NMAT Exam Pattern 2025: Section-Wise Structure, Tips, and Strategies

Raghuvamshi Kanukruthi
Updated On:
Jan 21, 2025

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Preparing for the NMAT exam can feel overwhelming, especially when understanding its structure is crucial for your success. With its unique format and flexible testing options, the NMAT offers an opportunity for aspirants to showcase their skills and secure admission to top management programmes.

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • The detailed structure of the NMAT exam including sections, question types, and time allocation
  • How the NMAT marking scheme works, including scoring nuances and negative marking policies
  • Practical tips to align your preparation with the NMAT exam pattern for maximised success

NMAT Exam 2025 Overview

Here's a comprehensive overview of the NMAT 2025 exam:

Particulars

Details

Examination Name

NMAT 2025

Full Form

Narsee Monjee Aptitude Test

Conducting Body

Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)

Registration Mode

Online

Exam Mode

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Exam Frequency

Once per year (Multiple attempts allowed within a single cycle)

Exam Date

To be announced

Answer Key Release

To be announced

Challenge Window

To be announced

Result Declaration

To be announced

Registration Fees

  • Early Registration: ₹2800 + taxes
  • Retake Fees: ₹2800 + taxes
  • Rescheduling Fees: ₹1200 + taxes
  • Additional Score Reports (beyond the first 5): ₹300 per report + taxes

Syllabus

  • Logical Reasoning
  • Quantitative Skills
  • Language Skills

NMAT Exam Duration

2 Hours

Marking Scheme

1 mark per correct answer (No negative marking)

Total Questions

108

NMAT Total Marks

324

Eligibility Criteria

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline from a recognised university with at least 50% marks
  • Final-year students are also eligible to apply

Official Website

NMAT Official Website

Also check out: CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA 2024: Section-wise with Weightage—because acing one exam is great, but mastering them all makes you unstoppable! 

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NMAT Exam Pattern 2024: Key Highlights

The NMAT exam is unique in its flexibility, offering candidates multiple opportunities to improve their scores within a single cycle.

Feature

Details

Number of Attempts

Up to three attempts per cycle (main attempt + 2 retakes).

Best Score Consideration

Only the highest score across attempts is considered for admissions.

Rescheduling

Candidates can reschedule their exam date and time within the testing window.

Testing Window

70 to 100 days, typically between October and December.

Section-Wise Distribution and Time Allocation

The NMAT by GMAC exam pattern is carefully designed to evaluate candidates on various dimensions of aptitude critical for succeeding in management programmes. The structure allows equal focus on all sections, ensuring a balanced assessment of skills. Each section in the NMAT exam pattern is timed separately, and candidates cannot switch between sections once the timer for a particular section starts. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Section

Number of Questions

Time Allotted (Minutes)

Language Skills

36

28

Quantitative Skills

36

52

Logical Reasoning

36

40

Total

108

120

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NMAT 2025 Marking Scheme

The NMAT by GMAC evaluates candidates using a straightforward marking scheme that ensures a fair assessment of their performance. Here’s how the marking works:

1. Equal Marks for Each Question

Each question in the NMAT carries 1 mark, ensuring equal weightage across all sections.

2. No Negative Marking

There is no penalty for incorrect answers, encouraging candidates to attempt all questions without hesitation.

3. Unattempted Questions

Questions left unanswered do not result in any score deduction, maintaining a neutral impact on the total score.

4. Finalized Answers for Each Section

Once a section is completed or its allotted time ends, all responses in that section are considered final and cannot be revisited.

This marking system motivates candidates to focus on accuracy and attempt as many questions as possible within the allotted time for each section.

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NMAT Exam Pattern Syllabus & Important Topics

The NMAT exam pattern syllabus is tailored to assess candidates’ abilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus and key topics.

Section

Key Focus

Language Skills

Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Sentence Completion, Para Jumbles, and Word Usage

Quantitative Skills

Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, Number Systems, Data Interpretation, and Probability

Logical Reasoning

Critical Reasoning, Puzzles, Statement-Assumptions, Analytical Reasoning, Coding-Decoding

Section-Wise Breakdown of Syllabus and Topics

The NMAT exam pattern syllabus is divided into three sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. Each section is designed to evaluate distinct skills that are essential for management education. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each section:

1. Language Skills

The Language Skills section evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in English, focusing on comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. Here's a detailed look at the topics:

Topics

Description

Grammar and Vocabulary

Basic English rules, word meanings, synonyms, and antonyms.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding and answering questions from written passages.

