The options for MBA entrance exams in India are vast and competitive. It provides numerous opportunities for aspiring management professionals. While the Common Admission Test (CAT) is the most popular and widely recognized exam, several other prestigious MBA entrance exams are equally important for gaining admission to top business schools.
In this blog, we will explore the top MBA entrance exams in India for 2024 other than CAT. We will also highlight their significance, format, and key details.
All About MBA entrance exams in India
While CAT remains a significant for top MBA colleges in India, exploring other options can increase your chances of securing admission to a prestigious business school. The MBA entrance exams listed below offer various opportunities and are recognize by numerous top institutions across India.
By understanding the specifics of each exam and preparing in an effective way, you can increase your chance of success and get the MBA college of your dreams. Peruse through the whole section to know all about MBA Entrance Exams other than CAT 2024.
1. Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of the most prominent MBA Exams conducts by XLRI, Jamshedpur. It is accepted by over 150 B-schools across India. The XAT exam evaluates candidates on various parameters including verbal and logical ability, decision-making, quantitative ability, and general knowledge.
Key Details
| Exam Date | January 2024 |
| Application Period | July to December 2023 |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Total Marks | 103 |
2. Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is another significant MBA entrance exams conducts by the All India Management Association (AIMA). It is held four times a year, providing flexibility for candidates. MAT scores are accepted by numerous business schools across India.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | February, May, September, and December 2024 |
| Application Period | Varies with each session |
| Exam Mode | Paper-based, Computer-based, and Internet-based |
| Duration | 2.5 hours |
| Total Marks | 150 |
3. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is an international MBA entrance exams administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). It is widely accepted by top business schools globally and in India.
The GMAT assesses candidates on analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal skills.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | Throughout the year |
| Application Period | Flexible |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 3.5 hours |
| Total Marks | 200 – 800 |
4. Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is a popular MBA entrance exam in India. CMAT scores are accepted by many AICTE-approved institutions and universities.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | May 2024 |
| Application Period | March to April 2024 |
| Exam Mode | CBT – Online |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Total Marks | 400 |
5. Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)
The Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is conducts by Symbiosis International (Deemed University). It is one of the crucial MBA entrance exams for candidates aspiring to join Symbiosis institutes.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | December |
| Application Period | August – November |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Total Marks | 60 |
6. Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) Entrance Exam
The IIFT Entrance Exam , National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade’s MBA (International Business) program. It is a specialized MBA entrance exam focusing on international business.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | Will now consider CAT marks |
| Application Period | October – December |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | – |
| Total Marks | – |
7. NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT)
The NMIMS Management Aptitude Test (NMAT) is conducted by GMAC and is accepted by several leading business schools in India, including NMIMS University. It is a flexible MBA entrance exams allowing candidates to choose their exam date and retake the test if needed.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | October – December |
| Application Period | August |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Total Marks | 324 |
8. Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MAH-CET)
The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MAH-CET) is conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra. It is a key MBA entrance exams for candidates seeking admission to management programs in Maharashtra’s state-affiliated institutions.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | January – February |
| Application Period | March |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 2.5 Hours |
| Total Marks | 200 |
9. Karnataka Management Aptitude Test (KMAT)
The Karnataka Management Aptitude Test (KMAT) is conducted by the Karnataka Private Post Graduate Colleges Association (KPPGCA). It is a prominent MBA entrance exams for admission to management programs in Karnataka.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | March, June |
| Application Period | January – June |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 120 |
10. Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET)
The Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET) is conducted by Anna University for admission to MBA programs in Tamil Nadu. It is a crucial MBA entrance exams for candidates seeking admission to state-affiliated institutions.
Key Details:
| Exam Date | March, June |
| Application Period | January – June |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 120 |
Preparation Tips for MBA entrance exams
Preparing for MBA entrance exams requires a strategic approach and consistent effort.
Here are some tips that will help you succeed:
- Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, sections, and types of questions for each MBA entrance exams you plan to take.
- Develop a structured study plan that covers all topics and allows time for revision.
- Practice with mock tests and previous year question papers to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Identify your weak areas and work on them diligently.
- Keep yourself updated with current affairs and general knowledge, as many MBA entrance exams include these sections.
- Learn to manage your time effectively during the exam to ensure you can attempt all questions.
Conclusion
Remember, the key to success in any of these MBA entrance exams lies in consistent preparation, a clear understanding of the exam pattern, and effective time management. Good luck with your MBA aspirations in 2024!
For more details you can check our trusted education portal collegedunias. we provides counseling services for aspiring MBA aspirants who want to build a career in the field of business and management. You can explore more by connecting with our dedicated team of counselors to get more clarity on the topic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The top MBA entrance exams in India other than CAT include XAT, MAT, GMAT, CMAT, SNAP, IIFT, NMAT, MAH-CET, KMAT, and TANCET.
The MAT exam is conducted four times a year: in February, May, September, and December.
Yes, you can take the GMAT exam multiple times in a year, with a gap of at least 16 days between attempts, up to a maximum of five times within a 12-month period.
The Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is conducted by Symbiosis International University for admission to its MBA programs.
The CMAT exam is conducted in an online mode (computer-based test) by the National Testing Agency (NTA).