In this blog, we’ll talk about the top MBA exams that one must take in order to get into the top B schools in India. Each exam has a different prospectus and colleges associated with it. Let’s read more to help you get into your dream B school.
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Top MBA Entrance Exams in India for 2024 Admissions
As some of the most common MBA admission exams are being canceled, it becomes vital to know which exams you can target to take admission in top MBA colleges in 2024.
Each of these exams carries a significant importance among MBA aspirants as the required percentile for some of the top colleges varies from exam to exam for a particular college.
Let’s understand some of these exams and what you can target from them.
CAT
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a competitive entrance exam for admission into prestigious management programs in India, primarily for the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools. CAT assesses a candidate’s quantitative, verbal, data interpretation, and logical reasoning skills. Here’s an overview of the CAT exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for CAT
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or an equivalent CGPA (45% for candidates from SC, ST, and PwD categories).
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A): Median Salary – INR 26 LPA
- Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B): Median Salary – INR 25 LPA
- Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C): Median Salary – INR 24 LPA
- Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM-L): Median Salary – INR 23 LPA
- Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM-I): Median Salary – INR 22 LPA
CAT Exam Syllabus
The CAT exam is divided into three major sections: Verbal ability & reading comprehension (VARC), data interpretation & logical reasoning (DILR), and quantitative ability (QA).
| Section | Topics |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Reading ComprehensionVocabularyGrammarPara-jumblesSentence CorrectionCritical ReasoningFacts-Inferences-Judgments |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | Bar Graphs and Column Graphs Tables Venn Diagrams Line Charts and Pie Charts Binary Logic Seating Arrangement Blood Relations Syllogism |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | Number Systems LCM and HCF Profit and Loss Ratio and Proportion Averages Percentages Time-Speed-Distance Work and Time Quadratic Equations Surds and Indices |
CAT Percentile Requirements
The competition for CAT is intense, and the percentile required for admission to top colleges like IIMs is typically above 90 percentile. However, the actual percentile varies from year to year and depends on factors such as the difficulty of the exam, the number of applicants, and the specific IIM or business school’s admission criteria.
For some of the top IIMs, securing a minimum overall percentile of around 99 or higher is common. Additionally, section-wise percentiles above 90 are often preferred for each section (VARC, DILR, and QA). It’s essential to check the admission criteria of the specific institute you’re interested in, as requirements may differ.
Who should give the CAT?
CAT is for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and a keen interest in honing their quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills. It’s for candidates who seek a challenging academic and professional journey in top-tier business schools like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Successful CAT aspirants are committed to continuous preparation in the field of management and business.
Note that the admission for 2024 in IIFT and management programs of TISS will be done by CAT score only.
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XAT
Xavier aptitude test (XAT) is a national-level entrance exam in India conducted by XLRI – Xavier School of management, on behalf of Xavier Association of management institutes (XAMI). It is accepted by numerous top-tier management institutes for admission into their postgraduate management programs. Here’s an overview of the XAT exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for XAT
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institute. The degree must be completed by the time of joining the institute.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Xavier School of Management(XLRI), Jamshedpur: Median Salary – INR 23 LPA
- S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research(SPJIMR), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 23 LPA
- Institute of Management Technology(IMT), Ghaziabad: Median Salary – INR 13 LPA
- Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB), Bhubaneswar: Median Salary – INR 14 LPA
- Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA), Ahmedabad: Median Salary – INR 17 LPA
XAT Exam Syllabus
The XAT exam is divided into four sections: Verbal ability and logical reasoning, decision making, quantitative ability, and general awareness.
| Section | Topics |
| Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning | Reading Comprehension Vocabulary Grammar Critical Reasoning Para-jumbles Para-completion Analytical Reasoning |
| Decision Making | Ethical Dilemmas Managerial Issues Decision Analysis Caselets |
| Quantitative Ability | Number Systems LCM and HCF Profit and Loss Ratio and Proportion Percentages Time-Speed-Distance Work and Time Algebra Geometry Mensuration |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs History Geography Science and Technology Business Environment |
XAT Percentile Requirements
XAT percentile requirements for top colleges can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the exam’s difficulty and the number of applicants. Typically, to secure admission to the top colleges mentioned above, candidates need to achieve a minimum overall percentile of around 95 to 99 or higher. Additionally, section-wise percentiles above 85 to 90 are commonly preferred for each section (Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and General Awareness). Specific percentile requirements may differ among colleges, so it’s essential to check the admission criteria of the institutes you’re interested in.
Who should give XAT?
