
The CMAT Exam Date 2026 is one of the most awaited announcements for MBA aspirants across India. The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is conducted annually by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission into AICTE-approved management programs. If you’re planning to appear for CMAT 2026, here’s everything you need to know about the exam dates, registration, eligibility, and important events.
What is CMAT 2026?
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by NTA to evaluate candidates for admission to MBA and PGDM programs in top B-Schools across India. It tests a candidate’s general aptitude, reasoning, and management aptitude skills.
CMAT Exam Date 2026 (Tentative Schedule)
While the official CMAT 2026 notification is expected to be released in December 2025, below is the tentative CMAT 2026 exam schedule based on previous years’ trends:
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| CMAT 2026 Notification Release | December 2025 |
| CMAT 2026 Application Form Start Date | January 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Last Date to Apply | February 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Admit Card Release | April 2026 |
| CMAT 2026 Exam Date | April 2026 (Last Week) |
| CMAT 2026 Result Declaration | May 2026 |
Note: The final CMAT 2026 exam date will be confirmed once NTA releases the official notification on cmat.nta.nic.in.
CMAT 2026 Exam Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 400 |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Language | English |
CMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Final Year Students: Candidates appearing for the final year of their degree can also apply.
- Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
- Age Limit: No age restrictions to apply for CMAT 2026.
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The CMAT exam comprises five sections, each designed to test different managerial skills.
| Sections | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | 20 | 80 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 | 80 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 | 80 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 80 |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
Marking Scheme:
- +4 marks for each correct answer
- -1 mark for each wrong answer
How to Apply for CMAT 2026
Here’s a step-by-step guide to register for CMAT 2026:
- Visit the official website – cmat.nta.nic.in
- Click on ‘CMAT 2026 Registration’
- Fill in your personal and academic details
- Upload the required documents and photograph
- Pay the exam fee online
- Download and print the confirmation page for future reference
CMAT 2026 Preparation Tips
- Understand the syllabus and focus on high-weightage topics.
- Practice mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
- Revise general awareness topics and current affairs.
- Use standard books like Arihant CMAT Guide and RS Aggarwal for Quantitative Aptitude.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting CMAT 2026 Scores
Some of the best B-schools accepting CMAT scores include:
- JBIMS, Mumbai
- KJ Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai
- Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai
- XISS, Ranchi
- Goa Institute of Management (GIM)
- Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra
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Conclusion
The CMAT Exam Date 2026 is expected to fall in April 2026, and aspirants should begin their preparation early to ensure success. Keep checking the official NTA CMAT website for the latest updates regarding the exam notification, registration dates, and admit card release.
A well-planned study strategy, consistent mock test practice, and staying updated with current affairs will help you crack the CMAT 2026 exam and secure a seat in a top management institute.