The National Testing Agency (NTA) has extended the registration deadline for the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026. Candidates can now apply for CMAT 2026 until November 24, 2025 . The application fee payment deadline is November 25, 2025 .
Following the registration period, NTA will open a dedicated correction window. Applicants can modify their submitted CMAT 2026 application forms from November 26, 2025, to November 28, 2025 . All registrations, fee payments, and form corrections must be completed through the official NTA website, cmat.nta.nic.in.
CMAT 2026: Purpose and Eligibility
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national-level aptitude examination conducted by the NTA. It serves as a gateway for admissions into Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. These management courses are offered by institutions across India. CMAT assesses candidates’ ability and readiness for management education.
Application Fee Structure
Candidates applying for CMAT 2026 must submit a non-refundable application fee. The fee structure varies based on gender and reservation category. Payments are processed online during the application submission.
| Category | Application Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| General Male | 2,500 |
| General Female | 1,250 |
| Gen-EWS / SC / ST / PwD / Third Gender | 1,250 |
CMAT 2026 Examination Pattern
The CMAT 2026 examination consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The total maximum score for the exam is 800 marks. The question paper is divided into five compulsory sections. Each section carries equal weightage in terms of questions and marks.
- Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation: This section assesses numerical ability and data analysis skills.
- Logical Reasoning: Questions evaluate critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical capabilities.
- Language Comprehension: This part tests English grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
- General Awareness: This section covers current affairs, business, economics, politics, and general knowledge.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Questions in this segment gauge understanding of business innovation and entrepreneurial concepts.
CMAT Marking Scheme
NTA employs a specific marking scheme for CMAT 2026. Candidates receive four marks for every correctly answered question. For each incorrect answer, one mark is deducted. There is no penalty for questions that are not attempted by the candidate.
Exam Duration and Shifts
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026 has a total duration of 180 minutes (3 hours). NTA will conduct the examination in two distinct shifts on the designated exam day:
- Shift 1: From 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Shift 2: From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Previous Year’s Attendance Statistics
The CMAT exam attracts a large number of applicants annually. In the previous examination cycle, 74,012 candidates registered for the test. Out of these, 63,145 candidates appeared for the examination. This resulted in an attendance rate of 85.32% , indicating high participation among registered individuals.
Support and Further Information
Candidates must regularly monitor the official National Testing Agency (NTA) websites, nta.ac.in and cmat.nta.nic.in, for additional updates. For specific queries or clarifications regarding CMAT 2026, applicants can contact the NTA help desk directly. The helpline number is 011 40759000 . Email assistance is available at cmat@nta.ac.in .