CMAT 2026 is scheduled on 25th January 2026, and for many MBA aspirants, this exam is not just another attempt—it’s a golden gateway to top Maharashtra B-schools like JBIMS and SIMSREE.
If you’re appearing for CMAT 2026 or planning to use it strategically along with CAT, XAT, or MAH MBA CET, this blog covers everything you need to know—from exam pattern and sections to how JBIMS accepts CMAT scores and what percentile you should target.
1.What is CMAT?
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national-level MBA entrance exam conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency).
CMAT scores are accepted by 1000+ AICTE-approved institutes across India, including top Mumbai colleges through the CAP (Centralized Admission Process).
2.CMAT 2026 – Important Highlights
- Exam Date: 25th January 2026
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Questions: 100
- Marking Scheme:
- +4 for correct answer
- -1 for incorrect answer
3.CMAT 2026 Exam Pattern (Section-wise)
| Section | No. of Questions |
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | 20 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 |
| General Awareness | 20 |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship | 20 |
Total: 100 Questions | 400 Marks
4.How JBIMS & SIMSREE Accepts CMAT Scores
One of the biggest reasons CMAT is crucial is its acceptance by JBIMS (Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies).
JBIMS Admission via CMAT – Key Points
- JBIMS accepts CMAT scores ONLY for All India Seats
- Admissions happen through DTE Maharashtra CAP rounds
- CMAT candidates compete for 18 All India seats at JBIMS
CMAT Percentile Required for JBIMS
- Safe Percentile Range: 99.98+
- Typically required score: 340–360+ marks
- Strong academics and diversity can help, but percentile is king
Even a 99.90 percentile may not be enough—CMAT for JBIMS is extremely competitive.
SIMSREE Admission via CMAT
SIMSREE (Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research & Entrepreneurship Education) also accepts CMAT scores for All India seats.
CMAT Percentile for SIMSREE
- Expected Cut-off: 99.7+ percentile
- Slightly lower than JBIMS, but still highly competitive
- Excellent ROI and strong Mumbai corporate exposure
Why CMAT is a Smart Exam to Attempt
- Single exam opens doors to JBIMS + SIMSREE
- Less unpredictable than CAT in some sections
- General Awareness & Innovation section can be high-scoring
- Perfect backup + booster exam after CAT & XAT
5.CMAT 2026 Preparation Strategy (Quick Pointers)
Quant & DI
- Focus on Arithmetic, Algebra, Modern Math
- DI is calculation-heavy but doable with practice
Logical Reasoning
- Strong emphasis on arrangements, puzzles, syllogisms
- Accuracy matters more than attempts
Language Comprehension
- RCs are easier than CAT
- Vocabulary, grammar, and para-jumbles are scoring
General Awareness
- Static GK + Current Affairs (last 6–8 months)
- Regular revision is crucial
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
- Concepts around startups, business models, government initiatives
- Easy marks if prepared once properly
6.How CMAT Fits Into Your MBA Strategy
CMAT is ideal for aspirants who:
- Missed CAT/XAT targets
- Want top Mumbai colleges
- Are strong in GK & reasoning
- Want another serious shot at Tier-1 B-schools
At The Top Percentile, we strongly recommend CMAT as a must-attempt exam for serious MBA aspirants.
All the Very Best for CMAT 2026
As CMAT 2026 approaches on 25th January, remember—one great exam can change everything. Whether your goal is JBIMS, SIMSREE, or other top institutes, smart preparation and calm execution can take you there.
Team The Top Percentile wishes all CMAT 2026 aspirants the very best.
Stay focused, trust your preparation, and give it your absolute best.
If you need section-wise strategies, mock analysis, or CMAT-specific guidance, we’re always here to help.
Let’s make CMAT 2026 count!
