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MAT pattern was revised by the AIMA in 2024. Now, the MAT exam is conducted of 2 hours instead of 2.5 hours and the number of questions are 150 instead of 200. Each of the five sections of MAT 2024 has onyl 30 questions now of 1 mark each. There are no other changes in the MAT exam pattern 2024.Â
Candidates can choose MAT exam session, date and mode. All three exam modes - CBT, PBT and IBT, have common MAT test structure and sectional composition. The difficulty level of MAT exam is easy to moderate. Get here all the details of MAT 2024 exam pattern.Â
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Q: Â Which section of MAT exam has maximum weightage?
Each section of MAT exam has equal weightage. All the five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Data Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian & Global Environment have 30 questions. Each question carries one mark thus the section wise weightage of marks is 30 per section. There is negative marking of 0.25 in MAT. Since, every section has equal weightage, you need to prepare well for each one of them for a good overall score. Even in the exam, spend a good amount of time on each section and solve a minimum number of questions to meet the sectional cut off. Since, there is no sectional time-limit in MAT exam. Candidates can decide themselves how much time they should spend on which section as one needs to score well in all sections because of equal weightage. Out of 2 hours or 120 minutes, candidates should allot maximum time to the section they find tough or are calculation intensive. It is advisable to attempt the easier sections first and then move to tougher sections.
Q: Â Is MAT exam easier than other MBA entrance exams?
Yes, the difficulty level of MAT exam is lower than other MBA entrance exams. The question paper is usually of easy to moderate difficulty level. The exam is now held for 120 minutes. There are now 150 questions in the exam paper. There is no sectional time limit in MAT which allows the candidate to plan a strategy according to their strengths and weaknesses. The score of Indian and Global Environment section is not considered for percentile calculation thus candidates don't have the stress of fifth section. Also, solving 150 questions is not mandatory so candidates can choose to solve only those questions which they know they can solve accurately. Sectional difficulty level of MAT is also lower than other MBA exams. Candidates can attempt the exam multiple times in the same academic year to improve their score. They also have the option to choose the mode of test - CBT, IBT, PBT - which makes it the most student friendly exam. Also, the MAT cut offs for admission are much lower as compared to other entrance exams.
Q: Â Are there any changes in the MAT 2024 exam format compared to the previous years?
Yes, there are two changes in MAT exam format. The exam duration is noq 120 minutes and total number of questions are 150. Earlier, the exam duration was 150 minutes and number of questions was 200.
The MAT 2024 test pattern consists of five sections that will measure your Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Indian and Global Environment, and Intelligence and Critical Reasoning. The best part is you can choose to take the exam either in paper-based or computer-based modes. Each question carries one mark, so you have a chance to score big. Just keep in mind that there's a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer, so choose wisely. You have four chances to take the exam in February, May, September, and December, so mark your calendars and get ready to ace it!
Q: Â What is the difference between CBT and PBT modes of MAT exam?
MAT Pattern 2024: Key Highlights
MAT is one of the most student friendly MBA entrance exams in India. All questions are objective type having 4 options to choose the right answer from. Overall, difficulty level is easy. Check below the key highlights of MAT pattern and test structure. The question papers of MAT 2024 IBT, CBT and PBT have the same structure.
MAT Features |
MAT Exam Details |
---|---|
Exam modes |
|
MAT sections |
|
Total number of questions |
200 150 |
Number of questions per session |
40 30 |
Exam duration |
150 minutes 120 minutes |
Total marks |
200 150 |
Marking scheme |
+1 for each correct entry -0.25 for each incorrect entry 0 for not attempting a question |
Q: Â If I am preparing for CAT, do I need to prepare separately for MAT?
Q: Â Is MAT exam easier than other MBA entrance exams?
Yes, the difficulty level of MAT exam is lower than other MBA entrance exams. The question paper is usually of easy to moderate difficulty level. The exam is now held for 120 minutes. There are now 150 questions in the exam paper. There is no sectional time limit in MAT which allows the candidate to plan a strategy according to their strengths and weaknesses. The score of Indian and Global Environment section is not considered for percentile calculation thus candidates don't have the stress of fifth section. Also, solving 150 questions is not mandatory so candidates can choose to solve only those questions which they know they can solve accurately. Sectional difficulty level of MAT is also lower than other MBA exams. Candidates can attempt the exam multiple times in the same academic year to improve their score. They also have the option to choose the mode of test - CBT, IBT, PBT - which makes it the most student friendly exam. Also, the MAT cut offs for admission are much lower as compared to other entrance exams.