Para Jumbles

Rearranging mixed-up sentences to form a logical paragraph.

Sentence Correction

Identifying and correcting grammatical errors in sentences.

Idioms, Phrases, and Clauses

Familiarity with common idiomatic expressions and sentence structures.

One-Word Substitution

Replacing a phrase with a single word.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Finding words with similar or opposite meanings.

2. Quantitative Skills

The Quantitative Skills section assesses mathematical aptitude and problem-solving abilities. Below are the key topics and their descriptions:

Topics

Description

Arithmetic

Fundamental operations, averages, ratios, and percentages.

Algebra

Solving linear and quadratic equations.

Geometry

Understanding shapes, measurements, and properties of 2D/3D objects.

Data Interpretation

Analysing charts, graphs, and tables to extract meaningful insights.

Probability

Calculating likelihoods of events.

Permutations & Combinations

Counting and arranging items logically.

Mixtures and Alligation

Solving problems involving proportions.

Mensuration

Calculating areas, volumes, and surface areas.

Time, Speed, and Distance

Solving problems involving motion and travel scenarios.

Trigonometry

Basic trigonometric concepts and applications.

3. Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning evaluates a candidate's ability to analyse patterns, make decisions, and solve puzzles. Here are the topics:

Topics

Description

Critical Reasoning

Evaluating arguments and drawing logical conclusions.

Puzzles

Solving complex logical puzzles.

Coding and Decoding

Deciphering codes or patterns in data.

Blood Relations

Understanding family relationships through logic.

Statement Assumptions

Analysing assumptions and implications of statements.

Arrangement

Organising elements in a specific order or sequence.

Calendar and Clocks

Solving problems related to dates, time, and schedules.

Numeric Grid

Solving numerical puzzles.

Family Tree

Understanding and interpreting familial relationships.

Syllogisms

Analysing logical relationships between statements.

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Expected NMAT Exam Pattern Cutoffs for 2025

The NMAT by GMAC exam follows a scaled scoring system ranging from 36 to 360, with no negative marking. Understanding the expected cutoffs for various participating institutions is crucial for candidates aiming to secure admission to their desired programmes. The expected cutoffs for the NMAT exam pattern are based on trends from previous years and specific institutional requirements.

Institution

Expected Cutoff (Scaled Score)

Sectional Cutoffs (Approx.)

NMIMS Mumbai

235+

70+ in each section

NMIMS Bangalore/Hyderabad

210-220

65+ in each section

NMIMS Indore/Navi Mumbai

190-200

60+ in each section

K J Somaiya Institute of Management

225+

65+ in each section

Xavier University Bhubaneswar

200-210

60+ in each section

SDA Bocconi Asia Center

200-215

60+ in each section

ICFAI Business School (IBS)

180-200

55+ in each section

Alliance School of Business

170-190

50+ in each section

Amity Business School

160-180

50+ in each section

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Factors Influencing NMAT Cutoffs

The NMAT cutoffs for top business schools are influenced by various factors that reflect the competitiveness and demand for management programmes. Understanding these factors can help candidates set realistic score targets and strategise their preparation effectively. Below are the key factors influencing NMAT cutoffs:

1. Number of Applicants

The more candidates appearing for the NMAT, the higher the competition, leading to increased cutoffs for top institutions.

2. Difficulty Level of the Exam

Easier exams tend to result in higher cutoffs, while more challenging exams usually see slightly lower cutoffs.

3. Institution-Specific Requirements

Prestigious institutions like NMIMS Mumbai and Bangalore have higher cutoff scores compared to other participating colleges.

4. Sectional Cutoffs

Many institutions require candidates to meet minimum scores in each section in addition to the overall cutoff.

5. Seat Availability

Programmes with limited seats often have higher cutoffs to ensure only the best candidates are selected.

6. Previous Year Trends

Past NMAT cutoff trends influence aspirants’ preparation targets and institutional expectations.

7. Demand for Programmes

Popular MBA specialisations such as Finance or Marketing often have higher cutoffs due to increased competition.

8. Candidate Performance

The overall performance of all test-takers in a given year directly impacts the cutoff scores.

