MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus: Important Topics, Section Wise Syllabus and Preparation Tips
MBA (Master of Business Administration) is one of the most sought-after courses in India, often topping the list for many graduates. Securing admission to a premier business school requires excelling in MBA entrance exams. To succeed, candidates must thoroughly cover all topics outlined in the MBA entrance exam syllabus.
This article provides an in-depth look at the syllabus and key topics for popular exams such as CAT, CMAT, XAT, MAT, NMAT, and ATMA.
MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus: Important Sections
Understanding these important sections of the syllabus for mba entrance exam 2024 is crucial for a well-rounded preparation strategy.
Here's a breakdown of the common sections you can expect in most MBA entrance exams.
Section |
Key Topics |
Quantitative Ability (QA) |
Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion)
Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry)
Number Systems
Data Interpretation (Charts, Graphs, Tables)
|
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
Reading Comprehension
Grammar and Sentence Correction
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Para Jumbles
Critical Reasoning
|
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) |
Logical Puzzles
Seating Arrangements
Syllogisms
Blood Relations
Data Analysis and Interpretation
|
General Knowledge and Current Affairs |
Current Events
Business and Economy
Politics
Sports
History and Geography
|
Innovation and Entrepreneurship |
Business Concepts
Innovation Theories
Start-up Culture
Case Studies
|
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Now, let's delve into the most popular MBA entrance exams you need to know about.
List of Common MBA Entrance Exams
Numerous MBA entrance exams are conducted across India, each with a unique structure and requirements. Here's a list of some of the most common and prestigious MBA entrance exams:
Category |
Entrance Exam |
National Level MBA Entrance Exams |
CAT (Common Admission Test)
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
MAT (Management Aptitude Test)
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
CUET-PG (Common University Entrance Test PG)
ATMA (AIMS Test for Management Admissions)
NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test) by GMAC
|
State-Level MBA Entrance Exams |
MAH CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test)
TANCET (Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test)
TSICET (Telangana State Integrated Common Entrance Test)
KMAT (Karnataka Management Aptitude Test)
APICET (Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test)
|
Institute-Level MBA Entrance Exams |
SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test)
IBSAT (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test)
XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
X-GMT (Xavier General Management Aptitude Test)
|
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Once you understand these exams, knowing the details of their respective syllabuses is important and will help you create the study plan.
Common MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus
MBA entrance exams in India test various skills and knowledge areas to evaluate a candidate's suitability for management education. This section provides a detailed section-wise syllabus breakdown for some of the most common MBA entrance exams, including CAT, CMAT, MAT, and more.
MBA CAT Exam Syllabus
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Ability (QA) |
Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion)
Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry)
Number Systems
Data Interpretation (Charts, Graphs, Tables)
|
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
Reading Comprehension
Grammar and Sentence Correction
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Para Jumbles
Critical Reasoning
|
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (LRDI) |
Logical Puzzles
Seating Arrangements
Syllogisms
Blood Relations
Data Analysis and Interpretation
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for CMAT
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation |
