NMAT by GMAC Overview 2027
NMAT by GMAC Overview
NMAT 2026 Additional Phase Dates
NMAT 2026 registration for the additional phase will start on 5th January 2026 and will remain open till 10th January 2026. The NMAT Exam 2026 will take place from January 13th to January 17th, 2026.
What is the NMAT 2026 Exam?
The NMAT Exam is a national-level MBA exam conducted by GMAC. The exam is held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode at test centres. The NMAT Score is accepted by institutes like NMIMS Mumbai, XIMB, KJ Somaiya, TAPMI and SDA Bocconi Asia Centre.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | NMAT by GMAC 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) at Test Centres |
| Exam Dates (Additional phase) | January 13th to January 17th, 2026 |
| Registration Dates (Additional phase) | January 5th to January 10th, 2026 |
| Attempts Allowed | Maximum 3 (best score considered) |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Total Questions | 108 (MCQs) |
| Sections | Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for each correct answer, no negative marking |
| Score Range | 36 – 360 |
| Top Institutes Accepting | NMIMS Mumbai, XIMB, KJ Somaiya, TAPMI, SDA Bocconi Asia Centre |
NMAT 2026 Registration
The NMAT Registration includes creating an account, filling the application form, selecting 5 B-Schools, scheduling the exam and paying the exam fees.
NMAT Exam Pattern 2026
The NMAT Exam includes 108 Questions, divided into 3 sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills and Logical Reasoning. The total time duration is 120 Minutes.
NMAT Result and Cutoff
The NMAT Results will be released within 48 hours of the exam attempt. The NMAT Cutoff for top B-Schools are generally between 150 to 200 marks, according to the institute and program type.
Official Website
The NMAT Exam will be conducted in a CBT Mode. For the latest updates regarding scheduling, rescheduling and scores, visit the NMAT by GMAC Official website, mba.com/exams/nmat.
NMAT 2026 Additional Phase Schedule
GMAC has released the NMAT 2026 schedule for the additional phase. Registration for this phase closes on 10th January 2026.
The exam will be conducted from 13th January to 17th January 2026.
| Dates (2026) | Event |
|---|---|
| January 13th - January 17th, 2026 | NMAT 2026 Exam Window |
| January 5th - January 10th, 2026 | Retake Registration |
| January 5th - January 10th, 2026 | Retake Scheduling |
| Within 48 hours of the exam | Scorecard Release |
| January 10th, 2026 | Registration Last Date |
Changes in NMAT 2026
The NMAT exam structure is similar to the previous year, with changes only in dates and scheduling. The exam is held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode with 3 attempts allowed.
| Feature | NMAT 2024 | NMAT 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Start | August 1, 2024 | August 1, 2026 | No change |
| Registration Last Date | October 12, 2024 | October 18, 2026 | Slightly later closure |
| Exam Window | Oct 10 – Dec 19, 2024 | Nov 5 – Dec 19, 2026 | Later start in 2026 |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-based (Test Centres) | Computer-based (Test Centres) | Same |
| Attempts Allowed | Max 3 | Max 3 | No change |
NMAT Frequency and Attempts
NMAT is conducted once a year. Candidates get 3 attempts within the exam window to improve their scores.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Window 2026 | November 5 – December 19, 2025 |
| Maximum Attempts | 3 (1 main attempt + 2 retakes) |
| Best Score Considered | Yes, the highest score across attempts |
| Mode | Computer-based at test centres |
NMAT 2026 Registration
Registration for NMAT is done online on the official website, mba.com/exams/nmat. Candidates must register, fill in academic and personal details, select B-schools, schedule the exam, and pay the fee.
The registration window for the additional phase is open from 5th January to 10th January, 2026.
