CMAT Exam Pattern 2024, Marking Scheme, Paper Format, Time

Dakshita Bhatia

10573

Jul 29, 2024

Latest Updates:

  • December 19, 2025: Here we have discussed CMAT topic-wise weightage 2026, section-wise marks, syllabus, important topics, exam pattern, and a smart preparation strategy.Read More
  • November 21, 2025: Here we have discussed CMAT percentile-wise colleges 2026, expected cut-offs, score vs percentile, top institutes, and admission targets for MBA aspirants.Read More
CMAT Exam Pattern 2024, Marking Scheme, Paper Format, Time

CMAT exam pattern 2024 is expected to be out soon by the National Testing Agency, the conducting body of the CMAT exam papers. With the speculations of the CMAT exam pattern and syllabus underway, aspirants must stay informed and keep checking the official NTA website for further details.

In this section, we have included all you need to know about the CMAT exam pattern and syllabus. We have also compiled a set of CMAT exam rules, one needs to follow. Every student must understand the CMAT marking scheme and the CMAT exam eligibility criteria.

More than 70,000 candidates apply for the CMAT every year. Graduates are tested on 5 parameters for admission to MBA programs at participating universities affiliated with the AICTE. The CMAT exam offers a unique opportunity to all the test takers as none of them is disqualified in its result.

Download CMAT Syllabus PDF

CMAT Exam Pattern 2024

The CMAT exam pattern 2024 is not out yet. However, we have predicted a structure based on the previous trend of the CMAT exam paper. Make sure you check the NTA official website for updated CMAT exam details.

Particulars

Details

SectionsQuantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation
Language Comprehension
Logical Reasoning
General Awareness

Innovation & Entrepreneurship (optional in 2022, mandatory from 2023)

Questions in the CMAT Exam

Total questions: 100
Each section: 20 questions
Multiple Choice Questions

CMAT Exam Time Duration

3 hours (180 minutes)
No Sectional Time Limit 

CMAT Exam Total marks

400 marks (+4 for each correct answer)

CMAT Exam Marking Scheme

+4 for the correct answer
-1 for the wrong answer

      Also Read, CMAT Paper Analysis 2024

      CMAT Exam Eligibility 2024

      Every MBA aspirant must go through the CMAT exam eligibility before the commencement of the CMAT registration process. Here’s a list of common requirements that one needs to fulfill:

      • The candidate must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized university.
      • Final-year students can also apply.
      • No minimum marks are required for appearing in the CMAT exam. However, a minimum of 50% for admission (45% for SC/ST/PwD) is needed.
      • Candidates from any stream can apply for the CMAT exam registration.
      • Regular, distance, correspondence, etc. all modes of degree holders are accepted.
      • There is no minimum or maximum CMAT age requirement.
      • Only Indian citizens can apply for the CMAT exam.

      Take Free CMAT Mock Test

        CMAT Exam Day Guidelines

        • Graduates with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible for the CMAT exam 2024
        • Aspirants can apply online through official website https://cmat.nta.nic.in/
        • It is a Computer Based Test (CBT)
        • CMAT exam test centers are available in various designated cities across India.
        • Except for the online, on-screen scientific calculator, no other calculators or electronic devices (mobile phones, calculators), books, notes, stationery, or any writing material are allowed.
        • Candidates must carry an Admit Card, Photo ID, and Pen/Pencil (provided) on the CMAT exam date.
        • Students should wear comfortable clothing and not revealing or extravagant attire.
        • One must be present 30 minutes before the CMAT exam paper starts.
        • A mandatory biometric verification through fingerprint and photo verification before the exam is done.
        • CMAT exam scores are valid for 1 year from the date of result declaration.
        • Strict action will be taken for any kind of misconduct, including disqualification and future exam bans

        With Proper knowledge about the CMAT exam pattern 2024 and CMAT exam rules, aspirants can prepare themselves for the exam. Students can access CMAT exam previous year papers at Cracku for free and can get expert guidance to excel in their exams.

        CMAT 2024: Preparation Strategy

        Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation:

        Cover topics like Pipes and Systems, Probability, Permutation, Combination, Time-Speed-Distance, Profit Loss, Time-Work, Number System, Geometry, and various types of Data Interpretation.

        Logical Reasoning:

        Practice questions on Coding-Decoding, Blood Relation, Direction Sense, Arrangements, and basic Logical Reasoning concepts.

        Verbal Ability:

        Work on Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Correction, Idioms, Phrases, Reading Comprehension, and improving overall language proficiency.

        General Knowledge:

        Stay updated on both static and current affairs, including topics like Economics, History, Geography, Science & Technology, Politics, and recent developments.

        Innovation and Entrepreneurship: 

        Familiarize yourself with terms related to startups, investment, policies, trends, and key players in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

        Build Conceptual Clarity:

         Understand the fundamentals of each topic thoroughly.

        Cover Breadth, Not Depth:

        Aim to cover a wide range of topics rather than delving too deep into any single topic.

        Practice Regularly:

        Solve practice questions, take topic-wise tests, and participate in mock exams to gauge your preparation level.

        Focus on Accuracy:

        Emphasize accuracy over speed during practice sessions to maximize your score.

        Take Mock Tests:

        Analyze your performance in mock tests to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas needing improvement.

        Utilize Resources:

        Consider enrolling in a structured crash course or test series to supplement your preparation efforts.

        CAT Exam Pattern 2024: FAQs

        1. When will the CMAT exam 2024 take place?

          The next CMAT exam will be held in April or May 2024. The NTA will start the registration process for the same most likely in February 2024. Those interested in appearing for the exam will be required to register for it at the CMAT-NTA website and fill out the online application form.

          2. What are the best CMAT exam colleges 2024?

            Some of the best CMAT colleges are

            • Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai
            • Sydenham Institute of Management Studies And Research And Entrepreneurship Education, Mumbai
            • Great Lakes Institute of Management - GLIM Chennai, Gurgaon
            • SIMSR Mumbai - K J Somaiya Institute of Management Studies And Research Mumbai
            • Institute For Financial Management & Research

            3. Is the CMAT easier than the CAT exam?

            Yes, the CMAT exam is relatively easier than the CAT. However, both of these exams require different strategies. If one prepares diligently for the CAT 2024 exam, rest exams are a piece of cake.

            Join CMAT 2024 Crash course

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