MAT is known for being one of India’s most accessible and flexible MBA entrance exams. It has been conducted by AIMA since 1988 and has been recognised by the Government of India (Ministry of Education) since 2003. MAT is held four times a year (February, May, September and December). Candidates can attempt it multiple times and in both modes, and the score is valid for one year; the best score is considered. There is no age limit, and any graduate or final-year student can apply for the Management Aptitude Test.
MAT is offered in Paper-Based Test (PBT), Computer-Based Test (CBT), or both modes in the same session. The MAT exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions divided equally across five sections (30 questions each). Candidates have 120 minutes to complete the test, with no sectional time limit. Each correct answer carries 1 mark, while 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer. Unattempted questions do not attract any penalty.
MAT scores are accepted by over 600 B-schools across India for MBA and PGDM admissions. Keep in mind that each college can set its own cut-off and extra eligibility rules. The exam fee is also quite reasonable compared to many other MBA entrance tests. At present, it is ₹2,300 for either the paper-based or computer-based test and ₹4,000 for appearing in both the modes. You can check the latest fee and the full list of colleges on the official website mat.aima.in
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Parameter
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Official Details
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Conducting Body
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All India Management Association (AIMA)
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Started
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1988
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Government Recognition
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Ministry of Education, Government of India (since 2003)
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Frequency
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Four times a year (February, May, September, December)
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Eligibility
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Bachelor’s degree in any discipline (final-year students eligible)
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Age Limit
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No age limit
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Number of Attempts
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No restriction
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Score Validity
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One year (best score considered)
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Modes
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Paper-Based Test (PBT), Computer-Based Test (CBT), or both
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Total Questions
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150 MCQs
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Sections
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5 sections × 30 questions each
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Section Names
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1. Language Comprehension
2. Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
3. Mathematical Skills
4. Data Analysis and Sufficiency
5. Economic and Business Environment
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Duration
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120 minutes
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Sectional Time Limit
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None
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Marking Scheme
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+1 for correct, 0.25 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted
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Accepting Institutes
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600+ B-schools across India (MBA/PGDM)
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Application Fee
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₹2,300 (PBT or CBT)
₹4,000 (PBT + CBT)
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Official Website
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mat.aima.in
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Contact
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mat@aima.in
Helpline: +91 81303 38839 / +91 95990 30586
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Note: Individual B-schools may set their own cut-offs and additional eligibility criteria even if they accept MAT scores. Always verify the latest details on the official website.
What is the MAT 2027 Exam Pattern?
MAT has 5 sections of 30 questions each, 150 questions in all, and you get 120 minutes. That works out to about 48 seconds per question, so speed matters as much as knowledge.
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Section
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Number of Questions
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Marks
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Language Comprehension
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30
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30
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Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
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30
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30
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Mathematical Skills
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30
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30
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Data Analysis and Sufficiency
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30
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30
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Economic and Business Environment
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30
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30
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Total
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150
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150
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Here's what each section covers. AIMA only publishes the section names, not a detailed syllabus, so these are the typical topics:
- Language Comprehension: reading passages, vocabulary, grammar, sentence correction and para jumbles.
- Intelligence & Critical Reasoning: puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations, coding-decoding, series, and statements with assumptions or conclusions.
- Mathematical Skills: arithmetic (percentages, profit and loss, time and work, speed), algebra, geometry and number systems.
- Data Analysis & Sufficiency: reading charts, tables and graphs, plus questions that ask whether the information given is enough to answer.
- Economic & Business Environment: general awareness covering business news, the economy, current affairs and static GK.
Marking Scheme: Each question is multiple choice type, carrying four answer choices. A wrong answer costs 0.25 marks, and a skipped question costs nothing, so avoid blind guessing. Eliminate options first and guess only when you've narrowed it down to two.
Modes: in the paper test (PBT), you mark your answers on an OMR sheet at a centre. In the computer test (CBT) you answer on screen. You can register for both and use your better score.