NMAT Application Fees
The application fee includes registration, retake, and rescheduling charges.
| Particulars | Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | 3,000 |
| Retake Fee | 3,000 |
| Rescheduling Fee | 1,200 |
Fee Breakup by Process
Fees vary based on the process chosen. Taxes are added to each fee.
| Process | Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | ₹3,000 + taxes |
| Rescheduling Fee | ₹1,200 + taxes |
| Retake Fee | ₹3,000 + taxes (per retake) |
| Additional Score Report (per B-school beyond 5) | ₹300 + taxes |
Admission to NMIMS Without NMAT
NMIMS accepts only NMAT scores for admission to its MBA/PGDM programs. Other exams like CAT, XAT, or CMAT are not accepted for these programs.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Admission Mode | Through NMAT only |
| Other Exams Accepted | Not applicable for MBA/PGDM |
| Applicable Campuses | Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai, Indore |
| Programs | MBA Core, MBA HR, MBA Pharma, Business Analytics, etc. |
NMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
GMAC sets the eligibility criteria for NMAT, which are the same for all candidates. There is no age limit, and candidates can attempt the exam up to 3 times in the window.
The basic requirement is a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks from a recognised university.
NMAT Eligibility Criteria
NMAT is open to all Indian citizens and foreign candidates. A bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university is required.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Open to all Indian Citizens and foreign candidates. |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a top university. |
| Minimum Marks | 50% marks in graduation are required. |
| Final Year Students | Eligible to apply if they complete their graduation before admission. |
| Age Limit | No age restrictions. |
| Number of Attempts | Maximum 3 attempts within the exam window (best score considered). |
| Other Requirements | Candidates should meet the individual institute-wise eligibility to get admission. |
Check: NMAT Eligibility Criteria
Does SP Jain Accept NMAT?
No, SPJIMR does not accept NMAT scores. It considers CAT, XAT and GMAT scores for admission to MBA/PGDM courses.
| Institute | Exams Accepted for MBA/PGDM |
|---|---|
| SP Jain Institute of Management (SPJIMR), Mumbai | CAT, XAT, GMAT |
| NMAT Accepted? | No |
| NMIMS (Different Institute) | Yes, accepts NMAT only |
NMAT 2026 Scheduling for Additional Phase
The NMAT scheduling process lets candidates book their preferred exam date, time and centre on the official website. Scheduling is done after registration and payment are completed.
- Candidates can reschedule and retake the exam within the given time duration.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheduling Date | January 5 to January 10, 2026 |
| Mode of Scheduling | Online on the NMAT Official website. |
| Exam Window | January 13 to January 17, 2026 |
| Slot Booking | First-come and first-served basis |
| Options Available | Choose date, time, and test centre / Online proctored exam |
| Rescheduling Option | Yes, available by paying a fee (subject to slot availability) |
NMAT 2026: Rescheduling and Retake
NMAT allows candidates to reschedule their exam or retake it within the exam window. Candidates can appear around 3 times, and the best score is considered for admission.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Attempts | 3 (1 main attempt + 2 retakes) |
| Rescheduling Allowed | Yes, available before 72 hours of the scheduled exam |
| Rescheduling Fee | ₹1,200 + taxes |
| Retake Allowed | Up to 2 additional attempts within the same testing window |
| Retake Fee | ₹3,000 per retake |
| Process |
|
| Best Score Considered | Yes, GMAC considers the highest score across all attempts for admission |
Check: NMAT Scheduling
Does NMIMS Accept Retake NMAT Score?
Yes, NMIMS accepts the NMAT retake score, but only the best score among all three attempts is considered for admission. Candidates can retake the NMAT exam twice after the first attempt in the exam window, and NMIMS receives the highest score.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Attempts | 3 (1 main + 2 retakes) |
| Score Considered | Best score among all attempts |
| Applicable for NMIMS? | Yes |
| Score Reporting | Sent directly to NMIMS from GMAC |
| Advantage | Improves chances of clearing NMIMS cutoff (230+) |
Which College Accepts NMAT Retake?
NMAT colleges accept NMAT scores for the retake as GMAC follows the best score policy. Major colleges accepting NMAT retake scores in 2026 are listed below.
