NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Admission Process & Preparation Tips
The NMAT Selection Criteria 2025 will depend on the cut-offs given by all participating institutes and GD-PI Rounds.
For admission into your dream NMAT college, the candidate must appear for NMAT 2025, along with the NMAT admit card, and score well.
Scroll down for complete details on the NMAT selection process 2025.
NMAT by GMAC 2025 – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | NMAT by GMAC |
| Organizing Authority | Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
| Level of Exam | National-level entrance test for postgraduate management programs |
| Exam Frequency | Conducted once annually with up to three attempts within a 70-day window |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) at designated test centres |
| Test Duration | 120 minutes |
| Sections Covered | Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning |
| Total Questions | 108 questions |
| Medium of Exam | English |
| Registration Fee | ₹3,000 |
| Primary Purpose | Admission to top B-schools like NMIMS, SPJIMR, ISB, XIMB, VIT, ICFAI, and others |
| Programs Offered | MBA / PGDM |
| Test Centres & Cities | Available at 87 centres across 83 cities |
| Helpdesk Number | 0120-4397855 |
| Official Website | mba.com |
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Important Dates
Every year, over 60,000 students choose to take the NMAT test, which undeniably highlights its status as one of India’s top management entrance exams. Coupled with the ever-growing reputation of NMIMS, Mumbai—the premier institution for NMAT scores—it’s easy to see why so many students aim for this test. If you’re one of those hopefuls wanting to attend the esteemed NMIMS in Mumbai or any of the other 50 colleges that accept NMAT scores, like SP Jain, XIMB, IBS, UBS, Shiv Nadar, or Amity, it’s essential to be aware of the previous years’ NMAT cutoffs for different colleges and programs.
Read the table below to understand the important dates:
| Event | Start Date | End Date |
| NMAT 2025 Registration & Application Process (Without Late Fee) | August 2025 | October 2025 |
| NMAT 2025 Exam Scheduling Window | August 2025 | October 2025 |
| NMAT 2025 Exam Dates | November 2025 | December 2025 |
| NMAT 2025 Re-take Registration | November 2025 | December 2025 |
| NMAT 2025 Result Declaration | Available 48 hours after the exam | – |
| Availability of Unofficial Scores | Immediately after the exam | – |
| NMAT 2025 Last Date to Download Scorecard | – | March 2026 |
Read More: NMAT Registration
NMAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
The authority overseeing the NMAT exam has the following eligibility criteria for 2025 that candidates must meet before registering.
- You need to have completed your graduation, either through the 10+2+3 education structure or a four-year degree program, from any field.
- Additionally, you should have achieved at least 50% overall in your final year of graduation.
- If you are waiting on results or are in your final year, you can still apply for NMAT 2025. Just keep in mind that your admission will be provisional until you submit your graduation mark sheet and qualification certificate.
- It is also important for candidates to verify the eligibility criteria of the colleges participating in the NMAT, as these may vary. When you apply, you will need to choose five preferred institutes for admission, and each one might have its own specific requirements.
Documents Required for the NMAT Selection Criteria 2025
Please ensure you have the following documents ready for the NMAT selection process 2025:
Academic Records:
10th Grade Marksheet & Passing Certificate
11th Grade Marksheet & Passing Certificate
Semester-wise Marksheet or Consolidated Marksheet
Degree Certificate or Provisional Degree Certificate
Other Certificates:
Migration Certificate
Medical Fitness Certificate
Read More: NMAT Marking Scheme
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025
The application process for colleges that accept the NMAT has several components, including a group discussion or case discussion, a personal interview, and a written ability test.
📌In the group discussion round, candidates discuss a specific topic with others in a group setting. Some colleges might substitute this with a case discussion, which focuses on a structured dialogue around a particular case study.
📌The personal interview is an opportunity to talk with the college’s admissions team. They will likely ask you various questions, including those about your career aspirations or your awareness of current events.
📌The written ability test is designed to assess your writing and communication skills. You will typically need to write about a given topic under a tight time limit—usually around 20 minutes.
📌Keep in mind that each college organizes its own admissions process, so if you have any questions about how NMAT selections work, it is best to reach out directly to your chosen college, as procedures can vary from one institution to another.
The more informed you are about the NMAT admissions process, the better your chances of succeeding in the last selection phase.
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Written Ability Test
Selection criteria for the Written Ability Test (WAT) required for the NMAT include writing an essay on the given topic within the prescribed word count. This test judges the candidate on writing skills and communication efficacy.
Evaluation is done on the basis of grammar, use of language, vocabulary, and clarity of thought.
Knowledge of the Written Ability Test may not be common for all business schools. However, for those schools that do employ it, a flawless essay will be expected, i.e.:
Grammatically correct
Rich in vocabulary
Contains facts, figures (preferably)
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Group Discussion Round
In this round, 9 to 10 candidates will discuss a specific topic for a certain amount of time.
This portion of the evaluation focuses on your communication skills, confidence, and your capacity to consider different viewpoints, as well as your knowledge of a range of subjects.
The examiner is looking to see how well you can articulate your thoughts and how receptive you are to the ideas of others.