Q: Â How can I prepare for MAT in six months?
For MAT preparation in six months candidates need to have a focused plan. They must gather the best books for MAT preparation and start with covering the syllabus. MAT syllabus should be completed in three months. You can make a monthly/weekly or daily plan to cover the syllabus which should include studying one topic each from the main four sections - Mathematical Skills, Data Interpretation, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning as well as Language Comprehension. Keep the Indian and Global Environment section for the last. In the next two months, practice MAT sample papers and MAT mock tests to gain control over the topics you studied in the first three months. For a speed based test like MAT mock test and sample paper practice is a must because only with the help of these you can gain speed and accuracy in solving questions. The MAT question paper can have tough, tricky or easy question so you should be prepared for all types. In the last one month, study for the Indian and Global Environment section and do daily revision of all other topics. Solve a few previous year MAT question paper or solve a couple of mock tests to stay in touch with your abilities. Read More: MAT 6 months preparation plan
Explore subject-wise topics asked in MAT
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MAT Pattern 2024: Section-wise Weightage
MAT question paper comprises 150 questions. All the sections of MAT exam carry equal weightage so one section cannot be ignored for another. However, candidates can keep Economic and Business Environment section as their last priority because its score is not taken into consideration for MAT percentile calculation. Check the table below for sectional weightage of MAT 2024 exam pattern:
MAT Sections |
Number of Questions |
---|---|
Language Comprehension |
30 |
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning |
30 |
Data Analysis and Sufficiency |
30 |
Mathematical Skills |
30 |
Economic and Business Environment |
30 |
Total |
150 |
MAT Exam Pattern 2024: Sectional Details
MAT has five sections. In other MBA entrance exams, Data Interpretation is clubbed with either Quantitative Ability or Logical Reasoning. In MAT, Data Interpretation is a separate section. Take a look at key details of the five sections of MAT question paper below:
Language Comprehension: This section has two parts – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. Topics in this section include Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb, Antonyms & Synonyms, One Word Substitution, Idioms/Phrases, Vocabulary, Fill in the blanks, Sentence Correction, Para Jumble and Reading Comprehension.
Also Read: MAT 2024 Preparation for Language Comprehension
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning: This section of MAT carries questions from Analytical and Logical Reasoning topics such as Family Tree, Course of Action, Arrangement, Pie Chart, Calendars, Statement Conclusions, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Puzzles, Series, Blood Relations, Coding & Decoding, Visual Reasoning, Syllogisms and Graphs.
Also Read: MAT 2024 Preparation for Intelligence & Critical Reasoning
Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency: This section is divided into two parts – Data Analysis and Data Sufficiency. Questions are asked from Line Graph, Bar Graph, Caselet, Pie Chart, Data Comparison, Quantitative Comparison and Data Sufficiency.
Also Read: MAT 2024 Preparation for Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency
Mathematical Skills: The Mathematical Skills section of MAT is what is known as Quantitative Aptitude in other MBA entrance exams. In this section, questions are asked from various topics of Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration and Modern Maths.
Also Read: MAT 2024 Preparation for Mathematical Skills
Economic and Business Environment: The Indian & Global Environment has been renamed as Economi and Business Environment. It is essentially a General Awareness section and includes questions from Current Affairs and Static GK. It carries 30 marks and should not take more than 10 mintues to solve as all questions are memory based.
Also Read: MAT 2024 Preparation for Indian & Global Environment
Q: Â How can I prepare for MAT exam without coaching?
Q: Â Is the MAT IBT mode exam pattern different from CBT and PBT exams?
No. The exam pattern of MAT IBT is not different from CBT or PBT. In fact, the MAT exam pattern of all test modes is the same. The duration of MAT exam (PBT, CBT and IBT modes) is 2 hours or 120 minutes. The marking scheme is - plus one for correct attempt and minus 0.25 for incorrect attempt. There is no sectional time limit in MAT so candidates can utilise the 2 hours as per their own strategy. They should ideally, spend 25 minutes each on the top four sections and 15 minutes on the GK section. However, there may be slight difference in difficulty level because the questions in each MAT session are unique. No question is repeated in any session across CBT, PBT or IBT. This is to prevent any candidate from getting advantage or facing disadvantage due to leaking of the questions or in case of a candidates re-attempting the exam.