Scoring: each section gets its own score out of 100. Your composite score ranges from 200 to 800, and AIMA says all five sections count equally toward it. You also get a percentile, which shows what share of test-takers scored below you. Scores are adjusted across sessions so they stay comparable, and they are valid for one year.
Strategy tip: the five sections carry equal weightage or marks. Hence, the general awareness section is the best section to score highest possible marks. Use it to bank time for Maths and Data Analysis.
What are the MAT 2027 Eligibility Criteria?
MAT's eligibility rules are among the simplest of any MBA entrance exam. Here's each one explained:
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Criteria
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Requirement
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Qualification
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A bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university
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Final-year students
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Can apply
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Minimum marks
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None set by AIMA
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Age limit
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None
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Work experience
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Not required
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Nationality
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Not specified by AIMA
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1. Graduation in any discipline: You need a bachelor's degree from a recognised university in any discipline or course. BCom, BSc, BA, BTech, BBA, and other degrees are accepted. Distance or open-university degrees also count, as long as the university is recognised.
2. Final-year students can apply: You don't have to wait for your degree. If you're in your final year, you can take MAT now. When you join a B-school, you'll need to show that you've completed graduation by their deadline.
3. No minimum percentage from AIMA: AIMA lets you take MAT regardless of your graduation marks. Colleges are different: many ask for around 50% in graduation (often 45% for reserved categories), so check each college's own rules.
4. No age limit: You can take MAT at any age. That's useful for working professionals and anyone switching careers.
5. No work experience needed: Freshers are eligible to apply for MAT. Having work experience may carry additional weightage in B-School admission process but is not applicable for the entrance exam.
6. Unlimited attempts: MAT runs four times a year. There's no cap on attempts, and you can use your best score. Each score stays valid for one year.
In short: if you're a graduate or a final-year student, you can take MAT. The real filter is the admission criteria of the college you want, not the exam.
What are the MAT 2027 Important Dates?
The All India Management Association (AIMA) conducts MAT four times a year, in February, May, September and December. It hasn't released the MAT 2027 schedule yet. The expected dates below follow the official
MAT 2026 pattern, so treat them as tentative until AIMA announces the confirmed dates.
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Session
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Mode
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Registration Process (Tentative)
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Admit Card (Tentative)
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Exam Date (Expected)
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February 2027
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PBT
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Fourth week of December 2026 to fourth week of February 2027
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Last week of February 2027
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First week of March 2027
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February 2027
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CBT
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Fourth week of December 2026 to first week of March 2027
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First week of March 2027
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Second week of March 2027
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May 2027
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PBT
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Fourth week of March 2027 to fifth week of May 2027
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Last week of May 2027
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Last week of May 2027
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May 2027
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CBT
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Fourth week of March 2027 to second week of June 2027
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Second week of June 2027
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Second week of June 2027
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September 2027
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PBT
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First week of July 2027 to first week of September 2027
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Second week of September 2027
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Second week of September 2027
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September 2027
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CBT
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First week of July 2027 to second week of September 2027
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Third week of September 2027
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Third week of September 2027
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December 2027
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PBT
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First week of October 2027 to second week of December 2027
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Third week of December 2027
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Third week of December 2027
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December 2027
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CBT
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First week of October 2027 to third week of December 2027
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Fourth week of December 2027
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Last week of December 2027
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What is the MAT 2027 Syllabus?
AIMA doesn't publish a detailed
MAT syllabus, so the topics below are the areas that commonly come up in the exam. Here's what each section tests and how to prepare.
1. Language Comprehension (30 Questions)
This section checks how well you read, understand, and use English.
- Reading comprehension: usually three to four passages on topics like business, society, science, or general interest. The questions ask about the main idea, inferences, the author's tone, and the meaning of words in context.
- Vocabulary: synonyms, antonyms, one-word substitutes and idioms. Candidates need to know common words well, not obscure ones.
- Grammar: spotting errors, sentence correction, and fill in the blanks. Tenses, subject-verb agreement, prepositions and articles come up often.
- Para jumbles: arranging sentences into a logical paragraph.
