MAT Exam Preparation 2026: Check Section-wise Prep Material

MAT December 2026 PBT Registration Last

14 Dec '26

Updated on Oct 1, 2026 18:21 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

MAT exam preparation requires proper balance of theory and practice. It is a speed based test in which all 5 sections have 30 questions each, so speed is critical. From, May 2026 score of Economic and Business Environment has been included in MAT composite score and percentile calculation, so candidates need focus on it better than before from now on.

MAT questions are on the easier side, but the syllabus is vast so candidates need to dedicate atleast 3-4 months for preparation. Since MAT is conducted multiple times in a year, candidates can plan their preparation according to the session they want to appear in. Those who have appeared for MAT before may need less time to prepare. Make a balanced plan for MAT syllabus coverage and MAT mock test practice. Read on this page, MAT 2026 preparation tips and strategies.

Table of contents

MAT 2026 Preparation: Highlights
MAT Language Comprehension Tips
MAT Mathematical Skills Tips
MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency Tips
MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning Tips
MAT Economic and Business Environment Tips
MAT Mock Tests for Exam Preparation
Best Books for MAT Preparation 2026
FAQs on MAT Preparation 2026

MAT 2026 Preparation: Highlights

The challenge of MAT is that, every section has equal weightage so you cannot ignore one subject for another. All five sections have to be prepared thoroughly so that the overall performance is good. Check below a few tips to plan MAT exam preparation 2026:

Before making a plan, check the MAT syllabus 2026for familiar and unfamiliar topics
Next, evaluate the time you have to prepare. Ideally you should start MAT preparation 3-4 months in advance
Basis the time you have, divide the syllabus coverage into daily, weekly and monthly targets
Check the MAT exam pattern 2026 to know sectional weightage and other key points to make a strategy accordingly
Download MBA prep apps and subscribe to YouTube videos for tutorials. These prove to be immensly helpful in MAT exam preparation
Get hold of study material like book, sample questions sets, mock test series
Plan the practice session simultaneously with syllabus coverage

⚡ MAT Exam Syllabus Section Wise

Know the MAT syllabus prescribed by AIMA to evaluate management aspirants.

📄 Download PDF

MAT Language Comprehension Tips

To crack MAT 2026 exam with high percentile, aspirants should aim to score high in every section. We have shared below section wise MAT preparation strategy that will help you in scoring high.

MAT Preparation Tips for Language Comprehension

Language Comprehension section of MAT exam consists of all topics of verbal ability and English grammar. The section also consists of reading comprehension passages which are usually easy in nature. There are less number of RCs in MAT so candidates should focus more on vocabulary and grammar.

MAT Language Comprehension	Details
Total number of questions	30 MCQs
Suggested time	20-25 minutes

Reading Skills: Focus on improving reading comprehension and speed. Although passage-based questions are easy, reading takes time. Read books, newspapers and magazines to improve reading speed and practice sample papers to improve speed in solving Reading Comprehension based questions.

English Grammar: Most English grammar question are asked from vocabulary, clauses, idioms, verb, active and passive voice, punctuation and sentence construction. Improve your fundamentals of English grammar and you will sail through in this section of MAT exam.

Verbal Ability: You can ace Verbal Ability questions by practising sample questions of various difficulty levels. The basic concept of cracking verbal ability question is understanding the key message it holds. Once you know it, you can solve it. Pratice parajumbles, odd sentences, para summary for MAT Verbal Ability.

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Language Comprehension & Verbal Ability

⚡ MAT 2026 Exam Pattern for PBT and CBT

Get detailed MAT exam pattern, know changes in past few years and time management tips.

📄 Download PDF

Commonly asked questions

Q: What are the best books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency?

MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency section is of moderate difficulty level. Candidates can prepare for this section in about 2-3 months. Given below is the list of books for MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Data Analysis and Sufficiency by Arun Sharma How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for MAT by Arun Sharma Data Interpretation: Practice Book for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations by Nishit K Sinha The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation by Nishit K Sinha Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency for CAT/XAT/IIFT/CMAT/MAT/Bank PO/SSC by Odisha Experts Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha Data Analysis and Interpretation Data Sufficiency by Think Tank of Kiran Prakashan Accredited Guide to Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Arihant Experts.

Q: When should I start preparing for MAT?

Ideal time to start MAT preparation is 6 months before the exam session. But if you have appeared for it before, you will need less time to prepare. So, plan your preparation accordingly.

Q: Is MAT exam easier than other MBA entrance exams?

Difficulty level of MAT exam is lower than other MBA entrance exams. The question paper is usually of easy to moderate difficulty level. The exam is now held for 120 minutes. There are now 150 questions in the exam paper. There is no sectional time limit in MAT which allows the candidate to plan a strategy according to their strengths and weaknesses. The score of Indian and Global Environment section is not considered for percentile calculation thus candidates don't have the stress of fifth section. Also, solving 150 questions is not mandatory so candidates can choose to solve only those questions which they know they can solve accurately. Sectional difficulty level of MAT is also lower than other MBA exams. Candidates can attempt the exam multiple times in the same academic year to improve their score. They also have the option to choose the mode of test - CBT, IBT, PBT - which makes it the most student friendly exam. Also, the MAT cut offs for admission are much lower as compared to other entrance exams.

MAT Mathematical Skills Tips

This section of MAT question paper is based on the Quantitative Ability topics. Topics included in this section are advanced level Mathematics topics that one has studied in Class 9 and 10. Conceptual clarity is the key to cracking this section of MAT 2026. However, practice of sample questions can help you solve the questions quickly.

MAT Mathematical Skills	Details
Total number of questions	30 MCQs
Suggested time	30 minutes

Formulas and Theorems: As mentioned above, cracking Numerical Ability section of MAT exam is all about having a good command on Maths. Even those who did not study Mathematics at a higher level can score well in this section if they devote enough time on concepts. Therefore, start early and with basics. Prepare notes on formulae and fundamentals, understand them well and practice related questions.

Calculation: Candidates should practice Mental Math to increase their calculation speed during the exam. Topics such as Profit & Loss, Mean, Median, Number System, Mensuration, Time, Distance & Speed and Percentages are easy to solve, so acquire speed in calculation to save time in the exam.

Weak areas: If candidates find topics like Vectors, Differential Equation, Trigonometry, Algebra, etc. difficult, then they should start studying these topics at least three months before the exam. If one is unable to prepare these topics well, they must skip questions based on these in the MAT exam. However, we recommend early engagement with these topics for greater chance of scoring well.

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Mathematical Skills

⚡ MAT Quant Formula Cheat Sheet by Shiksha

Get here key formulae for MAT Mathematical Skills and Data Interpretration.

📄 Download PDF

MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency Tips

This section of MAT contains mostly analytical questions related to interpretation of data, calculations and statements. Test takers are require to read, understand and interpret the closest outcome from the given data. The data is represented in the form of tables, charts and graphs and may turn out to be tricky if you haven't practiced enough sample questions.

MAT Data Analysis & Sufficiency	Details
Total number of questions	30 MCQs
Suggested time	25 minutes

Practice: Preparation of Data Analysis and Sufficiency for MAT is all about knowing basic multiplications/divisions and practice of various types of questions.

Understanding Charts, Graphs and Tables: Candidates need to have a basic understanding of data representation to understand the questions of this section. A question having a large amount of data for demographic or economics represented in tables, pie charts, graphs can be confusing. The key is to break down the question into parts and then analyse the data.

Data Analysis: Data Analysis and Sufficiency section is data heavy. First, analyse the data, then interpret it and then choose the right answer. If it takes a longer time than usual then mark such questions for review and attempt in the end.

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Data Analysis & Sufficiency

Commonly asked questions

Q: Can I crack MAT without Maths?

