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.

How much time do I need to cover MAT syllabus for Economic and Business Environment section?

To cover the Economic and Business Environment section of MAT syllabus will not take much time if you keep yourself abreast with current happenings of the business world. This section is basically a GK section but the emphasis is more on the knowledge of business and economy. So, candidates must follow these fields for major events of the past and present. They must also study from GK year books at least a month before the MAT exam.

Can I appear for MAT from home?

Yes, candidates can appear for MAT exam from home. For that, they need to opt for the Internet Based Test or IBT mode option in the MAT application form. In IBT mode, candidates can appear for the test from home or any location by using a laptop or desktop with a functional webcam and internet connection. Given below are some guidelines for MAT IBT: The candidates must have a stable internet connection with proper speed throughout the exam duration A proxy for this is if they can login into their email accounts without difficulty. Upload Speed: Minimum speed should be 512 kbps Browser to use are: Chrome version 63 and above and Firefox version 52 and above Operating system to use are: WindowsOS (Version7 and above) Dot NETframework: MSB requires dot net framework. The minimum supported version is 4.5.1. NETframework Memory: 65MB permanent free space on the default hard drive.

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.

Which MAT exam phase is the easiest to crack?

MAT exam of every phase is easy to moderate in terms of difficulty level. It depends upon the candidate's preparation whether they find their test form easy or tough. Meaning, candidates should register and appear for MAT in only that phase by which they are full prepared and have started scoring 90 plus in mock tests. If they are well prepared, they will find any MAT session easy.

How should I prepare for Data Analysis and Sufficiency section of MAT?

For Data Analysis and Sufficiency of MAT test takers should constantly revise the topics and practice sample questions as this section can be cracked only by enough practice of all types of questions. It is also important to strengthen basic calculations of Maths. Candidates must memorise Tables up 20, Cubes, Cube roots, square, square roots, percentage, pie value, etc. For quick multiplication and division, Practicing adequate number of MAT mock tests and sample papers will prepare you for the main exam, so you should practice 30-35 mock tests. To improve percentile score, focus on maximizing accuracy of every question that you solve in mock tests and sample papers. Candidates must attempt questions of all types and all difficulty levels to master this section of MAT exam. They should also practice every MAT sample question 2-3 times, to gain speed and accuracy.

What is the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning?

The important topics included in the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning include Family Tree, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Course of Action, Puzzles, Visual Reasoning, Arrangement, Series, Numeric Grid, Pie Chart, Blood Relations, Critical Reasoning, Calendars, Coding & Decoding, Syllogisms, Statement Conclusions, Column Graphs, Graphs Representing Area. Candidates must note that covering MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning is tough because it is not Mathematics. There is no concept to be understood, there is no formula to be memorized. It is also not like General Knowledge, where facts are to be memorized. This section of MAT requires developing intelligence and reasoning skills. Most of the questions in this section are based on puzzles and patterns so one needs to develop the skill of identifying key details. Practice of several types of questions from all the topics is one of the best ways to cover the syllabus of this section of MAT.

What are the best books for MAT Mathematical Skills?

The Mathematical Skills section of MAT carries 40 questions and which belong to Arithmetic, Geometry, Mensuration Algebra and Number System. To crack this section of MAT one needs study all the topics included five Mathematical sub sections. To prepare for these topics, CAT Quantitative Aptitude books are useful. Candidates can also refer to MAT specific books. Mathematics for MBA by RS Aggarwal Magical Book on Quicker Maths by M Tyra Arithmetic and Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R Goal Speed Mathematics: Do it quick, Do it right by Rajesh Kumar Thakur Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by RS Aggarwal Vedic Mathematics: Secrets Skills for Quick, Accurate Mental Calculations by Sumita Bose The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude by Dinesh Khattar How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma.

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.

Are MAT RC passages as tough as CAT RC passages?

MAT RC passages are easier than CAT RC passages. They are shorter in length and easy to understand. Candidates preparing for MAT, must practice MAT RC passages in good number as even though the passages are short, one will still need speed to read them in a limited time and note down the important points for answering the related questions.