NMAT Retake Score Acceptance by B-Schools
Most top B-schools accept NMAT retake scores. The table below lists the institutes and their retake score policies.
| Institute / B-School | Location | Retake Score Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NMIMS University (Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai) | Multiple Cities | Yes | Only best score considered; NMIMS cutoff is highest (230+) |
| Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB) | Bhubaneswar | Yes | Accepts the best retake score |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management | Mumbai | Yes | Retake allowed, best score sent |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Centre | Mumbai | Yes | International B-school in India |
| IFMR GSB (Krea University) | Sri City | Yes | Considers retake score |
| Alliance School of Business | Bengaluru | Yes | Accepts best attempt |
| Jindal Global Business School (JGBS) | Sonipat | Yes | Flexible admission process |
| Athena School of Management | Mumbai | Yes | Accepts retakes |
| Bennett University | Greater Noida | Yes | Retake scores valid |
Courses Offered by NMAT 2026
The NMAT 2026 Exam is for admission to MBA/PGDM programs in Indian B-schools. Participating institutes accept NMAT scores for specialisations in finance, marketing, operations and HR.
| Institute / B-School | Programs Offered (MBA/PGDM Specialisations) |
|---|---|
| NMIMS Mumbai | MBA in Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, IT & Business Analytics |
| XIMB Bhubaneswar | MBA in General Management, Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations |
| KJ Somaiya Institute | MBA / PGDM in Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, Analytics |
| TAPMI Manipal | PGDM in Marketing, Finance, Operations, HR, Business Analytics |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Center | MBA / Executive MBA in General Management, Strategy, Finance, Marketing |
NMAT Exam Pattern 2026
The NMAT 2026 Exam is computer-based and held at allotted centres. It has 3 sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills and Logical Reasoning, with 108 questions in total.
NMAT vs CAT
NMAT is easier than CAT. It has a moderate difficulty level, no negative marking, and allows multiple attempts.
| Feature | NMAT | CAT |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty Level | Moderate | High |
| Negative Marking | No | Yes (-1 per wrong answer) |
| Attempts Allowed | Up to 3 per year | 1 per year |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based (test centres) | Computer-based (test centres) |
| Competition Level | 70,000–80,000 candidates | 3+ lakh candidates |
NMAT 2026 Detailed Syllabus
The NMAT syllabus tests language, quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning skills. Each section covers core MBA topics, and knowing the subtopics helps with preparation and time management.
NMAT Syllabus: Language Skills
| Topics | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Passage-based questions, inference, main idea, tone |
| Para Jumbles / Paragraph Formation | Sentence rearrangement, logical flow |
| Sentence Completion | Fill in the blanks, vocabulary usage |
| Grammar / Error Spotting | Correct grammar, punctuation, sentence correction |
| Vocabulary / Analogies | Synonyms, Antonyms, Word analogies |
NMAT Syllabus: Quantitative Skills
NMAT 2026 Syllabus: Quantitative Skills
The Quantitative Skills section of the NMAT covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Number Properties, Probability, Permutations & Combinations, Data Interpretation, and Sequences & Series. The detailed topics are listed below.
| Topics | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Time, Speed & Distance, Simple & Compound Interest |
| Algebra | Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, Polynomials |
| Number Properties | Divisibility, LCM & HCF, Prime Numbers, Odd/Even Numbers |
| Probability & Permutations & Combinations | Basic probability, counting principles, arrangement problems |
| Data Interpretation (DI) | Tables, Graphs, Charts, Caselets |
| Sequences & Series | Arithmetic Progression (AP), Geometric Progression (GP) |
NMAT 2026 Syllabus: Logical Reasoning
The Logical Reasoning section of the NMAT covers Critical Reasoning, Analytical Puzzles, Series/Pattern Recognition, and Deductions/Syllogisms. The detailed topics are listed below.
| Topics | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Critical Reasoning | Assumptions, Conclusions, Strengthen / Weaken Arguments |
| Analytical Puzzles | Arrangement, Scheduling, Circular, Matrix, Binary puzzles |
| Series / Pattern Recognition | Number series, Letter series, Coding-decoding |
| Deductions / Syllogisms | Logical deductions, Venn diagrams, Statement-conclusion |
NMAT 2026 Exam Pattern and Section Weightage
The NMAT has three sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. Each section has 36 questions and is scored from 12 to 120. The section order can be chosen by the candidate.
The topic-wise weightage for each section is given below. These are the expected number of questions per topic.
