CMAT Syllabus 2026 (Available): Download Latest CMAT Exam Syllabus PDF

Common Management Admission Test 2026 ( CMAT )

Vipra Shrivastava
Updated on Sep 30, 2025 14:09 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

CMAT syllabus 2026 includes Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. To cover the CMAT 2026 syllabus, candidates must refer to recommended books and study material. Coverage of the topics included in the syllabus for CMAT 2026 should be done in a time bound manner. Read below all about CMAT syllabus and get preparation tips. 

CMAT Syllabus Highlights

  • Unique section: The Innovation & Entrepreneurship section is unique to CMAT. No other MBA entrance exam has this section. It is similar to Business Studies and candidates with Commerce background will find it familiar. 
  • Time duration: Candidates must aim to prepare for CMAT in at least 6 months as it takes about 3 months to cover the syllabus end to end. Candidates can prepare for CMAT and other exams simultaneously as the syllabus overlaps.
  • Focus on important topics: Some topics included in the CMAT syllabus have more weightage than others, so candidates must make their preparation strategy accordingly. 
  • Revision and practice: Since, CMAT syllabus is vast and one needs to be thorough with all the topics of the five sections, regular revision and practice is a must. 
  • CMAT GK: This section is the only one which can be covered in a short period of time. Candidates pick GK for preparation in the last month before CMAT 2026 exam. 
Table of content
  • What is the CMAT Syllabus 2026? Detailed Breakdown
  • Section Wise CMAT Syllabus 2026: Latest PDF
  • CMAT Syllabus 2026: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Topics
  • CMAT Syllabus 2026: Logical Reasoning Topics
  • CMAT Syllabus 2026: Language Comprehension Topics
  • CMAT Syllabus 2026: General Awareness Topics
  • CMAT Syllabus 2026: Innovation and Entrepreneurship Topics
  • Best Books for CMAT Preparation 2026
  • CMAT Preparation Tips 2026
  • FAQs on CMAT Syllabus 2026
View More
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What is the CMAT Syllabus 2026? Detailed Breakdown

CMAT is a moderate difficulty level exam and its syllabus can be covered in about 2-4 months, as the topics are same as topics of other MBA entrance exams. Given below are some of the most important topics from the five sections of CMAT 2026 syllabus. These topics carry more weightage in the CMAT question paper than rest of the topics. So during exam preparation, focus on these topics more.

CMAT syllabus

CMAT syllabus

CMAT Syllabus 2026

Number of question and total marks

Important CMAT Topics

Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation

20 questions/80 marks

Algebra, Time-Speed-Distance, Alligation & Mixtures, Geometry, Graph, Quadratic and Linear Equations, etc.

Logical Reasoning

20 questions/80 marks

Analytical Reasoning, Linear Arrangements, Number Series, Matrix Arrangements, Blood Relationship Tests, etc.

Language Comprehension

20 questions/80 marks

Reading Comprehension, Grammar, English Usage Errors, Parajumbles, etc.

General Awareness

20 questions/80 marks

Economy, Business, World, Politics, Sports, Culture, Society

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

20 questions/80 marks

Questions related to innovation, entrepreneurship and start up business

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is CMAT syllabus the same as that of CAT?
Q:   What is the difficulty level of CMAT RC passages?
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Section Wise CMAT Syllabus 2026: Latest PDF

Given below is the CMAT syllabus PDF having section-wise topics that candidates must study to score high in the exam. Download the PDF of CMAT syllabus and make a study plan according to the number of chapters and time needed to cover them. Some topics may be familiar thus easy to handle whereas some may be not. So, use this PDF to make a focussed preparation strategy for CMAT 2026.

