NMAT Exam Analysis 2025: Section-wise Breakdown

The NMAT 2025 test has started, and we now have initial reports from the first week of testing. The exam still adapts to the computer, which means that the difficulty of the following questions depends on how well you answered the previous ones. Candidates must answer each question in order, and they can't skip or go back to previous ones.
The overall difficulty level remains about the same as in NMAT 2024. But different test slots featured different question types and levels of difficulty. Because it requires so much time and maths, the Quantitative Skills section is still the hardest. This year, Logical Reasoning is more straightforward, which is a good chance to get a high score. Most people can easily answer the clear and concise questions in the Language Skills section.
Early data indicate higher accuracy rates in the first week, which could lead to a slight increase in cut-off scores. This analysis is based on honest feedback from candidates across several slots. Its goal is to make exam patterns and effective study methods easier to understand.
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NMAT 2025: Exam Overview
The NMAT is a computer-based exam for MBA admissions, consisting of three sections: Language Skills, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Skills, each with 36 questions. It lasts 120 minutes and is computer-adaptive, adjusting the difficulty based on performance. There is no negative marking, allowing candidates to attempt all questions.
Feature
Details
Exam Dates
Nov 5 – Dec 19, 2025
Sections
3 (36 questions each)
Time per Section
Language: 28 min, Quant: 52 min, LR: 40 min
Adaptive
Yes (difficulty adjusts based on answers)
Skip/Review
Not allowed (must answer in sequence)
Retakes
Up to 3 (best score used)
Section-wise Analysis
Quantitative Skills
The Quantitative Skills section tests mathematical abilities, covering topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Data Sufficiency. It consists of 36 questions, requiring candidates to solve problems quickly and accurately, emphasizing strong fundamentals and effective time management.
Total Questions
Time
Time per Question
36
52 min
~1.4 min/Q
Topic
Questions
Key Areas
Arithmetic
13
Profit & Loss (3), Percentages (3), Ratio (2), Time & Work (2), Mixtures (2), SI–CI (1)
Modern Math
11
Probability (4), P&C (3), AP/GP (2), Logarithms (1), Set Theory (1)
Algebra
2
Formula-based
Numbers
2
Surds, last digits
Data Interpretation
8
Table (4), Bar + Line Graph (4); calculation-heavy (DI type varies by slot, some get pie charts)
Good Scaled Score: ~85 (~22–23 correct)
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Logical Reasoning
The Logical Reasoning section assesses a candidate's ability to identify patterns, relationships, and logical structures. It includes questions on verbal reasoning, syllogisms, seating arrangements, and blood relations, requiring critical thinking and the ability to solve problems efficiently.
Total Questions
Time
Time per Question
36
40 min
~1.1 min/Q
Type
Questions
Topics
Verbal
23
Critical Reasoning (12), Course of Action (3), Decision Making (3), Arguments (2), Assumptions (2), Syllogism (1)
Non-Verbal
13
Matrix Arrangement (4), Input-Output (4), Puzzles (4)
Note: No coding, blood relations, or ranking.
Good Scaled Score: ~87 (~24–26 correct)
Language Skills
The Language Skills part of the NMAT is the test that determines the ability of an individual to use the English language, which examines grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and the ability to correct sentences. It is a 36-question test, aimed at measuring the ability to comprehend and interpret written text, and the ability to communicate ideas succinctly and fluently. Among the major activities, one can note synonyms, antonyms, reading comprehension, and grammar. Candidates should acquire good reading skills and train to spot the important information within the shortest time to perform well. This part is also a test of both verbal reasoning and understanding of languages, making it crucial for overall performance in the exam.
Total Questions
Time
Time per Question
36
28 min
~45 sec/Q
Topic
Questions
Reading Comprehension
12 (3 passages × 4 Qs; short, business-related)
Para Jumbles
4
Analogies
5
Vocabulary Fill-in-Blanks
4
Preposition Fill-in-Blanks
4
Grammar Error Spotting
5
Sentence Completion
2
Good Scaled Score: ~84 (~25–27 correct)
Exam Day Essentials
On exam day, candidates should carry their NMAT admit card, a valid ID, and a transparent water bottle. Ensure a good night's rest, and arrive at the test center well ahead of time.
