The IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023 is released by the exam conducting authority on its official website. The IBSAT 2023 exam is expected to be conducted during the fourth week of December 2023. There is no specific change in the IBSAT exam pattern 2023 and is similar to that of last year. There is no negative marking in the IBSAT exam.
The application portal for the IBSAT 2023 opened on July 1, 2023. The IBSAT exam pattern consists of 4 main sections: Quantitative Aptitude, Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation, Reading Comprehension, and Verbal Ability. With the help of the exam pattern, the candidates will be able to understand the exam structure, marking scheme, how to solve the question paper on time, and section-wise weightage. Candidates can check the exam pattern of the IBSAT 2023 through the official website
IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023 Highlights
Here is a glimpse of the key highlights of the IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023:
The Verbal Ability section of the IBSAT 2023 exam is the highest-scoring section. There is no sectional time limit for the IBSAT exam and candidates can attend any section within the allotted time. Here is the section-wise exam pattern for the IBSAT 2023 exam:
Name of the Section
Total Number of Questions
Marks per Question
Total Marks Awarded
Quantitative Aptitude
30
1
30
Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation
30
1
30
Reading Comprehension
30
1
30
Verbal Ability
50
1
50
IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023: Section-wise Syllabus
The IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023 consists of 4 sections in the exam. It includes Quantitative Aptitude, Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation, Reading Comprehension, and Verbal Ability. The Verbal Ability section is the highest scoring compared to other sections. The IBSAT syllabus and important topics are discussed in detail below.
IBSAT 2023 Syllabus for Verbal Ability
Here are some of the important topics for the Verbal Ability section of the IBSAT 2023 exam:
Uses Of the Same Word
One Word Substitutions
Jumbled Paragraphs
Fill in the Blanks
Sentence Formation
Grammar
Vocabulary
Phrases &Idioms
Cloze Test
Match the Columns
Error Detection
Antonyms & Synonyms
Word Relations
Error Detection
IBSAT 2023 Syllabus for Reading Comprehension
Here are some of the important topics for the Reading Comprehension section of the IBSAT 2023 exam:
Comprehension
Passage
Summary
Questions are related to the details present in the given paragraph
IBSAT 2023 Syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude
Here are some of the important topics for the Quantitative Aptitude section of the IBSAT 2023 exam:
Profit and Loss
Venn Diagram
Coordinate Geometry
Arithmetic Progression
Instalment Payment\
Number System
Simplification & Algebra
Speed, Time and Distance
Geometry and Mensuration
Percentage
Simple and Compound Interest
Time and Work
Ratio & Proportion
Mensuration
2D and 3D Geometry
Mixture & Solution / Allegations
Probability
IBSAT 2023 Syllabus for Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation
Here are some of the important topics for the Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation section of the IBSAT 2023 exam:
Data Interpretation Based on Graphs and Tables
Pie chart
Bar Graph
Line Graph
Histogram
Percentage Change
Ratio Between Two Values
Data Tables
Data charts
Data analysis and comparison
Caselet Data Interpretation
Cause and Effects
Visual Reasoning
Linear Arrangement
IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023: Key Points
Here are some key points regarding the IBSAT Exam Pattern 2023:
The IBSAT Exam Pattern consists of four sections and the Verbal Ability section has the highest weightage.
Candidates have to attempt 140 questions with a time duration of 120 minutes during the IBSAT exam.
The difficulty level of the IBSATexam is easy to moderate and the difficulty level varies from one section to another section. It is, therefore, necessary to have good strategy and time management techniques to ace the exam.
The key to cracking the Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation section is to build a strong base in the Probability, Geometry, Number System, and Basic Calculations part.
There is no provision for negative marking in the IBSAT 2023 exam. Candidates will be awarded with 1 mark for each correct answer and no marks will be deducted from the incorrect answers.
Zero marks will be awarded for the unattempted question in the IBSAT exam
Candidate must not carry any digital device to the IBSAT exam centre. It is forbidden to use a calculator or any other digital device during the exam.
