Latest Update- The notifications are out for SNAP 2024. The registrations are open, and the last date to register is 22 November 2024. The exam will be conducted in 3 slots on 8 Dec, 15 Dec & 21 Dec 2024.
What is SNAP?
Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is a national-level MBA entrance exam conducted by Symbiosis International University (SIU) for admission to management programmes offered by its affiliated institutes and several other private B-schools. SNAP is held once a year in the month of December/January. From 2020, it is being scheduled for three different slots. More than 60,000 candidates appear for SNAP every year.
SNAP is comparatively easier than other popular entrance tests like CAT or XAT. It is basically a speed-based test designed to assess the candidate’s time management and decision-making skills. Since 2017, SNAP has been held in online mode at test centres. The exam is carried out at 90+ centres across India.
What is the structure of SNAP?
SNAP is a computer-based test consisting of three sections. In 2020, the time limit for SNAP was reduced from 2 hours to 1 hour and the number of questions changed from 110 to 60. The same system and pattern will continue in 2024. The given table displays
SNAP Exam Pattern in complete detail:
SNAP Exam Pattern 2024
|
Sections
|
Number of questions
|
Marks
|
|
General English: Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, Verbal Ability
|
15
|
15
|
|
Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency
|
20
|
20
|
|
Analytical & Logical Reasoning
|
25
|
25
|
|
Total
|
60
|
60
|
As illustrated above, SNAP has almost the same sections as the other MBA entrances like CAT, XAT, NMAT, etc. In terms of difficulty level, SNAP is somewhat similar to exams like NMAT. Listed below are the major features of SNAP exam format and marking scheme:
- All questions in SNAP are multiple-choice type, and carry four answer choices each.
- Each correct answer carries one mark.
- 25% marks are deducted for each incorrect answer.
- There are no sectional time limits in SNAP.
- There is no prefixed order of sections in SNAP. So, the candidate can choose to attempt sections in any order and also, move between different sections.
Syllabus for SNAP 2024
Although there is no specified syllabus for SNAP, we have jotted down certain topics based on their frequent appearance in the exam. Given below is an overview of
SNAP syllabus 2024:
- General English: As displayed in the above table, the English section of SNAP primarily focuses on Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, and miscellaneous topics of Verbal Ability. Usually, there are two RC passages in SNAP, accompanied by mostly direct questions. These passages are based on current events or business-related issues. The remaining topics of this section are put to test your knowledge of vocabulary and grammar.
- Analytical & Logical Reasoning: This section consists of questions that test your analytical and problem-solving capabilities. These questions are drawn from common reasoning topics like arrangements, syllogisms, analogies, coding-decoding, etc. There are also questions from visual and critical reasoning.
- Quantitative Ability: This section consists of questions that cover various fundamental concepts of mathematics. It encompasses key areas such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data interpretation, and data sufficiency, which are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of mathematical principles and problem-solving techniques. By delving into these fundamental areas, learners can strengthen their foundational knowledge and enhance their ability to tackle mathematical challenges with confidence.
When is SNAP conducted?
SNAP is usually conducted in December/January every year. The registrations for the exam for 2024 will begin somewhere in August and will continue till November. From 2021, the candidates are allowed to take the exam thrice, and the best of the scores were considered for admission. SNAP application form has to be submitted online, and alongside, you can apply for your desired MBA programmes in respective institutes. Further, you can indicate your preferred test city and date from among the options given in the online form.
SNAP results are usually declared by the first week of January. The results will be available on the official site until a month after its declaration. For more information and details about the SNAP 2024 exam, you can check the official website
snaptest.org. There, you will get to know about the important dates, application fees, MBA/PGP programmes and other essential information.
Who can appear in SNAP?
The eligibility criteria for SNAP have remained the same all through the years. Given below are the major eligibility conditions for SNAP 2024:
- Candidate must be a Graduate from a recognised/statutory University with a minimum of 50% marks in any discipline (45% for SC/ST).
- Candidates in the final year of graduation can also appear for SNAP.
Apart from the Indian candidates, SNAP can be taken by foreign nationals who have completed the requisite qualifying exam of any Foreign University. These candidates must also have an equivalence certificate obtained from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
It is important to note that different SNAP-accepting institutes may have a different set of eligibility requirements as per their specific management programmes. For instance, if you wish to pursue MBA (Operations) at SIOM, you must be an engineering graduate or be in the final year of your engineering degree. Similar additional conditions apply for MBA/PGDM programmes in other colleges of Symbiosis University. So, make sure that you check the individual eligibility criteria of related colleges.
Which Institutes accept SNAP scores?
The affiliated colleges of Symbiosis International University (SIU) accept SNAP scores. SIU counts among the top-ranked educational institutions of India. It has more than 40 related institutes spread across several cities, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Indore, Nashik, etc. Out of these, 15 institutes offer MBA programmes based on SNAP scores. Given below is the
list of colleges that accept SNAP:
- Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies & Research (SICSR), Pune
- Symbiosis Centre for Management and Human Resource Development (SCMHRD), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of International Business (SIIB), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication, Pune (SIMC) , Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Operations Management, Nashik (SIOM), Nashik
- Symbiosis Institute of Digital & Telecom Management (SIDTM), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies (SIMS), Pune
- Symbiosis Centre for Information Technology (SCIT), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Health Sciences (SIHS), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Bengaluru
- Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance (SSBF), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Hyderabad
- Symbiosis School of Sports Sciences (SSSS), Pune
- Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Nagpur
SIBM and SCMHRD features in Business Today's list of ‘India's best B-schools’. Many of these institutes have also made to NIRF's list of best private B-schools, with SIBM ranked the highest among all SIU-affiliated institutes.
