Is Maths Compulsory For IPMAT Exam 2026, Check Now

Is Maths Compulsory for IPMAT Exam 2026

The answer is no. But the full answer is more complicated. For the main IPMAT exams, mathematics in Class 12 is NOT a mandatory requirement. This applies to the tests conducted by IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak. Students from any stream can take these tests. Arts, Commerce, Humanities. This policy creates an opportunity for a diverse group of applicants. A chance to enter a top IIM right after school.

However, the necessity of mathematics depends on the specific institute. The major IPMAT exam are open to all streams. But some business schools that accept these scores have their own rules. Your eligibility is decided by the college. Not just by the entrance test. Some institutions, like IIFT, require mathematics at the +2 level. It is critical to check the criteria for each target college before preparation.

IPMAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

Eligibility for the Integrated Programme in Management varies across IIMs. Understanding these differences is the first step. The criteria are not the same for academic percentages or subject requirements.

IIM Indore

IIM Indore has some of the most flexible criteria.

• Age: Candidates must be born on or after August 01, 2006. A five-year relaxation is given to SC, ST, and PwD candidates.
• Qualifying Exam: Applicants need to have passed their Standard XII/HSC or an equivalent exam in 2024, 2025, or be appearing in 2026.
• Academic Stream: Students from any stream are eligible. Mathematics in Class 12 is not a requirement.
• Percentage: IIM Indore does not fix any minimum percentage requirement for Class 10 or Class 12.

IIM Rohtak

The IPM Aptitude Test and other requirements are different at IIM Rohtak.

• Age: The maximum age for applicants is 20 years as of June 30, 2026.
• Qualifying Exam: Candidates must have passed their Standard XII/HSC or equivalent.
• Academic Stream: IIM Rohtak accepts students from all types of academic streams.
• Percentage: For the General, EWS, and NC-OBC categories, you need to have at least 60% of the total marks in both Standard X and XII.

Other IIMs and Institutes, such as Ranchi, Jammu, and Bodh Gaya, also offer IPM programs. They generally do not require mathematics. But some institutes that accept IPMAT scores have specific rules.

• IIM Ranchi, Jammu, & Bodh Gaya: These IIMs usually require at least 60% in Class 10 and 12 (55% for reserved categories). They accept scores from IPMAT Indore or JIPMAT and are open to all streams.
• The Exceptions: IIFT Kakinada and IIM Amritsar are different. They require applicants to have studied Mathematics, Business Mathematics, or Applied Mathematics in high school.

This focus on the institute is essential. The entrance exam is just one part. The final admission rules are set by each college. Your preparation must start with checking the specific criteria of your target schools.

Also Read, IPMAT Previous Year Question Papers, Download PDF

Is IPMAT Hard for Non-Math Students?

The main worry for non-math students is the Quantitative Ability section. But the difficulty is manageable. A strategic approach is needed. The exam tests logical application. It does not test for mathematical genius.

The QA section structure differs between the two main IPMATs.

• IPMAT Indore: This exam has two QA sections. One has 30 multiple-choice questions. The other has 15 Short Answer questions. Each section is 40 minutes long.
• IPMAT Rohtak: This exam has one QA section. It has 40 MCQs. The time limit is 40 minutes.

Understanding sectional cut-offs is the key. You do not need to answer every question correctly. The IPMAT Indore 2024 cut-off for the General category was 35 marks for the QA (MCQ) section. It was 24 marks for the QA (SA) section.

• A score of 35 marks in the MCQ section means a net of 9 correct answers out of 30.
• A score of 24 marks in the SA section means only 6 correct answers out of 15.

This data shows the exam is not just for math experts. A large part of the syllabus is based on topics from up to Class 10. Topics like Arithmetic, basic Algebra, and Number Systems. The low cut-offs show a priority. The test values a candidate's ability to find solvable problems. And to apply basic formulas correctly. And to manage time. These are all management skills. The challenge is less about complex math. It is more about strategy under pressure.

