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MAT Exam Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Qualifying Marks & Qualification
January 30, 2026
Overview: Knowing the MAT Exam Eligibility is important before applying for the exam. Read on to learn what factors you must fulfill to register for the MAT exam.
Latest MAT Exam 2026 Updates:
✅Final Registration Deadlines: The window to apply for the Paper-Based Test (PBT) closes on February 23, 2026, while the Computer-Based Test (CBT) deadline is March 2, 2026.
✅Revised Exam Pattern: MAT has officially moved to a shorter format featuring 150 questions (down from 200) to be completed within a 120-minute time limit.
✅Updated Fee Structure: The registration fee is now ₹2,200 for a single test mode (PBT or CBT) and ₹3,800 for candidates opting for the "Dual Mode" (PBT + CBT).
✅Sectional Weightage: There are 5 sections, each with 30 questions. Note that the "Economic & Business Environment" section is typically reported separately and may not contribute to your final composite score/percentile.
✅Increased B-School Access: Your MAT 2026 score will be accepted by over 600+ AICTE-approved B-Schools across India, including top institutions like BIMTECH, Jaipuria, and IPE.
Continue reading to know more about MAT exam eligibility criteria 2026!
MAT Exam Eligibility 2026: Overview
Here are the key points that candidates must note before applying for the MAT exam:
✅Academic Qualifications Required for MAT Exam Eligibility 2026
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Bachelor's Degree: You must have completed a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university or institute.
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Final Year Students: If you are in the final year of your undergraduate course (BA, BSc, B.Com, B.Tech, etc.) or awaiting your results, you can also apply provisionally.
✅MAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Minimum Required Marks in Qualifying Exam
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General Category: You need to have at least 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA in your bachelor's degree.
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Reserved Categories (SC, ST, PwD): You need a minimum of 45% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA in your bachelor's degree.
✅Age Limit for MAT Exam Eligibility 2026
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No Upper Age Limit: There is no upper age limit to appear for the MAT 2026 exam.
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Lower Age Limit: While not explicitly stated, the document mentions a general equivalent of a graduate, suggesting a lower age limit around 20 years old, which is typical for graduation.
✅MAT Eligibility 2026: Work Experience Considerations
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Not Mandatory: Having work experience is not mandatory to apply for MAT.
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Additional Weightage: However, work experience can carry extra weightage in the selection process of top MBA colleges.
✅MAT Exam Eligibility 2026: Number of Attempts Allowed
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No Limit on Attempts: There is no limit on the number of times you can take the MAT exam. Your latest score will be considered for admission.
MAT Exam Important Dates (Feb Session) 2026
Here are the important dates of the MAT entrance exam 2026 September Session:
1️⃣Paper-Based Test (PBT)
|
Event |
Date |
|
Registration Closes |
February 23, 2026 |
|
Admit Card Release |
February 26, 2026 |
|
Test Date |
March 1, 2026 |
2️⃣Computer-Based Test (CBT)
|
Event |
Date |
|
Registration Closes |
March 2, 2026 |
|
Admit Card Release |
March 5, 2026 |
|
Test Date |
March 8, 2026 |
MAT Exam Reservation Criteria 2026
AIMA has set reservation criteria for candidates. These are as follows:
- SC: 15%
- ST: 7.5%
- NC-OBC: 27%
- EWS: 10%
To be considered, you need to meet the minimum cut-off score.
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MAT Exam Eligibility 2026 for Participating Institutes
- AIMA's General Criteria: AIMA does not specify any specific reservation or different criteria for individual colleges.
- College-Specific Criteria: Participating institutes may have their own MAT eligibility criteria, which can include:
- Minimum 50% to 60% marks in graduation.
- Relaxation for professional degree holders.
- Weightage to work experience to promote gender diversity.
- Weightage to academic performance in class 10 and 12.
Learn More: MAT Exam Question and Answer Paper
Check: MAT 2026 Exam Pattern
Conclusion
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is a prestigious examination for entry into India’s management programs.
It demands thorough and dedicated preparation due to its complexity and competitive nature. Achieving a high score on the MAT exam is crucial for gaining entry into top-tier business schools in India.
To ensure a spot in the selection process, aspirants are advised to complete their registration, submit their MAT applications promptly, and then focus on excelling in the written test.
Staying informed about the latest updates and MAT exam eligibility related to the MAT exam is essential for candidates aiming for success in this endeavour.
Check: MAT exam selection process
Frequently Asked Questions
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Lalita Vishwakarma
Content Writer
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