XAT is ideal for candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree and are committed to enhancing their problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills. It’s for those who value ethical reasoning and are interested in pursuing postgraduate management programs from prestigious institutes such as XLRI and others in the Xavier association of management institutes (XAMI). XAT aspirants are determined to embrace leadership roles and contribute to the corporate world while upholding values of ethics and social responsibility.
Who should give IIFT?
IIFT is the ideal choice for those seeking to specialize in the field of international business and gain insights into the complexities of the global marketplace. Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree and a passion for understanding cross-border trade, economics, and management. Aspirants should also be enthusiastic about contributing to international corporations and organizations, as well as taking on leadership roles in the ever-evolving world of global business.
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NMAT
The NMAT (NMIMS management aptitude test) is an entrance exam conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) for admission into various management programs, including MBA, offered by Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) and other reputed business schools. Here’s an overview of the NMAT exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for NMAT
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institute. Final-year students can also apply.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies(NMIMS), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 18 LPA
- S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research(SPJIMR), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 23 LPA
- Xavier Institute of Management(XIMB), Bhubaneswar: Median Salary – INR 14 LPA
- Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida: Median Salary – INR 11 LPA
- T.A. Pai Management Institute(TAPMI), Manipal: Median Salary – INR 11 LPA
NMAT Exam Syllabus
The NMAT exam is divided into three main sections: Language skills, quantitative skills, and logical reasoning.
| Section | Topics |
| Language Skills | Reading Comprehension Vocabulary Grammar Para-jumbles Synonyms & Antonyms Cloze Test Idioms and Phrases |
| Quantitative Skills | Number Systems Profit and Loss Ratio and Proportion Percentages Time-Speed-Distance Work and Time Algebra Geometry Mensuration Data Interpretation |
| Logical Reasoning | Coding-Decoding Blood Relations Syllogism Direction Sense Series Analytical Puzzles Venn Diagrams Critical Reasoning |
NMAT Percentile Requirements
The percentile requirements for NMAT can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the difficulty of the exam and the number of applicants. To secure admission to the top colleges mentioned above, candidates typically need to achieve a minimum overall percentile of around 90 to 95 or higher. Additionally, section-wise percentiles above 80 to 85 are often preferred for each section (Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning). Specific percentile requirements may differ among colleges, so it’s essential to check the admission criteria of the institutes you’re interested in.
Who should give NMAT?
NMAT is suitable for those seeking a flexible and broad-based management program, including MBA, that includes language skills, quantitative aptitude, and logical reasoning. It is an ideal choice for candidates with an inclination towards problem-solving and analytical thinking, irrespective of their undergraduate specialization. NMAT aspirants should be prepared for a competitive learning environment, as well as a rewarding career in various management domains.
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SNAP
The Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is an entrance exam conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) for admission to various postgraduate programs, including MBA, offered by the Symbiosis institutes. Here’s an overview of the SNAP exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institute. Final year students can also apply.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Symbiosis Institute of Business Management(SIBM), Pune: Median Salary – INR 17 LPA
- Symbiosis Centre for Management and Human Resource Development(SCMHRD),
Pune: Median Salary – INR 16 LPA
- Symbiosis Institute of International Business(SIIB), Pune: Median Salary – INR 10 LPA
- Symbiosis Institute of Digital and Telecom Management(SITM), Pune: Median Salary – INR 9 LPA
- Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies(SIMS), Pune: Median Salary – INR 8 LPA
SNAP Exam Syllabus
The SNAP exam consists of four main sections: General English, analytical & logical reasoning, quantitative, data interpretation & data sufficiency, and current affairs.
| Section | Topics |
| General English | Reading Comprehension Vocabulary Grammar Synonyms & Antonyms Fill in the Blanks Sentence Correction Idioms and Phrases |
| Analytical & Logical Reasoning | Critical Reasoning Coding-Decoding Blood Relations Series Analytical Puzzles Venn Diagrams Syllogism Direction Sense |
| Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency | Number Systems Profit and Loss Ratio and Proportion Percentages Time-Speed-Distance Work and Time Algebra Geometry Data Interpretation |
| Current Affairs | Current Events Business and Economics Sports and Awards Politics and Government |
SNAP Percentile Requirements
SNAP percentile requirements for top colleges can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the exam’s difficulty and the number of applicants. Typically, to secure admission to the top colleges mentioned above, candidates need to achieve a minimum overall percentile of around 90 to 95 or higher. Additionally, section-wise percentiles above 80 to 85 are often preferred for each section. Specific percentile requirements may differ among colleges, so it’s essential to check the admission criteria of the institutes you’re interested in.
Who should give SNAP?
