IBSAT Syllabus 2026 PDF: Download Section-wise QA, VARC and DILR Syllabus

ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test 2026 ( IBSAT )

Vipra Shrivastava
Updated on Jun 29, 2026 19:16 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

IBSAT syllabus 2026 includes topics from Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Quantitative Aptitude (QA), and Data Adequacy/ Sufficiency and Data Interpretation (DA/ DI) subjects. The VARC section is split into two sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. IBSAT 2026 exam will be held in last week of December 2026 so candidates must aim to cover the syllabus for it by October so that there is enough time for mock test practice. Check on this page, detailed IBSAT exam syllabus.

 

Table of contents
  • IBSAT Syllabus 2026 PDF
  • IBSAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
  • IBSAT 2026 Verbal Ability Syllabus
  • IBSAT 2026 Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation Syllabus
  • IBSAT 2026 Exam Pattern Overview
  • IBSAT 2026 Preparation Strategy
  • FAQs on IBSAT Syllabus
View More
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IBSAT Syllabus 2026 PDF

Candidates can download the IBSAT 2026 syllabus PDF for reference and preparation of exam, created by Shiksha. This IBSAT syllabus PDF is prepared on the basis of questions and topics that have appeared in the exam in the past years. IBSAT exam aspirants will find this PDF very useful in keeping a note of syllabus coverage status.

Section wise IBSAT Syllabus

Video:

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   How many questions are there in IBSAT exam?
A: 

IBSAT question paper will include 140 Multiple Choice Questions. Check below to know IBSAT section wise questions:

  • Verbal Ability: 50 questions

  • Reading Comprehension: 30 questions

  • Quantitative Aptitude: 30 questions

  • Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency: 30 questions

Q:   Which are the most important topics to focus for IBSAT preparation?
A: 
There is nothing like an important topic for the preparation. You have to go with complete preparation for the exam. There are a number of exams conducted in India for the MBA type courses. Exams like CAT, XAT, GMAT, MAT, IBSAT, NMAT, SNAP, etc. have some minor tweaking and variations apart from the main sections. Each of these exams has quantitative aptitude, verbal reasoning, logical reasoning and data interpretation, apart from GK or essay writing section in some of the exams. So, you have to prepare accordingly for these exams either by taking coaching classes or correspondence course or by self-preparation or by following recommended books. After you have prepared for the most difficult level questions, you may try to get some question banks for the specific exam you are targeting either offline mode i.e. books on exams or online mode i.e. free question banks websites or paid question banks for practice.
Q:   What is the importance of taking IBSAT mock test?
A: 

Preparation for the IBSAT is incomplete without taking the mock tests/sample papers. Some of the advantages of the IBSAT mock test are:

  1. IBSAT mock test helps students know the IBSAT pattern and difficulty level of the qustions.
  2. Mock tests help candidates know weak and strong areas.
  3. IBSAT mock test helps candidates get an actual exam environment.
  4. Candidates can analyse the time to be devoted in each section
  5. IBSAT mock tests helps candidates go through the syllabus completely.
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IBSAT 2026 Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus

Quantitative Ability focuses on candidate's ability to solve numerical data and problems. Check important topics for IBSAT Quantitative Ability section below:

IBSAT Syllabus for QA Section

Number System

Work, Pipes and Cisterns

Discount

Average

Arithmetic Progression

Time and Work

Percentage

Algebra

Geometry

Co-ordinate Geometry

Mensuration

Probability

Instalment payments

Permutation & Combination

Quadratic and linear equation

Profit & Loss

Alligation & Mixtures

Time-Speed-Distance

Also Read:

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is IBSAT syllabus?
A: 

The IBSAT syllabus covers four sections:   

  • Verbal Ability (Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading Comprehension)

  • Reading Comprehension (Passages with questions)

  • Quantitative Aptitude (Mathematics-based problems)

  • Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency (Logical reasoning and analysis)

Q:   Is IBSAT syllabus similar to CAT?
A: 

IBSAT syllabus is closely similar to CAT syllabus with no negative marking. Candidates preparing for CAT will be able to prepare for IBSAT easily. The IBSAT syllabus is divided into four sections viz., Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation also, CAT syllabus includes the similar sections. 