9. Reservation Policies

Some institutions may have category-specific cutoffs, with lower scores required for reserved categories.

Preparation Tips Based on NMAT Exam Pattern

Preparing for the NMAT exam requires a strategic approach tailored to its unique pattern. Below are practical tips aligned with the NMAT exam pattern to help you ace the test.

1. Understand the NMAT Format

Familiarise yourself with the NMAT's adaptive format, sectional structure, and time-bound approach to plan your preparation effectively.

2. Set Clear Goals

Identify the target scores required for your desired institutions and create a study plan to achieve them.

3. Prioritise Speed and Accuracy

 Focus on solving questions quickly without compromising accuracy to maximise your score in the adaptive test format.

4. Leverage No Negative Marking

Attempt all questions, even if unsure, since there is no penalty for incorrect answers.

5. Practice Mock Tests

Take regular full-length mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment and refine your strategy.

6. Analyse Performance

Review mock test results to identify weak areas, work on improvement, and track progress.

7. Manage Sectional Time Limits

Practice solving questions within the allocated time for each section to ensure efficient time management during the exam.

8. Use Official NMAT Resources

Refer to the NMAT Official Guide and practice papers for reliable and authentic material.

9. Develop a Balanced Study Plan 

Allocate time to all sections and ensure consistent progress without neglecting any area.

10. Solve Previous Year Questions

Familiarise yourself with question patterns and difficulty levels by practicing questions from past NMAT exams.


Success in the NMAT exam pattern opens doors to top MBA programmes like NMIMS. With its unique pattern, targeted preparation is essential to stand out. Enroll in a comprehensive course to gain expert guidance, access to practice resources, and mock tests tailored to the NMAT. Take the next step toward your dream MBA programme—start your preparation today!

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FAQs Related to NMAT Exam Pattern 2025

What is the expected cutoff for NMIMS Mumbai for NMAT 2025?

The expected cutoff for NMIMS Mumbai is 235+ on a scaled score.

Are there sectional cutoffs in the NMAT exam?

Yes, many institutions, including NMIMS, require candidates to meet minimum scores in each section.

What is the overall scoring range for NMAT?

The NMAT score ranges from 36 to 360, with each section contributing equally to the total score.

Does the difficulty of the exam affect cutoffs?

Yes, an easier exam typically results in higher cutoffs, while a challenging one might lead to lower cutoffs.

How many attempts can I take to improve my score?

Candidates can attempt the NMAT up to three times in a single cycle, including the main attempt and two retakes.

Do all institutions consider sectional cutoffs?

No, not all institutions have sectional cutoffs; it varies depending on the college’s admission policies.

How are NMAT exam pattern cutoffs decided?

Cutoffs are influenced by factors such as the number of applicants, exam difficulty, programme demand, and seat availability.

Can reservation policies impact NMAT cutoffs?

Yes, institutions with reservation policies may have different cutoffs for reserved and general categories.

What is the expected cutoff for NMIMS Bangalore?

The expected cutoff for NMIMS Bangalore is 210-220 on a scaled score.

Is there any difference in cutoffs for the online proctored mode and test center mode?

No, the cutoffs remain the same regardless of whether the exam is taken in a test center or in online proctored mode.

What is the role of past trends in NMAT cutoffs?

Previous years’ cutoff trends are often used as benchmarks by candidates and institutions to set targets and expectations.

Are cutoffs higher for specialised MBA programmes?

Yes, popular specialisations like Finance and Marketing often have higher cutoffs due to increased demand.

Can I still qualify if I meet the overall cutoff but not the sectional cutoff?

No, failing to meet the sectional cutoff can disqualify candidates, even if their overall score is above the required cutoff.

What is the expected cutoff for NMIMS Hyderabad?

The expected cutoff for NMIMS Hyderabad is approximately 210.

Do cutoffs vary between NMIMS campuses?

Yes, NMIMS campuses like Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Indore have different cutoff scores.

How does the test window affect NMAT cutoffs?

The flexibility of the test window allows candidates to retake the exam, often raising the overall cutoff as more high scores are recorded.

What happens if I score slightly below the cutoff?

Candidates scoring slightly below the cutoff may still be considered if the institution has seat availability or considers other admission criteria.

How can I ensure I meet the NMAT cutoff?

Consistent preparation, focusing on sectional scores, and taking mock tests can help candidates meet or exceed the cutoff.

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