MAT 2026: Complete Guide to Management Test for MBA Aspirants. The MAT 2026 exam continues to be one of India’s most trusted MBA entrance exams for students who want flexible opportunities to enter management education. Conducted multiple times a year, the Management Aptitude Test allows candidates to improve scores, choose modes, and apply to hundreds of B-schools across the country.
With the February–March 2026 session scheduled after November 2025, aspirants now have a clear roadmap to plan their preparation and registration.
“MAT is not about competing with everyone else; it’s about giving yourself more chances to succeed.”
MAT 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | Management Aptitude Test (MAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | All India Management Association |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Exam Mode | PBT (Paper-Based Test) & CBT (Computer-Based Test) |
| Frequency | 4 times a year (Feb, May, Sept, Dec) |
| Target Students | MBA & allied management aspirants |
| Important Dates | Dec 2025 – March 2026 (Feb Session) |
| Application Fee | ₹2200 (single mode), ₹3800 (both modes) |
| Official Website | mat.aima.in |
What is MAT 2026 and Why It Matters
The MAT 2026 exam is designed to assess a candidate’s aptitude for management education. Unlike many one-time entrance tests, MAT gives students the flexibility to appear multiple times a year, making it ideal for those who want to improve scores or missed other exams. MAT scores are accepted by a wide range of private universities, deemed universities, and autonomous B-schools across India.
With both PBT and CBT options, students can choose the mode they are most comfortable with. The two-hour test evaluates language skills, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and awareness of business and economic environments.
MAT 2026 Important Dates (February Session)
| Event | PBT | CBT |
| Registration Starts | 1st week of Dec 2025 | 1st week of Dec 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 1st week of March 2026 | 2nd week of March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 2nd week of March 2026 | 3rd week of March 2026 |
| Exam Date | 2nd week of March 2026 | 4th week of March 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Last week of March 2026 | Last week of March 2026 |
MAT 2026 Registration Process
The MAT 2026 registration is conducted only through online mode. Candidates must fill in all details carefully in English, upload scanned images of their photograph and signature, and complete fee payment digitally. After submission, most details can be edited except name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.
Applicants are advised to keep a printed copy of the filled application form for future reference, especially during admission stages at participating institutions.
MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
The MAT 2026 eligibility is simple and inclusive:
- Candidates must have completed graduation from a recognized university
- Students from any stream can apply
- Final-year graduation students are eligible
- No age limit applies
- No minimum percentage required (institution-specific rules may apply)
This flexibility makes MAT 2026 accessible to a wide range of aspirants.
MAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The MAT 2026 exam pattern consists of five sections with equal weightage:
| Section | Subject | Questions |
| I | Language Comprehension | 30 |
| II | Mathematical Skills | 30 |
| III | Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 |
| IV | Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 |
| V | Economic & Business Environment | 30 |
| Total | 150 |
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marking: +1 for correct answer
- Negative Marking: -0.25 per wrong answer
MAT 2026 Syllabus Highlights
The MAT 2026 syllabus covers:
- Language Comprehension: Vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension
- Mathematical Skills: Arithmetic, algebra, percentages, interest, speed & time
- Data Analysis: Tables, graphs, charts, pie diagrams
- Reasoning: Logical reasoning, visual reasoning, critical thinking
- Economic & Business Environment: Current affairs, corporate news, economy, business awareness
Balanced preparation across sections is key to scoring well in MAT 2026.
MAT 2026 Preparation Tips
To perform well in the MAT 2026 exam, candidates should:
- Create a section-wise study plan
- Regularly read business and economic news
- Practice mock tests and analyze mistakes
- Focus on time management and accuracy
- Use standard preparation books consistently
MAT rewards clarity and practice rather than rote learning.
MAT 2026 Admit Card & Scorecard
The MAT 2026 admit card will be released online separately for PBT and CBT candidates. It includes exam date, time, venue, and candidate details. Entry to the exam hall is not allowed without the admit card.
The MAT 2026 scorecard will be available on the candidate dashboard in the last week of March 2026. Scores are automatically sent to selected management institutes chosen during registration.
MAT 2026 Cut-Off & Admission Process
MAT cut-offs vary by institute, usually ranging between 80–95 percentile for top B-schools. There is no centralized counseling. After the results, candidates must apply directly to colleges that accept MAT scores.
Admission generally includes:
- Written Ability Test (WAT)
- Group Discussion (GD)
- Personal Interview (PI)
Final admission depends on overall performance and document verification.
Top Participating Institutions Accepting MAT 2026
Some well-known MAT-accepting institutes include:
- KIIT School of Management
- St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata
- GD Goenka University
- Lovely Professional University
- Alliance School of Business
- UPES Dehradun
- SRM School of Management
- RV Institute of Management
MAT 2026 FAQs
How many times is MAT conducted?
four times a Year
Is there negative marking in MAT 2026?
Yes, -0.25 per wrong answer.
Can final-year students apply?
Yes
Can final-year students apply?
MAT is generally considered moderate.
Does the MAT score work for IIMs?
No
