MAT 2026 Notification is released by the All India Management Association (AIMA) for candidates seeking admission to MBA, PGDM and allied management programmes. The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is a national-level management entrance examination conducted by AIMA and has been used for admission screening by participating B-schools for several years.
MAT is conducted multiple times a year, giving management aspirants more than one opportunity to appear for the examination. According to the latest AIMA information, the September 2026 MAT session is currently scheduled in both Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) modes.
MAT 2026 Important Dates
The latest September 2026 schedule announced by AIMA is:
| Event | MAT PBT 2026 | MAT CBT 2026 |
| Registration Last Date | September 7, 2026 | September 14, 2026 |
| Admit Card | September 10, 2026 | September 17, 2026 |
| Exam Date | September 13, 2026 | September 20, 2026 |
Candidates should regularly check the official MAT website because schedules can be updated by AIMA.
What is MAT 2026?
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is conducted by AIMA for admission screening to MBA, PGDM and allied management programmes. MAT is recognised as a national-level management entrance examination and its scores are accepted by participating management institutes across India. The list of participating institutes can vary from one MAT session to another.
MAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates should fulfil the eligibility requirements prescribed by AIMA and the respective participating management institute. In general, a graduate in any discipline from a recognised university can appear for MAT. Final-year undergraduate students can also apply provisionally. Individual B-schools may have their own minimum percentage and admission requirements.
There is no age limit for appearing in MAT, and work experience is not mandatory for taking the examination.
MAT 2026 Application Form
The MAT application process is conducted online. Candidates need to register using a valid email ID and mobile number, upload the required photograph and signature, enter personal and academic details, select their preferred test mode and management institutes, and complete the fee payment.
Candidates should carefully check all information before submitting the application because eligibility and admission decisions may be based on the details provided in the form.
MAT 2026 Application Fee
As per the latest AIMA information, the fee is:
- PBT: ₹2,300
- CBT: ₹2,300
- PBT + CBT: ₹4,000
Candidates opting for both modes can also get the benefit of sending their scores to additional management institutes, subject to AIMA's applicable rules.
MAT 2026 Exam Pattern
MAT consists of 150 questions divided into five sections. The total test duration is 120 minutes.
| Section | Questions |
| Language Comprehension | 30 |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 |
| Mathematical Skills | 30 |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 |
| Economic & Business Environment | 30 |
| Total | 150 |
AIMA's current MAT information states that there is negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
MAT 2026 Test Modes
Candidates can choose between Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT). AIMA also provides the option of taking both modes by paying the applicable combined fee.
The CBT is conducted using a computer, while the PBT is conducted using a question paper and answer sheet at the designated test centre.
MAT 2026 Admit Card
Candidates who successfully register for MAT can download their admit card through the MAT applicant dashboard. AIMA states that the admit card is not sent separately by post or email. Candidates should download it from the official portal according to the schedule announced for their selected test mode.
The admit card contains important details such as the candidate's name, roll number, test date, timing and examination centre information.
MAT 2026 Participating Colleges
MAT scores are accepted by a large number of participating management institutes. However, the participating B-schools can change from one test session to another, and every institute can have its own admission criteria, fees and eligibility requirements.
Candidates should therefore check the individual college's admission notification before applying.
MAT 2026 Score and Admission
The MAT score is used by participating management institutes for screening candidates for MBA, PGDM and allied programmes. AIMA states that the MAT score has a validity of one year.
After the examination, candidates may have to complete separate admission procedures for the B-schools they wish to join. Colleges can conduct additional selection rounds such as group discussions, personal interviews, written tests or other assessments according to their individual admission policies.
MAT 2026 Preparation Tips
Candidates preparing for MAT 2026 should create a balanced study plan covering all five sections. Regular practice of mock tests and previous questions can help improve speed and accuracy. Students should also work on vocabulary, mathematical fundamentals, logical reasoning, data interpretation and current business awareness.
Since the exam has a fixed time limit, candidates should practise solving questions within a specific time frame. Mock-test analysis is equally important because it helps identify weak topics and recurring mistakes.
Conclusion
The MAT 2026 Notification provides important information about registration, examination dates, eligibility, fees, test modes and the exam pattern. With multiple test sessions and a broad network of participating B-schools, MAT gives management aspirants an additional route to MBA and PGDM admissions. Candidates should rely on the latest AIMA notification and the individual college's admission guidelines before making application or admission decisions.
MAT 2026 Notification: Registration, Exam Dates, Eligibility, Pattern and Other Details FAQs
When will the MAT 2026 registration form be released?
The MAT 2026 registration is conducted separately for different examination sessions. Candidates should check the latest notification issued by AIMA for registration opening and closing dates for the particular MAT 2026 session.
Who is eligible to appear for the MAT 2026 examination?
Candidates who have completed a bachelor's degree from a recognised university can generally appear for MAT 2026. Final-year undergraduate students can also apply provisionally, subject to the eligibility conditions prescribed by AIMA and individual participating institutes.
What is the MAT 2026 exam and why is it important for MBA admission?
The MAT 2026 exam is a national-level management entrance examination conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA). Its score is accepted by numerous participating B-schools for admission to MBA, PGDM and other management programmes.
Is there any age limit for appearing in MAT 2026?
No, there is generally no age limit for appearing in MAT 2026. Candidates need to satisfy the educational eligibility requirements and any additional conditions specified by the management institutes to which they apply.
What is the exam pattern of MAT 2026?
The MAT 2026 exam pattern consists of five sections: Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Economic and Business Environment. The test contains 150 questions and is conducted for 120 minutes.
Does MAT 2026 have negative marking?
Yes, MAT 2026 follows a negative-marking system. Candidates should therefore attempt questions carefully and avoid excessive guessing, particularly when they are unsure of the correct answer.
Can candidates appear for MAT 2026 in both PBT and CBT modes?
Yes, depending on the session schedule, candidates can choose between Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT). AIMA may also provide an option to take both modes subject to the applicable registration rules and fee.
Which colleges accept MAT 2026 scores for MBA and PGDM admission?
Several participating management institutes accept MAT 2026 scores for their MBA, PGDM and allied programmes. However, the participating institute list and admission requirements can vary, so candidates should verify the current list and individual college criteria before applying.
How can candidates download the MAT 2026 admit card?
Candidates who complete their MAT 2026 registration successfully can download their admit card through the official MAT/AIMA candidate portal. The admit card generally contains details such as the examination date, timing, roll number and test-centre information.
How long is the MAT 2026 score valid, and can it be used for admission to different colleges?
The MAT score is generally valid for one year, according to AIMA's stated guidelines. Candidates can use their score when applying to participating institutes, but each college may have its own cut-off, eligibility requirements and selection process.