Quantitative Skills Weightage
Total Questions: 36, Time Allotted: 52 minutes.
| Topics | Expected Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Modern Math | 7 questions |
| Algebra | 3 questions |
| Arithmetic | 8 questions |
| Numbers | 2 questions |
| Data Interpretation | 12 questions |
| Data Sufficiency | 4 questions |
Logical Reasoning Weightage
Total Questions: 36, Time Allotted: 40 minutes.
| Topics | Expected Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Sequential Output | 8-10 questions |
| Syllogisms | 3-4 questions |
| Ranking | 1-2 questions |
| Venn Diagram | 2-3 questions |
| Grouping | 4-5 questions |
| Statement, Assumption and Conclusion | 2-3 questions |
| Critical Reasoning | 4-5 questions |
| Puzzle | 2-3 questions |
| Course of Action | 4-5 questions |
| Arguments | 2-3 questions |
Language Skills Weightage
Total Questions: 36, Time Allotted: 28 minutes.
| Topics | Expected Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension Passages (3-4 sets) | 12-14 questions |
| Error Detection | 4-5 questions |
| Para Jumbles | 4-5 questions |
| Fill in the Blanks (Grammar Usage & Vocabulary) | 5-6 questions |
| Analogies | 5-6 questions |
How to Manage Time in NMAT 2026
Time management is important for scoring well in the NMAT 2026 exam. Each section is timed separately, so the strategy must be focused.
Choose the Right Section Order
- Start with the strongest section. This helps build momentum and confidence.
- Attempt the weakest section next. After building confidence, move to the toughest section.
- End with a comfortable section. This gives a positive end and ensures a balanced performance.
Smart Time Handling During the Exam
- Keep an eye on the timer. Each section has its own time limit.
- Do not stick to tough questions. Skip them and come back later if time allows.
- Use the 15-second rule. If a question is not understood within 15 seconds, move on.
- Improve calculation speed. Brush up on multiplication tables, squares, cubes, and common fractions.
Practice With a Purpose
- Practice with a clear goal for each study session.
Preparation Tips for NMAT
Regular mock tests are essential for NMAT preparation. Practice both full-length and sectional mocks to get familiar with the exam format, timing, and pressure.
- Review performance after each mock and analyse the results. Identify which sections or question types need more work and adjust the preparation accordingly.
- Balance speed with accuracy. Do not rush through questions. Focus on getting answers right while still moving quickly.
- Prepare all sections equally. Even if strong in one area, do not ignore the others. All three sections matter equally.
- Use mental math and elimination. Practice doing quick calculations in the head. Also, use elimination strategies to narrow down answer options and save time.
NMAT vs CAT vs XAT vs SNAP
Understanding the different entrance exams is important to choose which one fits the academic and career goals. Here is a detailed comparison between NMAT, CAT, XAT and SNAP.
Pros and Cons of Each Exam
| Exam | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| NMAT |
|
|
| CAT |
|
|
| XAT |
|
|
| SNAP |
|
|
NMAT vs CAT vs XAT vs SNAP: Overview
- NMAT is conducted by GMAC and accepted by colleges such as NMIMS and K J Somaiya. These colleges cost about 22-25 lakh per program and mainly focus on finance and marketing.
- CAT is conducted by IIMs and accepted by IIMs and most B schools in India. New IIMs cost around 17 lakhs per programme, while old IIMs have fees around 25-26 lakhs.
- XLRI conducts the XAT exam, accepted by top tier MBA colleges such as XLRI and XIMB. The primary focus of the courses is human resource management and business management. Their PGDM and MBA courses cost around 30-32 lakhs.
- SNAP exam is for MBA programs in Symbiosis Institutes. The programmes cost around 20-25 lakhs.