The time limit for each section of the IBSAT exam will not be set. Based on the preparation strategy of candidates, they can select the order in which they want to answer the questions.
IBSAT Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. What is the exam pattern for the IBSAT 2023 exam?
Ans. The IBSAT 2023 exam pattern consists of 4 main sections: Quantitative Aptitude, Data Adequacy and Data Interpretation, Reading Comprehension, and Verbal Ability. There will be a total of 140 questions for a duration of 120 minutes. The maximum mark for the IBSAT exam is 140.
Ques. What is the marking scheme for the IBSAT 2023 exam?
Ans. There is no negative marking for wrong answers in the IBSAT 2023 exam. For each correct answer, 1 mark will be awarded and zero marks will be awarded for unattempted questions.
Ques. What are the topics included in the IBSAT Quantitative Aptitude section?
Ans. The topics included in the Quantitative Aptitude section for the IBSAT exam are Profit and Loss, Number System, Percentage, Simple and Compound Interest, Time and Work, Venn Diagram, Coordinate Geometry, Mensuration, Arithmetic Progression, and Instalment Payment.
Ques. Is there any section-wise time limit for the IBSAT 2023 entrance examination?
Ans. No, there is no sectional time limit for the IBSAT 2023 exam. Based on your preparation strategy, you can select the order in which you want to answer the questions.
Ques. Is there a General Awareness section in the IBSAT 2023 exam?
Ans. No, there is no separate General Awareness section in the IBSAT 2023 exam. But the candidates must read the newspapers and journals for the group discussion and personal interview section.
Ques. In the IBSAT 2023 exam, how many questions will be asked in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section?
Ans. There will be a total of 80 questions in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section of the IBSAT 2023 exam. The Verbal Ability section consists of 50 questions while the Reading Comprehension has only 30 questions.
MAH CET Exam Pattern is released by the exam conducting authority on its official website. MAH CET exam consists of 200 questions for a maximum of 200 marks.
MAH CET exam pattern consists of 4 main sections: Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, and Verbal Ability.
The total duration of the MAH CET exam is for 150 minutes. Candidates must first understand the MAH CET exam pattern and syllabus before starting the exam preparation. With the help of the MAH CET exam pattern, candidates will be able to understand the exam structure, marking scheme, question paper solving, time management, and section-wise weightage. Therefore, a good understanding of the exam pattern is a necessary milestone in efficient preparations of the MAH CET exam.
MAH CET Exam Pattern 2024: Highlights
Here is a glimpse of the highlights of the MAH CET 2024 exam pattern:
Particulars
Details
Sections
Quantitative Aptitude
Logical Reasoning
Abstract Reasoning
Verbal Ability/ Reading Comprehension.
Total Duration
150 Minutes
Total Questions
200
Maximum Marks
200
Section-Wise Time Limit
No
Question Type
MCQs
Mode of Exam
Online
Marking Scheme
1 mark awarded for each correct answer
Negative Marking
No
Section-wise MAH CET Exam Pattern 2024
The MAH CET 2024 exam pattern consists of four sections, each having its own sectional weightage. There is no separate cutoff for each section of MAH CET. The section-wise exam pattern of MAH CET 2024 is as follows:
Name of the Section
Total Number of Questions
Marks per Question
Total Marks Awarded
Quantitative Aptitude
50
1
50
Logical Reasoning
75
1
75
Abstract Reasoning
25
1
25
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
50
1
50
MAH CET Exam Pattern 2024: Section-wise Difficulty Level
The below table gives the difficulty level for each section of the MAH CET 2024 exam:
Name of the Section
Difficulty Level
Quantitative Aptitude
Moderate to Difficult
Logical Reasoning
Moderate and Lengthy
Abstract Reasoning
Moderate
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
Moderate to Difficult
MAH CET Exam Pattern 2024: Key Points
Candidates must remember the following important points regarding the MAH CET 2024 exam pattern:
The mode of the MAH CET 2024 exam will be English.
There will be only Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) in the MAH CET 2024 exam and it will be conducted in online mode.
