditions by timing each section during practice sessions.
  • Revise Formulas: Memorise important formulas and shortcuts to solve problems quickly.
  • Boost Vocabulary: Enhance language and comprehension abilities by expanding your vocabulary.
  • Get Adequate Sleep: Ensure proper rest before the exam to stay calm and alert on test day.

 

Eligibility Criteria for MAT Exam

There is a certain eligibility criterion for the MAT exam that a candidate is expected to follow. The eligibility criteria are similar to any other management exam . Some of the eligibility criteria are listed below:

  • Must have passed a minimum of a bachelor's degree.
  • It is in the last year of graduation.

It can be concluded that the MAT computer-based test takes place multiple times in a year. It is convenient for the candidates to appear in this exam, as the result is declared faster than the paper-based test. But to maximise the marks in MAT 2025, it is recommended to give the test in both patterns. The highest of the two marks will be considered the original score.

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