Not just CAT: Explore these MBA entrance exams for your dream college

Many students choose Commerce in Classes 11 and 12 with the goal of pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA). However, MBA is not just limited to students from a Commerce background; numerous students from diverse streams also aim for an MBA to enhance their career prospects.
Getting into a top MBA college in India requires clearing competitive entrance exams. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the one of the most popular choice. It is widely recognized MBA entrance exam, conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It is the gateway to the IIMs and other top business schools. but it is highly competitive and challenging. Fortunately, CAT is not the only pathway. India offers several other MBA entrance exams, each providing access to prestigious business schools across the country.
Here’s a curated list of major MBA entrance exams in India to help you explore your options and decide which exam aligns best with your goals.

Common Admission Test (CAT)

The CAT is India’s most widely recognized MBA entrance exam, conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It is the gateway to the IIMs and other top business schools, including FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, and MDI Gurgaon. The exam typically takes place in November/December and tests candidates on Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning.

Management Admission Test (MAT)

Conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA), the MAT is another prominent entrance exam. It offers flexibility with four exam sessions each year (February, May, September, and December) and is accepted by over hundreds of B-schools across India. Students can choose between paper-based, computer-based, and remote-proctored online modes.

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

The GMAT, organized by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), is a globally recognized test for MBA programs, including many top Indian B-schools like ISB Hyderabad and SPJIMR Mumbai. Unlike other entrance exams, GMAT is available year-round, allowing candidates to choose a test date that suits their schedule.
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
Conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, the XAT is another major exam for MBA aspirants in India. It is accepted by over 150 institutes, including XLRI and other top private B-schools. Typically held in January, XAT includes sections like Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and Verbal & Logical Ability.

Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)

The SNAP is conducted by Symbiosis International University and is exclusively for admission to its MBA programs across various campuses, including Pune, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. The exam, usually held in December, has three attempts, allowing students to submit their best scores.

Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)

The CMAT, organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is accepted by all AICTE-approved institutes in India. Conducted in January, CMAT is popular among aspirants seeking admissions to Tier 2 and Tier 3 B-schools. The test evaluates candidates on Quantitative Techniques, Language Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness.

Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MAH MBA CET)

The MAH MBA CET, conducted by the State CET Cell of Maharashtra, is a key exam for admissions to MBA programs in Maharashtra. Both private and government institutions in the state accept this exam, typically conducted in March. It emphasizes Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, and Verbal and Quantitative Aptitude.

Karnataka Management Aptitude Test (KMAT)

The KMAT, conducted by the Karnataka Private Post Graduate Colleges Association (KPPGCA), is widely accepted by AICTE-approved B-schools in Karnataka. Held twice a year, the exam provides opportunities for admissions into management programs across the state.
This list offers diverse options for MBA aspirants, each catering to different preferences and strengths. With proper planning and preparation, these exams can pave the way to some of the best business schools in India, bringing you one step closer to your dream career.