The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is the first step for students who want to do a management program. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this national-level exam. Scoring well increases the chances of admission in the best MBA colleges or 1,300 management colleges across India that accept the CMAT score for admission.
Succeeding in clearing the CMAT exam requires discipline and a solid plan. Here are 10 top tips to help you secure a seat at a leading business school.
- Total Duration: 180 Minutes (3 Hours)
- Total Questions: 100
- Maximum Marks: 400
- Accepting Colleges: 1,300+ B-schools
- Number of Sections: 05
- Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect answers
1. Know the Exam Structure
Before you begin studying, you need to understand the exam pattern. This information will help you in managing your time appropriately. The exam consists of five sections, each carrying equal weightage.
CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern Breakdown:
| Section Name | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 | 80 |
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | 20 | 80 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 | 80 |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | 20 | 80 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
2. Create a Strict Study Schedule
Organising time is important to aOrganization is key to success. You should create a timetable and follow it strictly.
- Achieve success. You should create a timetable and follow it strictly.
- Divide large topics into small subtopics, manageable parts.
- Allocate specific time to a specific subject.
- Take short 5-10 minute breaks after an hour or half an hour to avoid boredom or tiredness.Â
3. Select High-Quality Study Material
- Buy appropriate standard books or those recommended by experts.
- Watch online video lectures for difficult concepts or easy understanding.
- Make sure your materials cover the updated CMAT syllabus and avoid being outdated.
4. Attempt Mock Tests
Mock tests show you where you stand. They simulate the real exam environment.
- Practice or solve full-length mock tests within the 3-hour limit.
- By analyzing your results, try to overcome your weak points before appearing main exam.
- Attempt the Mock test at the same actual timing of the exam shift that gives you confidence
5. Time Management
- Practice in mock tests how to manage the 180 minutes wisely, and increase speed and accuracy
- Divide your paper solution time, and solve easy questions first, then the lengthy ones.
- Skip difficult or unsure questions and return to them later if you have time left.
- Analyse how much time you spend on each section so that you can manage it easily.
Also Read: CMAT Previous Year Papers- Download Free PDF
6. Strengthen Your Vocabulary
- Make a habit of reading English newspapers and magazines every day.
- Write down new words and their meanings.
- Use mobile apps or flashcards to learn new terms.
7. Revision
- Allocate time on the weekend for revision so that you can be on track.
- Make easy, short notes or mind maps for quick reading catch.
- Focus on your weak areas during these sessions.
8. Doubts Clearing Session When Needed
- Join CMAT study groups or online forums, which will help you in clearing your doubts as well as if you clear any doubts, that makes you more confident.
- Ask teachers or mentors for easy explanations.
- Discuss complex topics with your friends or classmates.
9. Solve Past Years’ Question Papers
- Solve papers from at least the last five years.
- Identify high-weightage topics.
- Adjust your study plan based on these insights and practice accordingly.
10. Maintain an Error Log
- Keep a separate notebook for questions you answer incorrectly.
- Write down the correct method or formula for that question.
- Review this notebook weekly.
Wrap-Up
Passing the CMAT 2026 exam is possible with consistent effort. You need to understand the syllabus, practice regularly, and analyze your performance. Follow these ten tips to improve your score and get admission into your preferred management college.