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Personal Interview Round
The Personal Interview (PI) is like a group discussion, but instead, you will be in front of a panel made up of three to four interviewers. This group will usually include experienced people from NMAT-participating institutes, along with experts in particular subjects.
During the interview, they will be looking into different aspects like your personality, how well you communicate, your confidence, academic background, and any work experience you might have. So, it is really important to prepare yourself thoroughly for the interview and put your best foot forward.
Read More: NMAT Cutoff
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Expected Cut off for NMIMS
| NMIMS Campus | NMAT Cut-off Score |
| NMIMS, Mumbai | 234 |
| NMIMS, Bangalore | 222 |
| NMIMS, Hyderabad | 206 |
| NMIMS, Navi Mumbai | 222 |
| NMIMS, Indore | 206 |
Read More: NMAT Syllabus
Preparation Tips for NMAT Selection Criteria 2025
To prepare effectively for the NMAT selection process in 2025, consider these tips:
Written Ability Test (WAT)
To keep up with the latest trends and news, make a habit of reading newspapers and editorials regularly.
Work on expressing your ideas clearly and succinctly. It’s also essential that your handwriting is neat and error-free.
To enhance your ability to think on your feet, practice writing essays in timed conditions. Following these steps can broaden your perspective and help you become a more effective communicator.
Group Discussion Round (GD)
It is important to steer clear of a loud or aggressive tone when you’re speaking. Instead, try to maintain a calm and composed demeanour.
Pay close attention to what others are saying, and then tailor your response based on that input.
Make sure your body language conveys confidence and highlights your leadership abilities. Knowing when to step up is crucial in a group discussion.
If you have useful information that’s relevant, don’t hesitate to be the one to share it first. If not, it is best to join the conversation during pauses.
Personal Interview round (PI)
Get ready for both common and basic HR questions. If you’re unsure about an answer, it’s totally okay to say, “I don’t know” instead of taking a wild guess.
Confidence is key, so make sure to really listen to the interviewer’s questions before you respond.
Also, don’t forget to dress in formal attire to boost your professional look.
NMAT Selection Criteria 2025: Conclusion
If you are eyeing an MBA and are submitting your application for the NMAT by GMAC 2025, it is crucial to understand the NMAT selection criteria and process.
Gaining admission to NMAT colleges involves two main steps: passing the NMAT exam and showcasing your abilities in the WAT and PI sessions.
Make sure you put in the effort to prepare for each part of the NMAT selection process and turn your MBA dreams into reality.
FAQs: NMAT 2025
- What is the NMAT by GMAC exam used for?
NMAT by GMAC is a national-level entrance exam used for admission into MBA and PGDM programs at top Indian and global business schools such as NMIMS, SPJIMR (PGMPW), ISB (Advanced Management Programme), XIMB, and more.
- How many times can I attempt NMAT in 2025?
Candidates can attempt NMAT up to three times (one main attempt and two re-takes) within the official 70-day testing window, subject to availability and eligibility.
- What is the registration fee for NMAT 2025?
The NMAT 2025 registration fee is ₹3,000 (plus applicable taxes). There may be additional fees for rescheduling or re-taking the exam.
- When will NMAT 2025 registration begin and end?
The NMAT 2025 registration is expected to begin in August 2025 and close by October 2025. Re-take registration typically opens in November.
- Is the NMAT exam tougher than CAT or XAT?
NMAT is generally considered to be moderately difficult compared to CAT or XAT. It has no negative marking and allows multiple attempts, making it more candidate-friendly.
- How many colleges accept NMAT scores in India?
Over 40+ institutes in India accept NMAT scores, including NMIMS, KJ Somaiya, XIMB, IFMR, ICFAI, VIT, and more. Some international schools in South Africa, the Philippines, and Nigeria also accept NMAT scores.
- Can I reschedule my NMAT 2025 exam date?
Yes, GMAC allows candidates to reschedule the NMAT exam within the testing window by paying a rescheduling fee. This can be done through the official portal.
- What is the syllabus for NMAT 2025?
The NMAT 2025 exam covers three sections:
- Language Skills
- Quantitative Skills
- Logical Reasoning
Each section is timed separately and carries equal weightage.
- What is the exam pattern for NMAT 2025?
NMAT 2025 consists of 108 questions to be attempted in 120 minutes. The test is divided into three sections and has no negative marking.
- How soon are NMAT results declared after the exam?
Unofficial scores are shown immediately after the exam, while official scorecards are typically made available within 48 hours on the candidate’s dashboard.
- Can I apply to NMIMS through NMAT 2025?
Yes, NMIMS is the primary institute accepting NMAT scores. Candidates must select NMIMS during NMAT registration and also apply separately on the NMIMS admissions portal.
- What are the test center cities available for NMAT 2025?
NMAT 2025 is expected to be conducted at 87 test centers across 83 cities in India. The updated list will be available during the scheduling window.
- Is there negative marking in NMAT 2025?
No, the NMAT exam does not have negative marking, allowing candidates to attempt all questions without fear of score deduction.
