MAT Exam: Syllabus, Pattern, Dates, Fees, Eligibility

MAT Exam is a national-level examination conducted by All India Management Association (AIMA). The primary objective of the MAT Exam is to make students eligible to get admission to top B-schools in India. 

Every year the MAT Exam is conducted in 4 phases (February, May, September, and December) in three different modes i.e PBT(Paper Based Test), IBT (Internet Based Test or remote proctored), and CBT(Computer Based Test). To be eligible for MAT Exam candidates must have passed the graduation degree in their respective discipline. Apart from this candidates may appear for the MAT Exam multiple times, the latest MAT score is generally considered for the admissions. 

The MAT Exam syllabus and pattern is similar to other MBA entrance exams, i.e. 150 MCQs from English, Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude and General Knowledge, to be solved in 120 minutes. To sit for the exam one has to fill out the MAT Exam application form on the AIMA MAT website. The MAT Exam fee for PBT or CBT mode is ₹2,100, while if a candidate opts for both PBT and CBT, he has to pay ₹3,600.

MAT Exam 2025: Quick Highlights

The table below shows the MAT Exam quick overview.

What is the MAT Exam?

Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is a standardised National Level test being conducted since 1988 to facilitate Business Schools (B-Schools) in India to screen candidates for admission to MBA and allied programmes. The Govt. of India, Ministry of Education approved MAT as a national-level test in 2003.

The largest test of its kind in the nation, MAT will continue to be your passport to over 600 B-Schools across India. The MAT exam pattern consists of 150 MCQs from English, Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude and General Knowledge, to be solved in 120 minutes.

MAT Admit Card

The MAT Admit Card will be available on AIMA official website. The admit card is expected to be released in May 2025 for MAT May Session. Here below are the key steps to download MAT Admit Card 2025.

Step 1: Go to the AIMA MAT official website at mat.aima.in.

Step 2: On the homepage, find the ‘Download Admit Card’ link under the latest updates section.

Step 3: Provide the registration number, date of birth, and email ID as used during registration.

Step 4: Choose the correct exam mode (PBT, CBT, or IBT) for which the application was submitted.

Step 5: After entering details, click the ‘Submit’ button to proceed.

Step 6: The MAT admit card will be displayed on the screen. Check details like name, exam date, time, and venue.

Step 7: Download the admit card and take a clear printout for future reference. A hard copy is required on the exam day.

Students are highly encouraged to keep a regular eye on AIMA MAT official website.

MAT Exam Application Form

The MAT Exam Application Form for May session is expected to be released by April 2025. Students are highly encouraged to look out for the AIMA MAT official website for latest updates and Notification of the exam

The MAT Exam Eligibility Criteria are shown in the table below.

MAT Exam Pattern

The MAT Exam Pattern is similar to that of other management entrance exams. The exam consists of 150 MCQs from English, Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude and General Knowledge, to be solved in 120 minutes. The table below shows the MAT Test Structure.

MAT Exam Schedule

The MAT Exam is organised by All India Management Association in 4 Phases (February, May, September, and December) in three different modes i.e PBT(Paper Based Test), IBT (Internet Based Test or remote proctored), and CBT(Computer Based Test) every year. Recently the February session has ended with its last CBT exam scheduled on 23rd March 2025. The registration for the MAT Exam May Session will begin soon.

MAT Exam Syllabus

The MAT Entrance exam syllabus includes a total of 5 sections, i.e Language Comprehension, Intelligence, and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, and Economic & Business Environment. Understanding the syllabus will help the students to know the essential topics to target from each section. The MAT Exam detailed syllabus is shown below in the table.

MAT Exam Language Comprehension Syllabus

The MAT Exam language comprehension important topics are listed below.

MAT Exam Intelligence & Critical Reasoning Syllabus

The MAT Exam Intelligence & Critical Reasoning important topics are listed below.

MAT Exam Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency Syllabus

The MAT Exam Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency important topics are listed below.

MAT Exam Mathematical Skills Syllabus

The MAT Exam Mathematical Skills important topics are listed below.