Tabulation, Pie Chart, Bar Chart, Line Graph
Probability
Quadratic and linear equations
Simple Interest and Compound Interest
Percentages
Averages
Geometry
Profit and Loss
Mensuration
Ratios and Proportion
Fraction and Decimals
Work and Time
Time-Speed-Distance
Number Systems
Allegation & Mixtures
Partnership
Algebra
Permutations & Combinations
Pipes and Cisterns
|
Logical Reasoning |
Analogy
Blood Relations
Statements and Conclusion
Number Series
Analytical Reasoning
Cause and Effects
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Symbol Based Problems
Statements Arguments
Syllogisms
Sequencing
Blood Relationship Tests
Direction and Distance Test
Logical Puzzles
Coding-Decoding
Matrix Arrangements
|
Language Comprehension |
Reading Comprehension
Grammar (Sentence Correction, Para Completion, Sentence Improvement)
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Para Jumbles
English Usage Errors
Idioms and Phrases
|
General Awareness |
Literature
Current Affairs of National and International Economy
Everyday Science
Economics
Culture
Trade Awareness
Politics, History, Geography
Sports
Personalities in News
Indian Constitution
|
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MBA Exam Syllabus for MAT
Section |
Topics |
Language Comprehension |
Reading Comprehension
Grammar (Sentence Correction, Sentence Completion)
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Para Jumbles
Idioms
Odd one out
|
Mathematical Skills |
Partnerships
Profit and Loss
Ratio
Percentages
Time and Work
Time-Speed and Distance
Averages
|
Data Analysis & Sufficiency |
Data Interpretation (Charts, Graphs, Tables)
Data Sufficiency
Logical Puzzles
Caselet
|
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning |
Analytical Puzzles
Blood Relations
Coding-Decoding
Family Tree/ Revelation
Syllogisms
Critical Reasoning
Statement-Conclusion
Analogy
Series
Assertion Reason
Directions
Cause and Effect
|
Indian & Global Environment |
Current Affairs
Business and Economy
Politics
Sports
History
Geography
|
MBA Exam Syllabus: ATMA (AIMS Test for Management Admissions)
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Skills |
Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion)
Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
Geometry (Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry)
Data Interpretation (Charts, Graphs, Tables)
|
Verbal Skills |
Reading Comprehension
Grammar (Sentence Correction, Sentence Completion)
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Para Jumbles
Word Meaning
|
Analytical Reasoning |
Critical Reasoning
Coding-decoding
Syllogism
Course of Action
Arguments
Data Sufficiency
Statement-Inference
Statements & Conclusions
Strong/Weak Arguments
Arrangements
|
MBA Exam Syllabus: NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test)
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Skills |
Number Properties
Arithmetic
Algebra and Probability
DI Caselets and Tables
DI Graphs and Charts
Data Sufficiency
Profit, Loss, and Discount
Time and Work
Time, Speed, Distance
Permutations and Combinations
AP/GP
Quadratic Equations
|
Language Skills |
Reading Comprehension
Para Forming
Error Identification
Prepositions
Sentence Completion
Analogies
|
Logical Reasoning |
Critical Reasoning
Analytical Puzzles
Deductions
Other Reasoning
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for XAT
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Aptitude |
Pure Math
Set Theory
Venn Diagrams
Mixtures and Allegations
Linear Equations
Trigonometry
Time and Work
Ratio and Proportion
Averages
Coordinate Geometry
Speed, Time, and Distance
Binomial Theorem
Number System
Surds and Indices
Algebra
Inequalities
Geometry
Permutation and Combination
Mensuration
Probability Functions
LCM and HCF
Quadratic Equations
Percentages
Complex Numbers
Profit and Loss
Logarithm
Interest (Simple and Compound)
Progressions
|
Data Interpretation |
Data Tables
Pie Charts
Data Charts
Graphs
Bar Diagrams
Data Analysis and Comparison
|
Verbal Ability |
Cloze Test
Synonyms/Antonyms
Contextual Meaning of Words
Vocabulary
Completion of Paragraphs/Sentences
Grammar
Analogy Based on Vocabulary
Fill in the Blanks
Critical Reasoning/Inference
Correct Usage of Words
Poem
Paragraph Formation
Sentence Correction
Reading Comprehension
Para Jumble
|
