NPAT 2026 Analysis: Strategies and Tips for Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning and Verbal Ability

NMIMS NPAT 2026 is a test of your ability not only to work hard but also to strategise. The ones who score well know what it takes to crack the exam and get into one of the most prestigious campuses in the country. In this blog, IMS mentor Dharmik Siroya takes you through the NPAT 2026 (Phase 1) and discusses the game plan you should follow to score well.

What is NPAT?

NPAT stands for the National Test for Programs After Twelfth, and it is conducted by the Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) for admissions to its undergraduate programs.

NPAT is for students who have completed 12th Class and wish to pursue management, commerce, branding, marketing or liberal arts degrees at NMIMS. A high NPAT score allows them to get into various programs, such as BBA, B.Com, B.Sc, and Liberal Arts. Students can choose from a variety of NMIMS campuses, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Navi Mumbai, Hyderabad, Indore, and Chandigarh. To be eligible for the NPAT 2026 exam, candidates must have passed Class 12. Apart from this, programs such as B.Sc Finance, B.Sc Economics, BBA Fintech, and BBA Finance require Maths/Statistics as a compulsory subject in class 12. 

In this analysis, we will discuss the paper pattern, test interface, important topics in each section (Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability) and strategies to ace the test.

Also Read: NPAT Exam 2026: Registration, Pattern, Syllabus, Results & Preparation Tips

NPAT Paper Pattern

The NPAT paper pattern has three sections of 40 marks each: Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning and Verbal Ability.  Here are some points to note:

1. The entire test totals up to 120 marks.
2. The total duration of NPAT is 100 minutes.
3. There is no sectional time limit.
4. For every correct answer, you get 1+.
5. There is no negative marking.
6. The order is flexible. 
7. Aim for 80+ overall for safety. The good scores for each program are listed at the end.

NPAT 2026 Points to Remember

Carry a Physical Copy of the Admit Card, ID Proof

On the day of your NPAT, carry a printout of your admit card and original ID proof to the examination hall. You cannot take any digital format of an admit card or ID proof. Without these two documents, the people at the centre will not allow you to attend the examination.

You cannot use a calculator for NPAT

NPAT does not allow the use of a calculator. Instead, you will be provided a laminated sketchpad, a marker and a duster to do your rough work and calculations.

Familiarise Yourself With Test Interface

If you have taken the IMS mocks for NPAT (SIMNPAT 5 onwards), you will be familiar with the actual test interface, as they use the same interface. The NPAT 2026 exam interface displays one question at a time with no side window to click through other questions. You can see key information such as time remaining and question number at the top of the screen.

Also Read: NPAT Exam Preparation 2026: Get Expert Tips & Strategy

Use Navigator Button Wisely

In the NPAT interface, there will be a “Navigate” button in the lower right corner. If you click it, you can navigate all 120 questions in a pop-up window. This comes in handy if you want to attempt any section first, depending on your comfort level.

You cannot see three different sections. All three are stacked one on top of the other. Questions 1-40 are Quantitative Ability; 41-80 are Logical Reasoning; and 81-120 are Verbal Ability.

This knowledge lets you scroll through the entire paper and decide which section you want to attempt first. For instance, if you want to start with Logical Reasoning, use the navigator and go to questions 41-80. Similarly, if you want to start with Verbal Ability, begin with questions 81-120.

Familiarity with the interface prevents any surprises that can impact your performance.

Quantitative Ability

The Quantitative Ability (QA) section comprises 40 questions, numbered 1-40, on the navigator. It is recommended that you complete these questions within 30-35 minutes. Remember that there is no onscreen calculator for NPAT Quantitative Ability. There is also no negative marking for the same, which means you should attempt every question to ensure you optimise your score.

Here is a breakdown of all NPAT Quant topics based on the recent Phase 1 paper: 

Strategy for NPAT 2026 Quantitative Ability

To score in NPAT Quantitative Ability, you will need a strategy that combines focus on high-priority topics, efficient time management and leveraging the exam’s scoring system.

Allocate 30 – 35 mins to Quantitative Ability.

To secure 25-30 questions correctly and balance your overall 90+ score for the Mumbai campuses, you should ideally allocate 30-35 minutes to the QA questions.

Focus on High-Priority Questions

First, focus on high-priority areas that carry the most weight, such as trigonometry, data interpretation, statistics, and algebra. Then focus on Time and Work, Set Theory and Probability.

Avoid Too Much Time on DI

A common mistake students make is spending too much time on DI. You must track your time so you don’t neglect the rest of the sections.

Target 20-25 Questions With Intent

For an average student, a good target is 20-25 genuine attempt questions. If math is your strength, aim for 30 or more.

