MAT Exam Date and Time 2026 – Latest Official Update
The MAT Exam Date and Time 2026 has been officially announced by AIMA. For the February 2026 session, the MAT exam will be conducted in March 2026 instead of February, across Paper Based Test (PBT) and Computer Based Test (CBT) modes. MAT is a national-level MBA entrance exam accepted by hundreds of AICTE-approved management colleges in India.
MAT Exam Date and Time 2026
For the February 2026 session, the MAT exam dates are March 1, 2026, for the Paper-Based Test (PBT) and March 8, 2026, for the Computer-Based Test (CBT), with registration deadlines in late February and early March, respectively.
Key Dates for MAT February 2026
- PBT Exam Date: March 1, 2026
- CBT Exam Date: March 8, 2026
- PBT Registration Deadline: February 23, 2026
- CBT Registration Deadline: March 2, 2026
- PBT Admit Card Release: February 26, 2026 (Tentative)
- CBT Admit Card Release: March 5, 2026 (Tentative)
MAT February Exam 2026 Overview
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) four times a year—February, May, September, and December. The MAT 2026 exam date and time for the February cycle has been shifted to early March 2026.
- Exam Level: National
- Exam Modes: PBT, CBT, IBT
- MAT Exam Duration: 2 Hours
- Total Questions: 200
- Question Type: MCQs
MAT Exam Date and Time 2026 for Paper Based Test (PBT)
The MAT Paper Based Test (PBT) will be conducted in a single morning session.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| MAT PBT Exam Date 2026 | March 1, 2026 (Sunday) |
| MAT Exam Reporting Time | 8:30 AM |
| Gate Closing Time | 9:30 AM |
| MAT Exam Start Time | 10:00 AM |
| MAT Exam End Time | 12:00 Noon |
| MAT Exam Time Duration | 2 Hours |
Candidates must strictly adhere to the reporting time mentioned on the MAT admit card.
MAT Exam Date and Time 2026 for Computer Based Test (CBT)
The MAT CBT Exam 2026 will be conducted on March 8, 2026. Additional slots may be allotted depending on the number of applicants.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| MAT CBT Exam Date 2026 | March 8, 2026 (Sunday) |
| MAT Exam Reporting Time | 8:30 AM |
| Gate Closing Time | 9:30 AM |
| MAT Exam Start Time | 10:00 AM |
| MAT Exam End Time | 12:00 Noon |
| MAT Exam Duration | 2 Hours |
MAT Exam Day Instructions to Candidates
AIMA has released important MAT exam day guidelines that every candidate must follow:
- Carry MAT Admit Card and a valid original photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Driving License, etc.)
- Entry closes 30 minutes before exam start
- Only black or blue ballpoint pen allowed
- No electronic devices, bags, calculators, or notes permitted
- Candidates cannot leave the exam hall before the exam ends
- Any unfair means will lead to disqualification
Instructions for Filling MAT OMR Answer Sheet (PBT)
- Shade only one oval per question
- Use black or blue ballpoint pen only
- Multiple markings will be treated as incorrect
- Do not fold, tear, or damage the OMR sheet
- Follow the instructions printed on Side-1 of the answer sheet
MAT Exam Pattern 2026 Snapshot
| Section | Questions |
|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | 40 |
| Mathematical Skills | 40 |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 40 |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 40 |
| Indian & Global Environment | 40 |
| Total | 200 |
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct, -0.25 for incorrect
- Note: GK score is not considered by many institutes for percentile calculation
Why Check MAT Previous Year Question Papers & Mock Tests?
To perform well in the MAT 2026 exam, candidates should:
- Solve MAT Previous Year Question Papers
- Attempt MAT Mock Tests 2026
- Practice time management for 200 questions
- Improve speed and accuracy across sections
This approach significantly improves performance in both MAT PBT and CBT modes.
MAT Exam Date and Time 2026 – Final Summary
- MAT 2026 Exam will be held in March 2026
- PBT: March 1, 2026
- CBT: March 8, 2026
- MAT Exam Duration: 2 Hours
- Registration for both modes is currently open
- Admit cards will be released a few days before the exam
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official AIMA MAT website and continue preparation using mock tests and previous year papers.
MAT 2026 Aspirants: Apply to RCM – A Top College Accepting MAT Scores
If you’re appearing for MAT 2026, choosing the right college is just as important as scoring well. Regional College of Management (RCM), Bhubaneswar, is a reputed AICTE-approved institute that accepts MAT scores for its industry-focused MBA and PGDM programs.
RCM stands out for its:
- Strong academic framework aligned with national MBA standards
- Industry-integrated curriculum and skill-based learning
- Excellent placement support and corporate exposure
- Proven track record among top MAT-accepting colleges in India
MAT 2026 candidates can apply using their MAT score and secure admission early.
Know more about admissions, programs & eligibility: Apply early to maximize your chances of selection and preferred specialization.
FAQ
What is the MAT Exam Date and Time 2026?
MAT 2026 will be held on March 1 (PBT) and March 8 (CBT) from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.
What is the reporting time for MAT 2026 exam?
Candidates must report by 8:30 AM; exam gates close at 9:30 AM for both PBT and CBT modes.
What is the duration of the MAT exam?
The MAT exam duration is 2 hours (120 minutes) for all test modes.
Is MAT 2026 conducted in multiple modes?
Yes, MAT 2026 is conducted in Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) modes.
When will MAT 2026 admit card be released?
MAT 2026 admit cards are expected around February 26 for PBT and March 5 for CBT.