Decision Making |
Sexual Harassment
Free Food Center
Hiring Visually Impaired
Quantitative DM
Complex Arrangement
Conditioning and Grouping
Data Arrangement
Moonlighting
Leave Policy
Recruitment
Opening a Tea Shop
Case Lets
|
General Knowledge |
Current Affairs
Film & Television
National Issues
Politics
Sports
Business
Science & Technology
Economics
Important Dates
Ecosystem and Diversity
Currencies
Constitution of India and Laws
Films
Capitals
Books & Authors
Famous Personalities
Culture
Geography
History
Heritage, Monuments
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for IBSAT
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Aptitude |
Number System
Work, Pipes, and Cisterns
Discount
Average
Arithmetic Progression
Time and Work
Percentage
Algebra
Geometry
Coordinate Geometry
Mensuration
Probability
Installment Payments
Permutation & Combination
Quadratic and Linear Equations
Profit & Loss
Allegation & Mixtures
Time-Speed-Distance
|
Verbal Ability |
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
|
Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation |
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
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for SNAP
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency (QA, DI-DS) |
Algebra
Geometry
Trigonometry
Mensuration
Number System
Logarithm
Linear Equations & Quadratic Equations
Set Theory
Arithmetic
Progressions
Binomial Theorem
Surds and Indices
Inequalities
Permutation & Combination
Probability
Functions
Mixtures & Alligations
Coordinate Geometry
Series
Graphs (Pie Chart, Bar Graphs, Tables)
|
Analytical & Logical Reasoning (A-LR) |
Family Tree/Blood Relations
Coding/Decoding
Analogy & Series
Seating Arrangement
Direction Sense
Mathematical Reasoning
Clocks & Calendars
Syllogisms
Meaningful Word/Matrix
Critical Reasoning
Visual Reasoning
Verbal & Miscellaneous Reasoning
|
General English |
Sentence Completion
Analogies
Active Voice and Passive Voice
Sentence Correction
Synonyms and Antonyms
One Word Substitution
Jumbled Paragraphs
Contextual Usage
Odd One Out
Fill in the Blanks
Idioms and Phrases
Vocabulary
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for MAH MBA CET
Section |
Topics |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension |
Antonyms
Comprehension of passages
Fill in the blanks
Grammar
Vocabulary
Para Jumbles
Synonyms
Sentence completion
Sentence arrangement
Sentence Correction
Spelling/Inappropriate usage
Phrase replacement
Odd Sentence Para Jumble
Verbal Reasoning
|
Logical/Abstract Ability |
Symbol-based Comparison
Linear and Circular Arrangement
Direction
Sequential Output
Series Completion
Conditional Coding
Selection Criteria
Venn Diagram
Verbal Ability
Input/Output
Blood Relations
Coding/Decoding
Syllogisms
|
Quantitative Aptitude |
Arithmetic
Algebra
Geometry
Mensuration
Probability
Ratio & Proportion
Numbers
Percentage
Quantitative Reasoning
Data Sufficiency
Data Interpretation - Graphs, Charts, Tables
|
MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus for TANCET
Section |
Topics |
Reading Comprehension |
Business
Technology
Sports
History
Politics
Geography
Environment
Medicine
Economics
|
Problem-Solving |
Binomial Theorem
Complex Numbers
Logarithm
Compound Interest
Mensuration
LCM and HCF
Linear Equations
Percentages
Simple Interest
Speed, Time and Distance
Quadratic Equations
Surds and Indices
Averages
Functions and Graphs
Progression
Mixtures
Permutation and Combination
Probability
Discount
Allegations
Inequalities
Ratio and Proportion
Trigonometry
Time and Work
Number Systems
Profit and Loss
Geometry (focus on Triangles)
Set Theory
|
Verbal Ability |
Sentence Correction
Parts of Speech
Exception in English Grammar
Error Correction
Synonyms and Antonyms
Analysis of Business Situation
This section will assess the business perspective of the candidate. Passages of 300 words will be asked and will include 20-30 questions based on business
|
Data Sufficiency |
Basic Mathematics
Data-centric Questions
It includes questions with two statements, where students will have to derive a conclusion based on the 2 options provided
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for IMU CET
Section |
Topics |
Quantitative Ability |
Algebra
Averages
Geometry
Linear Equations
Mensuration
Number Systems
