Exam guide · Entrance Exams
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
CMAT is a national management entrance test accepted by many AICTE-approved institutions. It is often taken alongside CAT or state tests to widen options for MBA and PGDM admission.
- Conducted by
- National Testing Agency
- Leads to
- MBA/PGDM at participating AICTE-approved institutes
- Mode
- Computer-based
- Sections
- Quantitative, logical reasoning, language comprehension, general awareness, and an innovation/entrepreneurship section
About the exam
CMAT scores are used by many business schools across India. Its sections are broadly similar to other management tests, with an additional section on innovation and entrepreneurship.
Who takes this exam
- Graduates and final-year students applying to MBA/PGDM programmes
Eligibility (general)
- A bachelor's degree in any discipline; final-year students can usually apply
Exam pattern
| Feature | In recent years |
|---|---|
| Mode | Computer-based |
| Sections | Quantitative techniques and data interpretation, logical reasoning, language comprehension, general awareness, innovation and entrepreneurship |
| Marking | Deduction for wrong answers, as per current rules |
Syllabus overview
School-level mathematics, reasoning puzzles, reading comprehension, business and current affairs, and basic entrepreneurship concepts.
Want help applying this to your own situation? Guidance for College Students on the Career Captain website.
Courses and institutions it leads to
Many AICTE-approved B-schools use CMAT scores, sometimes alongside CAT, XAT or MAT.
How the process usually works
- Register with NTAApply during the application window.
- Take CMATComputer-based test.
- Apply to collegesApply separately to institutes accepting CMAT.
How to prepare
- Revise school mathsArithmetic and data interpretation.
- Read newsFor general awareness.
- Practise mocksFor speed and accuracy.
After the result
Check each institute's approvals, placements and fees before accepting admission.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a college only because it accepts a lower score
- Not checking AICTE approval
Alternatives and backup options
- CAT
- XAT
- TS/AP ICET for state admissions
Frequently asked questions
Is CMAT accepted by IIMs?
IIMs primarily use CAT. CMAT is used by many other institutes.
Is CMAT easier than CAT?
Many students find it less difficult, but cut-offs depend on the institute.
Published by Career Captain Global Solutions. This page is general guidance; see the disclaimer below. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.