MAT has 2 sections which are completely Maths based – Mathematical Skills and Data Interpretation, so it is not possible to crack MAT without having a good control over this subject.

Q: Which MAT exam session is the toughest?

There is no single MAT session or phase that can be considered the toughest. Overall difficulty level of MAT is easy to moderate and every session has a test form which is the same – easy to moderate. There can be slight variation in the difficulty level of the test form, due to difference in questions. No two MAT sessions have the same set of questions.

Q: Is the question paper of MAT IBT different from MAT CBT or PBT?

No, the question paper of MAT IBT is not different from MAT CBT or PBT. The test pattern, time duration, question type and marking scheme are the same for all three modes. Candidates can choose to appear for any exam mode with the worry of doing exam specific preparation. The only difference between MAT IBT and MAT CBT or PBT is that MAT IBT is a remote proctored exam and can be taken from any location unlike MAT CBT or PBT which are held at designated exam centres. The MAT question paper of every session however is different. All the 200 questions of each question paper is unique. The difficulty level is the same- easy to moderate but since the questions are different from each other candidates can feel slight difference in the difficulty level. The questions for every session are chosen randomly so in one session the paper can be overall easy while in another session the exam can be slightly difficult.

MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning Tips

The questions of this section mainly demand application of logical reasoning skills. Important topics in MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning include Blood Relations, Statement & Conclusion, Matching Statements, Analogies, Series and Assertion & Reason. This is a reasoning based section and questions may seem easy but can be tricky.

MAT Intelligence & Critical Reasoning	Details
Total number of questions	30 MCQs
Suggested time	25 minutes

Fact, logic and opinion: Candidates should carefully view the questions based on three parameters - the fact – the obvious truth, logic - verification of statement with reasons and opinion/ intellect - your view. Also, implement methods to solve questions quickly, for example – Identifying Blood Relations should be according to:

Relatives of mother – maternal family
Relatives of father – paternal family

Now, each relation mentioned in the question should be categorised as above to get the right answer.

Critical thinking: Assumption is not advised in Critical Thinking. The only way to arrive at a correct answer is to analyse the question, contradictory statements and conclusion. Also, candidates need to keep speed and accuracy in mind while solving questions from this section. They should not spend more than a minute on any questions. To gain speed and accuracy, practice a variety of Intelligence and Critical Reasoning sample questions.

Also Read: MAT Preparation Tips for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning

MAT Economic and Business Environment Tips

The Economic and Business Environment section of MAT exam is the least time taking section as it does not require any critical thinking or calculations. This section is all about testing general awareness of candidates with straightforward questions on topics below. It is memory based so one either knows the answer or not.

Current Affairs and Events at national as well as international events
Awards, film festivals and celebrities
Political events and affairs
Science, technology and research

MAT Indian & Global Environment	Details
Total number of questions	30 MCQs
Suggested time	10 minutes

To prepare well for Economic and Business Environment of MAT exam, regularly follow current affairs and news. Check out what you can read to prepare for MAT 2026:

Read books, magazines, newspapers, blogs and make notes alongside
Watch news debates, political and business shows on television and YouTube
Memorise static GK topics from Manorama Year Book and Competition Success Review
Make notes of current affairs and events as and when they happen

Also Read: MAT Exam Preparation Tips for Economic and Business Enviroment

MAT Mock Tests for Exam Preparation

Along with practicing MAT previous year question papers, candidates should also attempt a considerable number of MAT mock tests. Practicing online mock tests will help them in getting familiar with the actual exam, understand the exam pattern and increase speed and accuracy. Shiksha has created a free MAT mock tests for candidates to attempt and check their preparation level.

Shiksha MAT Mock Test

MAT Mock Test by Shiksha
MAT Mock Test 1	Click to Start Test
MAT Mock Test 2	Click to Start Test

MAT Question Papers and Sample Papers

Candidates should practice sample papers regularly to grasp the conceptual clarity of topics included in MAT sylllabus. It will also help them in discovering short cuts and tricks to arrive at the correct answer in less time. MAT question paper of previous years are also critical for preparation. Having practiced previous years' MAT question papers will fill in confidence in the candidate about handling the actual exam.