How to prepare: read an editorial and a business article every day, learn 10–15 new words a week, and revise basic grammar rules.
2. Intelligence & Critical Reasoning (30 Questions)
This section tests logical and analytical thinking.
- Verbal reasoning: blood relations, directions, coding-decoding, alphabet and number series, and ranking.
- Analytical reasoning: seating arrangements (linear and circular), puzzles and scheduling.
- Critical reasoning: syllogisms, statements and assumptions, cause and effect, and drawing conclusions.
How to prepare: Start with series, coding-decoding and blood relations first, since they're quick to score. Practice one or two puzzles a day to build speed, and skip a puzzle in the exam if it takes more than three to four minutes.
3. Mathematical Skills (30 Questions)
This section tests basic quantitative ability, mostly at the Class 10 level.
- Arithmetic (the most weight): percentages, profit and loss, simple and compound interest, ratios and proportion, averages, mixtures, time and work, and time, speed, and distance.
- Algebra: linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, and progressions.
- Geometry and mensuration: triangles, circles, areas, and volumes.
- Number system: divisibility, HCF and LCM, and remainders.
- Modern maths: permutations, combinations, and probability (basic level).
How to prepare: Learn shortcuts for percentages and ratios, memorise squares and tables up to 30, and practice mental calculation. Accuracy matters because of the negative marking.
4. Data Analysis & Sufficiency (30 Questions)
This section combines calculation with interpreting data.
- Data interpretation: tables, bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs and mixed charts. Questions usually come in sets of 4–5 built on one chart.
- Data sufficiency: you decide whether the statements given are enough to answer a question. You don't need to solve it fully.
- Data comparison: comparing growth rates, ratios, and averages.
How to prepare: get quick at approximating percentages and fractions, and learn the standard answer options for data sufficiency questions. Pick the easiest sets first.
5. Economic & Business Environment (30 Questions)
This is the general awareness section.
- Current affairs: national and international news from the 6–12 months before the exam.
- Business and economy: RBI policies, the Union Budget, GDP, inflation, mergers, and companies and their CEOs.
- Government: schemes, appointments, and summits.
- Static GK: awards, books and authors, sports, and organisations and their headquarters.
How to prepare: Read a business newspaper every day and revise monthly current affairs summaries. This section takes the least time to answer, about 10–15 minutes.
What is the MAT 2027 Application Process?
AIMA hasn't released the MAT 2027 application form yet. The steps below follow the official MAT 2026 process, which AIMA is expected to continue in 2027. Fees and other details may change once AIMA announces the 2027 schedule.
Before You Apply: Keep These Ready
Candidates applying for MAT 2027 should keep the following points in mind. The required documents are as follows:
- A valid email ID and mobile number. AIMA sends OTPs (one-time passwords) and updates your admit card through these.
- A recent passport-size photograph, scanned and saved in JPG or JPEG format.
- Your signature, scanned and saved in JPG or JPEG format.
- Your academic details: graduation and, if you're in your final year, your current course.
- A debit card, credit card, or net banking credentials for paying the application fee.
- A list of the B-schools you want to send your score to.
Step 1: Register on the Official Website
The first step is to go to the website and follow the registration link.
- Go to mat.aima.in and click on the registration link.
- Enter your name, email ID and mobile number.
- Verify them with the OTP you receive.
- Your account is then created, and you can log in to your dashboard.
Tip: Use an email and phone number you'll keep using, because every MAT update goes to them.
Step 2: Fill in the Application Form
Log in to your dashboard and complete the form:
- Personal details: name, date of birth, gender, category and address.
- Academic details: graduation status, discipline and university.
- Test mode: choose the paper-based test (PBT), the computer-based test (CBT), or both. With both, you get two attempts in the same session, and your best score counts.
- Test city: pick your preferred city from the list on the https://aima.in/mat/mat-test-cities MAT test cities page. The PBT and CBT have separate city lists.
Tip: popular cities fill up quickly, so register early to secure your preferred centre.
Step 3: Upload Your Photo and Signature
Candidates must upload their images in JPG or JPEG format, using the correct size and following the instructions.
