• Updated on 7 Sept, 2026 by Suman Saurav
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AIMA MAT Latest news and articles
Mat registration 2026 last date for the MAT PBT exam is September 7, 2026. MAT Exam Date September 2026 for PBT and CBT exam is scheduled to be conducted on September 13, 2026 and September 20, 2026, respectively. Eligible candidates can complete their registration process on the official AIMA MAT Portal. The deadline to register for the MAT PBT exam is September 7, 2026 and the last date to register for the MAT CBT exam is September 14 2026.
The AIMA MAT 2026 admit card for September Cycle will be released on September 10, 2026 for PBT and September 17, 2026 for CBT session.
MAT is held four times a year—in February, May, September, and December. More than 600 business schools in India accept MAT scores. The exam is conducted in two modes: Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT). Scores are valid for one year. If a candidate takes the exam more than once, the best score is considered. The latest AIMA MAT exam pattern has fewer questions, a shorter duration, and a stronger focus on core topics. Admission is based on the MAT score, along with group discussion and personal interview rounds. Read further to know more about the AIMA MAT 2026 exam in detail.
Table of Contents
- What is the MAT Exam 2026?
- MAT Exam 2026 Highlights
- MAT Exam Date 2026: September Session
- MAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026
- MAT Exam Registration Process 2026
- MAT Exam Pattern 2026
- MAT Exam Syllabus 2026
- MAT Exam Admit Card 2026
- MAT Exam Preparation Tips 2026
- MAT Exam Mode 2026: Which mode you should opt for?
- MAT Answer Key 2026
- MAT Exam Result 2026
- MAT Exam Cutoff (Expected for 2026)
- Top MAT Accepting Colleges 2026
- MAT Exam 2026: Participating Business Schools
- MAT Selection Process 2026: What After MAT Exam?
- AIMA MAT 2026 FAQs
What is the MAT Exam 2026?
MAT exam 2026 stands for the Management Aptitude Test. It is a national-level entrance test in India. The exam is for candidates who want to study management courses like MBA or PGDM. The AIMA MAT 2026 exam is held four times a year: in February, May, September, and December. MAT February exam registrations are over now. It is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA).
Candidates can take the MAT entrance exam in two ways, i.e., as a paper-based test (PBT) and a computer-based test (CBT). The exam has 150 multiple-choice questions. A total of 30 questions are asked from five areas each: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, and Indian & Global Environment. Each correct answer gives candidates one mark, and there is negative marking (0.25) for wrong answers. The total time for the exam is 120 minutes.
Many business schools in India accept MAT scores for admission. Any candidate who has completed graduation or is in the final year of graduation can apply for the MAT exam. It is a good option for candidates who want to pursue a career in management.
What’s New in MAT Exam 2026?
- Eligible candidates are required to pay Rs. 2300 for one session and Rs. 4000 for 2 sessions as MAT application fee.
- Now, the score from the Economic & Business Environment section will also be considered and added to calculate the final score.
- If you don’t want to lose the current academic year, AIMA has scheduled a MAT Special Drive (PBT-SD) session on September 6, 2026 to extend the admission window for the current academic year (2026–27). The registration deadline is September 1, 2026 and the admit card is expected to be released on September 3, 2026 (5:00 PM Onwards). The result will be declared on the official website on September 11, 2026.
MAT Exam 2026 Highlights
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 2026 is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the AIMA for admission into MBA and PGDM programs across more than 600 B-schools in India. Candidates appearing for the MAT exam 2026 must check the exam overview to have an idea about the exam. The overview of the exam is updated in the table below.
