NMAT Exam Notification 2025: Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Pattern, and Fees

(The NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT) by GMAC is a prominent national-level MBA entrance exam for admission to top business schools in India and abroad, including NMIMS University, SPJIMR, KJ Somaiya, and international institutes in South Africa, the Philippines, and more. Conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), NMAT 2025 offers a flexible, candidate-friendly format with a 70-day testing window, three attempts, and the ability to choose section order. This comprehensive guide provides all essential details about NMAT 2025, including exam dates, eligibility, syllabus, pattern, fees, and preparation tips, based on the official websites.)

Team Testfunda

NMAT 2025 Exam Overview

NMAT is a computer-based test (CBT) designed to assess candidates’ skills in Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. Known for its student-friendly features, NMAT allows candidates to select their preferred exam date, time, and location within the testing window. It is accepted by over 50 B-schools in India and 25 international institutes, attracting nearly 75,000 candidates annually for MBA/PGDM admissions.

Key Highlights of NMAT 2025

  • Conducting Body: Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
  • Exam Dates: November 5 to December 20, 2025
  • Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT) at test centers in India; online proctored mode for international candidates
  • Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
  • Attempts: Up to three attempts with a 15-day gap between each
  • Application Mode: Online via mba.com/nmat
  • Purpose: Admission to MBA/PGDM programs at NMIMS and other top B-schools
  • Test Centers: 87 centers across 83 cities in India

NMAT 2025 Important Dates

The official NMAT 2025 notification was released on July 30, 2025. Below is the confirmed schedule based on the official announcement:

  • Notification Release: July 30, 2025
  • Registration Start: August 1, 2025
  • Registration Deadline: October 10, 2025
  • Exam Scheduling Window: August 1 to October 15, 2025
  • Retake Scheduling: August 11 to December 16, 2025
  • Exam Window: November 5 to December 20, 2025
  • Admit Card Availability: Within 24 hours of scheduling, downloadable from candidate dashboard
  • Result Announcement: Within 48 hours of each attempt
  • Scorecard Sent to Institutes: January 2026 (tentative)

Candidates should regularly check mba.com/nmat for updates.

NMAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for NMAT 2025 are straightforward and inclusive:

  • Educational Qualification:
    • Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university with at least 50% aggregate marks.
    • Final-year students or those awaiting results are eligible, provided they meet the percentage requirement upon degree completion.
    • For specific programs at NMIMS (e.g., MBA-HR, MBA-Pharma), additional requirements like a background in science or pharmacy may apply.
  • Age Limit: No upper age limit.
  • Work Experience: Not mandatory but preferred by some institutes (e.g., NMIMS gives preference to candidates with 2–3 years of experience).
  • Nationality: Indian and international candidates are eligible. International candidates may need to provide proof of English proficiency for certain institutes.

Note: Candidates must check institute-specific eligibility criteria, as some B-schools may have additional requirements. There is no reservation policy for NMAT, except for specific quotas like those for military personnel or Kashmiri migrants at NMIMS.

NMAT 2025 Registration Process

The registration process is entirely online. Steps include:

NMAT Application Process:
1. Register on nmat.nmims.edu
o Verify your email ID
o Create your GMAC ID on mba.com and pay the NMAT exam fee
2. Return to nmat.nmims.edu (Step 2)
o Log in with your GMAC credentials
o Complete the NMIMS application form and submit fees
Note: Mobile number and email verification are mandatory for both steps.

Note: The application fee is non-refundable. Candidates must carry the same ID proof (e.g., Aadhaar, passport) used during registration to the test center. A correction window is not typically provided, so verify details before submission.

NMAT 2025 Exam Pattern

NMAT 2025 is a computer-adaptive test, adjusting question difficulty based on the candidate’s responses. Key features include:

  • Total Questions: 108
  • Duration: 120 minutes
  • Sections and Question Distribution:
    • Language Skills: 36 questions (28 minutes)
    • Quantitative Skills: 36 questions (52 minutes)
    • Logical Reasoning: 36 questions (40 minutes)
  • Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options.
  • Marking Scheme:
    • +1 mark for each correct answer.
    • No negative marking for incorrect or unattempted questions.
  • Sectional Time Limits: Fixed time for each section; candidates can choose the section order.
  • Scaled Scores: Each section scored between 12–120, with a total score range of 36–360.

Candidates can take the exam up to three times, with the best score considered by most institutes. However, NMIMS accepts only the first attempt score for its MBA programs.

NMAT 2025 Syllabus

The NMAT syllabus covers three sections, testing communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills:

  1. Language Skills:
    • Topics: Reading comprehension, vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms, analogies), grammar (sentence correction, error spotting), para-jumbles, cloze tests, and sentence completion.
    • Key Skills: Reading speed, comprehension, and language proficiency.
  2. Quantitative Skills:
    • Topics: Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, time and work, profit and loss), algebra (equations, inequalities), geometry (lines, angles, triangles), number system (divisibility, LCM, HCF), data interpretation (tables, charts, graphs), and modern math (permutations, probability).
    • Key Skills: Numerical accuracy, data analysis, and formula application.
  3. Logical Reasoning:
    • Topics: Arrangements (linear, circular), puzzles, blood relations, coding-decoding, syllogisms, input-output, and critical reasoning.
    • Key Skills: Logical deduction, pattern recognition, and problem-solving.

