How to Prepare for CMAT 2025 Exam in 6 Months: Preparation Strategy and Study Tips

Common Management Admission Test 2025 ( CMAT )

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Admit Card: 17 Jan '25

Vipra
Vipra Shrivastava
Senior Manager - Content
Updated on Nov 16, 2024 20:01 IST

CMAT is a moderately difficult MBA entrance exam, so you need work smart and not hard for it. Read how to prepare for CMAT 2025 exam in six months including tips, tricks, strategy, books and study material. 

CMAT preparation in six months

CMAT exam is considered to be one of the easier MBA entrance exams, but that definitely doesn’t mean that aspirants can take it lightly. The syllabus of CMAT is similar to other MBA entrance exams thus, what one requires is sharpening their analytical and logical skills. With complete dedication toward studies, six months are enough to crack CMAT 2025 exam. In this article, you will read how to prepare for CMAT in six months including tips, tricks, strategy, books and study material.

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Q:   How can I prepare for CMAT?

A:
To prepare for CMAT exam you need to do two things. Cover the exam syllabus and practice mock tests. After you decide to appear for CMAT the first thing you should do is check the CMAT syllabus. Make a list of topics that you are familiar with and topics that you have never studied before. Start with topics that you are unfamiliar with as those topics will take time. Move to easier topics after that. Do practice sample questions after completing each topic to know how to apply concepts to a problem. Once you have completed the CMAT syllabus, move to the next phase of preparation, I. e. practicing mock tests and sample questions. Dedicate about 40-45 days in practicing CMAT mock tests, to gain not only speed and accuracy but also control on the topics. You should also join online study groups to take help from mentors and peers in exam preparation. Doubt clearing sessions are very helpful in exam preparation. Also stick to CMAT books as recommended by experts. Some of the books you need to refer are: 1. The Complete Reference Manual for CMAT by SK Sinha, S Satyanarayan and JS Rana 2. How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT by Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education) 3. Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis 4. High School English Grammar by Wren & Martin English 5. How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education) 6. How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT by Arun Sharma (Mc Graw Hill Education). .

Q:   What is the difficulty level of CMAT exam?

A:
CMAT is one of the easier MBA entrance exams. Despite having an extra section, the overall difficulty level of CMAT exam is generally moderate. However, it has been seen previously that some questions in Logical Reasoning and General Awareness sections of CMAT turn out to be more difficult than questions of Quantitative Techniques, Language Comprehension and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. If a candidate can solve about 70-75 of the total questions with about 80 per cent accuracy in each section, they can score well in CMAT. The sectional difficulty in CMAT is as follows: 1. Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation: Moderate 2. Logical Reasoning: Easy to Moderate 3. Language Comprehension: Easy to Moderate 4. General Awareness: Moderate 5. Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Moderate For the latest exam pattern and difficulty level of CMAT click here: https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cmat-exam-analysis.

Q:   If I am preparing for CAT, do I need to prepare separately for CMAT?

A:
If you are preparing for CAT your work is almost over for CMAT. I was also a student who prepared for CAT immediately after my graduation. The important things which you should look into while preparing for this exam are as follows: 1. Select one of the best coaching centers which offer quality education- TIME is one of the famous coaching centers for CAT. 2. Dedication- Be focused on the aim which you need to achieve. 3. Try to read Hindu newspaper editorial. Most of the passages which appear in CAT are from Hindu editorial. 4. Try to maximum number of online mock test. You will definitely clear CAT by doing the above. 5. Try to read as much as you can and make note of points. 6. Revision of each week topics is very important. 7. Mathematical ability questions will be little twisted try to do as faster as you can.

CMAT 2025: Six-Month Preparation Plan

First of all, make a six-month preparation plan for CMAT exam. If you plan to take coaching all your needs will be taken care of but if you plan CMAT preparation 2025 by self-study, start with the following:

  • Check the latest CMAT syllabus and exam pattern
  • Get hold of CMAT books and other study material
  • Join online study groups on Facebook, Quora, YouTube, Telegram, WhatsApp, etc.
  • Download MBA entrance exam preparation apps for assistance and sample tests for CMAT 

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The next step towards six-month CMAT reparation is division of the preparation time into phases. First phase should be spent in covering the syllabus, second phase should be spent in practicing sample papers and mock tests and the final phase should be spent in revision and exam day preparation. Here's how to prepare for CMAT 2025 in six months:

