CMAT 2026 Exam Date Out: Single Shift on Jan 25 & Admit Card Update

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially confirmed the schedule for the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026.

In a major update for MBA aspirants across India, the NTA has announced that the exam will be held on January 25, 2026. Unlike previous years where the exam was often conducted in two shifts, this year the CMAT will be held in a single shift from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

With less than a week left, candidates are now eagerly waiting for the Exam City Intimation Slip and the Admit Card. Here is everything you need to know about the latest official notice, the new shift timing, and how to download your hall ticket.

CMAT 2026: Key Exam Updates

The CMAT is a national-level entrance exam for admission to MBA and PGDM programs in over 1,000 AICTE-approved colleges in India.

• Exam Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
• New Timing: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Single Shift)
• Conducting Body: National Testing Agency (NTA)

Admit Card and City Intimation Slip

Read more: CCRAS Answer Key

Before releasing the actual admit card, the NTA releases an Advance City Intimation Slip. This document tells you the city where your exam center is located so you can make travel arrangements.

• City Intimation Slip Date: Expected by January 19–20, 2026.
• Admit Card Release Date: Expected by January 21–22, 2026.

How to Download CMAT 2026 Admit Card

Once the link is live, follow these steps to download your hall ticket:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT.
2. Click the Link: Look for the notification that says “CMAT 2026 Admit Card” or “City Intimation Slip”.
3. Login: Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth (DOB).
4. Security Pin: Enter the captcha code shown on the screen.
5. Download: Your admit card will appear. Download it and take two printouts (mandatory for the exam center).

CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern (Quick Recap)

The exam pattern remains consistent with last year. It is a computer-based test (CBT) with a duration of 3 hours (180 minutes).

Section	Questions	Marks
Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation	20	80
Logical Reasoning	20	80
Language Comprehension	20	80
General Awareness	20	80
Innovation & Entrepreneurship	20	80
Total	100	400

• Marking Scheme: +4 marks for a correct answer, -1 mark for a wrong answer.

Important Instructions for Exam Day

• Reporting Time: Reach the center at least 90 minutes before the start time (i.e., by 7:30 AM).
• ID Proof: You must carry a valid original photo ID (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport) along with your admit card.
• Items Allowed: A transparent water bottle, a simple ballpoint pen, and the admit card. Electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)