Percentages
Permutation and Combination
Probability
Profit and Loss
Time and Work
Trigonometry
|
Data Interpretation |
Analysis of Data Based on Text
Charts
Graphs
Tables
Venn Diagram
|
Verbal Ability |
Analogies
Antonyms and Synonyms
Fill in the Blanks
Idioms
Reading Comprehension
Sentence Correction
|
Logical Reasoning |
Assumption
Blood Relations
Calendars
Clocks
Conclusion
Linear
Logical Sequence
Matrix Arrangement
Premise
Binary Logic
Seating Arrangement
|
MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus for Karnataka PGCET
Section |
Topics |
Proficiency in English Language |
Antonyms & Synonyms
Idioms and Phrases
Sentence Correction
Grammar & One-word Substitution
Para Jumbling
Famous Books in English Literature
|
General Knowledge |
Global Environment
Current Affairs & Economics
Indian Business Environment
Sports, Social, and Cultural Events
Management & Awards
Humanities & Political Events
Science and Technology
Personalities and Achievements
|
Reasoning and General Intelligence |
Diagrams & Analogy
Logic
Puzzles
Verbal Ability
Related Aspects & Analytical Ability
|
Quantitative Analysis |
Statistics
Arithmetic
Related Quantitative Aspects
Data Analysis and Interpretation
|
MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus for OJEE
Section |
Topics |
Verbal Reasoning & Comprehension |
Vocabulary
Fill in the Blanks
Reasoning
Grammar
Odd One Out
|
Analytical & Logical Reasoning |
Analytical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning
|
Mathematics |
Time & Distance
Mensuration
Trigonometry
Geometry
Algebra
Ratio & Proportion
|
General Awareness & Business Fundamentals |
Politics
Sports
History
Nation and States
Literature
Geography
Business
|
Quantitative Techniques |
Arithmetic
Geometry
Percentage
Average
Number Systems
Profit and Loss
Ratio and Proportion
Time, Speed and Distance
Mensuration
Quadratic Equation
Trigonometry
Probability
|
MBA Exam Syllabus for LPUNEST
Section |
Topics |
English |
Synonyms
One Word Substitution
Word Analogies
Idioms and Phrases
Sentence Correction
Error Finding Exercises
Comprehension Passages
Para Jumbles
|
General Awareness |
Science Inventions and Discoveries
Indian History
Indian Politics
Indian Economy
Sports Events
Who is Who
Financial and Economic News
International and National Legal Developments
Important Days and Weeks
Abbreviations
Current National and International Affairs
Organizations
Awards and Honours
Books and Authors
|
General Aptitude |
Non-verbal Reasoning
Data Sufficiency
Cubes and Dice
Syllogism
Arithmetical Reasoning
Series Completion and Coding-Decoding
Alphabet Test
Ranking and Time Sequence Test
Time and Distance
Boats and Streams
Time and Work
Pipes and Cisterns
Area
Numbers
Percentage
Profit, Loss, and Discount
Ratio and Proportion
Simple and Compound Interest
Permutation and Combination
Probability
Calendar and Clocks
Races and Games
|
MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus for KMAT
Section |
Topics |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension |
Vocabulary
Grammar
Synonyms
Antonyms
Sentence Completion
Comprehension
|
Quantitative Ability |
Arithmetic Problems
Numerical Calculation
Geometry
Algebra
Quantitative Reasoning
Trigonometry
Common Graphs
Interpretation of Tables
Charts
|
Logical and Abstract Reasoning |
Analogy
Verbal Reasoning
|
MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus for IPU CET
Section |
Topics |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
Critical Reasoning
Grammar and Usage
Sentence Correction
Para Jumble
Fill Ups
Word Usage
Para Completion
Idioms
Para Summary
|
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DI & LR) |
Bar Graph
Line Graph
Pie Chart
Tables
Caselets
Combination of Graphs
Data Sufficiency
Games & Tournaments
|
Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
Arithmetic
Mensuration
Algebra
Calculus
Geometry
Trigonometry
|
Where MBA entrance exams have some common subjects, the exam pattern of each might differ in one way or another. Let’s take a look at it.
Also Read: Career Opportunities After MBA
MBA Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation for the MBA entrance exam syllabus. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the mode, number of questions, duration, marking scheme, and sections for the top MBA exams.