The MAH CET 2024 exam will have a total of 200 questions that must be completed in 150 minutes.
For every question in the MAH CET, there will be only one correct option out of the five options.
There is no provision for negative marking in the MAH CET 2024 exam. So, no marks will be deducted for incorrect responses.
Candidates will be awarded with 1 mark each for every correct answer and zero marks will be awarded for the unattempted question.
There is no set time limit for each section of the MAH CET exam. Based on the candidate’s preparation strategy, they can select the order in which they want to answer the questions.
For doing the rough work, candidates will be given a rough page and a pen in the MAH CET exam hall itself.
Don’t carry any digital device to the MAH CET exam centre. It is forbidden to use a calculator or any other digital device during the MAH CET 2024 exam.
MAH CET Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. Which section in the MAH CET 2024 exam will have the most number of questions?
Ans. There will be a maximum of 75 questions in the Logical Reasoning section. Candidates must prepare this section well and also have to maintain their speed while solving this section.
Ques. Is there any mark deduction in the MAH CET 2024 if any question is not attempted?
Ans. No, there will not be any marks deduction if the candidate fails to respond to any question in the MAH CET 2024. Zero marks will be awarded for the unattempted questions.
Ques. Is MAH CET 2024 entrance exam tough?
Ans. The MAH CET entrance exam is moderately difficult. The difficulty level of each section of the MAH CET exam is discussed in the article above.
Ques. What is the duration of the MAH CET 2024?
Ans. Candidates will be given a maximum of 150 minutes to solve the 200 questions during the MAH CET 2024 exam. Thus, it is important for candidates to maintain their speed and accuracy while solving the questions.
Ques. In the MAH CET 2024 exam, how many questions will be asked in the Reasoning section?
Ans. There will be a total of 100 questions asked in the Reasoning sections of the MAH CET 2024 exam. The Logical Reasoning section will have 75 questions while the Abstract Reasoning section will have 25 questions.
Ques. What is the marking scheme of the MAH CET 2024 entrance exam?
Ans. One mark will be awarded for every correct answer in the MAH CET 2024 exam while zero marks will be given for unattempted questions. There is no negative marking in the MAH CET 2024 exam.
SNAP 2023 exam pattern is structured by SIU each year. The exam pattern will help students understand the marking scheme, the number of questions allotted in each section, and the difficulty level. Candidates appearing for SNAP 2023 can check the article below to get an overview of the SNAP 2023 Exam Pattern.
SNAP Exam Pattern consists of 60 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and will carry a total of 60 marks.
Candidates will be allotted a time duration of 1 hour to complete the paper.
The exam will have questions from three sections: General English (GE), Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, (QA, DI – DS ), and Analytical & Logical Reasoning (A-LR).
Candidates will be given 1 mark for every correct answer while 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect response.
SNAP 2023 Exam Pattern: Highlights
Feature
Details
SNAP Exam Mode
Computer Based Test
SNAP Exam Sections
General EnglishAnalytical & Logical ReasoningQuantitative Ability – Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency
Total Number of Questions
60
Total Marks
60
Number of Sections
3
Duration of SNAP Exam
1 hour
Sectional Time Limit
No
Medium
English
Type of Questions
MCQs
Marking Pattern
+1 mark for a correct answer, -0.25 mark for an incorrect answer
The SNAP exam for 2023 will be conducted twice in the month of December, and candidates will have the option to take the exam once or twice. The best score among the attempts will be considered for the final evaluation. Unlike previous years, the exam will not contain any TITA (Type in the Answer) questions, and all questions will be in the MCQ (Multiple Choice Question) format. Here is the complete SNAP exam pattern.
Exam Section
No. of MCQs
Special Questions
Total No. of Questions
SNAP Total Marks
Analytical & Logical Reasoning
25
00
25
25
General English: Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, Verbal Ability
15
00
15
15
Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency
20
00
20
20
Total
60
00
60
60
SNAP Exam Mode
The exam will be conducted in online mode. Candidates need to visit the test centers along with the admit card on the exam day.