|
Particulars |
Highlights |
|
Exam Name |
AIMA MAT 2026 |
|
MAT Full Form |
Management Aptitude Test |
|
AIMA MAT 2026 Conducting Body |
All India Management Association |
|
Frequency |
Four times a year in February, May, September, and December. |
|
AIMA MAT 2026 Exam Mode |
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Computer Based Test (CBT) |
|
AIMA MAT 2026 Registration Fees |
For Paper Based Test (PBT) or Computer Based Test (CBT): INR 2300/-
For Double PBT + CBT: INR 4000/- |
|
AIMA MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria |
Graduates in any discipline. Final-year students of Graduate Courses can also apply. |
|
AIMA MAT 2026 Syllabus |
Language Comprehension
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning
Mathematical Skill
Data Analysis & Sufficiency
Economic & Business Environment |
|
AIMA MAT 2026 Exam Duration |
120 Minutes |
|
Total Marks |
150 |
|
Number of Sections in the AIMA MAT 2026 Exam |
5 |
|
Total Number of Questions |
150 |
|
Exam Type |
Objective (Multiple Choice Questions) |
|
Marking Scheme |
1 mark for every correct answer
-0.25 marks for every wrong answer
No marks for unattempted questions |
MAT Exam Date 2026: September Session
Mat registration 2026 last date for the MAT PBT exam is September 7, 2026. The MAT exam date 2026 is tabulated below for the September 2026 session.
MAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates willing to appear in the AIMA MAT 2026 must go through the detailed mentioned below. Applicants do not need any work experience to be eligible for the AIMA MAT 2026 exam. The MAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 for the exam are as follows:
- Candidates must have secured a graduation degree in any stream/course or an equivalent from a UGC recognized university.
- Students of the final year of graduation are also eligible to apply for the AIMA MAT 2026 exam.
- There is no minimum mark to appear in MAT. However, there is a minimum score criterion of 50% in MAT-accepting colleges (45% for the reserved category).
- Candidates who have completed a professional degree, such as CS, CA, or ICWA, are also eligible to appear in the MAT exam.
- There is no age limit to appear for the MAT exam.
MAT Exam Registration Process 2026
Eligible and interested candidates have to apply for the exam through the official website. AIMA opens a common portal to apply for CBT and PBT. The AIMA September 2026 MAT Registration is going on for PBT and CBT. Candidates can follow the steps below to complete the registration process.
- Visit the official website of AIMA MAT at mat.aima.in.
- Find and click on the ‘Register’ option.
- Now, enter name, email ID, date of birth, mobile number, city, state, test mode and a password.
- Now, authenticate using the MAT ID shared in the email and phone.
- Next, choose the preferred test mode, i.e., CBT or PBT, or both, Test Cities, and five preferred B-Schools.
- Pay the application fee via debit/credit card, net banking, or e-wallet.
- Enter the academic and other details in the AIMA MAT 2026 Application Form.
- Upload a recent passport-size photograph and signature.
- Now, click on submit to complete the application process.
- An acknowledgement mail will be shared with the registered email ID.
MAT Exam Pattern 2026
MAT is a two-hour test with no sectional time limit. The MAT question paper has 5 parts, and each part of the MAT contains 30 multiple-choice questions. Candidates can solve the MAT paper in whichever chronology they like. Look at the table below for highlights of the AIMA MAT 2026 Exam Pattern.
MAT Exam Syllabus 2026
MAT syllabus is identical to that of other MBA entrance examinations. It covers English, Data Interpretation, Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning, and Current Affairs. Check out the table below to see what topics are included in the MAT Syllabus 2026.
MAT Exam Admit Card 2026
AIMA will release the MAT September 2026 Admit Card for both the PBT and CBT mode on September 10, 2026 and September 17, 2026 respectively. Registered candidates can follow the steps below to download the MAT entrance exam 2026 admit card.
- Go to the official website of AIMA MAT 2026, i.e., aima.mat.in.
- On the homepage, click on the “Download/View” option.
- From the drop-down button, select ‘MAT Admit Card’.
- Enter email ID, password, and date of birth.
- Download ‘AIMA MAT 2026 Admit Card’.
Read more: AIMA MAT 2026 Admit Card
MAT Exam Day Guidelines
Candidates appearing for the MAT exam must follow the exam day guidelines to have a smooth exam process. For PBT, carry the Black/Blue ballpoint pens. For CBT, the centre typically provides a sheet for rough work, but carrying a pen is still advised.
- Candidates must carry two colour printouts of the AIMA MAT 2026 admit card.
