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IPMAT 2026 Question Paper PDF + Section-Wise Analysis (QA-SA, QA-MCQ, VA)
July 24, 2026
What is the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper?
Quick answer:
The IPMAT 2026 Question Paper is one of the most valuable resources for any serious IPM aspirant. Whether you appeared this year or are beginning your journey toward IIM Indore, understanding how the paper was structured — section by section — tells you exactly where to focus.
IIM Indore conducted IPMAT 2026 on May 4, 2026, and released the candidate response sheet along with the provisional answer key on May 11, 2026, followed by the final answer key on May 21 and the result on May 25, 2026.
This page breaks down the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper in detail, compares it against the IPMAT question paper 2025, and gives you a clear preparation roadmap based on the 2026 trend.
Download IPMAT 2026 & Previous Year Question Papers PDF
| IPMAT Indore 2026 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2025 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2024 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2023 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2022 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2021 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2020 | |
| IPMAT Indore 2019 |
What Is IPMAT 2026 Question Paper
The Integrated Programme in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) is conducted by IIM Indore for admission to its five-year Integrated Programme in Management (IPM).
The exam is designed for students who have just completed Class 12 and want to pursue management education directly after school, without a separate undergraduate degree.
IPMAT Indore tests candidates across three sections:
- Quantitative Ability (QA) — Short Answer Type (SA)
- Quantitative Ability (QA) — Multiple Choice Type (MCQ)
- Verbal Ability (VA) — Multiple Choice Type
The exam is computer-based and held once a year, typically in May. A qualifying performance leads to a Personal Interview (PI) round before final selection.
Given how competitive IIM Indore's IPM programme is, disciplined IPMAT preparation — ideally supported by structured online IPMAT classes — is essential.
Important: IPMAT Indore and IPMAT Rohtak are different exams. Rohtak includes a separate Logical Reasoning section. Do not assume the two share the same pattern, sections, or eligibility. This page covers IPMAT Indore. See the full comparison in IPMAT Indore vs IPMAT Rohtak.
IPMAT 2026 Exam Pattern at a Glance
Before analysing the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper, here is the verified IPMAT exam pattern for IIM Indore:
|
Parameter |
Details |
|
Exam Name |
IPMAT 2026 (IIM Indore) |
|
Conducting Body |
IIM Indore |
|
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
|
Total Duration |
120 minutes |
|
Sectional Time Limit |
40 minutes per section (enforced) |
|
Total Sections |
3 |
|
Total Questions |
90 |
|
Total Marks |
360 |
|
Marking Scheme |
+4 for correct; −1 for incorrect (MCQ sections); +4 for correct, 0 for incorrect (SA) |
|
Language |
English |
The exam rewards accuracy and time management. Negative marking in the MCQ sections makes blind guessing risky, which is exactly why understanding the structure of the IPMAT 2026 Paper matters.
For the complete breakdown, see the IPMAT Indore exam pattern and IPMAT marking scheme.
IPMAT 2026 Question Paper: Detailed Section-Wise Analysis
Section 1: Quantitative Ability — Short Answer (QA-SA)
The QA-SA section of the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper is historically the toughest, and 2026 was no exception. Candidates typed numerical answers directly with no options, eliminating guesswork.
Key highlights:
- Total Questions: 15
- Total Marks: 60
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes (shared section-wise limit)
- Difficulty Level: High
- No negative marking
The 2026 QA-SA section emphasised:
- Number Theory and Divisibility
- Algebra — Linear and Quadratic Equations
- Geometry and Mensuration
- Arithmetic — Percentages, Ratios, Averages
- Progressions (AP/GP)
- Functions and Logarithms
Compared with the IPMAT question paper 2025, difficulty in QA-SA rose slightly, with more multi-step problems demanding conceptual clarity. Because this section has no negative marking but is the hardest, it remains the biggest differentiator among top scorers. Sharpen it with focused practice using how to attempt short answer questions in IPMAT.
Section 2: Quantitative Ability — Multiple Choice (QA-MCQ)
The IPMAT QA-MCQ section carried negative marking, adding a layer of strategic decision-making — candidates had to balance speed with accuracy.
