The wait is finally over for thousands of MBA aspirants across India. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the admit cards for the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026. With the exam scheduled for January 25, 2026, students now have just a few days left to finalize their preparations.
This year, the exam will be held in a single shift. Candidates must download their hall tickets immediately to check their exam center details and reporting time. This article covers everything you need to know about the exam day, the paper pattern, and how to download your admit card safely.
Key Dates and Exam Schedule
The CMAT is one of the most popular entrance tests for admission into top management colleges in India. Here is the official schedule you must follow:
Read more: CBSE Class 10 Admit Card 2026
| Event | Date / Details |
| Admit Card Release Date | January 21, 2026 |
| Exam Date | January 25, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Timing | Single Shift: 09:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. |
| Official Website | cmat.nta.nic.in |
How to Download CMAT 2026 Admit Card
The admit card is a mandatory document. Without it, you will not be allowed to enter the exam hall. Follow these simple steps to download it:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to cmat.nta.nic.in.
- Find the Link: Look for the notification that says “CMAT 2026 Admit Card”.
- Login: Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth (DOB).
- Submit: Enter the security pin (captcha) shown on the screen and click ‘Submit’.
- Download: Your admit card will appear on the screen. Download the PDF and take a clear printout (preferably in color).
Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
Before you step into the exam hall, it is crucial to remember the exam structure. The CMAT 2026 pattern remains consistent with the previous year.
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 400
- Duration: 3 Hours (180 Minutes)
- Medium: English only
Section-wise Breakdown:
- Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation: 20 Questions
- Logical Reasoning: 20 Questions
- Language Comprehension: 20 Questions
- General Awareness: 20 Questions
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship: 20 Questions
Marking Rule: You will get +4 marks for every correct answer. However, be careful because there is a negative marking of -1 mark for every wrong answer. Unattempted questions will get 0 marks.
Important Exam Day Instructions
- Reporting Time: Check your admit card for the exact reporting time. Gates usually close 30 minutes before the exam starts.
- Documents to Carry: You must carry a hard copy of your Admit Card, a valid Govt ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport), and a passport-size photograph.
- Dress Code: Avoid wearing jewelry, watches, or clothes with too many pockets. Thick-soled shoes are generally not allowed.
- Prohibited Items: Do not bring mobile phones, calculators, Bluetooth devices, or any study material inside the center.
Top Colleges Accepting CMAT Scores
A good score in CMAT 2026 can open doors to some of the best B-schools in India. Some top institutes include:
- Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai
- Sydenham Institute of Management Studies (SIMSREE), Mumbai
- Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai
- Department of Management Sciences (PUMBA), Pune
- Goa Institute of Management (GIM), Goa
FAQs About CMAT 2026
1. Is the CMAT 2026 admit card available now?
Yes, the NTA released the CMAT 2026 admit card on January 21, 2026. You can download it from the official website.
2. What is the date for the CMAT 2026 exam?
The exam will be conducted on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
3. Is there negative marking in CMAT?
Yes, 1 mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer. Correct answers give you 4 marks.
4. Can I show the admit card on my phone at the center?
No, soft copies on mobile phones are not accepted. You must carry a printed hard copy.
5. How many questions are there in the Innovation & Entrepreneurship section?
There are 20 questions in the Innovation & Entrepreneurship section, just like all other sections.