Do
Don’t
Choose section order in the first 3 minutes
Start with Quant if weak in math
Click “Next” to move forward
Leave any question blank
Carry: Admit card, ID, email, pen, water
Rely on unofficial mocks
Cut-offs and Score Trends
NMAT cut-offs vary by institute, generally ranging from 150 to 250. Top schools like NMIMS require higher scores, with trends influenced by factors such as difficulty level and applicant volume.
Metric
2024
2025 (Expected)
NMIMS Mumbai
209
212–216
Sectional
~62
65–68
Top Scores Reported
296, 278, 235+
Safe Target: 216+ overall, no section below 70
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Final Preparation Tips
Focus Areas
Key focus areas for NMAT preparation include Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning, and Language Skills. Prioritize time management, practice with mock tests, and strengthen weak areas for effective performance.
Section
Key Focus Areas
Quantitative Skills
Master Arithmetic (P&L, Percentages, Mixtures), Probability, P&C, DI shortcuts
Logical Reasoning
Practice Critical Reasoning, arrangements (matrix/input–output/puzzles)
Language Skills
Focus on RC speed, core grammar rules, and improving vocabulary
Daily Practice Routine
A daily routine should include timed practice for each section, focusing on weak areas, and reviewing mistakes to improve speed and accuracy.
Activity
Time/Goal
RC Passage
1 passage in ≤ 6 minutes
Critical Reasoning
Solve 10 questions daily
Data Interpretation
Complete 2 sets with time tracking
Vocabulary + Grammar
Revise 20 vocab words + 5 grammar rules daily
Mock Test Strategy
Take regular mock tests to build stamina, identify weak areas, simulate exam conditions, and refine time management for better accuracy.
Strategy
Details
Official Mocks Only
Take 3–5 full-length official mocks
Simulate Exam Conditions
Fixed time, no breaks, same section order
Review Every Mock
Analyze time per question, error types, and areas to improve
Section Order Recommendation
Start with Language Skills to build confidence, followed by Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Skills to manage time effectively and reduce stress.
Order
Reasoning
LR → Language → Quant
Start with LR for quick wins. Then Language, and finish with Quant for better confidence.
If Strong in Quant, Do Quant First
If you're comfortable with Quant, start with it to secure time.
Time Management Rules
Allocate fixed time for each section, avoid spending too long on one question, and prioritize accuracy over speed to maximize score.
Section
Target Time per Question
Language
~45 sec/Q (Move fast on grammar)
Logical Reasoning
~1 min/Q (Skip long sets if stuck)
Quantitative Skills
~1.4 min/Q (Solve easy problems first)
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Attempt Strategy
Attempt easier questions first, leave difficult ones for later, and focus on accuracy. Prioritize sections based on strengths.
Action
Strategy
Answer All Questions
No negative marking, attempt all 108 questions
Mark Tough Questions Mentally
Mark and return to tough questions only if time allows
Last 10 Days Plan
Focus on revision, take mock tests daily, review mistakes, improve weak areas, and maintain a healthy routine for optimal performance.
Action
Goal
1 Mock Every 2 Days
Get accustomed to real exam conditions
Daily Revision
Focus on formulas, grammar, and DI shortcuts
No New Topics
Focus on accuracy and speed in topics already studied
Summary
Focus on consistent practice, time management, and section-wise strategy. Revise key concepts, take mocks, and stay calm and focused.
Section
Key Takeaway
Quantitative Skills
Tough but manageable with practice. Focus on shortcuts and formulas.
Logical Reasoning
Easiest section—aim high. Practice arrangements and critical reasoning.
Language Skills
Straightforward—accuracy matters. Focus on RC speed, grammar, and vocabulary.
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