You start by searching for MBA programmes. Then you look at business schools. Then MBA colleges. And before you know it, you are staring at a long list of MBA entrance exams, wondering where to begin.
GMAT vs MAT is one of the most common comparisons people make while planning their MBA admissions. And frankly, it makes sense. Both exams are popular. Both are recognised. Both can help you get into management institutes. But they are built for very different kinds of candidates.
If you are confused about which management aptitude test fits your career path, this guide will walk you through everything in a simple and practical way. Exam structure, exam pattern, syllabus, difficulty level, global recognition, and most importantly, which is the right entrance exam for you.
Before comparing key differences, it helps to clearly understand what each exam stands for and who it is meant for.
The Graduate Management Admission Test is a computer-based exam designed for MBA admissions across the world. It is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council and is accepted by leading business schools globally.
The GMAT exam tests quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, critical reasoning, analytical writing, and data analysis. It is widely used for admission into international business schools, prestigious business schools, and specialised courses such as business analytics and leadership programmes.
If your goal is to study business administration outside India or apply to globally ranked MBA programmes, GMAT is often the preferred entrance test.
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
The Management Aptitude Test, commonly referred to as the MAT exam, is a national-level examination conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA).
Many private B-schools, MBA colleges, and management institutes across India accept MAT. It focuses on overall management aptitude rather than deep analytical intensity.
The exam includes verbal and logical ability, mathematical skills, data interpretation, logical reasoning, general knowledge, and the Indian and global environment. It is often chosen by candidates who are targeting Indian institutes and want a more accessible MBA entrance.
Understanding the MBA entrance exam syllabus and exam structure makes the decision much easier.
The GMAT exam consists of 64 questions with a total test duration of 135 minutes. It evaluates higher-level thinking skills that business schools value.
The exam structure includes:
One important thing to note is that GMAT is a computer-based exam and follows a computer-adaptive format. The difficulty level changes based on how you perform. This is one of the reasons the GMAT score is highly respected by international business schools.
The MAT exam is conducted online and sometimes in paper-based mode, depending on the exam date. It lasts about two and a half hours and follows a fixed exam pattern.
The sections include:
Unlike GMAT, MAT does not change difficulty dynamically. Many candidates find this format easier to prepare for, especially those undertaking entrance exams in India.
Both exams use similar scoring scales, but their impact and flexibility differ.
The longer validity of GMAT is a big advantage for working professionals planning MBA admissions over time.
GMAT offers high flexibility. You can choose your exam date throughout the year and take the test multiple times.
MAT is conducted four times a year. Candidates need to plan strictly around fixed exam dates and the registration process deadlines.
This is where most candidates feel the real difference.
The GMAT exam focuses heavily on quantitative reasoning, critical reasoning, verbal reasoning, analytical writing, and business analytics-related thinking. It is considered more challenging and analytical.
The MAT exam focuses more on verbal ability, logical reasoning, general knowledge, current affairs, and basic quantitative ability. It is widely considered less intense and more suitable for candidates targeting Indian MBA colleges.
The right entrance exam depends on your goals, not just difficulty.
No matter which entrance test you choose, preparation strategy matters.
For GMAT, focus on full-length mock tests, data interpretation, critical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude. Practice reading comprehension and analytical writing regularly.
For MAT, give equal importance to verbal ability, logical reasoning, mathematical skills, current affairs, and general knowledge. Speed and accuracy are key.
Always check the eligibility criteria, negative marking rules, and the registration process well before applying.
Choosing between GMAT and MAT is not about which exam is better. It is about which exam aligns with your MBA entrance goals, preferred business schools, and long-term career plans.
When you understand the exam structure, exam pattern, syllabus, and acceptance, the confusion fades. The right entrance exam becomes a clear step forward, not a stressful decision.
If you are weighing up GMAT vs MAT, the University of Manchester - Dubai, offers the Global MBA and Global Executive MBA for ambitious working professionals. Both programmes accept GMAT®, GRE®, and the Manchester Admissions Test, with the Executive MBA also accepting the GMAC Executive Assessment.
Download the brochure or contact us to start your journey toward a high-impact, long-term career.
1. What is the main difference between GMAT and MAT?
The GMAT is a globally recognised, computer-adaptive exam conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council, while the MAT is a national-level exam conducted by the All India Management Association. GMAT focuses on higher-order analytical skills, whereas MAT emphasises general awareness and basic aptitude.
2. What is the exam structure and duration of GMAT and MAT?
The GMAT consists of 64 questions and has a total duration of approximately 135 minutes. MAT has a fixed exam pattern with a duration of 2.5 hours and includes five sections covering aptitude, reasoning, and general knowledge.
3. What sections are included in the GMAT and MAT syllabus?
GMAT focuses on Analytical Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. MAT includes Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, and Indian and Global Environment.
4. How are GMAT and MAT scored, and how long are the scores valid?
Both GMAT and MAT are scored on a scale of 200 to 800. GMAT scores are valid for five years, while MAT scores are valid for only one year.
5. How often can candidates take the GMAT and MAT exams?
GMAT can be taken throughout the year, with a maximum of five attempts in a single year. MAT is conducted four times a year, usually in February, May, September, and December.
6. Which exam should candidates choose for international MBA programmes?
Candidates targeting international business schools and top global MBA programmes should opt for GMAT, as it is accepted by over 2,300 business schools worldwide and is considered the global standard.
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