Choosing the right entrance exam is one of the most important tasks in anyone’s MBA journey. There are a plethora of exams students often appear for. MAT and GMAT exams are popular among them. Students who wish to pursue an MBA degree often go for these exams.
In this blog, we will be discussing the MAT and GMAT entrance exams and will do a comprehensive comparison of both of them, so that you can decide which MAT Vs GMAT, which is better for your MBA Goals.
What Is MAT
The Management Aptitude Test also known as “MAT” is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) for admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programs. MAT is among the most popular MBA entrance exams in India, accepted by over 700 business schools across the country. MAT is designed to evaluate a candidate’s analytical abilities and potential for success in a management program, making it a preferred choice for many aspiring MBA students in India.
The frequency of this exam is four times a year and offers multiple modes of examination, including CBT (computer Based Test), PBT (Paper Based Test), and proctored mode. As compared to other entrance exams, aspirants found this exam quite easy and this makes it an accessible option for those looking to enter an MBA program with less intense preparation.
What Is GMAT?
The Graduate Management Admission Test also known as “GMAT”, is a globally recognized standardized test used for admission to MBA and other graduate management programs across the globe. This exam is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the GMAT is accepted by more than 2,400 business schools worldwide, including some of the most prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, INSEAD, and London Business School.
The GMAT is known for its in-depth assessment of a candidate’s analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills, particularly in the areas of critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving. GMAT scores are valid for 5 years, providing candidates with more flexibility in terms of when to apply for business schools. The exam is conducted throughout the year at authorized test centers worldwide.
Also Read:– IELTS vs TOEFL: Which is Best for Your Study Abroad Dreams
MAT vs GMAT
Particulars | MAT | GMAT |
Full Form | Management Aptitude Test | Graduate Management Admission Test |
Conducting Body | All India Management Association | Graduate Management Admission Council |
Official Website | ||
Accepted by | Indian Universities | Indian and Foreign Universities |
Types of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions | Multiple Choice Questions |
Mode of Exam | CBT, PBT and IBT | Online: either at home or at a test centre |
Exam Frequency | Four times a year | Throughout the year |
Exam Fee | INR 2,100 | Online: INR 25,290 + Taxes At Test Centers: INR 23,180 + Taxes |
Syllabus |
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Duration of Exam | 120 Minutes | 135 Minutes |
What is the difference between MAT vs GMAT?
The MAT (Management Aptitude Test) and GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) are both widely recognized exams for MBA admissions, but they differ significantly in terms of their purpose, content, difficulty, and global acceptance.
MAT
MAT is primarily focused at Indian business schools and is known for its lower difficulty level. It examines your general aptitude across sections like Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, and General Awareness. It is more affordable, with a shorter exam duration (2.5 hours), and is available in computer-based and paper-based formats and Internet-based. While MAT is accepted by many business schools in India, its international reach is limited.
GMAT
GMAT, on the other hand, is an internationally recognized exam accepted by top-tier business schools across the globe, particularly for MBA and other graduate management programs. It focuses on examining your analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking skills through sections like Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal, and Data Insights. GMAT is more expensive and has a higher difficulty level, particularly in areas like critical reasoning and problem-solving. It is available in a computer-adaptive format, and its score is valid for five years, offering more flexibility for applicants planning to apply to schools globally.
The Exam Pattern Of MAT And GMAT
MAT Exam Pattern
Particulars | Description | |
Sections |
| |
Section Wise Weightage | Language Comprehension | 30 |
Data Analysis & Sufficiency | 30 | |
Mathematical Skills | 30 | |
Intelligence & Critical Reasoning | 30 | |
Economic and Business Environment | 30 | |
Total Marks | 150 | |
Time Allotted | 120 Minutes | |
Number of Questions | 150 | |
Negative Marking | There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer | |
Particulars | Description | |
Sections |
| |
Section Wise Weightage | Quantitative Reasoning | 21 |
Verbal Reasoning | 23 | |
Data Insights | 20 | |
Total Marks | 805 | |
Time Allotted | 135 Minutes | |
Number of Questions | 64 | |
Negative Marking | There is no negative marking | |
Syllabus of MAT and GMAT
Section | Topics Covered |
Language Comprehension |
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Mathematical Skills |
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Data Analysis and Sufficiency |
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Intelligence and Critical Reasoning |
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Economic and Business Environment |
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Section | Topics Covered |
Quantitative Reasoning
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Verbal Reasoning
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Data Insights |
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Eligibility Criteria MAT and GMAT
MAT
- Candidate must have completed a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Candidates appearing for the final year or who have results awaited can also appear for this exam
- There is no minimum score requirement, candidate only needs passing marks to appear for the exam.