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Document
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Format
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File Size
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Photograph
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JPG/JPEG
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10 KB – 50 KB
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Signature
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JPG/JPEG
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5 KB – 20 KB
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Tip: The image should be clear and match the size limits, or the upload will be rejected.
Step 4: Select B-Schools for Your Score
There are more than 600 B-Schools that accept MAT as their admission test for MBA/PGDM.
- Choose the institutes you want to receive your MAT score.
- Up to 5 institutes are free with one mode, or 7 if you take both PBT and CBT.
- Each additional institute costs ₹118 and includes 18% GST.
- More than 600 B-schools accept MAT.
Tip: check each college's own admission process too. Many ask you to fill a separate application on their website.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Application fees depend on the entrance exam mode. Candidates may take the exam in both modes by paying an application fee of ₹4,000. Payment methods include credit card, debit card, net banking, UPI, or wallet.
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Option
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Fee (2026)
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One mode (PBT or CBT)
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₹2,300
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Both modes (PBT + CBT)
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₹4,000
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Adding a second mode later
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₹1,700
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Each additional B-school
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₹118 + 18% GST
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- The fee has to be paid in online mode onlt.
- The amount is non-refundable. Check the https://aima.in/mat/refund-policy refund policy.
- AIMA has increased the fee in 2026 from ₹2,200 to ₹2,300 for one mode. It is expected that the MAT 2027 application fee will remain the same.
Step 6: Submit the Form and Save the Confirmation
- Review all your details carefully before you submit.
- After the payment succeeds, download and save your confirmation.
- Keep your login details safe, because you'll need them for the admit card and your result.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Candidates must avoid these mistakes while filling out the application form for the Management Aptitude test.
- Uploading a photo or signature in the wrong size or format.
- Entering a wrong email or phone number.
- Waiting until the last day to register can cause problems. Registration closes about a week before each exam.
- Forgetting to choose B-schools, which means losing the free score reports.
- Not checking each college's separate admission process.
MAT 2027 Admit Card
AIMA releases the MAT admit card a few days before each session. The official MAT 2027 admit card dates have not been announced yet. Based on the usual process followed in previous years, candidates can expect the admit card on their registered dashboard approximately 3–7 days before the exam date.
- The admit card appears on your dashboard about 3 days before the exam.
- It provides information on your test centre, date, and reporting time.
- Carry a printed copy and a valid photo ID to the exam.
MAT 2027 Result and Scorecard
AIMA declares the
MAT result a few weeks after each session. The official result dates for MAT 2027 have not been announced yet. Based on the pattern of previous years, candidates can expect the result and scorecard to be released within 2–3 weeks of the exam.
- AIMA publishes results on the official website within a few weeks of conducting session, for example, the first week of January 2027 for the December 2026 session.
- Your scorecard shows a score for each section, your composite score (200–800) and your percentiles.
- The score is valid for one year.
How Early Should I Start My Preparation?
Ideally, start 3 to 4 months before your target MAT session.
- If you are aiming for the February 2027 session, begin by October–November 2026.
- If you are already comfortable with basics (especially Maths and English), 8–10 weeks of focused preparation can also work.
- Starting earlier helps if you need to improve fundamentals or are appearing for the first time.
Since MAT is held four times a year, you can also treat one attempt as a practice and target a later session with better preparation.
Tips & Strategies for MAT Preparation
Tips and Strategies for candidates to prepare for the Management Aptitude Test.
- Understand the exam pattern first: Know the five sections, time available (120 minutes), and negative marking (0.25). There is no sectional time limit, so you can attempt sections in any order.
- Focus on high-scoring sections: Language Comprehension and Intelligence & Critical Reasoning are considered high-scoring sections when practiced regularly. Mathematical Skills and Data Analysis sections need consistent practice.
- Build a daily reading habit: Read editorials and short articles daily. This improves speed and accuracy in Language Comprehension. After reading the articles, jot down the main points or takeaways to improve your comprehension and data interpretation skills.