The syllabus is considered easier than CAT, with a focus on speed and accuracy.

NMAT 2025 Application Fee

The confirmed fees for NMAT 2025 are:

  • First Attempt: ₹3,000 (plus applicable taxes)
  • Retake/Rescheduling: ₹1,000 (plus taxes) per attempt
  • Additional School Selection (beyond five): ₹300 per school

Fees are payable online and non-refundable. Verify the exact amount during registration on mba.com/nmat.

NMAT 2025 Selection Process

The selection process varies by institute but generally includes:

  1. NMAT Exam: Candidates must achieve the required cutoff score (overall and sectional) for their target B-schools.
  2. Institute-Specific Process:
    • Shortlisted candidates are invited for Group Discussion (GD), Written Ability Test (WAT), or Personal Interview (PI).
    • NMIMS conducts a Competency Test (45 minutes, covering Verbal, Mental, and Managerial Ability) for MBA admissions.
  3. Final Selection:
    • Based on NMAT score, GD/WAT/PI performance, academic record, work experience, and diversity factors.
    • Each institute publishes its own selection criteria.

Note: Candidates must apply separately to each B-school, as NMAT scores are sent to selected institutes post-exam.

 

NMAT 2025 Expected Cutoffs

Cutoffs vary by institute and program. Based on past trends, expected NMAT 2025 cutoffs are:

Institute Expected Overall Score (out of 360)
NMIMS Mumbai (MBA) 235–250
NMIMS Bangalore/Hyderabad 210–225
SPJIMR (Special Programs) 200–220
KJ Somaiya 190–210
XIMB 180–200
SDA Bocconi Asia Center 200–220

Sectional Cutoffs (Approximate):

  • Language Skills: 73–85
  • Quantitative Skills: 70–80
  • Logical Reasoning: 65–79

NMIMS typically requires higher cutoffs, especially for its Mumbai campus. Candidates should check institute websites for exact cutoffs.

NMAT 2025 Preparation Tips

To excel in NMAT 2025, follow these strategies:

  • Understand the Syllabus and Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the adaptive format and sectional time limits. Use official NMAT prep materials (e.g., NMAT Official Guide, free practice exams).
  • Create a Study Plan: Allocate 2–3 months, with 3–4 hours daily. Focus on speed-based questions and high-weightage topics like arithmetic and RC.
  • Practice with Mock Tests: Take 10–15 mocks, including official NMAT practice exams (one free, two paid at ₹999). Analyze performance to improve speed and accuracy.
  • Strengthen Fundamentals:
    • Language Skills: Read articles from The Hindu, Economic Times, or The Guardian to enhance comprehension and vocabulary.
    • Quantitative Skills: Master arithmetic and DI; practice shortcuts for calculations.
    • Logical Reasoning: Solve puzzles and reasoning sets from previous papers.
  • Time Management: Practice solving questions within 30–60 seconds, as NMAT is speed-intensive.
  • Leverage Resources: Use free resources from platforms like IMS or Career Launcher, and official NMAT prep materials.
  • Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced routine with adequate sleep and exercise to stay focused.

Note: If preparing for CAT alongside NMAT, allocate 1–2 hours daily for NMAT-specific speed practice, as NMAT is less difficult but time-intensive.

New Developments for NMAT 2025

  • Expanded Test Centers: 87 centers across 83 cities in India, ensuring accessibility even in remote areas.
  • Computer-Adaptive Format: Questions adjust in difficulty based on responses, requiring consistent accuracy.
  • Flexible Features: Candidates can choose section order and reschedule exams within the testing window.
  • International Reach: Scores accepted by institutes in South Africa, Philippines, Nigeria, Hungary, and Morocco.
  • Official Prep Materials: GMAC offers the NMAT Official Guide, two free practice exams, and two paid exams (₹999) for enhanced preparation.

Why Take NMAT 2025?

NMAT 2025 offers:

  • Top B-Schools: Admission to NMIMS, SPJIMR, XIMB, and international institutes with placements averaging ₹15–25 LPA.
  • Flexibility: Three attempts, section-order choice, and a 70-day window for scheduling.
  • Global Opportunities: Scores accepted by 25 international institutes, ideal for candidates eyeing global MBA programs.
  • Student-Friendly: No negative marking and adaptive format reduce exam pressure.

Resources for NMAT 2025 Preparation

Official Website: mba.com/nmat for registration, mock tests, and prep materials.

Practice Exams: One free and two paid (₹999) practice exams on the NMAT portal.

Study Material: NMAT Official Guide, TestFunda Free Course

Mock Tests: Available on mba.com/nmat and platforms like TestFunda Mocks.

Conclusion

NMAT 2025, conducted by GMAC from November 5 to December 20, 2025, is a gateway to prestigious MBA programs in India and abroad. Its flexible format, multiple attempts, and student-friendly features make it an attractive option for aspirants. Start preparing early, leverage official resources, and practice consistently to achieve a competitive score (205–250 for top institutes). Stay updated via mba.com/nmat and begin your MBA journey with confidence!

(Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the content. Verify all details with official sources like mba.com/nmat. The blog authors and publishers are not liable for any losses or damages arising from its use. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of GMAC or NMAT-participating institutes.)