Q:   Is it compulsory to attempt all sections of IBSAT exam?
A: 

No, it is not compulsory to attempt all sections of IBSAT exam. Some top tier IBSAT accepting colleges consider the minimum sectional scores to be shortlisted for admission. IBSAT exam does not involve any negative marking, hence candidates must focus on answering all 140 questions.

View Syllabus
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IBSAT 2026 Verbal Ability Syllabus

This section focuses on candidate's ability in sentence formation skills and vocabulary. Check IBSAT Syllabus for Verbal Ability section below.

IBSAT Syllabus for VA Section

Comprehension of passage

Syllogisms

English Grammar

Punctuation

Incorrect Words

English Usage

Sentence Completion

Contextual Usage

Analogies

Vocabulary

Replace the missing words

Para Jumble

Idioms

One-word Substitution

Different usage of the same word

Fill in the Blanks

 

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the latest IBSAT exam pattern?
A: 

IBSAT exam is conducted for a duration of two hours. It is a remote proctored test held across India. The IBSAT question paper consists of 140 multiple choice questions which have to completed in 120 minutes. The paper involves no negative marking.

Q:   Are IBSAT books enough to cover the syllabus?
A: 

Yes, IBSAT books are enough to cover the exam syllabus. Candidates can refer to the recommended books and study materials to prepare for the exam. Candidates must ensure that the books cover basic concepts, include section-wise practice questions and mock tests.

Q:   Is IBSAT tough for an average student?
A: 

IBSAT exam is generally considered easy to moderate in difficulty level compared to other major MBA exams like CAT and XAT. For an average student it is possible to score well in exam with good preparation strategy.

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IBSAT 2026 Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation Syllabus

In data interpretation, candidates have to review the data to conclude. Take a look at the syllabus for DA & DI section of IBSAT.

IBSAT Syllabus for DA&DI Section

Tables

Data Interpretation

Data Sufficiency

Logical Reasoning

Cause and effects

Graphs representing area

Assumption-Premise-Conclusion

Pie-Chart

Venn diagram

Critical-Reasoning

Visual reasoning

Bar-Graphs

Column graphs

Statements and Conclusions

Matrix arrangements

Linear Arrangements

Line Charts

Syllogisms

 

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is IBSAT syllabus difficult?
A: 

The difficulty level of IBSAT syllabus is generally moderate. The syllabus for IBSAT is similar to the CAT syllabus. However, the IBSAT question paper includes more straightforward and less tricky questions compared to other MBA entrance examinations.

Q:   What are the important factors to keep in mind to cover IBSAT syllabus timely?
A: 

To cover the IBSAT syllabus timely, candidates must first prioritise the high weightage topics and follow the section-wise preparation timetable. Students must focus on conceptual clarity and take regular mock tests to identify the weak areas and strong areas in IBSAT syllabus.

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IBSAT 2026 Exam Pattern Overview

Candidates preparing for IBSAT exam 2026, must be familar with the exam pattern to know important sections and their weightage. Candidates can the highlights for IBSAT exam pattern 2026 below:

Exam Structure

Details on IBSAT Exam

Exam Mode

Home-Proctored Test

Duration of exam

120 minutes

Number of questions

140 MCQs

Total Marks

140 marks

Language of paper

English

Subjects

Number of sections

Four sections

Marking scheme

  • One mark for each correct answer
  • No negative marking

Read More:

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What will be the mode of IBSAT exam?
A: 

IBS conducts IBSAT exam in remote proctired mode. In this mode of examination, exam can be taken from preferrable place. Students must make sure to fulfil the exam day guidelines to appear for online test.

Q:   What are the prerequisites for IBSAT online exam?
A: 

IBSAT 2026 exam will be held in remote proctored home. Candidates can take the test from any location with good internet connection. To appear for IBSAT online proctored examination, must have fulfilled the technical requirements to appear for exam.

Q:   Is IBSAT held in regional languages?
A: 

ICFAI Business School (IBS) conducts IBSAT exam in English language only. IBSAT exam is not conducted in regional languages. Candidates have to appear for the online test in English language only.