Key highlights:
- Total Questions: 30
- Total Marks: 120
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to High
- Negative marking: −1 per incorrect response
This section featured a mix of standard and application-based problems:
- Data Interpretation (bar graphs and tables)
- Modern Math — Permutations, Combinations, Probability
- Time, Speed, and Distance
- Profit, Loss, and Discount
- Trigonometry and Coordinate Geometry
- Set Theory and Venn Diagrams
Versus the 2025 paper, Data Interpretation questions in 2026 were slightly more calculation-intensive, though overall QA-MCQ difficulty stayed broadly comparable. Strengthen this area with DI questions for IPMAT and the full IPMAT quantitative aptitude syllabus.
IPMAT 2027 Study Material: Download Free Quantitative Ability Topic-Wise PDFs:
| Topic | Download Link |
|---|---|
| Basic Algebra & Polynomials | |
| Combination | |
| Percentage | |
| Profit, Loss & Discount | |
| Ratio, Proportion, Variation & Partnership | |
| Average, Mixture & Alligation | |
| Simple & Compound Interest | |
| Time, Work, Pipes & Cisterns, Chain Rule | |
| Surds, Indices & Logarithms | |
| Set Theory | |
| Functions & Graphs | |
| Linear & Quadratic Equations | |
| Geometry & Mensuration | |
| Inequalities & Modulus | |
| Coordinate Geometry & Trigonometry | |
| Permutation & Combination | |
| Probability | |
| Progression (AP, GP, HP) | |
| Work & Time | |
| Matrices | |
| Miscellaneous Topics | |
| Basic Algebra – Linear Equations | |
| Fundamental Principle of Counting | |
| Geometry – Circles | |
| Logarithm | |
| Mean, Mode & Median | |
| Mensuration (2D & 3D) | |
| Number System & Factors | |
| Number Theory | |
| Time, Speed & Distance (Boats, Streams, Linear Motion) |
Section 3: Verbal Ability (VA)
The Verbal Ability section of the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper was widely seen as the most accessible of the three — a chance to bank marks and offset any shortfall in Quant.
Key highlights:
- Total Questions: 45
- Total Marks: 180
- Time Allotted: 40 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Negative marking: −1 per incorrect response
The VA section covered:
- Reading Comprehension (4–5 passages of moderate length)
- Para Jumbles and Sentence Rearrangement
- Fill in the Blanks (vocabulary and grammar based)
- Error Identification and Sentence Correction
- Synonyms, Antonyms, and Word Usage in Context
- Critical Reasoning and Inference-based questions
A clear 2026 trend was a higher proportion of inference and tone-based questions in Reading Comprehension over purely factual ones — mirroring the shift seen in the IPMAT question paper 2025.
Build this skill with how to solve reading comprehension for IPMAT and IPMAT verbal ability tips.
IPMAT Study Material 2027: Download Free Verbal Ability Topic-Wise PDFs:
| Topic | Download Link |
|---|---|
| Vocabulary | |
| Idioms and Phrases | |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Error Spotting | |
| Sentence Improvement | |
| Grammar-Based Fill in the Blanks | |
| Narration and Voice | |
| Reading Comprehension | |
| Para Completion | |
| Para Jumbles | |
| Listening Transcript | |
| Antonyms | |
| One Word Substitution | |
| Direct & Indirect Speech | |
| Synonyms | |
| Punctuations | |
| Tenses | |
| Spelling Test | |
| Cloze Test | |
| Sentence Arrangement / Para Jumbler |
IPMAT 2026 Question Paper: Section-Wise Difficulty and Score Distribution
Here is a consolidated view of the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper structure, difficulty, and indicative attempt benchmarks:
|
Section |
Type |
Questions |
Marks/Q |
Total Marks |
Difficulty |
Indicative Attempts |
|
QA Short Answer |
Short Answer |
15 |
+4 / 0 |
60 |
High |
9–12 |
|
QA Multiple Choice |
MCQ |
30 |
+4 / −1 |
120 |
Moderate–High |
20–24 |
|
Verbal Ability |
MCQ |
45 |
+4 / −1 |
180 |
Easy–Moderate |
34–40 |
|
TOTAL |
— |
90 |
— |
360 |
Moderate–High |
63–76 |
Attempt figures are indicative benchmarks based on difficulty assessment and candidate feedback, not official data. Calculate your own likely score using the IPMAT score calculator.