CMAT preparation

CMAT Preparation 2025 in Six Months: First Phase

Dedicate first two to three months in covering the CMAT syllabus. Take a look at all the topics of Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness and start with the topic that you find toughest. Most students begin with brushing up their basics of Maths for Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation. You should also start reading from the beginning to strengthen Language Comprehension. Since all four sections have equal weightage, you need to focus on each of them equally well. Check out subject-wise preparation strategy for CMAT 2025 below:

CMAT Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation

The questions of Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation are usually of moderate difficulty. Most of the questions are asked from Arithmetic, Geometry, Modern Math, Algebra, Trigonometry and Numbers. The Data Interpretation questions are based mostly on tables and charts.

To prepare for this section, begin with revisiting the basics of Mathematics. In this section, the key is to have conceptual clarity and ability to apply theory on various types of problems. After completing a topic, solve a few questions to know how well you have understood it.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation 2025: Cracking QA-DI

Q:   How to prepare for GK section of CMAT?

A:

Hi, Below mentioned are some tips, which you can follow for CMAT General Awareness preparation: 

  • You can read general awareness topics
  • For Static GK, read Manorama Year Book and other such GK books for competitive exams
  • Read up about latest happenings around the world
  • Take note of every event of politics, sports, economy, books, awards, titles, etc.
  • To know the latest happenings, you should read English newspapers daily.
  •  Also, you can participate in similar group discussions along with some good news channels to keep yourself updated.
  • GK is a memory based subject so you should start preparing for it towards the end of your CMAT preparation
  • Start studying GK year books in the last one month before the CMAT exam to have ll the facts and figures fresh in memory.

Good luck.

Q:   Can I prepare for CMAT in 6 months?

A:

Yes, 6 months are a decent time duration to prepare for CMAT exam, if one does it with dedication and discipline. Candidates who have appeared for CMAT or any other MBA entrance exam before, will find 6 months more than enough to prepare for the exam. Those, who are appearing in CMAT for the first time, can also prepare in 6 months but they will have to give extra time to it. If you plan a CMAT preparation in six months, make a three stage plan. In the first stage, which will be of 3 months, complete the CMAT syllabus, in the second phase, which will be of 2 months, practice sample papers and mock tests. In the third stage, which will be of 1 months, do revision of important topics and gain control over all that you have studied before. Keep in mind to solve enough number of CMAT mock tests (30-35) for better preparation in short time. Read More: CMAT preparation in 6 months

 

Q:   How can I prepare for CMAT to secure 100 percentile?

A:

Common Management Admission Test is an online computer based test conducted by the National Testing Agency, India. It is a national-level admission test for facilitating institutions to select suitable students for admission in all management programmes approved by AICTE. According to the exam pattern, the CMAT syllabus for MBA admission is divided into five sections namely, Quantitative Technique and Data Interpretation, Language Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, General Awareness, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. If you plan to prepare for CMAT exam, then you have to at least put in four to six hours daily into studying. 345 to 350 marks are expected to secure the 100 percentile and those securing in the range of 285 to 340 marks will obtain 99 to 99.99 percentile. CMAT merit list will include names of all the aspirants scoring CMAT score vs percentile from 0.005 to 100 percentile. Speed is not an issue at all as you have ample time available. Solving 100 questions in 3 hours is quite easy; hence time is not as important as accuracy is. I have slept for 20 to 40 minutes after completing test every year! The range of topics covered has become very important.

Q:   I have 82.12 %ile in CMAT 2023 but my GDPI didn't go well. Is there any chance to convert Welingkar's Rural Management course?

A:

The journey towards securing admission to Welingkar's Rural Management course is an exciting and competitive one, where your potential and abilities are carefully assessed. While a good CMAT score holds significance, it is not the sole determining factor for admission. The selection process takes into account a holistic evaluation of various aspects of your profile.

The admission committee at Welingkar considers multiple factors, including your academic performance, entrance exam score, work experience, and performance in the selection rounds. This comprehensive approach ensures that the most deserving candidates are chosen to be part of this esteemed program.

Even if your CMAT score may not be in the top bracket, do not lose hope. Welingkar's Rural Management course values candidates who exhibit excellence in other selection rounds, such as the written test, group discussion, and personal interview. Your performance in these rounds, coupled with your overall profile, can leave a lasting impression on the admission committee and boost your chances of securing a seat.

