The All India Management Association (AIMA) has officially unveiled the examination schedule for the Management Aptitude Test (MAT) for the year 2026. Aspiring candidates seeking admission to MBA and PGDM programmes across India can now begin their application process. The registration is being conducted online through the official portal, and students have the flexibility to choose between Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) modes, or even opt for both.
Key Dates and Registration Details for MAT 2026
The registration window is now active on the official website mat.aima.in. Candidates must fill out the application form with their personal and academic details, select their preferred exam mode, and choose a test city. It is crucial to note the deadlines for each mode.
For the Paper Based Test (PBT), the registration will close on 23 February 2026. The admit cards will be available for download from 26 February 2026, and the exam itself is scheduled for 1 March 2026.
For the Computer Based Test (CBT), the application deadline is 2 March 2026. Admit cards will be released on 5 March 2026, and the test will be held on 8 March 2026.
Dual Mode Option and Application Procedure
A significant feature of the MAT exam is the dual mode option. Candidates can choose to appear for both the PBT and CBT. In such cases, the better of the two scores will be considered for admission purposes, giving applicants a valuable second chance to improve their performance.
The step-by-step process to apply is straightforward:
- Visit the official website: mat.aima.in.
- Click on the MAT 2026 registration link.
- Fill in all required personal and educational details accurately.
- Select your exam mode (PBT, CBT, or both).
- Choose your preferred test city from the available options.
- Upload the necessary documents and a recent photograph.
- Proceed to pay the application fee online.
- Submit the form and save or print the confirmation page for future reference.
Exam Fees, Pattern, and Structure
The application fee structure is clearly defined. Candidates applying for either PBT or CBT alone need to pay ₹2,200. Those opting for the dual mode (both exams) must pay a consolidated fee of ₹3,800. The fee is non-refundable once paid.
The MAT 2026 exam will follow a standardised pattern. The test comprises 150 questions divided into five sections, with 30 questions in each. The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes (2 hours).
The sections are:
- Language Comprehension
- Intelligence & Critical Reasoning
- Mathematical Skills
- Data Analysis & Sufficiency
- Economic & Business Environment
With the schedule now public, MBA aspirants across the country are advised to begin their registration process early to avoid last-minute technical issues and to secure their preferred test city. This national-level entrance test is a crucial gateway to numerous management institutes in India.