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IBSAT 2026 Preparation Strategy

A well-structured study plan plays an important role in IBSAT 2026 preparation. Creating preparation strategy help candidates to divide time effectively across all sections. Candidates can follow below IBSAT preparation 2026 strategy to score well in exam.

  • Check IBSAT exam pattern and check detailed IBSAT syllabus to create a preparation strategy
  • Buy IBSAT exam preparation books or study material for preparation
  • Solve sample papers and identify weak and strong areas
  • Focus on conceptual clarity and take note of important points
  • To improve vocabulary, read newspapers/editorials regularly
  • Take IBSAT mock test to analyse the final preparation level.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is there negative marking in IBSAT?
A: 

No, there is no negative marking in IBSAT exam. IBSAT question paper will consist of 140 question of one mark each. Candidates will given two hours to attempt 140 MCQs. For any incorrect answer or not attempted question, no mark will be dedcuted. In this scenerio, candidates must attempt all questions even if they are not sure of correct answer.

Q:   If I am preparing for CAT, do I need to prepare separately for IBSAT?
A: 
If you are preparing for CAT exam then you don't need to prepare separately for IBSAT exam. The reason behind this is the topics which are asked in CAT exam are the same topics that are asked in IBSAT exam. So, both exams are almost same but the thing differs is difficulty level. CAT is tougher as compared to IBSAT. So, try to prepare for CAT exam because this can help you score good marks in IBSAT. IBSAT exam includes Reading Comprehension, Verbal Ability (VA), Quantitative Aptitude (QA) and Data Interpretation (DA). Whereas, CAT exam includes Verbal Ability (VA), Reading Comprehension (RC), Data Interpretation (DI), Logical Reasoning (LR) and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). So, both the exams are having similar content. Preparing for CAT exam can cover the IBSAT exam syllabus too and this can help a candidate in every aspect.
Q:   How should I prepare for IBSAT?
A: 

To prepare for the IBSAT

  1. Students must check IBSAT exam pattern and syllabus. 
  2. Get IBSAT preparation books and resources.
  3. Understand important concepts of each section.
  4. Solve IBSAT previous year question papers to improve speed
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FAQs on IBSAT Syllabus

Check frequently asked questions on IBSAT syllabus 2025 below:

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the syllabus and exam pattern of IBSAT?
A: 

Candidates who wish to pursue MBA/ PGPM programme from ICFAI Business School (IBS) need to appear for IBSAT exam. This is held in computer-based mode. IBSAT comprises Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) that are distributed among 4 sections Verbal Ability. Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Sufficiency and Data Interpretation. The total number of questions asked in the exam is 140. Exam is of 120 minutes without negative marking. Find below the section-wise syllabus: 

1. Verbal Ability: The questions are based on sentence correction, fill in the blanks, synonyms, antonyms, grammar, idioms etc. The No. of questions asked in Verbal Ability section is 50.

2. Reading Comprehension: The candidates are required to read the passages and answer the questions based on these passages. No. of question asked is 25.

3. Quantitative Aptitude: Question are from numerical ability and problem-solving skills of the candidates. The questions are based on topics like algebra, LCM, HCF, mensuration, ratio & proportion, geometry, time & speed, statistics, probability, simple & compound interest, permutations & combinations etc.

4. Data Sufficiency & Data Interpretation: The questions are based on pie charts, tables, bar/ line graphs etc. These questions must be answered on the basis of quick calculations. 

Q:   Is there a time limit for IBSAT mock tests?
A: 

Yes, IBSAT mock tests have a time limit as of the actual exam. Mock tests are a simulation of the IBSAT exam. As soon as the student proceeds to take the IBSAT mock test, the timer will start on the top right side of the screen. The IBSAT mock test will be similar to the actual exam. Therefore, candidates are advised to check the software/hardware requirements and analyse their performance before the actual IBSAT exam. Candidates will be required to answer 140 MCQs within a time duration of two hours or 120 minutes. Timer for 120 minutes will start as soon as the candidate clicks the 'Start IBSAT Mock Test' button.