CAT (Common Admission Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
66 (Varies each year) |
Duration |
120 minutes (2 hours) |
Marking Scheme |
-1 for each wrong answer (MCQs) +3 for each correct answer |
Sections |
Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) |
CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
100 |
Duration |
180 minutes (3 hours) |
Marking Scheme |
-1 for each wrong answer +4 for each correct answer |
Sections |
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness |
XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
100 |
Duration |
190 minutes (3 hours 10 minutes) |
Marking Scheme |
-0.25 for each wrong answer (except for the General Knowledge section); +1 for each correct answer |
Sections |
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, Verbal & Logical Ability, Decision Making, General Knowledge |
SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
60 |
Duration |
60 minutes (1 hour) |
Marking Scheme |
-0.25 for each wrong answer +1 for each correct answer |
Sections |
General English, Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, Analytical & Logical Reasoning |
MAT (Management Aptitude Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Paper-Based Test (PBT), Computer-Based Test (CBT), Internet-Based Test (IBT) |
Number of Questions |
200 |
Duration |
150 minutes (2 hours 30 minutes) |
Marking Scheme |
-0.25 for each wrong answer +1 for each correct answer |
Sections |
Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Indian & Global Environment |
ATMA (AIMS Test for Management Admissions)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
180 |
Duration |
180 minutes (3 hours) |
Marking Scheme |
No negative marking +1 for each correct answer |
Sections |
Analytical Reasoning Skills, Verbal Skills, Quantitative Skills |
NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
108 |
Duration |
120 minutes (2 hours) |
Marking Scheme |
No negative marking |
Sections |
Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning |
IBSAT (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test)
Parameter |
Details |
Mode |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of Questions |
140 |
Duration |
120 minutes (2 hours) |
Marking Scheme |
No negative marking +1 for each correct answer |
Sections |
Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation |
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Embarking on your MBA journey requires meticulous preparation, and understanding the syllabus is the first crucial step.
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How to Prepare for MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus?
Preparing for the syllabus for mba entrance exam 2024 can be exhausting, but we have the right strategy for you. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare effectively.
Understand the MBA Entrance Exam Syllabus and Exam Pattern
Choose an exam that you need to target and then go through the syllabus and exam pattern of that exam. Knowing the structure, types of questions, and important topics will be helpful in planning your study schedule.
Create a Study Plan
Make a study plan that covers all sections of the syllabus. Allocate time-based on the difficulty level and your proficiency in each section. Ensure you balance your preparation across all subjects to avoid neglecting any area.
Practice Regularly
Regular practice is crucial for excelling in MBA entrance exams. Work through question papers from the previous year and take mock tests to become familiar with the exam format. This consistent practice will also enhance your speed and accuracy.
Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak areas and take extra time to improve them. Seek help from mentors, enroll in coaching classes, or utilize online resources to bolster these topics. Consistent practice and revision will help you overcome these weaknesses.
Develop Strong Conceptual Understanding
A strong conceptual understanding of the subjects is vital. Focus on understanding the underlying principles and logic rather than rote learning. This approach will help you tackle tricky questions and apply concepts in different scenarios.
Improve Time Management
Time management is a critical aspect of MBA entrance exams. Practice solving questions within a time duration to improve your speed. Learn to prioritize questions and manage your time effectively during the exam.
Enhance Verbal and Reading Skills
For sections like Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, enhance your reading skills and vocabulary. Read newspapers, magazines, and books regularly. Practice comprehension exercises and work on improving your grammar and vocabulary.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Stay updated with current affairs for exams with a General Awareness section, especially in business, economy, and politics. Read newspapers, watch news channels, and follow reliable online sources to keep yourself informed.
Take Care of Your Health
Maintaining good health is essential for effective preparation. Ensure you sleep well, eat healthily, and take regular breaks during study sessions. Physical exercise and relaxation techniques help reduce stress.
Stay Positive and Motivated
Lastly, stay positive and motivated throughout your preparation journey. Set realistic goals, celebrate small achievements, and keep pushing yourself towards your target. Remember, consistent effort and dedication are key to success.
Preparing for MBA entrance exams is a demanding process, but it is entirely achievable with the right approach and mindset. By understanding the MBA entrance exam syllabus, creating a structured study plan, and focusing on consistent practice, you can enhance your chances of success.
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