How many RC passages are there in MAT exam?

MAT exam usually has 4 Reading Comprehension passages in MAT exam. The passages are easy to read and have questions with direct answers. They belong to Economy, Environment, Science & Technology, Culture, Society, Business & Management, Current Affairs, History, Philosophy and Abstract topics.

What is the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning?

The important topics included in the MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning include Family Tree, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Course of Action, Puzzles, Visual Reasoning, Arrangement, Series, Numeric Grid, Pie Chart, Blood Relations, Critical Reasoning, Calendars, Coding & Decoding, Syllogisms, Statement Conclusions, Column Graphs, Graphs Representing Area. Candidates must note that covering MAT syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning is tough because it is not Mathematics. There is no concept to be understood, there is no formula to be memorized. It is also not like General Knowledge, where facts are to be memorized. This section of MAT requires developing intelligence and reasoning skills. Most of the questions in this section are based on puzzles and patterns so one needs to develop the skill of identifying key details. Practice of several types of questions from all the topics is one of the best ways to cover the syllabus of this section of MAT.

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.

How can I prepare for MAT without coaching?

If you don't wish to opt for coaching to prepare for MAT then join online study groups to get recommended study material and guidance from mentors/peers. Refer to MAT specific preparation books. Watch YT videos on MAT prep, practice mock tests and sample questions in a large number. Focus on all important topics from which most of the questions are asked.

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.

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.

MAT Syllabus 2026 (Available): Download AIMA MAT Exam Syllabus PDF

MAT December 2026 PBT Registration Last

14 Dec '26

Updated on Nov 2, 2026 17:04 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

MAT exam syllabus 2026 has been prescribed by the AIMA following the AICTE guidelines for post graduate courses. MAT syllabus consists of Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Economic and Business Environment. Topics included in these five subjects are same as other MBA entrance exams. Those who have appeared for any MBA exam before will find it easier to cover the MAT syllabus. Read on this page, all about MAT syllabus 2026.

MAT Syllabus: Key Points

MAT syllabus for CBT and PBT is common. Candidates have to prepare the same topics irrespective of the exam mode.
From this year, Economic and Business Environment performance will be included in score calculation.
MAT 2026 aspirants must make sure tthey devote about 3 months to cover the syllabus thoroughly.

Table of contents

MAT Syllabus 2026: PDF Dowbload
MAT Syllabus for Language Comprehension
MAT Syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
MAT Syllabus for Mathematical Skills
MAT Syllabus for Data Analysis & Sufficiency
MAT Syllabus for Economic and Business Environment
MAT Exam Pattern 2026
MAT Preparation Tips 2026
MAT Syllabus FAQs

MAT Syllabus 2026: PDF Dowbload

For the benefit of candidates, we have provided free MAT syllabus PDF. The document contains topics and sub topics included in the exam syllabus. They can download it and make a study plan accordingly.

⚡ Management Aptitude Test Syllabus Section Wise

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

📄 Download PDF

MAT Syllabus Highlights

MAT exam syllabus is similar to other MBA entrance exam but the nature of questions is different. So, it is important for candidates to know which are the key topics od MAT and how should they prepare for it:

MAT sections	Important topics
Language Comprehension	Reading Comprehension, Fill in the Blanks, Antonym-Synonym, Parajumbles, Odd sentence, word meaning
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning	Syllogism, Family Tree, Seating Arrangement, Coding-Decoding, Statement-Arguments
Data Analysis and Sufficiency	Tables, Charts, Graphs
Mathematical Skills	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systerm
Economic and Business Environment	Business Affairs, Static GK

MAT Syllabus for Language Comprehension

Language Comprehension syllabus of the MAT exam includes passages, grammar and vocabulary. RC passages are less in number and easy in difficulty level. To crack this section of the exam, candidates will be required to study the following topics extensively. Check below important topics of MAT examination syllabus for Language Comprehension:

MAT Syllabus 2026: Language Comprehension
Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb	Antonyms & Synonyms	Reading Comprehension
Parts of Speech	One Word Substitution	Vocabulary
Sentence Correction	Idioms/Phrases	Grammar
Fill in the Blanks	Para Jumbles	Verbal Ability