Q: Â What are the important topics for MAT preparation?
MAT Marking Scheme 2024
Given below are the key highlights of MAT marking scheme as per the latest MAT paper pattern:
- The marking scheme is same for all three exam modes
- Every section carries equal weightage of 30 marks
- For each correct answer, 1 mark is awarded
- For each wrong attempt, 0.25 marks are deductedÂ
- No marks are deducted for unanswered questions
- Economic and Business Environment score is not considered for calculating MAT percentile
- It is not mandatory to solve all 150 questions.
Also Read:
Q: Â What is the difficulty level of MAT exam?
MAT is one of the easier MBA entrance exam. The difficulty level of the exam much easier than CAT XAT or CMAT. Candidates usually prepare for CAT XAT and CMAT and use that experience to give the MAT exam. Even though the MAT has more questions than XAT CAT CMAT. It is easier because the questions of all the five sections include:
- Mathematical Skills
- Language Comprehension
- Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
- Data Analysis and Sufficiency
- Indian and Global Environment
These are easy and straightforward. There are less Reading Comprehension passages of shorter length and are easy to comprehend. Since, the Indian and Global Environment scores are not taken into consideration for MAT percentile calculation, candidates find it easier to crack MAT in 2.5 hours with high scores.
Q: Â What are the important topics of MAT exam?
MAT exam has five important sections - Mathematical Skills, Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian and Global Environment. Each section carries 40 questions each. Given below are the important topics from which questions are asked in MAT.
- Language Comprehension - Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb, Antonyms and Synonyms, Reading Comprehension, Parts of Speech, One Word Substitution, Vocabulary, Sentence Correction, Idioms/Phrases, Grammar, Fill the Blanks, Para Jumbles and Verbal Ability.
- Intelligence and Critical Reasoning - Family Tree, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Course of Action, Puzzles, Visual Reasoning, Arrangement, Series, Numeric Grid, Pie Chart, Blood Relations, Critical Reasoning, Calendars, Coding and Decoding, Syllogisms, Statement Conclusions, Column Graphs and Graphs Representing Area.
- Data Analysis and Sufficiency - Tables, Pie Charts, Caselet-based Data Charts, Graphs - Line X-Y Graphs, Venn Diagram, Bar Diagrams, Data Analysis and Data Comparison and Data Sufficiency Mathematical Skills- LCM and HCF, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, and more.
Q: Â What is the total number of questions in MAT exam?
MAT exam has 150 multiple-choice questions equally divided into five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian and Global Environment. Each section of the exam has 30 questions. The questions are in MCQ format with four options to choose the correct options from. Given below is the sectional break up of MAT question paper. All three modes of exam have the same weightage.
Language Comprehension: 30 questions
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: 30 questions
Data Analysis and Sufficiency: 30 questions
Mathematical Skills: 30 questions
Indian and Global Environment: 30 questions
Since there is no sectional time limit in MAT candidates can divide time between all the five sections according to their own exam strategy and target score. The score of Indian and Global Environment section is not taken into consideration for percentile calculation, thus candidates should not spend more than 10-15 minutes on it.
MAT IBT Pattern: Test Requirements
The paper pattern, test structure and marking scheme of MAT IBT is same as CBT/PBT. The only difference is that in this mode of examination, candidate can take the test from any location on a laptop/desktop with high speed internet connection. However, candidates need to follow certain guidelines to ensure authenticity. Candidates taking MAT IBT 2024 must keep the following key points in mind:
MAT IBT Requirements |
Description |
---|---|
Network |
|
Supported Browsers |
|
Operating System |
WindowsOS (Version7 and above) |
.Dot NETframework |
MSB requires dot net framework. The minimum supported version is 4.5.1..NETframework |
Memory |
65MB permanent free space on the default hard drive |
Free VARC Questions with Answers for Practice | Free DILR Questions with Answers for Practice | Free Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice |
FAQs on MAT Pattern 2024
Check here Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MAT exam pattern:
Q: Â Which section of MAT exam has maximum weightage?
