NMAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

The NMAT by GMAC is a management entrance test owned by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). Its scores are accepted by several reputed B-schools across India, Morocco, South Africa, Philippines, Hungary, and Nigeria.
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NMAT
NMAT is a computer-adaptive test, held in two modes: computer-based (at test centres) and online proctored (at home). It consists of three sections based on Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. Since you can take the exam up to three times in one testing year, there is an enormous margin for improvement in a particular testing year. NMAT examiners aim to bring out the best in candidates with this unique arrangement. Yet, with over 75,000 candidates appearing for the exam, it becomes quite competitive despite its moderate level of difficulty.
NMAT Eligibility Criteria: Key Points
Although the exact eligibility for different MBA/PGDM programmes varies among B-schools, there are certain basic conditions you must fulfil in order to appear for NMAT by GMAC. Listed below are the important points regarding the same:
  • Anyone with a recognized bachelor’s degree (10+2+3 or 10+2+4 format) from a recognized university can appear in NMAT by GMAC exam.
  • Candidates in the final year of their graduation can also apply for NMAT.
  • Candidates must have obtained at least 50% marks in their bachelor’s degree (45% for SC/ST/PwD at some institutes).
  • Candidates with professional degrees like CA/CS/ICWA, including those awaiting results, can also apply.
  • There is no age limit to appear for the NMAT Exam.
  • While work experience is not required, candidates with two to three years of experience may be given preference during the final selection process.
  • No refund of NMAT fee if the candidate is not eligible for admission.
NMAT Eligibility Criteria Table
This table summarizes the key eligibility criteria for NMAT. It helps candidates confirm their qualifications before applying.
NMAT Eligibility Criteria
Qualification Bachelor’s degree (10+2+3 or 10+2+4) from a recognized university
Minimum Marks 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST/PwD at some institutes)
Final-Year Students Eligible to apply, must complete degree by admission time
Professional Degrees CA/CS/ICWA holders or candidates awaiting results are eligible
Age Limit No age limit
Work Experience Not required, but 2–3 years preferred in final selection
Fee Refund Non-refunded if candidate is ineligible for admission
It is important to note that the overall and sectional scores in NMAT form the first criteria for selection by NMAT-accepting institutes. However, the final admission is determined by your profile and performance in subsequent selection rounds.
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NMIMS Eligibility Criteria
NMIMS specifies additional criteria for its management programmes. Apart from the above-stated requirements, the institute expects the candidate to have obtained at least 50% marks in graduation (45% for SC/ST/PwD). These conditions are well applicable for General MBA and MBA (HR), but for the other specialisations like Law and Pharma, the candidate needs to have completed graduation in relevant fields (e.g., LLB for MBA Law, B.Pharm/MBBS/B.Tech for MBA Pharmaceutical Management).
NMAT Registration Process
This section outlines the expected steps to register for NMAT (once announced). Follow these guidelines to complete your application and schedule the exam.
The NMAT application window is expected to open in August 2026. Candidates must submit the application form on the official GMAC website. The registration steps for NMAT are provided below:
  • Ensure your browser meets the specifications: Mozilla 3.0, Internet Explorer 8, Google Chrome 3.0, or Safari.
  • Open the official GMAC website (mba.com).
  • Create a profile by filling in your phone number, name, and email address if you don’t have one.
  • Verify your email address and log back into your profile.
  • Navigate to the NMAT by GMAC section and fill in personal details, academic history, work experience, programme preferences, and ID.
  • Ensure the name and birth date match your government-issued ID, as these cannot be changed later.
  • Choose up to 5 schools to send your official NMAT scores to.
  • Upload required documents and a recent photo before selecting the test mode (Test Centre or Online Proctored at Home). Note that the mode cannot be changed once confirmed.
  • Make the payment via credit card, debit card, or internet banking.
  • After payment confirmation, schedule your exam from the Schedule NMAT tab, choosing a preferred date and time from available centres.
Additional pointers to keep in mind:
  • Upload a scanned copy of a valid government-issued ID with an up-to-date photo to avoid issues on exam day.
  • Set up three security questions for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA); one will be asked to verify your identity before the exam.
  • Double-check your time zone, as it cannot be changed later.
  • Download the admit card from your dashboard after scheduling.
For more details, visit: NMAT Registration.
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NMAT FAQs
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about NMAT, covering cut-offs, eligibility, exam pattern, attempts, and fees to help candidates prepare effectively.
  • What is the NMAT cut-off for NMIMS?
    Typically around 209 overall (varies by year/program); check official site for latest.
  • What is the cut-off for Narsee Monjee College?
    Around 209 overall NMAT score (varies); refer to official announcements.
  • Who is eligible for NMAT?
    Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks from a recognized university; final-year students eligible, no age/work experience limit.
  • What is the NMAT exam pattern?
    108 questions, 120 minutes; Language Skills (36), Quantitative Skills (36), Logical Reasoning (36); no negative marking.
  • How many attempts are allowed for NMAT?
    Three attempts within the testing window, with 15 days between retakes; best score considered.
  • What is the NMAT registration fee?
    ₹3,000 (approx) for one attempt; additional for retakes/scheduling.
So now that you know the eligibility criteria for the NMAT exam, you can gear up to prepare for NMAT. You can find other resources and guides for NMAT preparation at mba.hitbullseye.com/NMAT.
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