Remember, the selection process is designed to identify individuals with the right blend of skills, knowledge, and a passion for rural management. Embrace this opportunity to showcase your abilities, highlight your experiences, and express your dedication towards making a meaningful impact in rural communities.

While waiting for the official announcement of the results, remain optimistic and continue honing your skills and knowledge in the field of rural management. Keep yourself updated with the latest developments and news from Welingkar, and be prepared to seize the opportunities that come your way.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the esteemed admission committee, who carefully assess each candidate's potential and suitability for the Rural Management course. Trust in your abilities, present your best self during the selection process, and believe that your hard work and dedication will shine through.

Wishing you the utmost success as you embark on this transformative journey towards a career in Rural Management at Welingkar. Embrace the challenges, display your unique strengths, and seize this opportunity to make a positive impact on rural communities. Your determination and passion will undoubtedly be recognised and rewarded.

Stay confident, focused, and motivated, knowing that your efforts will lead you towards a brighter future in the field of Rural Management.

Q:   How many questions should I solve to get a good score in CMAT?

A:
Since every section of CMAT has 20 questions in total, solving 15-18 questions in each section with 80 per cent accuracy is considered a good attempt in CMAT and it can ensure good percentile in the exam. In GK section, about 10-12 correct attempts will be enough. Out of 100 questions, candidates must try to solve about 70-75 questions to get 99 percentile. However, candidates must aim to solve higher number of questions with maximum accuracy and minimise on negative marking. To be able to achieve this target, candidates need to prepare for the CMAT in a dedicated and disciplined manner. The candidate must keep minimum three months aside for completing the CMAT syllabus as they have to study five subjects and their numerous topics. If they have appeared for CAT XAT and IIFT exam then they can complete the CMAT syllabus in one month too. However, it is advised that candidates spend at least three months on the CMAT syllabus for complete preparation.

CMAT Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning section of CMAT comprises Coding-Decoding, Blood Relation, Series Completion, Venn Diagram, Number Grid, Directions and Visual Reasoning. Key to cracking Logical Reasoning section of CMAT 2025 will be practice, the more you practice, the better you’ll get at unravelling puzzles and breaking down pattern to identify commonality.  

Also Read: CMAT Preparation 2025: Cracking Logical Reasoning

CMAT Language Comprehension

Start reading books, novels, newspapers and magazines in English right from the very beginning. This will help you in cracking dense Reading Comprehension passages. For Grammar, study from Wren & Martin and pay equal focus on Verbal Ability. Most of the questions in this section are on Synonyms/Antonyms, Word-Definition, Parajumbles, Spelling, Sentence Correction, Idioms and Grammar based questions.

Practice a good number of sectional mock tests to have a grip on different types of RC passages and Verbal Ability questions.

Also Read: CMAT Preparation 2025: How to Prepare of Language Comprehension

General Awareness

General Awareness section of CMAT divided into Current Affairs and Static GK. Since, this section only requires memorizing topics, you can start preparing for it after completing the other four subjects or a month before the exam date.

Read Competition Success Review for static GK and keep yourself abreast with Current Affairs by watching News. Note down important events and dates.

CMAT 2025 Preparation in Six Months: Second Phase

The second phase of CMAT preparation should from January. Dedicate January and February in practicing CMAT mock tests and sample papers. Practicing sample questions is a very important aspect of exam preparation, as it strengthens the conceptual clarity achieved in the first phase. It also helps the candidate in gaining confidence and mastering a speed based test. Check below some key benefits of CMAT mock tests:

  • Solving CMAT mock test and question papers will help you know topic-wise weightage, difficulty level of the questions in previous years and the trend of types of questions asked
  • CMAT mock test will also help you in assessing your weak areas where you need to pay extra attention
  • Practicing mock tests will help you in increasing speed and accuracy in solving questions
  • Sectional mock tests will help you develop time management skill vis-a-vis maximum attempts in the CMAT 2024 exam
  • Also, you will also discover tricks and shortcuts of solving CMAT questions faster
  • Time-bound CMAT mock tests will prepare you for the actual exam

CMAT Mock Test will help you to get an idea about the type of questions asked, the exam pattern and marking scheme. After taking the test, you can immediately check your score. You can also download the Question Paper along with answers and their explanations for Free. Click below to start the free online CMAT Mock Test by Shiksha now.

