The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is one of the most popular national-level MBA entrance exams in India, conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA). Unlike exams like CAT, XAT, or IIFT, the MAT exam is accepted by 600+ top B-Schools across India, making it one of the most accessible gateways to an MBA.
If you’re an MBA aspirant aiming for affordable, flexible, and recognized management education, MAT could be the right choice. In this article, we’ll cover everything about pursuing an MBA through MAT — including exam details, eligibility, top colleges, cut-off scores, placements, fees, scholarships, and FAQs.MBA Through MAT
Pursuing an MBA through MAT is a preferred option for thousands of students every year because:
- Wide Acceptance: More than 600+ B-Schools in India accept MAT scores.
- Multiple Sessions: Conducted four times a year (February, May, September, December).
- Ease of Exam: Less competitive compared to CAT or XAT, making it suitable for students targeting mid-tier and emerging B-schools.
- Flexible Mode: Available in Paper-Based Test (PBT), Computer-Based Test (CBT), and Internet-Based Test (IBT) formats.
MAT Exam Eligibility
Eligibility criteria to appear for MAT are simple and inclusive:
- Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline (minimum 3 years).
- Minimum Marks: Most colleges require 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST/OBC).
- Final Year Students: Candidates appearing for their final year exams can also apply.
- No Age Limit: Unlike some exams, MAT has no upper age restriction.
This makes MAT a practical choice for fresh graduates as well as working professionals.
MAT Syllabus 2025
The MAT syllabus 2025 is designed to test aptitude and managerial skills:
- Language Comprehension
- Mathematical Skills
- Data Analysis & Sufficiency
- Intelligence & Critical Reasoning
- Indian & Global Environment
Each section carries 40 questions, making a total of 200 questions to be solved in 150 minutes.
MBA Colleges Accepting MAT Score
Some of the top MBA colleges accepting MAT score include:
- Christ University, Bangalore
- BIMTECH, Greater Noida
- Jagan Institute of Management Studies (JIMS), Delhi
- KIIT School of Management, Bhubaneswar
- VIT Business School, Vellore
- Jaipuria Institute of Management
These institutes are well-regarded for their placement records, ROI, and industry exposure.
MAT Cutoff for MBA Admission
The MAT cutoff scores vary depending on the institute:
- Tier-1 Colleges: 90–95 percentile.
- Tier-2 Colleges: 70–85 percentile.
- Tier-3 Colleges: 50–65 percentile.
Example:
- BIMTECH Greater Noida: 85+ percentile.
- Christ University Bangalore: 80+ percentile.
- JIMS Delhi: 75+ percentile.
MAT Exam Registration 2025
The MAT exam registration 2025 process is fully online:
- Visit AIMA’s official website (mat.aima.in).
- Create a login ID and fill in the application form.
- Upload scanned documents (photo, signature).
- Pay the registration fee (₹1,950 for one test mode; ₹3,100 for two modes).
- Select exam centers or IBT slots.
Best MBA Colleges Under MAT
For students who want ROI-driven MBA programs, here are some best MBA colleges under MAT:
- XIME Bangalore
- NDIM Delhi
- IMS Ghaziabad
- ITM Navi Mumbai
- SCMS Cochin
MBA Admission Through MAT Without CAT
Many aspirants prefer MBA admission through MAT without CAT as MAT is more accessible. Unlike CAT, which is highly competitive and accepted by only a few elite IIMs and institutes, MAT opens doors to hundreds of recognized universities and private colleges.
MAT vs CAT MBA
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Factor | MAT | CAT |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate | High |
| Attempts per Year | 4 | 1 |
| Acceptance | 600+ colleges | 100+ top B-Schools |
| Fee Structure | Affordable | Higher |
| Ideal for | Wider student base | High scorers, IIM aspirants |
MBA Through MAT Fees Structure
The MBA through MAT fees structure varies depending on the institute:
- Private Colleges: ₹4–10 lakh (2 years).
- Government Colleges: ₹2–5 lakh (2 years).
- Distance/Online MBA: ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakh.
Distance MBA Through MAT
Several universities also accept MAT scores for Distance MBA programs. These programs are best suited for working professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives seeking managerial skills without leaving their jobs.
MAT-Based MBA Placements
Placements through MAT-accepting colleges depend on the institute’s brand and location:
- Top Recruiters: Deloitte, EY, KPMG, HDFC Bank, Infosys, Accenture.
- Average Salary: ₹5–8 LPA.
- Highest Salary: ₹15–20 LPA in top colleges.
Online MBA Through MAT
With the rise of digital learning, many B-Schools now offer Online MBA through MAT. These programs are AICTE-approved and designed for professionals seeking global exposure and career flexibility.
Government MBA Colleges Accepting MAT
Government institutes offer MBA at a fraction of the cost:
- Delhi School of Economics (DSE), Delhi University
- Institute of Management Studies (IMS), BHU
- Punjab University, Chandigarh
MBA Through MAT with Scholarship
Many colleges offer scholarships for MAT-based MBA admission:
- Merit-based scholarships (based on MAT percentile).
- Need-based scholarships (family income criteria).
- Category scholarships (SC/ST/OBC).
- Corporate-sponsored scholarships for working professionals.
MAT Exam Preparation Tips
To crack MAT with a high percentile:
- Focus on quantitative aptitude and reasoning.
- Solve previous year MAT papers.
- Take mock tests regularly.
- Manage time effectively during the exam.
MAT 2025 Exam Dates
- February 2025 MAT: Registration opens in December 2024.
- May 2025 MAT: Registration opens in March 2025.
- September 2025 MAT: Registration opens in July 2025.
- December 2025 MAT: Registration opens in October 2025.
Case Study: Success Through MAT
Take the example of Ritika Sharma, who scored 92 percentile in MAT and secured admission at BIMTECH Greater Noida. After completing her MBA, she was placed at EY with a package of ₹12 LPA, showcasing how MAT can be a powerful stepping stone to corporate success.
FAQs
Q1. Is MBA through MAT worth it?
Yes. With 600+ colleges accepting MAT, it provides multiple opportunities for affordable and quality MBA education.
Q2. What is a good MAT score for MBA admission?
Above the 85 percentile is considered a good score for reputed colleges.
Q3. Can I pursue MBA without CAT through MAT?
Yes. MAT offers an alternate route to MBA admission without appearing for CAT.
Q4. Do IIMs accept MAT scores?
No, IIMs only accept CAT. However, many top non-IIM institutes accept MAT.
Q5. What is the validity of MAT score?
MAT score is valid for one year for MBA admissions.
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue an MBA through MAT is a smart, accessible, and cost-effective pathway for management aspirants in India. With its multiple exam sessions, wide acceptability, flexible formats, and affordable college options, MAT opens the door to a successful management career.
If you’re planning your MBA journey, start your MAT preparation today and target the right colleges for the best ROI.