Important Topics Covered in the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper
Quantitative Ability (QA-SA and QA-MCQ Combined — 45 questions)
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Time-Work, Speed-Distance): high weightage
- Algebra (Equations, Inequalities, Polynomials): high weightage
- Geometry & Mensuration (2D/3D, Coordinate Geometry): moderate
- Modern Math (P&C, Probability, Sets): moderate
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Bar Graphs): moderate–high
- Number Theory (Divisibility, HCF/LCM, Remainders): moderate
Verbal Ability (45 questions)
- Reading Comprehension (4–5 passages): high weightage
- Grammar & Sentence Correction: moderate
- Vocabulary (Fill in the Blanks, Synonyms/Antonyms): moderate
- Para Jumbles & Sentence Rearrangement: moderate
The above are indicative weightage bands based on candidate recall. For the definitive topic list, refer to the official IIM IPM syllabus and important topics for IPMAT.
IPMAT 2026 vs Previous Year Trends: A Comparative Analysis
One of the most useful exercises for any aspirant is comparing the current paper with previous year IPMAT papers.
Overall Difficulty
The IPMAT 2026 Question Paper was rated Moderate to High overall — broadly consistent with the IPMAT question paper 2025 and slightly elevated versus the 2023 edition. The QA-SA section continues to be the biggest differentiator among top scorers.
Topic-Wise Shift
|
Topic |
IPMAT 2024 |
IPMAT 2025 |
IPMAT 2026 |
|
Arithmetic (QA) |
High |
High |
High |
|
Data Interpretation |
Moderate |
Moderate–High |
High |
|
Probability & P&C |
Moderate |
Moderate |
Moderate |
|
Reading Comprehension |
Moderate |
High |
High |
|
Vocabulary |
Moderate |
Moderate |
Moderate |
|
Para Jumbles |
Low–Moderate |
Moderate |
Moderate |
The rising emphasis on Data Interpretation and inference-based Reading Comprehension is a clear evolving trend across the 2025 and 2026 papers.
Number of Questions Trend
|
Year |
QA-SA |
QA-MCQ |
VA |
Total |
|
IPMAT 2024 |
15 |
30 |
45 |
90 |
|
IPMAT 2025 |
15 |
30 |
45 |
90 |
|
IPMAT 2026 |
15 |
30 |
45 |
90 |
The structure has stayed consistent, making the 2024, 2025, and 2026 papers directly comparable for trend analysis. Dive deeper via the IPMAT question paper analysis with solutions.
What Made the IPMAT 2026 Question Paper Unique?
Several features set the 2026 paper apart:
- Longer DI sets — data-heavy interpretation requiring careful reading and multi-step calculation.
- Inference-heavy RC passages — testing author tone and implied meaning over surface-level recall.
- Higher conceptual algebra in SA — beyond rote formula application.
- Vocabulary in context — context-dependent fill-in-the-blanks reducing the value of pure memorisation.
- Balanced geometry coverage — coordinate geometry and mensuration appearing across both QA sections.
Download the Best Booklets for IPM & BBA Exams 2027
| Elementary Algebra Booklet | |
| Book on Concepts for Geometry | |
| Number System Concepts Booklet | |
| Inequalities Concepts Booklet | |
| Booklet on Syllogisms | |
| Booklet on Vocabulary Building Techniques | |
| Data Arrangement & Puzzles Booklet | |
| Booklet on Idioms & Phrases |
Preparation Insights and Takeaways for IPMAT 2027 Aspirants
Reviewing this year's performance, or planning for the next cycle? These insights from the IPMAT 2026 Paper should shape your strategy. Structured IPMAT online coaching turns each of these into a weekly plan.
1. Master Arithmetic First
Arithmetic is the backbone of the IPMAT QA sections every year — percentages, ratios, profit-loss, time-work, and speed-distance together drive a large share of quantitative questions. Build a rock-solid foundation with how to crack the arithmetic section in IPMAT.
2. Don't Neglect the SA Section
Many aspirants underestimate QA-SA because it has no negative marking — yet it is the hardest section. Consistent practice with open-ended numerical answers is non-negotiable. This is where guided online IPMAT classes and mock analysis make the biggest difference.