- There is no age limit to appear for this exam, however, there is a minimum age of 20 years.
- Candidates don’t need any work experience to apply for this exam, however, it provides them an edge in the selection process.
GMAT
- Candidate must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from any recognized university.
- There is no upper age limit, however, the candidate must have completed 18 years of age at the time of applying for the exam.
- Candidate must have a valid passport.
- A candidate can appear for this exam 12 times in a year, but with a gap of at least 16 days
Preparation Tips For MAT and GMAT
Use the Pomodoro Technique: Work in 25-minute focused study sessions, followed by a 5-minute break. After four sessions, take a longer break (15-30 minutes) to recharge.
Take Regular Mock Tests: Attempt multiple mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern. Use them to identify strengths and weaknesses, and improve time management.
Work on Your Vocabulary: Improve your vocabulary during your free time by reading books, newspapers, and articles. Use vocabulary-building apps to practice and strengthen word knowledge.
Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Review the exam pattern to identify areas where you’re strong and areas that need improvement. Focus more on weaker areas while reinforcing your strengths.
Prioritize rest: Ensure 7-8 hours of sleep each night to improve memory retention and concentration. A well-rested mind performs better during both study sessions and the exam.
MAT vs GMAT: Which Exam Is Best For Your MBA Goals?
Before making any decision about these exams, consider the following points to know which exam is best for your MBA goals.
Criteria | MAT | GMAT |
Target Audience | Students aiming for MBA programs in India, especially in regional or lesser-ranked B-schools. | Students aspiring to attend top-tier global business schools or seeking international career opportunities. |
Scorecard Acceptance | Accepted by many B-schools in India. | Accepted by top business schools worldwide, including Ivy League and prestigious global institutions. |
Difficulty Level | Moderate: Tests fundamental business skills with multiple-choice questions. | High: A rigorous exam that tests advanced reasoning, with computer-adaptive testing adjusting the difficulty. |
Preparation Time | 2-3 months of focused study. | 6-9 months of intensive preparation due to the complexity of the exam. |
Career Opportunities | Best for candidates seeking roles in Indian companies or regional markets. | Ideal for those seeking global roles, working with multinational corporations, or targeting international career paths. |
Flexibility | Held 4 times a year (Feb, May, Sep, Dec). | Available year-round, with 5 attempts per year. |
Top Universities Accepting MAT Scores
University | Location |
Institute of Management Technology (IMT) | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh |
Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMT) | Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh |
Alliance University | Bangalore, Karnataka |
Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM) | Delhi |
Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research (WeSchool) | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM) | Pune, Maharashtra |
ITM Business School | Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra |
UPES (University of Petroleum and Energy Studies) | Dehradun, Uttarakhand |
Amity University | Noida, Uttar Pradesh |
Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) | Anand, Gujarat |
Top Universities Accepting GMAT Scores
University | Location |
Indian School of Business (ISB) | Hyderabad, Telangana |
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM A) | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM B) | Bangalore, Karnataka |
Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM C) | Kolkata, West Bengal |
XLRI Jamshedpur | Jamshedpur, Jharkhand |
SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) | Delhi |
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) | New Delhi, Delhi NCR & Kolkata |
Management Development Institute (MDI) | Gurgaon, Haryana |
Institute of Management Technology (IMT) | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh |
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 What is the difference between CAT MAT and GMAT?
Ans: They all are used for taking admissions in management institutions, but their acceptability and recognition separate each exam.
Q.2 Which is the easiest exam for an MBA?
Ans: As per the analysis MAT, CMAT, and IBSAT are considered the easiest MBA entrance exam.
Q.3 Does IIM accept MAT scores?
Ans: No, IIM does not accept MAT scores for admission, Instead, they accept CAT scorecards.
Q.4 Is GMAT easier than CAT?
Ans: Yes, the GMAT is easier than the CAT.
Q.5 How long are MAT and GMAT scores valid?
Ans: MAT scorecard is valid for 1 year, whereas GMAT scorecard is valid for 5 years.