MAT Language Comprehension: Key Points

MAT RC passages are short and straightforward
Out of 30 questions in this section, about 10-12 will be based on RC
Candidates must focus on vocabulary and grammar to get good score in this section
Format of the questions in MAT Language Comprehension will be MCQ

Also Read: MAT preparation tips for Language Comprehension

MAT Syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning

MAT exam syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning includes topics like puzzles, blood relations, coding-decoding, syllogisms, etc. Check out all the topics included in the Intelligence and Critical Reasoning section of MAT examination syllabus.

MAT Syllabus 2026: Intelligence & Critical Reasoning
Family Tree	Unidimensional Arguments	Multi-Dimensional Arrangements
Course of Action	Puzzles	Visual Reasoning
Arrangement	Series	Numeric Grid
Pie Chart	Blood Relations	Critical Reasoning
Calendars	Coding & Decoding	Syllogisms
Statement Conclusions	Column Graphs	Graphs Representing Area

Key Aspects of MAT Reasoning Section

The difficulty level of MAT Intelligence and Critical Reasoning is low.
To prepare for this section of MAT, one needs to practice a lot of sample and mock questions.
Most of the times it has been seen that Coding & Decoding, Arrangement and Syllogisms dominate this section of MAT.
MAT Critical Reasoning questions are easy and quick to solve.

Also Read: MAT preparation tips for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning

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 Syllabus for Mathematical Skills

Mathematical Skills syllabus of MAT comprises topics from Geometry, Algebra and Mensuration. It has been seen in the previous sessions that Arithmetic and Algebra dominate this section, so do not miss out on covering these two topics.To crack this section of MAT candidates have to be thorough with concepts and formulae as well as their application. Check the table below for topics included in MAT examination syllabus 2026:

MAT Syllabus 2026: Mathematical Skills
LCM and HCF	Commercial Maths	Complex Numbers
Percentages	Permutation and Combinations	Binomial Theorem
Profit and Loss	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	Linear Programming

Key Points for MAT Mathematical Skills

MAT Mathematical Skills is moderately difficult section
There will be 30 questions in this section and only 2-3 will be time consuming
Focus on Arithmetic and Algebra as most of the questions are asked from these
To cover the topics, candidates must practice a lot of MAT sample questions
In the exam, they should aim to attempt 18-22 questions accurately
There is negative marking so candidates must not do guess work

Also Read: MAT Mathematical Skills preparation tips

⚡ MAT Quant Formula Cheat Sheet by Shiksha

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

📄 Download PDF

MAT Syllabus for Data Analysis & Sufficiency

MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency questions are calculation based and you need to apply basic Mathematical calculations to solve them. If your Mathematical concepts and calculations are strong, you can clear this section with basic practice. Check the table below for important topics included in this section of MAT examination syllabus for Data Analysis & Sufficiency:

MAT Exam Syllabus 2026: Data Analysis & Sufficiency Syllabus
Tables	Pie Charts	Caselet-based Data
Charts	Graphs – Line X-Y Graphs	Venn Diagram
Bar Diagrams	Data Analysis and Data Comparison	Data Sufficiency

Key Aspects of MAT Data Analysis and Sufficiency

This section requires more of practice than theoretical knowledge.
Having studied the basics of advance level Mathematical calculation, you can crack it with ample practice sessions

Also Read: MAT preparation tips for Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency

MAT Syllabus for Economic and Business Environment

Earlier known as Indian and Global Environment, the Economic and Business Environment section of MAT exam carries 30 MCQs on General Knowledge and Current Affairs. Preparation of this section can be done with the help of Current Affairs Year Books and Static GK books. One month is enough to prepare for this section. Check below MAT syllabus 2026 for Economic and Business Environment:

MAT Syllabus 2026: Economic and Business Environment
Current Affairs	World Records	Business
CEOs	Awards and Winners	Books and Authors
Company Punchlines	History	International Organisation
Statements & Quotations	Social issues	Geography
Sports	Finance	Corporate News
Science	Entertainment	Politics