- Candidates should bring an original photo ID proof, such as an Aadhaar card, a Passport, a Voter ID, a PAN card, a Driving License, or an Employer/College ID.
- Students must take only a blue ballpoint pen (for PBT mode, carry two pens).
- Candidates can bring a clear water bottle and should wear a face mask if required.
- Students should download the admit card 3-4 days before the exam and check for any mistakes.
- Candidates are advised to check the exam centre location at least 2-3 days before the exam.
- Candidates must reach the exam centre at the reporting time mentioned on the admit card. Entry gates will close 15 minutes before the exam starts.
- Students must cooperate with staff during identification and security checks.
- Candidates should not bring bags, mobile phones, watches, books, wallets, or any electronic devices inside the exam centre.
- Students must use the pen provided to sign the attendance sheet and fill the OMR sheet (for PBT mode).
- Candidates will get rough sheets in the exam hall; do not bring your own.
- Students should read all instructions carefully before starting the test.
- Candidates must manage time wisely; the exam is 120 minutes with no sectional time limit.
- Students can start with easier questions to build confidence and save time for tougher ones.
- Candidates must mark answers clearly, especially on the OMR sheet for the PBT mode.
- Students should stay calm and focused; if stuck, move on and return to the question later.
- Candidates must wait for the invigilator to announce the exit process and leave only when allowed.
- Candidates should drop rough sheets in the box before leaving the test lab.
- Students must not disturb others or try to look at their answers.
MAT Exam Preparation Tips 2026
Candidates preparing for the AIMA MAT 2026 exam need to follow proper preparation tips to secure good marks in the exam. The tips for the AIMA MAT 2026 Exam Preparation are given below:
- Candidates should know the exam pattern and syllabus. This helps candidates understand the five sections: Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, and Economic & Business Environment.
- Candidates should make a study plan. By creating a daily and weekly schedule, candidates can focus more on weak areas and revise regularly.
- Candidates should practice AIMA MAT 2026 Mock Tests and sample papers. By solving many mock tests and MAT Previous Years Papers, candidates get used to the exam pattern, improve speed, and find out their strengths and weaknesses.
- Candidates should manage time well. In the exam, candidates should not spend too much time on one question. Attempting easy questions first and returning to tough ones later helps candidates avoid losing marks due to negative marking.
- Candidates should focus on concepts. Clearing basics in Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, and Data Interpretation helps candidates solve questions faster. Learning shortcuts and tricks is also useful.
- Candidates should improve their reading and vocabulary. Reading newspapers, magazines, and business articles daily helps candidates score well in Language Comprehension.
- Candidates should stay updated with current affairs. Reading about current events, business, and the economy helps candidates in the Indian & Global Environment section.
- Candidates should revise regularly. Going through notes and important formulas often helps candidates remember key points. Revising all sections before the exam and focusing on weak areas is important
MAT Exam Books 2026
There are various books available to prepare for the AIMA MAT 2026 exam. Candidates should choose the best study material to secure a good score in the exam. Some of the Best AIMA MAT 2026 Books for each subject have been listed in the table below:
Can I crack the MAT exam in 1 month?
Yes, absolutely. If you have already prepared for other management entrance exams such as CAT, XAT, SNAP, cracking the MAT won’t be very hard for you. The MAT exam is a speed-based test rather than a complex conceptual exam. If you have basic quantitative and English foundations, 30 days are enough to hit an 80–90+ percentile.
Since MAT has no sectional time limits, your single goal is strategy. Focus 80% of your time on taking 8–10 official mock tests, learning shortcut tricks for Data Analysis, and mastering high-yield arithmetic topics. Skip learning heavy new concepts from scratch; simply maximize speed and question selection accuracy.
MAT Exam Mode 2026: Which mode you should opt for?
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) is the best choice for most candidates. Since MAT requires answering 150 questions in just 120 minutes, CBT saves 15–20 minutes compared to manually filling OMR bubbles. It also lets you change wrong answers instantly, which is impossible on paper.
In the table below, the MAT exam mode comparison has been done between PBT and CBT.