SNAP Exam Timing
The exam is conducted on three consecutive days from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Candidates can appear for all three tests, however the highest score obtained will be considered as the final result.
SNAP Test Day Procedure
Candidates need to carry their respective admit card.
Candidates should reach the exam center 1 hour prior to the exam time.
Should not carry any digital watch or calculators in the examination hall.
Must contact the invigilator present in the hall in case of any technical glitch.
SNAP Question Type and Options
The questions will be MCQ based.
There will be total 60 questions and candidates must attempt all the questions.
There will be no sectional timing for every section.
Candidates will be given 4 options for each questions, from which individuals need to select only one option.
There will be three sections in SNAP 2023 Questions Paper.
SNAP 2023 Exam Pattern: Marking Scheme
Particulars
Details
Correct Response
+1
Incorrect Response
-0.25
Unattempted Question
No mark deduction
SNAP 2023 Question Paper Pattern and Difficulty Level
The SNAP 2023 question paper will consist of a total of 60 questions, divided into three sections: General English, Analytical & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency.
The SNAP test is typically considered to be of moderate difficulty. Below is the table that shows the current SNAP question paper format and the level of difficulty for each section as a reference.
SNAP Sections
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
General English
15
Easy to Moderate
Quantitative, DI & DS
20
Easy
Analytical & Logical Reasoning
25
Easy
Total
60
Easy
SNAP 2023 Syllabus
SNAP 2023 syllabus will cover various topics in these areas, and it is essential for the candidates to be well-versed in these topics to perform well in the exam. The detailed syllabus for SNAP 2023 is usually released by the Symbiosis International University (SIU). Candidates are advised to go through the syllabus thoroughly and prepare accordingly to maximize their chances of success in the SNAP 2023 exam.
Section
Subtopics
General English
Active Voice and Passive Voice, Analogies, Contextual Usage, Fill in the Blanks, Idioms and Syllogisms, Jumbled Paragraphs, Odd One Out, One Word Substitution, Sentence Completion, Sentence Correction, Synonyms and Antonyms
Algebra, Arithmetic, Binomial Theorem, Geometry, Inequalities, Linear Equations & Quadratic Equations, Logarithm, Mensuration, Mixtures & Alligations, Number System, Permutation & Combination, Probability Functions, Progressions, Set Theory, Surds and Indices, Tables, Trigonometry, Graphs-Bar Graphs, Graphs-Pie Chart
SNAP 2023 Exam Pattern since 2018:
Features
SNAP 2022 and SNAP 2021
SNAP 2020
SNAP 2019
SNAP 2018
Exam Sections
General English, QA, DI-DS, A-LR
General English, QA, DI-DS, A-LR
General English, QA, DI-DS, A-LR
General English, QA, DI-DS, A-LRCurrent Affairs
Total Number of Questions
60
60
110
130
Section-wise Questions
General English: 15QA, DI-DS: 20A-LR: 25
General English: 15QA, DI-DS: 20A-LR: 25
General English: 34QA, DI-DS: 40A-LR: 36
General English: 35QA, DI-DS: 35A-LR:35Current Affairs: 25
Marking Scheme
+1 for each right answer
+1 for each right answer
General English: 1.5 marks for each right answerA-LR: 1.5 marks for each right answerQA, DI-DS: 1 mark for each right answer for MCQs and 2 marks for each right answer for non MCQs
+1 for each right answer for MCQs+2 for each right answer for Non-MCQs
Section-wise Marks
General English: 15QA, DI-DS: 20A-LR: 25
General English: 15QA, DI-DS: 20A-LR: 25
General English: 51QA, DI-DS: 45A-LR: 54
General English: 40QA, DI-DS: 40A-LR: 40Current Affairs: 30
Negative Marking
0.25 marks
0.25 marks
0.25 marks
0.25 marks
Total Marks
60
60
150
150
Question Type
MCQ
MCQ
MCQ and non-MCQ
MCQ and non-MCQ
Number of Attempts
2
2
1
1
Total Time Limit
60 minutes
60 minutes
120 minutes
120 minutes
SNAP 2023 Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. How many times will the SNAP exam be conducted in 2023?