Download Free CMAT Syllabus PDF for Exam Preparation

CMAT Syllabus PDF

CMAT Exam Pattern 2026: Key Highlights

CMAT exam pattern is similar to other MBA entrance exams. The questions are in MCQ format with four options to choose the right answer from. Check below key highlights of CMAT exam pattern 2026:

  • All the sections of CMAT 2026 exam will have an equal number of questions (20 each).
  • There will be total 100 questions but solving all the questions is not mandatory.
  • Each question will carry 4 marks. Total marks of CMAT 2026 will be 400. 
  • There will be negative marking of -1 for incorrect attempts
  • CMAT exam will be held in Computer-Based-Test mode at designated test centres.
  • All the questions will be in MCQ format.
  • Candidates will have to key in their answers with the help of computer mouse.
  • There will be no subjective type questions in CMAT 2026.
  • The time duration will be 180 minutes or 3 hours, without sectional time limit.
  • Extra time will be given to PwD candidates for completing the test.

Also Read: CMAT exam pattern 2026

View Syllabus
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CMAT Syllabus 2026: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Topics

The CMAT Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation section has 20 questions in MCQ format. The difficulty level is usually moderate. Even though Arithmetic and Algebra dominate this section, one should aim to study all the topics as Quants is a scoring section and it is possible to get full marks. The best way to prepare for CMAT Quant is getting the basics right and practicing a lot of questions. Check the table below for detailed break down of Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation syllabus for CMAT.

CMAT Syllabus: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation Topics

  • Tabulation
  • Geometry
  • Pipes and Cisterns
  • Time-Speed-Distance
  • Alligation & Mixtures
  • Profit and Loss
  • Permutations & Combinations
  • Percentages
  • Work and Time
  • In-equations
  • Quadratic and linear equations
  • Line Graph 
  • Number System
  • Ratio and Proportion
  • Pie Chart, Bar Chart
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which are the best books for CMAT Quantitative Aptitude preparation?
Q:   How similar is CMAT syllabus to CAT syllabus?
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CMAT Syllabus 2026: Logical Reasoning Topics

The CMAT Logical Reasoning section has 20 MCQs. Most of the questions are logic based so the candidate needs to work on basic concepts and practice a good number of sample questions to score well. Check below detailed break down of CMAT syllabus for Logical Reasoning:

CMAT Syllabus: Logical Reasoning

  • Analogy Test
  • Direction and Distance Test
  • Linear Arrangements
  • Blood Relationship Tests
  • Ranking Tests
  • Statements and Arguments
  • Coding and Decoding
  • Statements Assumptions
  • Inferences
  • Statements and Conclusion
  • Matrix Arrangements
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning
  • Symbol Based Problems
  • Number Series
  • Cause and Effects
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which are the best books for CMAT Logical Reasoning preparation?
Q:   How can I master Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation topics of CMAT?
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CMAT Syllabus 2026: Language Comprehension Topics

The CMAT Language Comprehension section has 20 questions divided into – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. There are usually 2-3 short Reading Comprehension paragraphs which are easy to read. Verbal Ability questions are asked from vocabulary and grammar. So it is easier to score in this section. Check the table below for detailed breakdown of CMAT syllabus for English Language:

CMAT Syllabus: Language Comprehension Topics

  • English Usage Errors
  • Synonyms
  • English Grammar
  • Antonyms
  • One-Word Substitution
  • Sentence Correction
  • Idioms
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I prepare for CMAT from CAT books?
Q:   How can I prepare for CMAT language comprehension?
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CMAT Syllabus 2026: General Awareness Topics

The CMAT General Awareness section also has 20 questions which is a mixed bag of current affairs and static GK. During preparation, candidates must focus on memorising even seemingly unimportant details of events as the question can be based on any aspect of a particular event. Most of the questions are asked from Static GK so more emphasis should be laid on those. Static GK can be covered towards the end of CMAT 2026 preparation with the help of Year Books. This section is memory based so one should not do guess work in attempting questions. Check detailed breakdown of CMAT syllabus for General Awareness.