Important Note: Pick CBT if you take tests on laptops or computers. However, it ultimately depends on candidate comfort and choice.
MAT Answer Key 2026
AIMA will release the AIMA MAT 2026 Answer Key after the conclusion of the exam. Candidates will be able to check the answer key at the official website. They can use it to calculate their probable score in the exam. Candidates wondering how to Download AIMA MAT 2026 Answer Key can follow the steps below to download the AIMA MAT 2026 Answer Key:
- Go to the official website of AIMA AMT, i.e., mat.aima.in.
- Click on the tab ‘AIMA MAT 2026 Answer Key’.
- Select the relevant exam session and slot.
- AIMA MAT 2026 Answer Key will be displayed in a new window.
- Download and Save it for the marks calculation.
MAT Exam Result 2026
Candidates appearing for the AIMA MAT 2026 September exam can download the MAT Result at the official website of AIMA. The MAT result for September 2026 session will be declared in late September or early October 2026. The result will contain the final marks and the overall percentile obtained by the candidate. Follow the steps below to download the MAT Result 2026.
- Visit the official website for the MAT exam: mat.aima.in
- Click 'Login for MAT'.
- Enter the Roll Number and Registration Number.
- Click the 'Submit' tab.
- Select the Exam Month.
- Navigate to the scorecard download option.
- The AIMA MAT Result 2026 in the form of a scorecard will appear on the screen.
- Download and save it on your desktop.
MAT Exam Cutoff (Expected for 2026)
MAT cut-off is the minimum score required for selection to the group discussion and personal interview rounds at MBA colleges that accept exam scores for admission. Candidates who fulfil the AIMA MAT 2026 Cutoff are chosen for the admission phase. MAT cutoffs are typically lower than those for MBA entry tests such as CAT, XAT, and CMAT. Candidates should know that individual institutes establish the MAT cut-off, and AIMA has no role in this process. The table below shows the expected MAT exam cut-offs.
Top MAT Accepting Colleges 2026
More than 600 MBA colleges in India accept MAT scores for admission, including both private and government institutions. MAT is held four times a year, giving candidates multiple opportunities. Eligibility usually requires graduation in any stream. Colleges offer various specializations, and placements are considered good
MAT Exam 2026: Participating Business Schools
AIMA has divided the 600+ participating institutes into four zones: North, South, East, and West.
|
Zone |
Participating Institutes |
|
North Zone |
AIMA – Centre for Management Education (New Delhi), Birla Institute of Management Technology / BIMTECH (Greater Noida), Christ University – School of Business and Management (NCR / Delhi), EMPI Institutions (New Delhi), GD Goenka University (Gurugram), GNIOT Institute of Management Studies (Greater Noida), IILM Academy of Higher Learning / IILM University (Gurugram / Greater Noida), Institute of Management Studies / IMS (Ghaziabad / Noida), International Institute of Health Management Research / IIHMR (New Delhi), Jagannath International Management School / JIMS (New Delhi), Jaipuria Institute of Management (Lucknow, Ghaziabad, Noida), Jaypee Business School (Noida), Lovely Professional University / LPU (Phagwara, Punjab), Management Education & Research Institute / MERI (New Delhi), New Delhi Institute of Management / NDIM (New Delhi) |
|
South Zone |
Acharya Institute of Graduate Studies (Bengaluru), Acharya Institute of Management and Sciences / AIMS (Bengaluru), Administrative Staff College of India / ASCI (Hyderabad), Alliance University (Bengaluru), Azim Premji University (Bengaluru), Badruka School of Management (Hyderabad), Christ University (Bengaluru), CMR University (Bengaluru), Institute of Health Management Research / IIHMR (Bengaluru), Institute of Insurance and Risk Management / IIRM (Hyderabad), Institute of Public Enterprise / IPE (Hyderabad), International Institute of Business Studies / IIBS (Bengaluru), National Institute of Technology / NIT (Surathkal), NITTE School of Management (Bengaluru), St. Joseph's Institute of Management / SJIM (Bengaluru), Thiagarajar School of Management / TSM (Madurai) |