📃MAT Question Paper PDFs

Practice: MAT Questions and Answers - free PDF

Commonly asked questions

Q: How many hours in a day are enough for MAT preparation?

It depends on the candidate's knowledge of MAT syllabus and whether they have appeared for the exam before or not. Someone who has prior experience of MAT will need about 4 hours daily to prepare as they will mainly need to do revision and practice mock tests. Those who are starting MAT preparation from the scratch, then they will need about 6-8 hours daily.

Q: Is it necessary to opt for coaching to prepare for MAT?

No, it is not necessary to opt for coaching for MAT preparation. If one is already preparing for CAT or any other top MBA entrance exam, they need not take coaching for MAT. One can prepare for MAT with relevant study material and practice tests as it is an easy exam. Test takers can join online study group for doubt clearing sessions and basic guidance.

Q: Is MAT mock test practice enough for preparation?

MAT mock test practice is essential but not enough. You will need to go through the MAT syllabus and understand the fundamentals of all topics, only then you'll be able to crack questions in mock test.

Best Books for MAT Preparation 2026

Candidates can prepare for MAT with the help of CAT books, but it is important to also refer books that specifically address MAT topics and question type.

MAT Sections	MAT Books
Verbal Ability	Verbal Ability & Comprehension by Bharat Patodi and Aditya Chowdhary Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Gautam Puri
Data Analysis and Sufficiency	Data Analysis & Sufficiency by Arun Sharma Accredited Guide to Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency by Ananta Ashisha
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning	Analytical & Logical Reasoning For CAT & Other Management Entrance Tests by Peeyush Bhardwaj Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit Sinha
Mathematical Skills	Speed Mathematics: Do it Quick, Do it Right by Rajesh Kumar Thakur C Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R S Aggarwal
Economic and Business Environment	The Mega Yearbook: Current Affairs & General Knowledge For Competitive Exams by Disha Experts

Also Read: Best Books for MAT Preparation 2026

Check MAT cut offs and predict calls from colleges accepting MAT score for admission. Check Fees, Placement Reviews, Admission, Shortlist Criteria and Eligibility of all MAT participating colleges by clicking the link below:

Predict MAT Admission Calls

FAQs on MAT Preparation 2026

Check a few Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MAT Preparation 2026:

Q: How to crack MAT in first attempt?

To crack MAT exam in first attempt, start preparation early; at least a month six months in advance. Cover each topic of the MAT syllabus thoroughly and attempt 40+ mock tests to have complete control on all possible types of questions asked. In the exam, avoid negative marking by skipping questions you are not sure of. Try to maintain average scoring by solving 17-20 questions in each section.

Q: What is the MAT syllabus for Mathematical Skills?

Some of the main topics included in the MAT syllabus for Mathematical Skills are LCM and HCF, Percentages, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Profit and Loss, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequence and Series Surds and Indices, Interest (Simple and Compound), Heights and Distance, Inequalities, Speed, Time and Distance, Triangles Set Theory, Number System Circles, Mixtures and Alligations, Elementary Mathematics, Geometry, Venn Diagrams, Trigonometry Equations and Linear Programming. Candidates need to study all these topic thoroughly this section of MAT carries 40 questions and in every session there can be more questions from any topic. So, start preparing for Mathematical Skills section of the MAT exam at least six months before you intend to appear for it. To cover the entire syllabus of this section thoroughly, you will need at least six months.

Q: Which section has the maximum weightage in MAT?

All the MAT sections have same weightage, i.e. 30 questions and 30 marks. So candidates must keep in mind to prepare each section properly and poor performance in one section can affect overall score.

Q: Is MAT easier than CMAT?