Ans. The SNAP exam wil tentativelyl be conducted two times in December 2023
Ques. How many attempts will candidates get for the SNAP 2023 exam?
Ans. Candidates will get two attempts for the SNAP 2023 exam.
Ques. Will there be a sectional time limit in the SNAP 2023 exam?
Ans. No, there will be no sectional time limit for the SNAP 2023 exam.
Ques. What is the total number of questions and marks for the SNAP 2023 exam?
Ans. The SNAP 2023 exam will contain 60 questions and will be worth a total of 60 marks.
Ques. What is the marking scheme for the SNAP 2023 exam?
Ans. Each correct answer will be awarded 1 mark, and each incorrect answer will result in a negative marking of 0.25 marks.
Ques. What is the format of the questions in the SNAP 2023 exam?
Ans. All questions in the SNAP 2023 exam will be in the MCQ (Multiple Choice Question) format.
Ques. What are the sections included in the SNAP 2023 exam?
Ans. The SNAP 2023 exam will consist of three sections: General English, Analytical & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability – Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency.
The KMAT exam pattern is released by the conducting body of the exam. The exam pattern contains all the details regarding the paper structure, such as number of questions, format, marking scheme, etc. The official website of KMAT has released
All the details regarding the KMAT exam 2023. The candidates can visit www.cee.kerala.gov.in to check the details regarding the KMAT exam 2023.
The KMAT exam consists of 4 sections that test different areas of topics and a total of 720 marks.
The detailed breakdown of the exam pattern is given in the article below.
KMAT 2023 Exam Pattern
The KMAT exam consists of four sections.
The four sections are –
English Language Usage and reading Comprehension
Quantitative Aptitude
Data sufficiency and Logical Reasoning
General Knowledge and Current Affairs
The paper has a total of 720 marks.
Note: For every correct option +4 marks are awarded, and 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect choice.
Subject
No of questions
Marks
English Language Usage and reading Comprehension
50
200
Quantitative Aptitude
50
200
Data sufficiency and Logical Reasoning
40
160
General Knowledge and Current Affairs
40
160
Total:
180
720
Candidates will have a total of 3 hours to solve these 180 problems.
The mode of exam for KMAT 2023 will be a Based Test (CBT) and all the questions will be multiple choice questions.
The medium of the question paper will be English.
Section 1 – English Language Usage and Reading Comprehension:
The student’s knowledge of the English language will be evaluated in this part.
There will also be questions based on passages that must be answered based on the details or information provided. Typically, the questions are straightforward with a moderately easy level of difficulty.
Section 2 – Quantitative Aptitude:
Along with logical and analytical abilities, it also assesses mathematical capabilities.
The average time taken by candidates to answer each question in the exam is typically one minute. So the candidates speed and logical thinking is tested in this section.
Section 3 – Data Sufficiency and Logical Reasoning:
Data sufficiency refers to evaluating and analysing a set of data to determine if it is sufficient to respond to a certain question.
These are intended to assess the candidate’s capacity to connect the dots between each question and arrive at a conclusion.
Section 4 – General Knowledge and Current Affairs:
The candidate’s understanding of the present situation at the state, national, and international levels is examined in this part.
Although there isn’t a set syllabus for this, passing this exam requires current and conventional general knowledge from both the past and the present.
Qualifying Marks for KMAT 2023
The qualifying marks depend on the category to which the students belong.
General and SEBC: Candidates from the General category and SEBC who receive at least 72 marks, or 10% of the total 720 marks, are eligible for admission to the MBA program at a variety of universities, departments, and affiliated management colleges, including the autonomous institutions for management in Kerala.
SC/ST/PD: The minimum required score for the SC/ST/PD category is 7.5%.
Syllabus for the KMAT 2023 exam
The KMAT exam mostly focuses on the basics of the 10 +2 curriculum. There is only four important subjects required to appear for the KMAT exam.
