Your Guide to the NMAT by GMAC™ Exam: Structure, Syllabus, and Strategy
If you're planning to apply to an MBA program, the NMAT by GMAC Exam can be your launchpad. With wide acceptance across top business schools in India and internationally, the NMAT exam gives you the flexibility to test your skills - and retest if needed - on your own terms.
This guide walks you through the NMAT exam structure, syllabus, eligibility, and how to prepare strategically for test day.
What is the NMAT by GMAC Exam?
The NMAT Exam is a computer-based exam designed to assess the core skills essential for success in business school: language, logic, and quantitative ability. It emphasizes both speed and accuracy, making time management an important part of your test strategy.
Quick overview:
- Sections: 3 (Language, Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning)
- Questions: 108 (36 per section)
- Total duration: 120 minutes
- Score range: 36 to 360
- No negative marking for wrong answers
NMAT Exam structure and syllabus
Understanding what each section covers can help you focus your preparation and approach the exam with confidence. Check out 'Cracking the NMAT by GMAC Exam: Planning for Smart Preparation' for more insight into preparing for the NMAT Exam.
1. Language skills
This section evaluates your command of English, including reading comprehension and grammar.
Key topics include:
- Reading comprehension
- Sentence formation (short and long)
- Error identification (eg: verb forms)
- Prepositions and sentence completion
- Analogies
Tip: Practice timed reading and grammar drills to improve accuracy under pressure.
2. Logical reasoning
Here, your ability to interpret and evaluate information is tested.
Key topics include:
- Critical reasoning (conclusions, assumptions, inferences)
- Analytics reasoning (puzzles, input-output, set theory)
- Deductions (statement-based reasoning)
- Decision making, syllogisms, Venn diagrams
Tip: Familiarity with common logical patterns will speed up your reasoning and help avoid traps.
3. Quantitative skills
This section focuses on numbers, data interpretation, and analytical thinking.
Key topics include:
- Number properties (fractions, logarithms)
- Arithmetic (percentages, interest, ratios, averages)
- Algebra and probability (equations, sequences, combinations)
- Data sufficiency and data interpretation (graphs, tables, charts)
Tip: Sharpen your mental math and focus on understanding concepts, not just formulas.
Who accepts NMAT scores?
The NMAT is accepted by over 85 leading business schools across India, the Philippines, South Africa, Nigeria, Hungary, and Morocco.
Top India business schools accepting NMAT scores include:
- SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) (all campuses)
- K J Somaiya Institute of Management
- SP Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR)
- T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI)
- XIM University (XIMB)
- ICFAI Business School (IBS)
Tip: Check each school's specific NMAT score criteria and admissions timelines. Also, read 'NMAT-Accepting MBA Colleges in India With Cutoff Scores' for further information.
Who is eligible to take the NMAT?
The eligibility criteria for the NMAT exam are flexible - you can take the exam if you:
- Hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university, or
- Are in your final year of undergraduate study
Important: Each business school sets its own admission criteria - make sure to review the requirements for each program you're interested in.
Four reasons why the NMAT could be right for you
- Candidate-friendly design: You can choose your exam date and location
- Retake opportunity: You can take the test up to three times during the testing window
- Balanced assessment: All three sections are equally weighted
- No penalty for guessing: Encourages strategic risk-taking
Whether you are applying for a general management program or a specialized MBA, the NMAT can open doors to top-tier institutions and a fulfilling business career.
Ready to begin? Take the first step by creating your NMAT account and scheduling your exam.