CMAT Syllabus: General Awareness

  • Literature
  • Trade Awareness
  • Geography
  • Indian Constitution
  • Politics
  • History
  • Current Affairs of National and International Economy
  • Economics
  • Culture
  • Personalities in News
  • Sports News
  • Science in Everyday Life
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is it necessary to attempt GK section in CMAT?
Q:   How much time should I devote in preparation of GK section of CMAT?
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CMAT Syllabus 2026: Innovation and Entrepreneurship Topics

Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a subject that interests management aspirants greatly, so preparing for it is not tough. This subject appears only in CMAT and one can crack it with basic preparation from previous year questions. This section is somewhat similar to Business Studies, so candidates who have studied it in HSc and Graduation will not find challenges in preparation. Here's the detailed breakdown of CMAT 2026 syllabus for Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

  • Concepts of Entrepreneurship
  • Overview of Entrepreneurship
  • Evolution of Entrepreneurship in India
  • Role of Entrepreneurship in Economic Development
  • Theories and Models of Entrepreneurship
  • Framework of Entrepreneurship Theories
  • Models of Entrepreneurship
  • Emerging Models of Corporate Entrepreneurship
  • Dimensions of Entrepreneurship
  • Entrepreneurial Society
  • Entrepreneurial Culture
  • Rural Entrepreneurship
  • Women Entrepreneurship
  • Emerging Trends in Social Entrepreneurship
  • Principles of Business Organisation
  • Motivation, Communication and Leadership

Weightage of Innovation & Entrepreneurship is 20 questions and 80 marks. Some of the questions are passage based, while some questions are based on General Knowledge of Economics and Business. Overall, this section is easy and a month long preparation will be sufficient.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation Tips 2026: Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the CMAT Innovation and entrepreneurship syllabus? Which books to study?
Q:   How much time will be required to cover Innovation and Entrepreneurship syllabus of CMAT?
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Best Books for CMAT Preparation 2026

Candidates must refer to only the recommended CMAT books for exam preparation and relared study material. Below mentioned are section wise best books for CMAT 2025

CMAT Books for Quantitative Aptitude Preparation

Quantitative Aptitude section of CMAT is usually on the tougher side but has the same topic as CAT and other MBA entrance exams. Check the table below for best books for CMAT Quantitative Aptitude preparation:

CMAT books for Quantitative Aptitude

Author Name/Publisher

How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT

Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education)

Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission Into IIMs

Sarvesh K Verma (Arihant)

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

Abhijit Guha (McGraw Hill Education)

NCERT Mathematics Books for Standard 8, 9 and 10

NCERT

Quantitative Aptitude

Dr RS Aggarwal

CMAT Books for Logical Reasoning Preparation

Practicing a large pool of Logical Reasoning questions will be good. So, select some sample paper question banks for preparing this section of CMAT. Check the table below for CMAT books for Logical Reasoning preparation:

CMAT books for Logical Reasoning

Author Name/Publisher

How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT

Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education)

Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT

Nishit K Sinha (Pearson)

CMAT Books for Language Comprehension

Language Comprehension of CMAT is easy to moderate in terms of difficulty level. Check the table below to know the best books for CMAT Language Comprehension section:

CMAT books for English

Author Name/Publisher

How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT

Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education)

The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT

 Nishit K Sinha

A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning

Dr R S Aggarwal

Trishna’s Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT and Other MBA Examinations

TIME

Besides these books, one must also study from The Complete Reference Manual for CMAT by SK Sinha, S Satyanarayan and JS Rana. This book is exclusively for CMAT preparation.

Other useful books to improve English Vocabulary and Grammar for CMAT exam are listed below:

  • Wren & Martin English Grammar

  • Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis

  • Business English and Communication by John O E Clark

  • 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary by Norman Lewis

  • The Students’ Companion by Wilfred D Best

  • A Communicative Grammar of English by Geoffrey Leech and Jan Svartvik

CMAT Preparation Books for General Awareness

For preparation of static GK candidiates must refer to GK Year Books. To strengthen Current Affairs, the best rescources are newspapers and journals. Given below are some of the recommended GK year books for CMAT preparation.

CMAT Preparation for GK: Newspapers and Journals

Economic Times

The Financial Times

Wall Street Journal

Financial Express

Business Today

Business World

Management Compass Career Launcher

Competition Success Review

Read more
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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which are the best books for CMAT Logical Reasoning preparation?
Q:   Which are the best books for CMAT Quantitative Aptitude preparation?
View list of Books
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CMAT Preparation Tips 2026

CMAT preparation should be comprehensive and must include time bound syllabus coverage, practice tests and revision. Mock Tests play a very important role in CMAT preparation 2026. The main aim of an aspirant should be to practice as many CMAT mock tests as they can, after completing the syllabus. Shiksha has created a free CMAT mock test for candidates to practice and see their control over various topics. This CMAT mock test has been prepared on the basis of actual CMAT question papers and are of same difficulty level as the actual exam.