Also Read: MAT preparation tips for Economic and Business Environment

MAT Exam Pattern 2026

There are a total of 150 questions in MAT equally divided into 5 sections. It is not mandatory to attempt all the questions but one should aim to attempt about 15-18 questions per section. Check the latest section-wise weightage of MAT question paper:

MAT 2026 Sections	Number of Questions	Total Marks
Language Comprehension	30	30
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning	30	30
Data Analysis and Sufficiency	30	30
Mathematical Skills	30	30
Economic and Business Environment	30	30
Total	150	150

MAT Marking Scheme

Total marks of MAT is 150. Check below marking scheme for both CBT and PBT.

+1 mark for each correct answer
- 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer
0 marks for unattempted questions

Also read: MAT exam questions and answers free PDF download

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 Preparation Tips 2026

MAT preparation can be done in 3-6 months but candidates need to have a clear strategy as it includes 5 sections and all of the have equal weightage. From now on even the Economic and Business Environment section will be included in percentile calculation thus, one can’t ignore it any more. So, keep the MAT preparation strategy clear and focused.

Check the MAT syllabus and list down your strengths and weakness. Solve a MAT sample paper to have a better understanding of your knowledge.
Next, decide the MAT session in which you wish to appear for it. If you choose a MAT session which is six months away, make a MAT preparation plan accordingly. If you wish to appear for a session which in three months away, then make a short term but speed based plan.
Obtain MAT books, study material, sample papers and mock tests. Make a daily, weekly and monthly plan to cover the MAT syllabus. Your daily study plan should include –theory, practice and revision.
Solve a good number of MAT questions from all the topics. You should aim to practice about 100 questions per topic. Practice full length and sectional MAT mock tests to gain speed and accuracy in attempting questions. This is critical for time management in the exam.

Listed below are some articles offering MAT preparation tips for cracking the exam.

MAT Syllabus FAQs

Check below some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MAT syllabus:

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 is MAT different from CAT?

MAT is much easier than CAT. Despite having more number of questions and more sections, than CAT, MAT is easy to crack. CAT is held annually but one can appear for MAT multiple times in the same academic session. CAT has three sections only – VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude. MAT has five sections – Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis & Sufficiency and Business & Economic Environment. CAT has sectional time limit of 40 minutes per section. MAT does not have sectional time limit.

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: 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: Will it be enough to prepare for MAT with mock tests only?

If you have appeared for MAT before and are thoroughly familiar with the exam syllabus and topics then you can prepare for it with the help of MAT mock tests only. However, if you are appearing for it for the first time, you will need to cover the MAT syllabus first and then practice mock tests. Mock tests are useful for increasing speed and accuracy. With conceptual clarity, mock tests won't help much in 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.

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.

Q: Can I prepare for MAT in 3 months?

Yes, you can prepare for MAT exam in three months, but you will have to work on it in a very focused manner and dedicate quality time. You should follow a three-month MAT preparation plan that should include syllabus coverage and practice sessions. Since you have less time, you can’t wait to finish the MAT syllabus first and then start practicing sample questions and mock tests. You will need to do both side by side. So, make a list of topics from which maximum questions are asked in the MAT exam. Focus on them first. Study the topics and solve some sample questions the same day to ensure that you have understood theory and application both. This way, you will have enough practice as well. In the last one month focus on MAT mock tests, to gain speed and accuracy in solving the paper. Read more: MAT 3-month preparation plan

Q: Is MAT syllabus difficult?

MAT syllabus is not very difficult but it is not easy either. The topics included in MAT syllabus are same as that of other MBA entrance exams like English, Quants, Reasoning, DI and GK. So, if you find these subjects tough MAT syllabus will be difficult for you and if you find the easy, the exam syllabus will be easy.

Q: Are CAT books enough to cover MAT syllabus?

Candidates can refer to CAT books for MAT preparation but they should also study from books and study material specifically designed for MAT. The Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation and English topics are same for CAT and MAT. But to prepare for Economic and Business Environment section of MAT, one will need books and study material specific to it.