Also Read, IPMAT Syllabus 2026, Indore & Rohtak Pattern, Topics, and PDF

Can I give IPMAT without Maths in 12th

Yes. You can take the IPMAT without studying mathematics in Class 12. The main IPM programs at IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak are inclusive. They are open to students from all academic backgrounds. This includes Arts, Commerce, and Humanities.

The eligibility is clear for the main IIMs with an IPM course.

• For IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak: Mathematics is not a required subject. Your stream in Class 12 does not matter for their entrance exams.
• For IIM Ranchi, Jammu, and Bodh Gaya: These institutes also accept applicants from all streams. They do not have a mandatory math requirement.
• The Condition: This flexibility is not universal. Some other institutes that accept IPMAT scores, like IIFT, have their own rules. These rules include mathematics as a required subject.

The final answer is yes. But with a condition. Always check the eligibility criteria on the official website of the specific IIM or B-school you are targeting.

IPMAT Preparation Strategy for Non-Maths and Commerce Students

A smart IPMAT preparation strategy is needed for students from non-mathematics backgrounds. The approach should focus on two goals. Fortify and Maximize.

• Fortify Quantitative Ability. The goal is not to master every topic. It is to build a foundation strong enough to clear the sectional cut-off.
• Maximize Verbal Ability. Use your potential strength in English. Aim for a high score in the VA section. A top score here can improve your overall rank. It can balance an average score in QA.

A 6-month plan can help.

• Months 1-2: Focus only on basics. Use Class 9 and 10 NCERT math textbooks. Be confident in topics like Arithmetic, Number Systems, and basic Algebra. Daily need to spend 1-2 hours solving problems.
• Months 3-4: Start with a standard reference book. You need to solve topic-wise exercises for the areas covered in the first two months and start taking sectional tests. This will improve the speed and accuracy.
• Months 5-6: Start by taking two to three full-length practice tests every week. Analyze the performance carefully. Identify the question patterns. Work on time management. Finalize your strategy for selecting questions. Do not learn new topics in the last month.

Also Take, Free IPMAT Mock Tests

What’s Asked in IPMAT Quantitative Ability: Topics & Tips

The QA syllabus can seem large to a non-math student. Prioritizing topics is key. A tiered approach makes preparation manageable.

Tier 1: Things You Have to Do. These subjects are significant. They are based on maths from Class 10. They are necessary to get past the sectional cut-off.

• Maths: This is the most important area. It has things like percentages, profit and loss, interest, ratios, and averages. It also includes Time, Speed, and Distance, as well as Time and Work. There can be 6 to 7 questions in this part.
• Number System: Pay attention to theorems about divisibility, HCF and LCM, and remainders. There will be 3 to 4 questions from here.
• Learn how to solve linear and quadratic equations in basic algebra.

Tier 2: Topics That Should Be Done. They can help you get a higher score than the cutoff.

• Geometry and Measurement, Learn the basic properties of triangles, circles, and polygons. Find out how to use formulas to find area and volume.
• In modern maths, it's common to see basic questions about permutations and combinations, probability, and set theory. Usually, 1 or 2 questions are asked from each.

Data-Backed Tips

• Focus on Data Interpretation. DI sets often have 5 questions. They are based on logic, percentages, and ratios. This can be a high-scoring area.
• Use the SA Section. The Short Answer section in IPMAT Indore has no negative marking. This is a major advantage. Attempt all 15 questions. Even if it means making educated guesses on some. 

Also Join, IPMAT Preparation WhatsApp Group

Is Maths Compulsory for IPMAT Exam 2026: Conclusion

Non-math students can absolutely appear for the IPMAT 2026 exam, as mathematics is not a mandatory subject for eligibility in most IIMs. However, a strategic approach to preparation is essential. Focus on mastering the fundamentals of Quantitative Ability, especially topics like arithmetic, algebra, and number systems, and leverage your strengths in Verbal Ability. With consistent practice, mock tests, and time management, non-math students can excel in the exam and secure a spot in top IIMs.