CMAT_Mock_Test_1 CMAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions
CMAT_Mock_Test_2 CMAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions

To know how to and what to study for the exam, check out the following articles for CMAT exam preparation tips:

Get CMAT tips from previous years toppers from the links listed below for CMAT preparation strategy.

CMAT topper emphasizes on the importance of  mock tests

How self-study helped Saras Suhane score 100 percentile in CMAT

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

Predict CMAT Admission Calls
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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Should I take coaching for CMAT 2026 preparation?
Q:   Are CMAT sample papers and mock tests enough for exam preparation?
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FAQs on CMAT Syllabus 2026

Check below Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to CMAT Syllabus:

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I prepare for CMAT from CAT books?
Q:   What is the difficulty level of CMAT exam?
Q:   How many mock tests to attempt to score 99 percentile in CMAT?
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CMAT Exam

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Answered 3 weeks ago

CMAT is one of the top accepted exams for admission to MBA-offering universities, including AURO University. As per official sources, the CMAT exam has already been conducted for the 2025 session. The exam was conducted on Jan 25, 2025 by the National Testing Agency. The exam for the 2026 session i

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Shailja Rawat

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

The admissions into MBA courses at Marwadi University have been concluded in the year 2025. Hence, candidates can no longer apply for admissions into the MBA course at Marwadi University in the year 2025. The CMAT exam for the year 2025 has also been concluded for this year. Candidates must now wait

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Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

No, candidates do not have to mandatorily appear for the CMAT entrance exam for MBA in Business Analytics at Marwadi University. Candidates can apply for MBA admissions through any of the national level entrance exam such as CAT, XAT, ATMA and more. However, during admissions into the MBA in Busines

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Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Yes, it is possible to get an MBA seat at CET Trivandrum with a valid CMAT score. The institute accepts CAT, CMAT, and KMAT scores for MBA admissions. Thus, students who did not appear for CMAT or did not score well can apply via KMAT or CAT scores. Students are selected for the programme after eval

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S

Shailja Rawat

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

No, CMAT scores are not compulsory for admissions to the MBA course at Sabarmati University. Because the university accepts CMAT/ CAT or any other entrance exam accepted by the counselling body. Thus, applicants with CMAT scores can get admission to the MBA course. However, it is not compulsory. App

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V

Vishakha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

No, getting admission into SGSITS MBA courses is not possible without taking CUET. For admission to its MBA courses, the institute only accepts valid CMAT scores. Other than this, it is also essential that students aspiring to enrol into the programme meet the eligibility criteria prescribed by the

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Shailja Rawat

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

CMAT is one of the top accepted exams for admission to MBA-offering colleges in Indore, including SGSITS. As per official sources, the CMAT exam has already been conducted for the 2025 session. The exam was conducted on Jan 25, 2025 by the National Testing Agency. The exam for the 2026 session is e

...Read more

S

Shailja Rawat

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

GK is memory based, so all that you need to do is memorise important events and occurrences. So, candidates may not need a lot of time to prepare for CMAT GK. They can devote one or two months for it. On daily basis, they can read Year Books for one hour to memorise events. Apart from that they can

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Sreetama Tyagi

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a month ago

CMAT RC passages are easy. Candidates need not worry about RCs in CMAT because they are short and pretty much straight forward. Questions are fact based and generally require candidates to identify the main argument/theme/idea of the passage. Sometimes, there are a few vocabulary and idiom based que

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Jasleen Dixit

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a month ago

Yes, it is necessary to attempt GK section in CMAT as unlike other MBA entrance exams, scores of GK are included in percentile calculation in CMAT. Total number of GK questions in 20 and attempting 8-10 questions correctly, can get the candidate desired sectional cut off in CMAT. So, while preparing

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Aarushi Hazarika

Contributor-Level 6

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