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MBA entrance exam

MAT

Management Aptitude Test (MAT)

MAT is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) several times a year, in paper-based, computer-based and remote formats.

Its frequent test dates make it a useful backup or second attempt alongside CET or CAT.

See the exam pattern

MAT at a glance

CONDUCTED BY
All India Management Association (AIMA)
WHEN
Several times a year
MODE
Paper, computer-based or remote
DURATION
120 minutes
QUESTIONS
150
NEGATIVE MARKING
−0.25 per wrong answer
MAT exam pattern

Sections and marking

  • +1 for every correct answer
  • −0.25 for a wrong answer
  • No marks lost for questions left unanswered
SectionQuestions
Language Comprehension30
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning30
Data Analysis & Sufficiency30
Mathematical Skills30
Economic & Business EnvironmentEarlier called Indian & Global Environment30

Check the current AIMA notice for the exact section names and scoring.

What MAT tests

What the exam rewards

Speed

150 questions in 120 minutes: under a minute per question.

Maths and data

Two sections of quant and data analysis at a moderate level.

Language and reasoning

Reading, grammar, vocabulary and reasoning questions.

Business awareness

Economy, business and current affairs.

How to prepare for MAT

A simple preparation plan

  1. 01

    Pick a test date with time to prepare

    With several dates a year, choose one that gives you at least a few weeks of practice.

  2. 02

    Practise at MAT speed

    Timed 150-question mocks build the pace you need.

  3. 03

    Use it as a second chance

    MAT can add options if your CET or CAT score is below target.

  4. 04

    Keep up with business news

    A short daily read helps the business environment section.

Where MAT can take you

Colleges that accept MAT

In Maharashtra, scores from CAT, CMAT, MAT, XAT, ATMA and GMAT can be used for All India seats in the MBA/MMS Centralised Admission Process (CAP) alongside MAH-CET, subject to that year's admission rules.

Many private B-schools and PGDM institutes across IndiaAll India seats in Maharashtra's MBA/MMS CAP
Compare B-schools with MBA Prof Rankings

Frequently Asked Questions

How often is MAT held?

Several times a year. AIMA announces each test date and format on its website.

Is there negative marking in MAT?

Yes. A wrong answer costs 0.25 marks.

Can MAT be used for Maharashtra MBA admissions?

Yes, for All India seats in the MBA/MMS CAP, subject to that year's admission rules.

How many questions are in MAT?

150 questions in 120 minutes, across five sections of 30.

Patterns, dates and accepted colleges can change each year. Always confirm the latest details on the official website: mat.aima.in.