Here is a detailed comparison between the exams and the colleges, focusing on cost and the primary focus of courses offered.
| Exam | Conducted by | Top colleges | College fees | Primary focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMAT | GMAC | NMIMS, KJ Somaiya | 22 lakh - 25 lakh | Finance, Marketing, Corporate exposure |
| CAT | IIMs | IIMs, FMS, SPJIMR, etc | 17 lakhs - 27 lakhs | General management, Consulting, Finance |
| XAT | XLRI | XLRI, XIMB, etc | 30 lakh - 32 lakh | Human resource Management, Business Management |
| SNAP | Symbiosis International | Symbiosis Institutes | 20 lakhs - 25 lakhs | Marketing, Operations, Entrepreneurship |
Books Recommended by Toppers For NMAT 2026
Books are a key resource for NMAT exam preparation. Here are some of the best books for NMAT 2026 recommended by toppers:
| Book Name | Author/Publication |
|---|---|
| NMAT by GMAC Official Guide | GMAC |
| Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT | Arun Sharma |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | Ajay Singh |
Check:
- NMAT Books
- NMAT Preparation Tips
NMAT 2026 Cutoff
The NMAT Cutoff refers to the minimum score required by top B-Schools for shortlisting candidates.
NMAT 2026 Expected Cutoff (Top Colleges)
The NMAT score is accepted by many management institutes, and the cutoff varies by college and course. NMIMS Mumbai has the highest expected cutoff, while other universities accept lower scores.
- NMIMS Mumbai has the highest expected cutoff of 230+ marks.
- Other universities accept scores in the 200 to 210 range.
- SDA Bocconi and IFMR have flexible cutoffs and accept scores around 200+.
- Candidates can attempt the NMAT more than 3 times. Those aiming for top B-Schools should score above 230 marks in at least one attempt.
| Institute / B-School | Expected NMAT 2026 Cutoff (Score Range) |
|---|---|
| NMIMS Mumbai (MBA Core) | 230 – 235+ |
| NMIMS Bengaluru / Hyderabad | 210 – 220 |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management | 215 – 220 |
| Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB) | 220 – 225 |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Center | 200 – 210 |
| Alliance University | 200 – 205 |
| IFMR Graduate School of Business | 200 – 210 |
| Jindal Global Business School | 195 – 200 |
NMAT Result 2026
The NMAT result is declared within 48 hours after the exam on the official NMAT website. Candidates can log in with their registered credentials to view their scaled score, percentile, and overall performance.
- The total score is calculated based on sections and ranges from 36 to 360 marks.
- The score is valid for the current admission year, from 2026 to 2026.
- Candidates can download the scorecard in PDF format from the NMAT official website.
Colleges Accepting NMAT 2026
The NMAT by GMAC score is accepted by more than 40 B-Schools in India and international universities in the Philippines, South Africa, and Nigeria. The table below lists major Indian colleges accepting NMAT 2026 scores.
| Institute / B-School | Location | Programs Offered (via NMAT) |
|---|---|---|
| NMIMS University (Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Navi Mumbai) | Multiple Cities | MBA, MBA HR, MBA Pharmaceutical, MBA in Business Analytics |
| Xavier University (XIMB) | Bhubaneswar | MBA in Business Management |
| KJ Somaiya Institute of Management | Mumbai | MBA, MBA Healthcare Management |
| SDA Bocconi Asia Centre | Mumbai | International Master in Business (IMB) |
| IFMR Graduate School of Business (Krea University) | Sri City | MBA |
| Alliance School of Business | Bengaluru | MBA |
| Jindal Global Business School (JGBS) | Sonipat | MBA |
| Athena School of Management | Mumbai | PGPM |
| Bennett University | Greater Noida | MBA |
NMAT 2026 Exam FAQs
Is there a negative marking in the NMAT exam?
No, there is no negative marking in the NMAT exam. Each correct answer is awarded +3 marks, and no marks are deducted for wrong answers.
Is an online screen calculator available for the NMAT exam?
No, an online screen calculator is not provided in the NMAT exam. Candidates must do calculations manually.
Do I need to apply separately for NMIMS after registering for NMAT?
Yes, candidates must register for NMIMS through the official NMIMS website after registering for NMAT. NMIMS will begin its own registration process on its official website.
What is the usual NMAT cutoff score for NMIMS Mumbai?
The cutoff for NMIMS changes every year. Usually, NMIMS requires a top score of 235+ due to high competition, which is a high bar compared to other colleges.