3. Build Data Interpretation Skills Early
The 2025-to-2026 trend confirms DI weightage is rising. Practise tables, bar graphs, and pie charts under timed conditions several times a week using DI questions for IPMAT.
4. Read Widely for Verbal Ability
Strong VA performance requires habitual reading — editorials, essays, long-form journalism — to build comprehension speed and contextual vocabulary. Given the inference-heavy RC in 2025 and 2026, superficial reading won't suffice. See how to score above 100 in IPMAT verbal ability.
5. Attempt Sectional Mock Tests Regularly
Use past papers as benchmarks when taking sectional mocks. Analyse accuracy per topic and adjust your study plan — the core loop inside every SuperGrads IPMAT online course. Start with a free IPMAT mock test.
6. Manage Time Strategically
With 120 minutes for 90 questions across strict 40-minute sectional limits, sequencing matters. Since you cannot revisit a section once its timer ends, plan your order and pace within each section. Avoid over-investing in any single QA question. See mastering the art of skipping for IPMAT.
7. Prioritise Accuracy in MCQ Sections
The −1 penalty in QA-MCQ and VA means reckless attempts backfire. Attempt questions you are confidently sure of, and skip those with little directional clarity.
See how the material is designed: How SuperGrads Designs IPMAT Mocks and Study Materials and Which Study Material Is Best for IPMAT?
IPMAT 2026 Official Cutoffs and Selection
IIM Indore declared the IPMAT 2026 result on May 25, 2026, releasing the provisional PI shortlist. IPMAT Indore uses sectional cutoffs only — there is no separate overall cutoff.
A candidate must independently clear the minimum in all three sections to qualify for the PI round; a strong score in one section cannot compensate for a shortfall in another.
Official IPMAT 2026 sectional cutoffs (General category):
|
Section |
General Category Cutoff |
|
QA — Short Answer (out of 60) |
28 |
|
QA — Multiple Choice (out of 120) |
27 |
|
Verbal Ability (out of 180) |
111 |
A notable trend this year was the QA-SA cutoff rising from 24 (2025) to 28 (2026), signalling that IIM Indore is placing greater emphasis on accuracy in the short-answer section.
Of the candidates who scored a positive raw score across all three sections, a shortlist of roughly 838 cleared every sectional cutoff for the PI round — a passage rate under 5%, underlining how competitive IPM admission has become.
Final selection weightage: IIM Indore prepares the final merit list using the Aptitude Test Score (ATS) and Personal Interview / WAT performance.
Class 10 and 12 marks are used only for initial eligibility, not for the composite merit score.
Cutoffs vary by category and year. For the full category-wise breakdown and historical trends, see the IPMAT cut-off and IPMAT Indore cut-off analysis pages, and confirm the latest figures on the official IIM Indore portal (iimidr.ac.in) before relying on them.
How SuperGrads Helps You Crack IPMAT?
The IPMAT 2026 Question Paper makes one thing clear: IPMAT rewards well-rounded, consistent, strategic preparation. That is exactly what structured guidance is built for.
SuperGrads IPMAT online coaching offers IPMAT live classes, sectional and full-length mocks, personalised mentorship, and doubt-solving — whether you are looking for IPMAT coaching for Class 11, IPMAT coaching for Class 12, or IPMAT coaching for droppers. It is designed as complete IPMAT entrance exam coaching, not just content delivery.
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New to IPMAT? Start with when to start preparing for IPMAT.
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Balancing school? Read how to manage IPMAT preparation with board exams.
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Taking a drop? See droppers vs freshers IPMAT preparation strategy.
Explore SuperGrads IPMAT online coaching →
Conclusion
The IPMAT 2026 Question Paper reinforces a clear message: with the QA-SA section remaining the toughest hurdle, Verbal Ability providing breathing room, and Data Interpretation gaining prominence, the exam keeps growing in sophistication. Study the 2024, 2025, and 2026 papers together to identify trend lines and calibrate your preparation.
With the right approach, disciplined practice, and honest mock analysis — ideally through the best online IPMAT coaching — cracking IIM Indore's IPM programme is well within reach. Start early, stay consistent, and let data-driven insights guide your study plan.
Ready to begin? Attempt a free mock and explore structured IPMAT preparation online with SuperGrads.
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Lalita Vishwakarma
Content Writer
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