What is the MAT?
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) several times a year. It is accepted by many management schools across India. The test has 150 questions in five sections and lasts 120 minutes, with no sectional time limits. It can be taken on paper, on computer, or as an internet-based test.
Who takes it
- MBA and PGDM aspirants in India
- Students who want an exam offered several times a year
- CAT aspirants who want a backup option
Official information: AIMA (All India Management Association) website.
MAT format at a glance
| Section | Time | Questions | What it tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Comprehension | No sectional limit | 30 questions | Reading and English usage |
| Intelligence and Critical Reasoning | No sectional limit | 30 questions | Logical and verbal reasoning |
| Data Analysis and Sufficiency | No sectional limit | 30 questions | Charts, tables and data sufficiency |
| Mathematical Skills | No sectional limit | 30 questions | Arithmetic, algebra and geometry |
| Economic and Business Environment | No sectional limit | 30 questions | Business and economic awareness |
How MAT scoring works
Composite score reported on a 200–800 scale
How to prepare for the MAT
Speed is everything
150 questions in 120 minutes is under a minute each. Practise fast, accurate solving.
Plan your own section order
There are no sectional time limits, so start with your strongest section.
Check how the composite is calculated
AIMA reports the composite from four scored sections. Check the current rules for the Economic and Business Environment section.
Take a few mocks under the real mode
Paper, computer and internet-based tests feel different. Practise in the mode you book.
A sample MAT study plan
Every plan we build starts from your diagnostic. This is a typical shape for a student starting from a solid base.
- Weeks 1–3Diagnostic and core concepts in maths and reasoning
- Weeks 4–6Speed drills and sectional tests
- Weeks 7–8Full mocks and business awareness revision
How we coach the MAT
A plan for you
We start from your diagnostic, target score and test date, and plan your hours around them.
Live online sessions
Sessions focus on the MAT skills you need most, with practice and review.
Practice that counts
Timed practice and mistake reviews show exactly what to fix next.
Your rate depends on the plan you choose.
MAT FAQs
What is the MAT exam pattern?
MAT has 150 multiple-choice questions in five sections of 30 each, to be completed in 120 minutes.
How many times a year is MAT held?
AIMA conducts MAT several times a year, in different modes.
Is MAT easier than CAT?
MAT is generally considered less difficult than CAT but is faster-paced. Which is right for you depends on the schools you are targeting.
Is there negative marking in MAT?
Check the current rules for your session on the official AIMA site, as marking details can change.
How much is MAT coaching?
BetterMyScores coaching costs $20 to $40 per hour.
MAT guides
MAT vs CAT: Who Should Take MAT?
MAT and CAT serve different goals. Many students take both.
CAT Section Strategy: VARC, DILR and QA
CAT gives each section a strict 40 minutes. The best strategy treats them as three separate tests.
XAT Decision Making: How to Approach It
Decision Making is XAT's signature section. A clear framework makes it far more predictable.