Each section of MAT exam has equal weightage. All the five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Data Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian & Global Environment have 30 questions. Each question carries one mark thus the section wise weightage of marks is 30 per section. There is negative marking of 0.25 in MAT. Since, every section has equal weightage, you need to prepare well for each one of them for a good overall score. Even in the exam, spend a good amount of time on each section and solve a minimum number of questions to meet the sectional cut off. Since, there is no sectional time-limit in MAT exam. Candidates can decide themselves how much time they should spend on which section as one needs to score well in all sections because of equal weightage. Out of 2 hours or 120 minutes, candidates should allot maximum time to the section they find tough or are calculation intensive. It is advisable to attempt the easier sections first and then move to tougher sections.
Q: Â Can I make another attempt at MAT exam, if I score low in first attempt?
Yes, you can attempt MAT exam as many times as you want. MAT is conducted multiple times in a year and three different modes. The MAT exam is held in February, May, September and December. In each phase there are 4-5 IBT sessions, 2 CBT sessions and 1 PBT session. If a candidate is not satisfied with their score of first attempt, they can choose any upcoming session to appear for it again. They can choose an exam phase and a session as per their preparation level, decision to pursue MBA or admission cycle of the target college. However, for each session, the candidate will have to fill a fresh application form and pay the fees. The score of the last attempted MAT exam will be considered for admission. Read More: https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/mat-exam-preparation-tips-blogId-11997
Q: Â What is the MAT IBT exam?
Q: Â What is the exam pattern for MAT 2024 and how can I prepare for it?
Hi there! Are you planning to appear for MAT 2024? If yes, then you must be aware of the exam pattern. MAT 2024 consists of five sections, and each section is equally important. The exam can be taken either in a paper-based mode or computer-based mode. The exam has a total of 200 questions, and you will have 150 minutes to complete the paper. However, beware of negative marking; for each incorrect answer, you will lose 0.25 marks. To prepare for MAT 2024, you need to follow a strategy that suits your strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is crucial to build a robust preparation strategy. Practicing previous years' question papers and mock tests can give you an insight into the exam's difficulty level and help you manage time efficiently during the actual exam. To score well in Language Comprehension, improve your reading skills by reading newspapers, magazines, and books. Brushing up on mathematical concepts and practicing numerical problems can help you ace the Mathematical Skills section. Lastly, staying updated with Current Affairs and general knowledge can help you score well in the Indian and Global Environment. So, buckle up and start your preparation with a solid plan and determination!
Q: Â What is the marking scheme of MAT exam?
Total marks of MAT exam is 150. Every question carries one mark for correct attempt and there is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. No marks is deducted for skipping questions. The MAT question paper has 150 questions equally divided into five sections - Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills and Indian & Global Environment.
Language Comprehension: 30 questions
2. Intelligence & Critical Reasoning: 30 questions
3. Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency: 30 questions
4. Mathematical Skills: 30 questions
5. Indian & Global Environment: 30 questions
Every section therefore has 30 questions which means every section carries 30 marks. The scores of GK section is not considered for MAT percentile calculation. So candidates can keep GK section as their last priority.
Q: Â What is MAT Syllabus?
Since, MAT exam is conducted only for admission to MBA and PGDM/PGP courses. It is a post graduate level business aptitude test comprising Quantitative Aptitude critical reasoning, data interpretation, data sufficiency, language comprehension and general awareness.
Given below are the topics included in the MAT syllabus:
- MAT Syllabus for Language: Comprehension Verb, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Adverb, Parts of Speech, Sentence Correction, Fill in the Blanks, Antonyms and Synonyms, One Word Substitution, Idioms/Phrases, Para Jumbles, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Verbal Ability, etc.
