TV
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the premier entrance exam for postgraduate management courses in India, attracting lakhs of candidates each year, with only a small percentage succeeding. Consequently, many aspirants explore alternative options to enhance their chances of admission to their preferred business schools.
While the following exams do not lead to admission into Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) like the CAT, many top business schools across the country accept these test scores as part of their admission processes. In addition, some of these tests are recognized by institutions abroad.
GMAT
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is an entrance standardized test, that tests quantitative, verbal and analytical skills of critical thinking. Such results ensure to acquire admission into numerous top schools around the globe. Results might also ensure one to scholarships and even enhanced job offers after graduation.
CMAT
The Common Management Admission Test or CMAT is an entrance test for management courses approved by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) institutions, university departments, and their affiliated colleges. National Testing Agency (NTA) manages CMAT-2025. It is a computer-based test of three hours in duration that assesses the candidates in Quantitative Techniques, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, and General Awareness. Closing date for application is 25 December.
XAT
The Xavier Aptitude Test, or XAT, is another national-level entrance examination for postgraduate management courses. The XAT 2025 application window has already been closed, and more than 250 institutions have announced to use this test for admission. Check the complete list of participating institutions.
AIMA MAT
The All India Management Association conducts the Management Aptitude Test, or MAT, which is a government-approved national-level examination that allows candidates to gain admission into MBA and related courses. This test is accepted by more than 600 B-schools across India. Check the complete list.
NMAT
The Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test, also known as NMAT by GMAC™, is a computer-administered test owned by Graduate Management Global Connection (India) Private Limited, which is a subsidiary of the Graduate Management Admission Council. It offers two formats: test center-based examination and online proctored exam, which candidates can take at home within India.