SNAP is an ideal choice for candidates seeking a wide range of management specializations, including business management, international business, and more. It is suitable for those with diverse academic backgrounds and a strong foundation in general knowledge. Aspirants should have the capability for problem-solving, analytical reasoning, and a good command of the English language. SNAP opens doors to an array of management programs and is a great fit for those aiming for a career in diverse management domains.
IBSAT
The ICFAI business school aptitude Test (IBSAT) is an entrance exam conducted by the ICFAI foundation for higher education (IFHE) for admission to its management programs, including the master of business administration (MBA) and post graduate program in management (PGPM). Here’s an overview of the IBSAT exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for IBSAT
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized university. Final year students can also apply.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries:
- ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad: Median Salary – INR 8 LPA
- ICFAI Business School, Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 7 LPA
- ICFAI Business School, Bangalore: Median Salary – INR 7 LPA
- ICFAI Business School, Gurgaon: Median Salary – INR 6 LPA
- ICFAI Business School, Pune: Median Salary – INR 7 LPA
IBSAT Exam Syllabus
The IBSAT exam consists of four main sections: Verbal ability, reading comprehension, quantitative aptitude, and data adequacy & data interpretation.
| Section | Topics |
Verbal Ability
| VocabularyGrammarSentence CorrectionSynonyms & AntonymsIdioms and PhrasesPara-jumblesFill in the Blanks |
| Reading Comprehension | Reading and Understanding PassagesInference and Critical Reasoning |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Number SystemsProfit and LossRatio and ProportionPercentagesTime-Speed-DistanceWork and TimeAlgebraGeometry |
| Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation | Data InterpretationLogical PuzzlesVenn Diagrams |
IBSAT Percentile Requirements
The percentile requirements for IBSAT can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the difficulty of the exam and the number of applicants. To secure admission to the top colleges mentioned above, candidates typically need to achieve a minimum overall percentile of around 80 to 90 or higher. Specific percentile requirements may differ among colleges, so it’s essential to check the admission criteria of the institutes you’re interested in.
Who should give IBSAT?
IBSAT is an ideal choice for those seeking postgraduate management programs that provide a well-rounded education in various management domains. It suits candidates with diverse academic backgrounds and a strong desire to develop their leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Aspirants should have a passion for business, skills for strategic thinking, and the ambition to excel in the corporate world. IBSAT opens doors to a range of management programs and is a great fit for those aiming for challenging roles in the field of business and management.
CMAT
The common management admission test (CMAT) is a national-level entrance exam in India conducted by the national testing agency (NTA). It is a prerequisite for admission to various management programs, including the master of business administration (MBA) and post graduate diploma in management (PGDM). Here’s an overview of the CMAT exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for CMAT
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a recognized bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Final year students can also apply.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies(JBIMS), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 22 LPA
- Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research, and Entrepreneurship Education(SIMSREE), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 12 LPA
- Department of Management Sciences, University of Pune(PUMBA): Median Salary – INR 7 LPA
- KJ Somaiya Institute of Management Studies and Research, Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 12 LPA
- Goa Institute of Management(GIM), Goa: Median Salary – INR 10 LPA
CMAT Exam Syllabus
The CMAT exam consists of four main sections: Logical reasoning, language comprehension, quantitative techniques & data interpretation, and general awareness.
| Section | Topics |
| Logical Reasoning | AnalogyBlood RelationshipCoding and DecodingClocks and CalendarCritical ReasoningSyllogismsDirection and DistanceData Arrangement |
| Language Comprehension | Reading ComprehensionVocabularyGrammarPara-jumblesSynonyms & AntonymsFill in the Blanks |
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | Number SystemsProfit and LossRatio and ProportionPercentagesTime-Speed-DistanceWork and TimeAlgebraGeometryData Interpretation |
| General Awareness | Current AffairsBusiness and EconomicsPolitics and GovernmentSports and AwardsHistory and Culture |
CMAT Percentile Requirements
CMAT percentile requirements can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the exam’s difficulty and the number of applicants. Typically, candidates aiming for programs in top colleges like JBIMS and SIMSREE should aim for a percentile score above 98 to 99 or higher. It’s essential to check the specific admission criteria and percentile requirements for the institutes you’re interested in, as they may differ among colleges.
Who should give CMAT?
CMAT is an ideal choice for those aspiring to gain admission to esteemed management programs and business schools in India. It caters to candidates with diverse academic backgrounds and a passion for leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. Aspirants should possess strong analytical and communication skills and have a desire to excel in the world of business and management. CMAT provides an opportunity for individuals to access a wide range of management programs and paves the way for a rewarding career in various management domains, including finance, marketing, human resources, and more.