East Zone | Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Institute of Management Science / BVBIMS (Kolkata), Birla Global University (Bhubaneswar), Chandragupt Institute of Management Patna / CIMP (Patna), Future Institute of Engineering & Management (Kolkata), Haldia Institute of Technology (Haldia), Indian Institute of Social Welfare and Business Management / IISWBM (Kolkata), Institute of Business Management and Research (Kolkata), Institute of Engineering & Management / IEM (Kolkata), International Management and Analytics School / IMAS (Kolkata), International School of Management / ISM (Patna), KIIT – School of Rural Management (Bhubaneswar), Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology / MAKAUT (Kolkata), NERIM Group of Institutions (Guwahati), Netaji Subhas University (Jamshedpur), Pailan College of Management & Technology (Kolkata), Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University (Bhubaneswar) |
West Zone | ATLAS SkillTech University (Mumbai), Christ University – School of Business and Management (Lavasa / Pune), Dr. D.Y. Patil B School (Pune), IIEBM – Indus Business School (Pune), IILM Academy of Higher Learning (Jaipur), Institute of Health Management Research / IIHMR (Jaipur), Institute of Rural Management / FMS-IRM (Jaipur), ITM Skill University (Navi Mumbai), ITM Vocational University (Vadodara), Kirloskar Institute of Management (Pune / Harihar), NICMAR University (Pune), St. Kabir Institute of Professional Studies / SKIPS (Ahmedabad), Suryadatta Institute of Management (Pune) |
Key Points
- Candidates can appear in either mode (PBT / CBT) or both.
- Multiple attempts allowed; best score considered.
- Admission to participating B-schools is based on MAT scores + individual college criteria.
MAT Selection Process 2026: What After MAT Exam?
After your MAT exam results are out, there is a multi-stage selection process for final admission. Candidates must note that the selection process is not the same for all colleges. Selection rounds may also be different depending upon the college. Candidates should be aware of individual college rules as there is no centralized process.
AIMA MAT 2026 FAQs
What is the MAT exam date for September 2026?
MAT Exam Date for September 2026 for PBT and CBT exam is scheduled to be conducted on September 13, 2026 and September 20, 2026 respectively.
How many attempts can a candidate make for the MAT in a year?
MAT is conducted four times a year—in February, May, September, and December—allowing candidates multiple opportunities to appear and improve their scores. There is no limit on the number of attempts a candidate can make. The february registrations are closed now.
What is the exam pattern of AIMA MAT 2026?
Candidates should know that the AIMA MAT 2026 has 150 multiple-choice questions divided into five sections. Each section has 30 questions. The total exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours). There is no sectional time limit, so candidates can answer questions in any order they like.
What are the five sections in AIMA MAT 2026?
Candidates will answer questions from these five sections: Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, and Economic & Business Environment. Each section tests a different skill area needed for management studies.
What documents are needed for AIMA MAT 2026 registration?
Candidates must have a scanned passport-size photograph, a scanned signature, a valid email ID, and payment details (credit/debit card or net banking). These documents are needed to complete the online application and pay the fee.
What is the AIMA MAT 2026 exam fee?
Candidates must pay INR 2,300 for PBT or CBT (any 1). If candidates want to take two modes (like PBT + CBT), they need to pay INR 4,000. The fee can be paid online during registration using a card or net banking.
Is there any age limit for AIMA MAT 2026?
Candidates should know that there is no age limit for appearing in the AIMA MAT 2026. Anyone who has completed graduation or is in the final year can apply, no matter their age or background.
Can candidates choose their exam centre for the AIMA MAT 2026 exam?
Candidates can select their preferred exam city and centre while filling out the application form for the PBT or CBT mode.
Can foreign nationals or NRIs apply for AIMA MAT 2026?
Yes, foreign nationals, NRIs, OCI, PIO cardholders, children of Indian workers in Gulf countries, and children of NRI/OCI/PIO can apply and appear for the MAT exam.
Is work experience mandatory for applying to AIMA MAT 2026?
No, there is no mandatory work experience required to appear for the MAT. However, some colleges may give added weightage to work experience during admissions.