They are
English Language Usage and reading Comprehension
Quantitative Aptitude
Data sufficiency and Logical Reasoning
General Knowledge and Current Affairs
Practicing questions on these topics is enough to score well in the exam.
Entrance exams for the KMAT 2023:
The applicant who wishes to enroll in an MBA programme in the state based on the KMAT 2023 must take this entrance exam. The following weighting will be used for the entrance exam, group discussion, and interview scores when determining admission to the programme.
Exam type
% of weight
Entrance test score
80%
Group discussion
10%
Personal interview
10%
Total
100%
KMAT 2023 Examination Tips
Be calm: Relax as you begin the day. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready so you can begin your exam on schedule.
Eat well: Have some food. Before your test, have a nutritious lunch. An egg on toast or muesli are two foods high in protein and complex carbs that will provide you the energy you need to go through the exam. To keep your energy levels up, always have some healthy snacks on hand.
Manage time: Determine how much time you can devote to each response in relation to its grade. For instance, if question 1 accounts for 20% of the overall marks on a three-hour paper, you should allocate about 35 minutes to it.
Revise notes: For the GK portion, candidates who have prepared study notes must review all of their notes and key points to make sure they recall them on exam day.
KMAT 2023 Important Instructions
During the KMAT exam, candidates are not permitted to use any electronic devices, including watches or cellphones.
Only during the exam are candidates permitted to use rough paper.
It is forbidden for the candidate to begin answering the question paper before the scheduled time.
During the exam, candidates are only permitted to keep their photo ID and KMAT admission card.
By darkening the appropriate choice on the OMR page, answers should be marked as right according to the applicant’s knowledge and skill.
The exam would be cancelled if the individual leaves the KMAT Kerala 2023 testing facility before the scheduled time.
Any candidate who uses unfair tactics shall be held accountable and is disqualified.
FAQs
Ques. How many section will be in KMAT 2023 paper?
Ans. There will be 4 sections in the paper –
English Language Usage and reading Comprehension
Quantitative Aptitude
Data sufficiency and Logical Reasoning
General Knowledge and Current Affairs
Ques. Is there any negative marking in KMAT exam pattern?
Ans. Yes, there are -1 marks for every wrong question answered.
Ques. Can i give the KMAT exam in my mother tongue?
Ans. No, the paper can be attempted only in English.
Ques. Do i need to answer the questions in any order?
Ans. No, the candidates are free to answer the questions they feel they can answer. There is no need to follow any sequence.
Ques. Can i keep my watch during the exam?
Ans. No the candidates are not allowed to carry anything with them except water bottle.
Ques. How many questions are asked in the KMAT Kerala 2023?
Ans. There will be total of 180 questions for the duration of 3 hrs.
CMAT paper analysis 2023 is out. Candidates can check section-wise CMAT paper analysis 2023 for Shift 1 and Shift 2 here. According to the test takers, both shifts were moderately difficult however, CMAT 2023 Shift 2 paper was reported to be slightly more difficult than Shift 1.
CMAT Paper Analysis provides details about the pattern for CMAT 2023 Question Paper, level of difficulty, successful attempts, weightage and estimated cutoffs for enrollment in different MBA programs.
CMAT Paper Analysis 2023: Shift-wise Paper Analysis
According to the students, there were 1-2 incorrect questions in both the CMAT exam shifts.
Each section of the paper had 20 questions. Students were thus required to answer 100 MCQs.
CMAT 2023 Exam Analysis Shift 1
Sections
No. of Questions
Difficulty Level
Topics
Good Attempt
Quant & DI
20
Moderate and Tricky
Arithmetic, Number System, Correct Statements, 5 DI questions
16-18
General Awareness
20
Easy to Moderate
Static GK- 18 questions, Current Affairs- 2 questions
12-14
Logical Reasoning
20
Moderate and Lengthy
Blood relations- 2 questions, Coding/ decoding- 2 questions, Syllogisms- 2 questions, Number of squares & triangles- 2 questions
17-18
Language Comprehension
20
Easy to Moderate
RC passages- 2 with 3 questions each, Vocabulary-based questions
16-18
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
20
Moderate
Direct theory-based questions, 2-3 questions on current news related to startups
CMAT Paper Analysis 2023: Paper Pattern & Good Attempts
In order to get a sense of the level of difficulty, applicants appearing in this year’s exam must review the CMAT analysis from the previous year provided here. According to the CMAT analysis of 2022, there were a total of 100 questions throughout 5 sections, and the overall difficulty level was moderate.
