Top MBA Entrance Exams in India
MAT (Management Aptitude Test) – Complete Overview
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is one of India’s most popular national-level entrance exams for MBA and PGDM admissions. It is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is accepted by hundreds of business schools across the country.
What makes MAT especially attractive is its flexibility—the exam is held four times a year, giving students multiple chances to improve their score and plan admissions comfortably.
Eligibility Criteria for MAT
MAT is open to a wide range of students, making it an accessible exam for MBA aspirants.
Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university
Final-Year Students: Students in the final year of graduation can also apply
Age Limit: There is no age restriction for appearing in MAT
Work Experience: Not mandatory, though some colleges may prefer candidates with experience
MAT Exam Pattern Explained
The MAT exam tests candidates on five different skill areas. Each section carries equal weight, making balanced preparation important.
Language Comprehension – 40 questions
Mathematical Skills – 40 questions
Data Analysis & Sufficiency – 40 questions
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning – 40 questions
Indian & Global Environment (General Awareness) – 40 questions
Total Questions: 200
Time Duration: 150 minutes
Marking Scheme:
+1 mark for every correct answer
–0.25 marks for each wrong answer
No negative marking for unanswered questions
Modes of MAT Examination
One major advantage of MAT is that students can choose the exam mode that suits them best:
PBT (Paper-Based Test): Traditional offline exam using OMR sheets
CBT (Computer-Based Test): Online exam at designated test centres
IBT (Internet-Based Test): Online proctored exam that can be taken from home
Candidates can appear in one or multiple modes to increase their chances of scoring better.
MAT Syllabus Overview
The MAT syllabus focuses on testing practical aptitude and awareness rather than deep technical knowledge.
Language Comprehension: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, sentence correction, and para jumbles
Mathematical Skills: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, trigonometry, time & work
Data Analysis & Sufficiency: Tables, graphs, charts, and data-based reasoning
Critical Reasoning: Logical reasoning, analogies, series, directions, and coding-decoding
General Awareness: Current affairs, business news, economics, politics, and global events
MAT Scoring & Percentile System
MAT scores are calculated on a scaled score of 800 marks
Percentiles are used to rank candidates among all test-takers
MAT scores are valid for one year, allowing students to apply to multiple B-Schools
MAT Cutoff Percentile
The cutoff for MAT varies depending on the college:
Top B-Schools: Usually between 80–99 percentile
Other institutes may consider lower cutoffs based on demand, location, and specialization
Apart from the MAT score, institutes may also consider academics, work experience, GD, PI, or WAT performance
How to Prepare for MAT Effectively
MAT preparation should focus on speed, accuracy, and consistency.
Use the Right Study Material: Books by R.S. Aggarwal and Arun Sharma are commonly recommended
Take Regular Mock Tests: This helps improve time management and confidence
Focus on General Awareness: Read newspapers, business magazines, and follow current events
Practice Data Interpretation & Reasoning: These sections can be time-consuming if not practiced regularly
Revise Quant Basics: Strengthen concepts like percentages, ratios, algebra, and time-speed-distance
Final Words
MAT is one of the most student-friendly MBA entrance exams in India. With multiple exam attempts, flexible modes, and wide acceptance, it is an excellent option for aspirants aiming for MBA or PGDM programs. With the right preparation strategy and consistent practice, cracking MAT and securing admission to a good B-School is absolutely achievable.