Practice Rough Work

There is no calculator for NPAT Quantitative Ability. At the exam centre, they may give you a thick marker and a laminated sketchbook instead of a pen and paper. Practice with similar tools as you prepare for the section to build a sense of comfort.

Logical Reasoning (LR)

This section tests your ability to identify hidden rules, connect different pieces of information and draw conclusions in a strict time frame. In other words, it is a test of your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. LR section comprises:

NPAT Logical Reasoning Strategies

NPAT LR is the most time-consuming part of the test; hence, students need to apply strategies that focus on time management and efficiency under pressure.

Allocate 40-45 Minutes on LR

Proceed with the understanding that this section may take time; hence, you should work strategically and allocate 40-45 minutes to it.

Attempt 30-35 Questions in LR

To ensure you score well in this section, at least attempt 30-35 questions with genuine intent. That will count as a “good attempt.” You can save the remaining 5-10 questions for “fluke” or guesswork, in case you don’t know the answer.

Don’t Spend Over 1.5 to 2 Minutes

The Top, Front, and Side Views questions are described as quite difficult to visualise and understand. Move on after 1.5 to 2 minutes if you cannot find the answer to avoid wasting time. You can use that time for easier questions.

Practice Syllogism Thoroughly

Syllogism is a high-priority topic, so practice it thoroughly before the exams.

Be Prepared for Non-Standard Answers in Data Comparison

Data Comparison may include non-standard answers such as “always” and “never.” Be sure to check every row and scenario quickly. Pick “always” if it fits 100% without exceptions, “never” if it’s impossible every time, and “sometimes” if it’s mixed. Be wary of eliminating obvious mismatches first and guessing the rest, as seen in stats or percentage DI examples.

Verbal Ability (VA)

This section tests your English skills in areas like grammar, vocabulary and reading comprehension. In contrast to Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability is the quickest section to tackle and the most “doable”. The section comprises 40 questions covering the following core topics:  

NPAT Verbal Ability Strategies

Using strategies for the Verbal Ability (VA) section is essential because it is considered the easiest and most “doable” section of the NPAT, making it the best opportunity to secure a high score in a short amount of time.

Start With VA

The recommended strategy is to start with VA. When you complete this section early, since it’s the quickest, you can build momentum and focus most of your attention on other sections.

Allocate 20-25 Minutes for VA

While you should ideally begin with Verbal Ability, do not spend more than 20-25 minutes on this section. Aim to finish all 40 questions within this time frame.

Attempt Around 35-40 Questions With Intent

To max your score, aim to answer 35-40 questions with genuine intent. You can guess up to 5 questions.

Overall Strategies for NPAT

Follow VA – LR – QA Sequence

Ideally, always start with VA. Verbal Ability is the quickest of the three sections. Completing it will leave you with more time for the other two sections, which are relatively more time-consuming due to the complexity of the questions. VA builds quick momentum, LR needs focus, and QA should be saved for the end because it is calculation-heavy.  

Never Leave a Question Blank

Leverage NPAT’s “no negative marking” system and attempt all the questions. There is nothing to lose since you won’t be penalised for a wrong answer. Even if you are stuck, you should “fluke” the answer and move ahead.

Be Careful of the “Mark for Review” Feature

Be wary of using the “mark for review” feature, which lets you revisit questions you aren’t sure about. The interface can slow down, and you may run out of time before the paper gets auto-submitted.

Practice Doing Rough Work

With no calculator or pen and paper, you will have to use a thick marker and a laminated sketchbook for rough work. Note that using a marker means you have to use a duster to erase. A marker may not be as precise as a pen. So familiarise yourself with using a marker and a laminated surface for practice work, so you can feel at ease during the exams.

NPAT Scores

NPAT demands different score cut-offs for admissions to different courses. Here’s a breakdown:

Frequently Asked Questions

When to apply for NPAT 2026?

NPAT 2026 registration is currently live. Phase 1 applications ran from late January to March 23, 2026, with exams from February 10 to March 31. Phase 2 registrations are open till May 26, and exams will continue till June 1.

Are NMIMS admissions open for 2026?

Yes, NMIMS admissions for the 2026 undergraduate program through NPAT are open. Phase 2 registration is open until May 26, 2026.

What is the syllabus of the NPAT exam 2026?

NPAT 2026 syllabus covers Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning and Verbal Ability. Each of the three sections carries 40 questions. There are 120 questions in all.

Is NPAT harder than CUET?

NPAT and CUET are both rated moderate in difficulty overall, but NPAT feels harder for many due to its tighter 100-minute timeline for 120 questions.

Can I crack NPAT in 1 month?

Yes, you can crack NPAT in 1 month, provided you do it sincerely, with complete focus, expert guidance, and a strategy.