- MAT Syllabus for Intelligence and Critical Reasoning: Family Tree, Course of Action, Arrangement, Pie Chart, Calendars, Statement Conclusions, Strong Arguments and Weak Arguments, Puzzles, Series, Blood Relations, Coding and Decoding, Column Graphs, Multi-Dimensional Arrangements, Visual Reasoning, Numeric Grid, Critical Reasoning, Syllogisms, Graphs Representing Areas MAT Syllabus for Data Analysis and Sufficiency: Tables, Charts, Pie Charts, Caselet-based Data, Graphs - Line X-Y Graphs, Venn Diagram, Bar Diagrams, Data Analysis and Data Comparison, Data Sufficiency
- MAT Syllabus for Mathematical Skills: LCM and HCF, Commercial Maths Complex Numbers, Percentages, Permutation and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Profit and Loss, Simple Interest and Compound Interest, Heights and Distance, Inequalities, Speed, Time and Distance, Triangles Set Theory, Number System Circles, Mixtures and Alligations, Elementary Mathematics, Geometry, Venn Diagrams, Trigonometry Equations, Linear Programming
- MAT Syllabus for Indian and Global Environment Section: Current Affairs World Records, Business and Economy, Companies and CEOs, Awards and Winners, Books and Authors, Company Punchlines, History, International Organisation, Quotes and Personalities, Social Issues, Geography, Sports, Arts, Entertainment, Technology.
Q: Â What are the best books and study materials for MAT preparation?
Preparing for an entrance exam like MAT can be daunting, but there are many excellent resources available to help you succeed. Some of the best books for MAT preparation include the Mission MBA Guide by B. S. Sijwali & Tarun Goal, The Pearson MAT Super Course by Pearson, and Study Package for MAT by Arun Sharma. In addition to these books, candidates can also benefit from practicing with previous years' question papers and mock tests, which provide insight into the exam pattern and syllabus.
Online study materials and video lectures are also available to supplement your preparation. Be sure to check the official website and other reliable sources for the most updated information on the best books and study materials for MAT preparation. With the right resources and dedication, you can ace the exam and take the first step towards your dream management career. All the best!
News & Updates
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MAT Exam
Student Forum
Answered 2 days ago
For general considerations, the MAT cut-offs for admission to MMS at St. Francis Institute of Management and Research SFIMAR, Mumbai happen to be around 70% to 75 % percentile. But still there exists a possibility that, they may change year-to-year based on the total candidates applying, the intake
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, you can get admission to the Master of Management Studies (MMS) course at Lala Lajpatrai Institute of Management (LLIM) without taking the Management Admission Test (MAT). LLIM accepts scores from other entrance exams such as the CAT (Common Admission Test), MAH-MBA CET, XAT (Xavier Aptitude Te
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 days ago
St. Francis Institute of Management and Research (SFIMAR) accepts MAT scores for its admission to the MBA/PGDM programs. The dates of result for MAT are not specific for SFIMAR as they are released by the All India Management Association, which conducts the test. MAT is conducted several times a yea
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 4 days ago
Yes, you can get a scholarship based on your MAT score for the PGDM programme at GIBS Business School. GIBS offers merit-based scholarships to students with good scores in national exams like MAT. If you have a strong MAT score, it increases your chances of being considered for a scholarship.
In addi
B
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 4 days ago
MAT results for the December 2024 session are likely to be announced by January 10, 2025. Lotus Business School accepts scores through MAT in its admission procedure for the MBA and PGDM programmes. The dates for result announcement may be slightly different so that one can keep a tab on the offici
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 4 days ago
The MBA programme at GRG School of Management Studies for Women is not MAT-based; that is not the sole criteria. This institute accepts MAT because it also considers CAT, TANCET, and CMAT before taking admission. The institution's admission eligibility also includes academic performance with a perso
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 days ago
The important dates for the MAT application process for admission to MBA/PGDM courses at Lotus Business School generally coincide with the official MAT schedule. The registration is generally open 2-3 months prior to the exam date. The deadline for online registration is usually about a month prior
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 4 days ago
The management offers admission to the course MBA/PGDM even without MAT scores. Nevertheless, the eligibility criteria entail a valid score in most national-level entrance exams of a country like CAT, XAT, CMAT, or GMAT. With scores from any of the above-mentioned accepted entrance exams, you can ve
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 4 days ago
Cutoff varies from year to year based on the number of applicants, the difficulty of exams and the seats available. But, the general range in which MAT cutoff lies can be around 60 to 70 percentiles. The number, however, may vary according to the year. Such applicants who cross the MAT cutoff line a
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 4 days ago
The MAT is conducted four times in a year, normally in February, May, September, and December. Registration dates, examination dates, and declaration dates for results for every session are available on the official website of MAT. Registrations are usually opened around 2-3 months prior to the date
K
Contributor-Level 8
1426 Institutes accepting MAT
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What is the MAT cutoff for St. Francis Institute of Management and Research?