MAT Exam Economics and Business Studies Syllabus

The MAT Exam Economics and Business Studies Important topics are listed below.

MAT Exam Preparation Tips

Preparing for the MAT (Management Aptitude Test) requires a strategic and personalized approach. Here are essential tips to help you score well.

1. Understanding the Exam Pattern: MAT exam consists of five sections, i.e Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis, Intelligence, and General Awareness. Each section has 30 questions, making a total of 150 questions. The duration is 120 minutes.

2. Create a Study Plan Allocate time for each section based on strengths and weaknesses. Try setting daily and weekly study goals.

3. Focus on Concept Clarity: Strengthen your basics in mathematics, reasoning, and English. You may use standard books and study materials to practice formulas, shortcuts, and tricks for quick problem-solving.

4. Solve Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year question papers will help you to:

• Understand question trends and difficulty levels.
• Identify frequently asked topics and important areas.
• Improve speed and accuracy by practicing under timed conditions.

5. Attempt Mock Tests Regularly: Solving MAT Exam Mock Tests helps you to:

• Simulate real exam conditions while solving mocks.
• Analyze mistakes and work on weak areas.
• Track progress to improve performance.

6. Time Management: The MAT Exam is divided into 5 sections, to complete the exam candidates must divide time wisely among different sections.

7. Strengthen Vocabulary and Reading Skills: To score high in the language section candidates must focus on strengthening their vocabulary. Some of the effective ways are: 

• Read newspapers, magazines, and business articles daily.
• Learn new words, synonyms, and antonyms.
• Practice comprehension passages for better reading speed.

8. Stay Updated with General Knowledge: To get a decent score in MAT exam 2025 keeping yourself updated with the current affairs is very important.

9. Maintain a Positive Mindset: Students should avoid last-minute stress by following a structured study plan and must stay confident on their preparation.

MAT Mock Test

A MAT mock test is a simulated Management Aptitude Test (MAT). It replicates the real exam pattern. It includes sections like Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis, Intelligence, and General Knowledge. The difficulty level matches the actual MAT.  Some of the key reasons to solve practice mock tests are listed below.

1. Familiarizes You with Exam Pattern: It helps you understand the structure of MAT. You get used to question types and format.

2. Improves Time Management: It enhances your speed and accuracy. You learn to complete the test within time limits.

3. Identifies Strengths and Weaknesses: Mock tests help analyze your performance. You can focus on weak areas for improvement.

4. Boosts Confidence: Regular practice reduces exam anxiety. You become comfortable with the actual test environment.

5. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills: It sharpens your analytical and logical thinking. You develop effective strategies for solving questions.

Where to Find MAT Mock Tests?

MAT mock tests are available online. Many websites offer free and paid test series. Coaching institutes also provide MAT mock tests for practice. Furthermore, there are a number of books available in the market featuring MAT Exam mock tests.

MAT Previous Year Question Paper

To qualify the MAT Exam it is important for students to analyse the MAT Exam question papers. By solving the MAT Exam previous year question paper students can get an idea of the exam pattern and syllabus. Students may download the MAT Exam Previous Year Question papers listed below.

MAT Answer Key 2025

The MAT Answer Key 2025 will be released by several coaching institutes. The MAT Exam Unofficial Answer Key is generally released just after the examination. However, students may get the MAT Exam official answer key on the AIMA MAT official website in some time. Students are requested to keep a regular eye on the official website for MAT 2025 answer key.

MAT Response Sheet

The MAT exam response sheet for the 2025 exam, you can visit AIMA-MAT website. To get access to your response sheet first login with your registration number and email ID, then navigate to the scorecard section. The detailed steps for the same are listed below.

1. Visit the official AIMA-MAT website.
2. Login with your registration number and email ID.
3. Select the exam month (February/May/September/December).
4. Click on the "scorecard" option.
5. Your MAT scorecard will appear on the screen.
6. Download and save your MAT scorecard.

MAT Exam Counselling Process

MAT (Management Aptitude Test) counselling is the admission process for selecting MBA/PGDM candidates. It involves shortlisting, interviews, and final selection based on MAT scores. The key steps in the MAT Counselling Process are listed below.