CMAT_Mock_Test_1 CAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions
CMAT_Mock_Test_2 CMAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions

CMAT 2025 Preparation in Six Months: Third Phase

CMAT exam preparation is not complete without revision. Dedicate the last month in revising the syllabus and memorising static GK.

Start with the topics you found tough in the beginning. Go through each concept and attempt a few questions based on them. If you have a confusion regarding any concept or you are stuck on a problem, reach out to a mentor or a friend.

Dedicate the last phase in tying up loose ends but at the same time keep revising topics which are your strength areas.

Free VARC Questions with Answers for Practice Free DILR Questions with Answers for Practice Free Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice

Read More:

Check CMAT Cut offs and predict calls from colleges accepting CMAT score for admission. Check Fees, Placement Reviews, Admission, Shortlist Criteria and Eligibility of all CMAT participating colleges by clicking the link below:

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Vipra is a massive Breaking Bad fan. When not watching crime drama series, she spends time in updating the list of places she wants to visit and people she wants to meet, but she is happiest in the company of dogs. ... Read Full Bio

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Answered 5 hours ago

GL Bajaj Institute of Management & Research offers scholarships to PGDM/ MBA courses on the basis of CMAT rankings secured by the candidates. Check out the eligibility criteria and financial benefits through this scholarship below: 

Scholarship on the basis of CMAT ranking: 

Rank between 10001 and 20000Scholarship amount INR 20,000
Rank between 4001 and 10000Scholarship amount INR 25,000
Rank between 1 and 4000Scholarship amount INR 30,000

K

Krishnendu Kumar

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 5 days ago

Hi,

Scoring a 99.99 percentile in CMAT is an excellent achievement, and it certainly boosts your chances of getting into top management colleges like JBIMS (Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies). However, your 10th and 12th scores of 70% may be slightly below the average for some top-tier i

...more

R

Rupesh Katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 days ago

Here are some CMAT colleges where graduates have reported average salaries exceeding 11 LPA:

 

1. Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai: Known for its prestigious reputation, JBIMS offers an average placement package of around 28.02 LPA.

2. SIMSREE, Mumbai: This institute provi

...more

A

ABHINAV SRIVASTAVA

Contributor-Level 8

Answered a week ago

MAT 2025 is scheduled to be held on January 25, 2025, almost four months ahead of previous years. The CMAT exam is usually held in March-April, but in 2023 and 2024, it was held in May. The last time CMAT was held in January was in the year 2019. 

The NTA has announced registration dates via an offi

...more

R

Ranjeeta Rai

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

Arihant MCA Entrances 2025

As per my opinion this book is best for MCA.

N

Nitin prakash sonkar

Beginner-Level 1

Answered 3 weeks ago

Top MBA colleges offering average CTCs above 12 LPA, with ST out-of-state reservations and accepting CMAT or XAT scores, include XLRI Jamshedpur (32 LPA, XAT), XIM Bhubaneswar (20 LPA, XAT), Great Lakes Institute of Management (15–17 LPA, CMAT/XAT), Goa Institute of Management (14–15 LPA, CMAT/XAT),

...more

59928193
Amit Saini

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

An 85 percentile in CMAT is considered a good score and can make you eligible for a PGDM scholarship at GIBS Business School. GIBS typically offers scholarships to students with strong academic records or good performance in entrance exams like CMAT. With an 85 percentile, you are likely to be consi

...more

B

Bhavani

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 3 weeks ago

Yes, I can suggest colleges in Gujarat that accept CMAT score for admission to MBA

Colleges are :- 

  • Adani Institute of Infrastructure management
  • Bk School of business management 
  • Amrut modi School of management 
  • Shanti Business School
  • Indus University 
  • Graduate School of management studies 
  • Centre for manag

...more

71271179
Sankalp Anand

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 3 weeks ago

Depends on exam results, the CMAT cutoff for BLDEA's A S Patil College of Commerce changes depends on the admissions method. Two methods are available to candidates for admission: the Management Quota, which uses CMAT/KMAT scores, or the Government/Merit Quota, which uses CMAT scores through KEA cou

...more

K

Kritika Kumari

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

You can join BLDEA's A S Patil College of Commerce for MBA or PGDM programs even if you haven't taken the CMAT. The college also accepts other entrance exams like Karnataka PGCET and KMAT.

Admission Process:

  • Students are primarily admitted based on merit through these exams, followed by a counseling p

...more

S

Suyash Pandey

Contributor-Level 9