MAT
The management aptitude test (MAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) for admission to various management programs, including the master of business administration (MBA) and post graduate diploma in management (PGDM). Here’s an overview of the MAT exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for MAT
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a recognized bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Final year students can also apply.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Birla Institute of Management Technology(BIMTECH), Greater Noida: Median Salary – 10 LPA
- Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore: Median Salary – 7 LPA
- Institute of Public Enterprise(IPE), Hyderabad: Median Salary – 8 LPA
- Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida: Median Salary – 7 LPA
- Chandragupt Institute of Management(CIMP), Patna: Median Salary – 5 LPA
MAT Exam Syllabus
The MAT exam consists of five main sections: Language comprehension, mathematical skills, data analysis & sufficiency, Intelligence & critical reasoning, and Indian & global environment.
| Section | Topics |
Language Comprehension
| Reading ComprehensionVocabularyGrammarSynonyms & AntonymsFill in the BlanksPara-jumbles |
| Mathematical Skills | Number SystemsProfit and LossRatio and ProportionPercentagesTime-Speed-DistanceWork and TimeAlgebraGeometry |
| Data Analysis & Sufficiency | Data InterpretationData Sufficiency |
| Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | AnalogyBlood RelationshipCoding and DecodingCritical ReasoningSyllogisms |
| Indian & Global Environment | Current AffairsBusiness and EconomicsPolitics and GovernmentSports and AwardsHistory and Culture |
MAT Percentile Requirements
MAT percentile requirements can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the difficulty of the exam and the number of applicants. Typically, candidates aiming for programs in top colleges like MDI Gurgaon and IMI Delhi should aim for a percentile score above 90 to 95 or higher. It’s essential to check the specific admission criteria and percentile requirements for the institutes you’re interested in, as they may differ among colleges.
Who should give MAT?
MAT is an ideal choice for those seeking admission to esteemed management programs and business schools in India. It caters to candidates with diverse academic backgrounds and a passion for leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
Aspirants should possess strong analytical and communication skills and have a desire to excel in the world of business and management. MAT provides an opportunity for individuals to access a wide range of management programs and paves the way for a rewarding career in various management domains, including finance, marketing, human resources, and more.
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MHCET
The Maharashtra common entrance test (MHCET) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the state common entrance test cell, Maharashtra. It is the gateway for admission to various professional courses, including master of business administration (MBA) and post graduate diploma in management (PGDM) programs offered by institutions in Maharashtra. Here’s an overview of the MHCET exam, including eligibility criteria, top colleges, their median salaries, and the syllabus breakdown.
Eligibility Criteria for MHCET
- Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a recognized bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) from a recognized university.
Top 5 Colleges and Median Salaries
- Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies(JBIMS), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 22 LPA
- Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research, and Entrepreneurship Education(SIMSREE), Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 12 LPA
- Department of Management Sciences(PUMBA), University of Pune: Median Salary – INR 7 LPA
- SIES College of Management Studies, Mumbai: Median Salary- INR 9 LPA
- Xavier Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai: Median Salary – INR 6 LPA
MHCET Exam Syllabus:
The MHCET exam comprises four sections: Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension.
| Section | Topics |
| Logical Reasoning | Analytical PuzzlesSyllogismsCoding-DecodingBlood RelationsDirection SenseData Arrangement |
| Abstract Reasoning | Figure Series
Pattern RecognitionOdd One OutGeometric Shapes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Number SystemsArithmetic (Ratio, Percentage, Profit & Loss, etc.)AlgebraGeometryTime-Speed-DistanceAveragesData Interpretation |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | VocabularyGrammarReading ComprehensionSentence CorrectionPara-jumblesSynonyms & Antonyms |
MHCET Percentile Requirements
MHCET percentile requirements can vary from year to year and depend on factors such as the difficulty of the exam and the number of applicants. To secure admission to top colleges like JBIMS and SIMSREE, candidates typically need to achieve a minimum overall percentile of around 95 to 99 or higher. Specific percentile requirements may differ among colleges, so it’s important to check the admission criteria of the institutes you’re interested in.
Who should give the MHCET?
MHCET is an ideal choice for those looking to gain admission to prestigious management institutions and business schools in the region. It is suited for candidates with diverse academic backgrounds and a strong desire to enhance their leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Aspirants should be driven, motivated, and have a passion for excelling in the field of business and management. MHCET opens doors to a wide range of management programs and provides an opportunity to embark on a rewarding career in various management domains, including finance, marketing, human resources, and more, with a focus on opportunities within Maharashtra.
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