MAT and CMAT both are moderately difficulty exam, but have their own challenges. While, CMAT has one extra section Innovation and Entrepreneurship, MAT has a separate section for Data Interpretation having 30 questions. With focused preparation, you can crack either of the two that you choose.

Q: Which MAT section is the toughest?

MAT is overall an easy exam, but if you compare the sections, usually the Quantitative Aptitude is considered tougher than rest of the four sections, due to calculation intensive questions.

Q: Can I make another attempt at MAT exam, if I score low in first attempt?

Yes, you can attempt MAT exam as many times as you want. MAT is conducted multiple times in a year, in February, May, September and December. If a candidate is not satisfied with their score of first attempt, they can choose any upcoming session to appear for it again.

Q: When should I start preparing for MAT?

Ideal time to start MAT preparation is 6 months before the exam session. But if you have appeared for it before, you will need less time to prepare. So, plan your preparation accordingly.

Q: What is a good score in MAT exam?

MAT scoring is done between 200 to 800, so a nearly 650 or 700 will get you 90 to 95 percentile. A score of 600 is also good as it converts into percentile between 80 to 85.

Q: It is compulsory to attempt MAT GK section?

It is not compulsory to attempt MAT GK section as the score in not considered for percentile calculation but it is not recommended to skip it all together as it may dent your chances in colleges that look at candidates' sectional scores too.

Q: Which is the best session for appearing in MAT?

MAT is conducted in February, May, September and December. You can appear for it whenever ready and confident of scoring high. However, it is seen that maximum applications are done for December and February sessions as that's the main season of all other national level MBA entrance exams and admission.

Q: How many hours in a day are enough for MAT preparation?

Q: What is the marking scheme of MAT exam?

Total marks of MAT exam is 150. Every question carries one mark for correct attempt and there is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. No marks is deducted for skipping questions. The MAT question paper has 150 questions equally divided into five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Economic and Business Environment.

Language Comprehension: 30 questions

2. Intelligence & Critical Reasoning: 30 questions

3. Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency: 30 questions

4. Mathematical Skills: 30 questions

5. Economic and Business Environment: 30 questions

Every section therefore has 30 questions which means every section carries 30 marks. The scores of GK section is not considered for MAT percentile calculation. So candidates can keep GK section as their last priority.

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Student Forum

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How are the placements in MBA curriculum and what is the expected cut off and eligibility criteria for MAT entrance exam here?

Answered a month ago

Top management institutes accepting the MAT Exam generally expect a cutoff percentile between 75 and 90, while top-tier colleges may require 90+ percentile.

Swati Pandey

Contributor-Level 10

Are entrance exams like CAT, SNAP, or MAT mandatory for the MBA programme at Symbiosis Dubai?

Answered a month ago

Students interested in MBA at any of the Symbiosis Institutes need to take the Symbiosis National Aptitude (SNAP) Computer Based Test which will be conducted at designated test centres.

However, the institute does offer special pathways to Indian students allowing them to register for classes even i

Akash Gaur

Contributor-Level 10

What makes GIBS different from other colleges?

Answered 2 months ago

GIBS Business School differentiates itself from other colleges because it is focused on creating professionals and not just giving degrees. It combines education with practical knowledge, interactions with industries, and personal development.

Why is GIBS different from other colleges?

The curriculu

Siya singh

Contributor-Level 8

What is the eligibility criteria for KIIT MBA scholarship based on MAT?

Answered 2 months ago

To be eligible for the MBA scholarship provided by the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology via MAT, candidates must have secured 95 Percentile and above (applicable for December 2025 MAT & February 2026 MAT) (centre based/offline examination).

Rashmi Sinha

Contributor-Level 10

What can I do if I missed CAT or MAT for Chanakya University MBA admission?

Answered 2 months ago

You can still apply for an MBA at Chanakya University by taking the university's internal entrance exam, the Chanakya University Pravesha Pareeksha (CUPP). The university's Chanakya University Admissions portal allows applicants who missed CAT or MAT to use CUPP and a personal interview to fulfill t

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

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