In addition to the aforementioned, a few other management institutes also admit students on the basis of SNAP scores.
Admission Process of SNAP-accepting Institutes
SNAP exam is the first step of the selection procedure at the associated B-schools. These B-schools have their own cut-off criteria and give different weightage to various admission parameters. Usually, the cut-offs vary in the case of programmes too and accordingly, the candidates are selected for one or more programmes.
Once the candidates are shortlisted as per their SNAP scores or percentiles, they are called for further screening rounds that generally include group exercises (GE), written ability test (WAT), and personal interview (PI). Given below is the weightage allotted to different stages of the admission process:
- SNAP score: 50%
- GE: 10%
- WAT: 10%
- PI: 30%
The final merit list and the wait list are prepared on the basis of the candidates’ performance in the above-stated stages. After SNAP, the first list of shortlisted candidates is released by February of next year, and the final list is out by March.
ROI of Programmes offered by SNAP-accepting Institutes
MBA/PGDM is undoubtedly one of the most in-demand courses in today’s world. However, these courses are also high in cost and effort. So, if you want to land up in an excellent profile in a top MNC, you must aim for institutes with good ROI. Alternatively, you can start your own venture and use your learning to turn it into a profitable enterprise. In the case of Symbiosis-related institutes, the fees of MBA programmes range between Rs. 7-15 lakhs. Accordingly, you expect to be placed at a lucrative package. Here are the latest placement stats of top SNAP-accepting colleges:
- SIBM Pune is known for its 100% placement records. There was a 49.77% increase in the highest salary for the batch 2021-22 which stood at INR 45.5 LPA. The average salary stood at INR 23.06 LPA. Female students received an average salary of INR 24.81 LPA, while male students received an average salary of INR 22.31 LPA. A total of 97 Pre-Placement Offers were received. Around 217 offers were made by 100+ recruiters among which 43 new recruiters participated in the placement drive. Major recruiters included Accenture, Adani, Aditya Birla Group, Bajaj Finserv, Cipla. Recruiters came from various sectors among which the Consulting sector was the top recruiting sector.
- At SCMHRD, the highest Domestic package offered to MBA students was INR 35.50 LPA and the highest International package stood at INR 61.50 LPA for 2022 batch. The SCMHRD average package and median package offered during MBA placements in 2022 were INR 20.40 LPA and INR 20 LPA, respectively. More than 110 recruiters visited the campus and the highest percentage of recruiters participated from the IT/ ITES sector, followed by BFSI.
- For most Symbiosis-affiliated institutes, the top placement companies include Google, JPMorgan Chase & Co., HSBC, Goldman Sachs, P&G, PepsiCo, etc.
Preparation Tips for SNAP 2024
Although the difficulty level of SNAP is quite moderate, it is crucial to invest at least 3-6 months in serious preparation. The key to acing SNAP exam is to get a hold over speed and accuracy in calculations. However, before starting your preparation, you must carefully go through the exam pattern and syllabus.
Once you are aware of the expected topics that frequently appear in SNAP, you must begin your preparation in a focused manner. Here are some expert tips to help you streamline your study plan for SNAP 2024:
- After you have secured the right books and study material for SNAP, start brushing up the basics of all important topics. SNAP questions are mainly drawn from the fundamental topics of mathematics, reasoning, and English.
- To begin with, develop a regular habit of reading newspapers, magazines, books, and similar sources. This will improve your reading skills and vocabulary. Alongside, learn the basic rules and conventions of grammar. Such things will eventually nail the ‘General English’ section of SNAP.
- As for the quant section, you must learn the simple tricks and formulae related to essential areas like arithmetic, algebra, etc. These techniques will also help you in tackling questions from data interpretation and data sufficiency.
- Reasoning section covers a wide variety of question types that generally do not involve any standard formulas. So, in order to do well in this section, you will need to solve such questions from previous year papers and topic-wise practice tests.
- All the sections of SNAP require an adequate amount of practice, especially the ones that entail calculations. Besides, considering that SNAP is a speed-based test, you need to spend a few weeks fully dedicated to mock tests and revision. Simultaneously, monitor your performance and spot your weak and strong areas. Once you know about these areas, you will be able to make the appropriate changes in your preparation as well as exam strategy.
FAQs Regarding SNAP
- Is SNAP exam easy?
Yes, SNAP is quite manageable and you can do well in it with a few months of preparation and practice.
- What is the full form of SNAP?
SNAP refers to 'Symbiosis National Aptitude Test'. It is held for management institutes related to Symbiosis university.
- How do I prepare for SNAP?
For good preparation, you should refer to credible resources (books, online videos, tests, etc.). Also, you should regularly practice the mock tests for SNAP.
- How many attempts are good in SNAP?
An overall attempt of 45+ questions is considered good for SNAP
- What is the validity of SNAP score?
SNAP scores are valid for one year.
- What is a good score in SNAP?
The top institutes generally set their SNAP cut-off percentile above 90. For instance, SIBM (Pune) shortlists candidates with a percentile in the range of 97-99. This corresponds to a score of 44-54, out of 60. To reach such a performance, you need to attempt atleast 80 questions with the highest accuracy.
- What are the sectional cut-off scores for SNAP?
There are no sectional cut-off scores for SNAP. The associated institutes consider only the overall cut-off for shortlisting candidates.
- How many times can I appear in SNAP?
There is no limit on the number of times you can attempt SNAP in a lifetime. Even in one particular year, you can appear in all three sessions (exam dates).
- Are there any age restrictions for taking SNAP?
There are no age restrictions for appearing in SNAP.
- What is the fee for SNAP application?
The standard fee for SNAP registration is Rs. 1950 per test. Besides, an additional fee of Rs. 1000 is charged for every programme you choose.