1. Check MAT Results: Candidates must download their MAT scorecard from the official website. The score determines eligibility for participating institutes.

2. Shortlisting by Colleges: B-schools shortlist candidates based on MAT cut-off scores. Each institute sets its own minimum requirement.

3. Application to Preferred Institutes: Shortlisted candidates apply to their chosen colleges. Some institutes require an additional application fee.

4. Group Discussion (GD) Round: Selected candidates participate in a GD session.

5. Personal Interview (PI) Round: Candidates appear for a PI to assess their personality, subject knowledge, and career goals.

6. Written Ability Test (WAT) (If Applicable): Some institutes conduct a WAT to test writing and critical thinking skills.

7. Final Selection and Merit List: Colleges release a merit list based on MAT scores, GD, PI, and WAT performance. Selected candidates receive admission offers.

8. Fee Payment and Admission Confirmation: Candidates must pay the admission fee to secure their seat. The institute provides further enrollment details.

MAT Exam Preparation Tips

Preparing for the MAT (Management Aptitude Test) requires a strategic and personalized approach. Here are essential tips to help you score well.

1. Understanding the Exam Pattern: MAT exam consists of five sections, i.e Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis, Intelligence, and General Awareness. Each section has 30 questions, making a total of 150 questions. The duration is 120 minutes.

2. Create a Study Plan Allocate time for each section based on strengths and weaknesses. Try setting daily and weekly study goals.

3. Focus on Concept Clarity: Strengthen your basics in mathematics, reasoning, and English. You may use standard books and study materials to practice formulas, shortcuts, and tricks for quick problem-solving.

4. Solve Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year question papers will help you to:

• Understand question trends and difficulty levels.
• Identify frequently asked topics and important areas.
• Improve speed and accuracy by practicing under timed conditions.

5. Attempt Mock Tests Regularly: Solving MAT Exam Mock Tests helps you to:

• Simulate real exam conditions while solving mocks.
• Analyze mistakes and work on weak areas.
• Track progress to improve performance.

6. Time Management: The MAT Exam is divided into 5 sections, to complete the exam candidates must divide time wisely among different sections.

7. Strengthen Vocabulary and Reading Skills: To score high in the language section candidates must focus on strengthening their vocabulary. Some of the effective ways are: 

• Read newspapers, magazines, and business articles daily.
• Learn new words, synonyms, and antonyms.
• Practice comprehension passages for better reading speed.

8. Stay Updated with General Knowledge: To get a decent score in MAT exam 2025 keeping yourself updated with the current affairs is very important.

9. Maintain a Positive Mindset: Students should avoid last-minute stress by following a structured study plan and must stay confident on their preparation.

MAT Exam Books

Selecting the right books for MAT Exam preparation is key to success. However, there are many books available in the market, the table below shows some best-selling books recommended for different subjects, along with their authors.

MAT Exam Centres

All applicants have to select their preferred MAT Exam Centres while filling out the application form. The MAT Exam cities are shown in the table below.

MAT Exam Result 2025

The MAT 2025 results for the February session (PBT and CBT) are expected to be released in the last week of March 2025 or First week of April 2025, and candidates can check their scores online at the official website, mat.aima.in. 

MAT Cutoff 2025

The MAT Exam cutoff for each paper will be released after the commencement of MAT Examination by various B-schools. The cutoff generally varies with the total number of test takers, the difficulty level of the question paper, and applicant categories. Here below in the table is the MAT Cutoff 2025 (Expected) of various colleges.

Top MBA Colleges Accepting MAT Score

The top 10 B-schools accepting the MAT Exam are listed below.

The MAT Exam is organised by All India Management Association in 4 Phases (February, May, September, and December) in three different modes i.e PBT(Paper Based Test), IBT (Internet Based Test or remote proctored), and CBT(Computer Based Test) every year. Recently the February session has ended with its last CBT exam scheduled on 23rd March 2025. The registration for the MAT Exam May Session will begin soon.