Two of the most popular MBA entrance exams in India, following the CAT and the XAT, are SNAP and NMAT. The SNAP and NMAT scores will help you gain admission to some of the most well-respected private B-schools in the country, with excellent placements and an international presence. If you want to know which exam has a better ROI (Return on Investment), the following guide will separate the facts and outline them for you.
SNAP Vs NMAT 2025 Exam Overview
SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test) is conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, while NMAT (Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test) is conducted by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council). Explore this guide on the SNAP 2025 exam pattern and best books to study from.
SNAP Vs NMAT Level of Difficulty
SNAP vs NMAT Difficulty: Both assessments cover similar areas; however, the format varies:
- SNAP is timed and is about how fast you can answer under duress. It contains the three major sections of Quantitative, Verbal, and Analytical, but with a tighter time limit.
- NMAT is moderate in difficulty but has more options for the test-taker (i.e. candidates can take it three times and they can select their best score). Understand what makes NMAT’s format and flexibility stand out among all MBA entrance exams.
- SNAP has a penalty for incorrect answers, increasing the level of difficulty, whereas NMAT does not penalise/mark incorrect answers.
- Overall, students feel that SNAP has more difficulties with 'time pressure,' whereas NMAT will have a preference for having a more organised and manageable format with time and practice.
Planning to take SNAP 2025? Check this 3-month preparation plan to structure your preparation week by week.
SNAP Vs NMAT Acceptance
Both exams are widely accepted across reputed private B-schools in India, but the key difference lies in their primary institutions and ROI. Check how SNAP scores convert to percentiles based on past years’ data to understand your target score better.
Top Institutions Accepting SNAP Exam Scores
Among all Symbiosis institutes accepting SNAP scores, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune, stands out, ranking 11th in the NIRF Management Rankings 2025 by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Top Colleges Accepting NMAT Exam Scores
SNAP Vs NMAT Return on Investment (ROI)
Here’s a quick comparison of the latest fees and placement figures from SIBM Pune vs NMIMS Mumbai to understand their ROI better:
Both Business schools offer strong returns, but your choice should depend on your career goals, specialisation, and preferred learning environment.
Learn why NMAT by GMAC is known as India’s most candidate-friendly MBA entrance test.
- Both tests will lead you to similar top B-schools with similarly attractive average packages, but the Symbiosis colleges (SNAP) offer a little better ROI because SNAP colleges have transiently strong brand recall and more reasonably balanced fees.
- NMAT has far more flexible options with the potential of multiple attempts, making it a good choice for working professionals or students looking for safety nets.
Whichever exam you choose, consistency and smart preparation are key, because in the end, your effort matters more than the exam name.
