CMAT 2026 Exam Analysis

The CMAT 2026 exam will be conducted by NTA in January 2026. In this exam, there will be two shifts in which the NTA conducts the exam. If we check the previous year trends, we can expect no change in the exam pattern and topic-wise weightage. In this article, we will discuss the difficulty level of the CMAT 2026. How many questions will be asked and what will be their expected level of difficulty in CMAT 2026 Exam

CMAT is a computer-based test designed to evaluate candidates’ aptitude, reasoning, verbal skills, and general knowledge. Every year, approximately 70,000 candidates appear for the exam. CMAT scores are widely used as a shortlisting criterion by over 1400 management institutes across India. Compared to other management entrance exams like CAT and XAT, CMAT is generally considered to have a lower difficulty level.

This section is expected to comprise mostly arithmetic, algebra, and data interpretation questions, with some from modern maths. Data interpretation (DI) sets will likely be based on tabular and graphical data, including some lengthy and calculation-intensive questions. Candidates with strong conceptual clarity and speed-solving skills should perform well here.
Suggested attempt: 16+ questions with good accuracy.

This section will tentatively include both verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions, focusing on topics such as Arrangements, Series, Blood Relations, and Assertion-Reasoning type questions.
Suggested attempt: 17+ questions with accuracy.

As usual, this section is expected to contain one Reading Comprehension passage followed by related questions. Other questions will test vocabulary (including synonyms, antonyms, idioms, spellings) and grammar usage.
Suggested attempt: 16+ questions with good accuracy.

This section is likely to be dominated by static GK, with some current affairs questions as well. Expected topics include history, awards, polity, science, sports, and recent national and international events. This section is often perceived as relatively tougher by test-takers.
Suggested attempt: 10+ questions with accuracy.

Questions will probably focus on a blend of static and current GK related to economy, business policies, entrepreneurship, and recent innovations or business personalities.
Suggested attempt: 12+ questions for a good score.

After the declaration of CMAT 2026 results, candidates will be shortlisted for further selection rounds such as group discussions and personal interviews. However, the exact selection criteria may vary between B-schools, so candidates should carefully check the individual requirements of their preferred institutes before preparing for these rounds.