- Practise with a timer: Solve sectional and full-length mocks under timed conditions. Analyse every mock to identify weak areas.
- Revise formulas and shortcuts: For Mathematical Skills and Data Analysis, keep a short formula sheet and revise it regularly.
- Attempt mocks regularly: Start with one mock a week and increase frequency closer to the exam. Focus more on accuracy than attempting all 150 questions.
- Manage time smartly on exam day: Do not get stuck on difficult questions. Since there is negative marking, skip questions you are unsure about.
- Use official and reliable materials: Practise from previous year papers and trusted mock series. Avoid too many books or study materials to avoid information cramming.
Quick tip: Consistency matters more than long study hours. Even 2–3 focused hours daily for 10–12 weeks can make a noticeable difference in MAT.
MAT Selection Process
The MAT selection process does not end with the examination. After AIMA declares the result, each participating B-school conducts its own admission process. MAT is only the first step & the final selection depends on the criteria set by individual colleges.
Most B-schools that accept MAT scores follow a multi-stage selection process. The common stages are:
- MAT Score Shortlisting
Colleges set their own cut-off (percentile or composite score). Only candidates who meet or exceed the cut-off are shortlisted for the next round.
- Application to the B-School
Candidates usually need to fill a separate application form on the college’s website and pay an additional application fee, even if they have already selected the institute while filling the MAT form.
- Group Discussion (GD) / Written Ability Test (WAT)
Shortlisted candidates are called for a Group Discussion or a Written Ability Test. Some colleges conduct both.
- Personal Interview (PI)
The interview round assesses communication skills, subject knowledge, career goals, and overall personality.
- Final Merit List
The final selection is based on a weighted combination of MAT score, academic performance, work experience (if any), and performance in GD/WAT/PI. The exact weightage varies from college to college.
Important Points
- There is no centralised counselling for MAT. Each B-school manages its own admission process independently.
- Candidates should check the official website of their target colleges for cut-offs, application deadlines, and the detailed selection criteria.
- A good MAT score improves the chances of getting shortlisted, but final admission also depends on performance in the subsequent rounds.
Since more than 600 B-schools accept MAT scores, candidates are advised to research the selection process of their preferred institutes well in advance.
MAT 2027 FAQs
Q: Is MAT worth taking?
A: Yes, especially if you are targeting private B-schools that accept MAT scores. It is more accessible than CAT, conducted multiple times a year, and accepted by 600+ colleges. However, for top institutes, a high percentile is still required, and many students use it as a backup or confidence booster.
Q: What is a good score in MAT?
A: A composite score of 650+ (roughly 90 percentile) is considered very good and opens doors to many reputed colleges. A large number of mid-tier B-schools also accept scores in the 600–650 range.
Q: How good is a 90+ percentile in MAT?
A: A 90+ percentile is a strong score. It improves your chances of getting interview calls from good private B-schools. Final admission still depends on your profile, academics, and performance in GD/PI.
Q: Is MAT suitable for students with average academic scores?
A: Yes, MAT is suitable for students with average academic scores. MAT is generally considered more accessible than CAT or XAT. Many colleges that accept MAT look at the overall profile (communication skills, work experience, interview performance) along with the score, not just school or graduation marks.
Q: How many questions should I attempt in MAT?
A: Because of negative marking (0.25), accuracy matters more than attempting all 150 questions. Most successful candidates attempt a balanced number of questions with high accuracy rather than rushing through the entire paper.
Q: Can I appear for MAT multiple times?
A: Yes. There is no limit on attempts. MAT is held four times a year, and you can use your best score (valid for one year).
Q: Do final-year students face any issues applying for MAT?
A: Final-year students are eligible to appear for MAT. They only need to submit proof of graduation at the time of admission to the B-school.
Q: Is the MAT application fee affordable?
A: Yes. The current application fee for MAT is ₹2,300 for one mode (PBT or CBT) and ₹4,000 for both, which is lower than many other MBA entrance exams.
These reflect the most frequent doubts students raise about MAT on discussion platforms. Official details should always be confirmed on mat.aima.in.