The MAT (Management Aptitude Test) entrance exam is a gateway to top MBA colleges and Best PGDM colleges in India. Conducted by AIMA (All India Management Association), MAT is one of the most popular national-level entrance exams for management programs.
Aspiring candidates who aim to secure a seat in top colleges through MAT can consider applying to NDIM College, ie one of the Best MAT colleges in Delhi.
Candidates wanting to apply for MAT should stay updated on the exam’s important dates, eligibility criteria, fees, syllabus, and effective strategies to excel in the same. These are detailed below.
What is MAT? (MAT Full Form)
MAT stands for Management Aptitude Test. It’s a standardized test conducted by AIMA that allows candidates to apply for MBA / PGDM and allied programs across various B-schools in India. Unlike other management exams, MAT is held four times a year, giving candidates flexibility in scheduling their preparation.
Application Invited for PGDM 2026-28 at NDIM
MAT Exam Date 2026: Important Dates to Remember
The MAT exam is conducted 4 times a year, usually in December, February, May, and September. Candidates can opt for the test in different modes such as Computer-Based Test (CBT), Paper-Based Test (PBT), and Internet-Based Test (IBT).
MAT 2026: Important Dates (February Session)
The MAT exam 2026 (February session) has officially announced its schedule for both Paper‑Based Test (PBT) and Computer‑Based Test (CBT) formats:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| PBT Registration Deadline | 23 February 2026 |
| CBT Registration Deadline | 2 March 2026 |
| PBT Admit Card Release | 26 February 2026 |
| CBT Admit Card Release | 5 March 2026 |
| PBT Exam Date | 1 March 2026 |
| CBT Exam Date | 8 March 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Expected late March 2026 |
These dates are published on the official MAT portal.
Note: MAT is conducted four times a year — February, May, September, and December — so you have multiple attempts each year.
May 2026 Session – Tentative Schedule
- Registration Start Date: Early April 2026
- Registration Last Date: May 2026
- MAT Exam Date 2026: Mid to Late May
For exact dates, candidates should refer to the official AIMA website for MAT.
MAT Registration: Steps and Important Details
The MAT Registration process is straightforward but requires careful attention to details. Below are the steps to ensure a smooth registration experience:
- Visit the official AIMA website for MAT.
- Create an account by filling in essential information like name, email ID, and phone number.
- Choose the mode of examination (CBT, PBT, or IBT).
- Pay the MAT exam fees, which is approximately Rs 2,100 for one mode and Rs 3,600 for two modes (exact fees may vary each session).
- Upload required documents such as a passport-sized photo and signature.
- Submit and download the confirmation for future reference.
Registration Last Date varies for each session, so candidates should regularly check the updates on registration deadlines to avoid missing out.
MAT Exam Eligibility
To be eligible for the MAT Exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Final-year students are also eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of graduation by the stipulated deadline.
- Minimum Percentage: There is no specific cut-off in terms of minimum marks, but individual institutions may have their criteria.
- Nationality: Both Indian nationals and international candidates can apply.
MAT Exam Fees
The MAT exam fees are as follows:
- Single Test Mode (PBT/CBT): INR 2,100
- Dual Test Mode (PBT + CBT): INR 3,600
Candidates should note that fees may vary based on the mode selected and are non-refundable. It’s essential to choose the test mode wisely based on personal preference and convenience.
MAT Exam Syllabus
To ace the MAT entrance exam, candidates need a solid understanding of the syllabus, which includes five major sections:
- Language Comprehension: Focus on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar.
- Mathematical Skills: Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics.
- Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Emphasis on interpreting graphs, tables, and data.
- Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: Tests logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Economic & Business Environment: Focuses on general knowledge, current affairs, and business awareness.
Candidates should practice regularly, focusing on accuracy and speed, as the MAT is known for its time-sensitive nature.
Tips & Tricks to Excel in MAT 2026
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure of the test. The MAT is a 150-question, 120-minute test, where each question is worth one mark, with a negative marking of 0.25 for incorrect answers.
- Time Management: Divide time among sections effectively. Prioritize accuracy to avoid negative marking.
- Mock Tests: Regular mock tests can significantly improve performance. Many coaching centers and online portals offer mock exams tailored to the MAT pattern.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Regularly analyze practice tests to identify and strengthen weak areas.
- Stay Updated on Current Affairs: The General Awareness section is crucial. Reading newspapers, magazines, and following credible online sources can help in this area.
For candidates looking to secure admission in top colleges, applying to NDIM College, known as one of the Best MAT colleges in Delhi, can be a great choice.
Why Choose NDIM Delhi?
New Delhi Institute of Management (NDIM) is renowned for its industry-oriented curriculum, excellent faculty, and excellent placements records. Aspiring management students can leverage NDIM’s resources, training, and network to achieve their career goals.
Apply Now to the Best MAT College in Delhi
If you’re ready to take your management career to the next level, apply to NDIM, Delhi. NDIM’s focus on holistic development, real-world learning, excellent corporate connect and placement sets it apart. To apply to NDIM, visit NDIM Application Form.
Conclusion
The MAT entrance exam is a gateway to a successful management career, provided candidates are well-prepared and focused. By understanding the MAT exam pattern, important dates, syllabus, registration process, and fees, you can approach the exam with confidence. Preparation is the key, and by following these tips, you’re already on the path to achieving your dream of studying at a top MBA / PGDM college.
Explore the Most Preferred MBA / PGDM college in North India by applying to NDIM and explore why it’s the Top choice for MAT aspirants. Merit based Scholarships on MAT are also available. Good luck for your management career!
MAT stands for Management Aptitude Test. It is a national-level entrance exam conducted by All India Management Association to help candidates gain admission into MBA and PGDM programs in various B-schools across India. Unlike other management exams, MAT is held four times a year (December, February, May, and September), offering flexibility in preparation and scheduling.
NDIM – New Delhi Institute of Management is one of the top MAT colleges in Delhi. It is known for its industry-oriented curriculum, experienced faculty, and impressive placement records. NDIM focuses on holistic development, real-world learning, and offers excellent corporate connections, making it an ideal choice for management aspirants.
The MAT exam can be taken in three different modes:
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Paper-Based Test (PBT)
Internet-Based Test (IBT)
This allows candidates to choose a mode based on their preference and convenience
To be eligible for the MAT exam:
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Final-year graduation students are also eligible to apply, provided they can submit proof of graduation within the stipulated deadline.
There is no specific cut-off for minimum marks; however, individual institutions may have their own criteria.
Single test mode (CBT, PBT, or IBT): ₹2,100
Two test modes (PBT + CBT): ₹3,600
These fees are non-refundable.
The MAT exam covers five sections:
Language Comprehension
Mathematical Skills
Data Analysis and Sufficiency
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
Economic & Business Environment
Visit the official AIMA website
Create an account
Choose exam mode (CBT/PBT/IBT)
Pay fees
Upload required documents
Submit and download confirmation
Understand the exam pattern (150 questions, 120 minutes, 0.25 negative marking)
• Focus on time management and accuracy
• Take regular mock tests
• Analyze weak areas
• Stay updated on current affairs
Candidates can apply through the official NDIM application portal by filling out the application form.
Yes, both Indian and international candidates are eligible to appear for the MAT exam and apply to participating colleges using their scores.