Q:   What is the importance of taking IBSAT mock test?
A: 

Preparation for the IBSAT is incomplete without taking the mock tests/sample papers. Some of the advantages of the IBSAT mock test are:

  1. IBSAT mock test helps students know the IBSAT pattern and difficulty level of the qustions.
  2. Mock tests help candidates know weak and strong areas.
  3. IBSAT mock test helps candidates get an actual exam environment.
  4. Candidates can analyse the time to be devoted in each section
  5. IBSAT mock tests helps candidates go through the syllabus completely.
Q:   How can I crack IBSAT in 1 year?
A: 
IBSAT exam is comparatively easy as compared to other MBA entrance tests. You must work on efficiency and time management. Reasoning section, the candidates can practice through mock tests to be precise and accurate. Since for this section, there is no precise formula, the candidates can solve as many mock tests as possible. Simple preparation for this section can be done by solving puzzles and riddles. Quantitative section, the candidates can prepare from the NCERT books or secondary and Higher secondary level mathematics books. Candidates can also opt for solving mock tests, previous years ATMA question papers and CAT question papers. Lastly, for the verbal section, the candidates can brush up their grammar, vocabulary and increase their reading speed. Reading from various topics can give an advantage while dealing with long passages. It is essential that students refer to previous years question papers and rely on mock tests, as this will make them familiar with the paper pattern and will give them an idea about the type of questions asked. Thus, students are better prepared for the examination.

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IBSAT Exam

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 6 days ago

IBSAT is a Remote Proctored Computer Based Test which can be taken from home. It has 140 MCQs. Test duration is 2 hours. The test is divided into four sections Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Ability and Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation. IBSAT is scheduled In the month of Dece

...Read more

S

Saumya Gairola

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

IBSAT question paper includes 140 multiple choice questions which are divided across four sections- verbal ability, reading comprehension, quantitative aptitude and date adequacy & data interpretation. Candidates will be required to attempt all questions within 120 minutes. IBSAT exam includes no ne

...Read more

N

Nishtha Pandey

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

Yes, IBSAT exam is comparatively easier than CAT in terms of syllabus difficulty level and competition. CAT question paper requires high anlaytical solving skills to score well in exam, whereas IBSAT exam assesses candidate's speed and accuracy. The difficulty level of IBSAT exam is moderate.

N

Nishtha Bhandari

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

IBSAT cutoff varies for each IBS campus. Candidates seeking admission to top IBS campus must score a minimum of 80 percentile in IBSAT exam. Generally a score between 70 and 80 percentile in IBSAT exam is considered a good score.

D

Dhanya Dhyani

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

To cover the IBSAT syllabus timely, candidates must first prioritise the high weightage topics and follow the section-wise preparation timetable. Students must focus on conceptual clarity and take regular mock tests to identify the weak areas and strong areas in IBSAT syllabus.

N

Nishtha Arora

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

The difficulty level of IBSAT syllabus is generally moderate. The syllabus for IBSAT is similar to the CAT syllabus. However, the IBSAT question paper includes more straightforward and less tricky questions compared to other MBA entrance examinations.

S

Satyendra Kaur

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

IBSAT exam is generally considered easy to moderate in difficulty level compared to other major MBA exams like CAT and XAT. For an average student it is possible to score well in exam with good preparation strategy.

N

Nishtha Kumar

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

IBSAT exam is conducted for a duration of two hours. It is a remote proctored test held across India. The IBSAT question paper consists of 140 multiple choice questions which have to completed in 120 minutes. The paper involves no negative marking.

K

Kritika Malhotra

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

Yes, IBSAT books are enough to cover the exam syllabus. Candidates can refer to the recommended books and study materials to prepare for the exam. Candidates must ensure that the books cover basic concepts, include section-wise practice questions and mock tests.

N

Nishtha Singh

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

No, it is not compulsory to attempt all sections of IBSAT exam. Some top tier IBSAT accepting colleges consider the minimum sectional scores to be shortlisted for admission. IBSAT exam does not involve any negative marking, hence candidates must focus on answering all 140 questions.

N

Nishtha Datta

Contributor-Level 7

9 Institutes accepting IBSAT

ICFAI Business School (IBS), Hyderabad

Donthanapally, Hyderabad Private

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