In the CMAT exam, an average score is 270+ scores, and the best score is 305+ scores. Therefore, a score in the range of 275-285 would receive an overall 99 percentile, whereas a score in the range of 295-305 would receive an overall 99.5+ percentile.
Name of Sections
Number of questions
Maximum Marks
Good Attempts
Marks per question
CMAT negative marking
Expected Difficulty Level
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation
20
80
15
4
1
Easy – Moderate
Logical Reasoning
20
80
15
4
1
Easy – Moderate
Language Comprehension
20
80
15
4
1
Easy
General Awareness
20
80
15
4
1
Moderate
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
20
80
15
4
1
Easy
CMAT 2023 Exam Analysis: Important Changes Introduced
Important changes observed in the exam from previous years are tabulated below:
S.NO.
CMAT 2023 and CMAT 2022
CMAT 2021
1
5 section exam
Both 4 and 5 section exam
2
Compulsory 5th section on Innovation and Entrepreneurship
5th section was optional
3
CMAT time duration reduced and fixed to 3 hours
Option to attempt exam in time duration of 3.5 hours
4
Total questions in the exam- 100
Total questions- 125
5
No additional time for the last section
30 minute additional time for 5th section
6
5th section score calculated for the Percentile calculation
5th section scored not accepted for percentile calculation
7
20 Questions in each section and total section will be 5
Total sections in the exam: 5 and 25 questions in each exam
8
No sectional time limit and applicants can attempt any question in any section within these 3 hours provided
No sectional time limit and applicants can attempt any section within time limit of 3 ½ hours
9
Candidates need not apply for the new course of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Candidates have to apply for new course of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
10
Number of exam cities increased to 124
Number of exam centres were 109
Previous Year CMAT Paper Analysis: CMAT 2022 Analysis
On Saturday, April 9, the CMAT 2022 exam was completed in just one three-hours session from 3PM to 6 PM. The difficulty level of this exam was moderate. Following are the conclusions obtained from the CMAT 2022 Paper Analysis:
Highlighting the significant changes in the exam, marking scheme, sectional division, total number of questions, etc.
Analysis of level of difficulty as compared to last year exam
Overall and section-by-section analysis
Expected cutoff for the appropriate percentile based on the CMAT 2022
Expected cutoff for admission in the best MBA schools including PUMBA, Great Lakes, BIMTECH, SIMSREE, GIM Goa, etc.
City-wise cutoff for admission in the prestigious colleges that accepts the CMAT score
CMAT Exam Analysis 2022
According to the experts’ evaluation, the CMAT 2022 was overall easy to moderately difficult. The compulsory section, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, was first released in 2021 as an optional section.
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation
There were a total of 20 questions in this section. The level of difficulty in the CMAT 2022 Quantitative Techniques and DI section was easy. The majority of the questions were from the topic Arithmetic.
Topics
Number of Questions
Level of Difficulty
Easy
Medium
Difficult
Arithmetic
8
6
2
0
Algebra
1
1
0
0
Number System
2
2
0
0
Geometry and Mensuration
2
2
0
0
Modern Maths
2
0
1
1
Data Interpretation
5
3
2
0
Logical Reasoning
The overall level of difficulty for this section was low. There were a total of 20 questions in this section, out of which 15 questions involved Analytical Reasoning, and 5 questions involved Verbal Reasoning. According to the CMAT 2022 LR Analysis, the questions for Analytical Reasoning were simple and solvable.
There were a total of 20 questions in this section. The level of difficulty in the CMAT 2022 LC section was easy. The majority of the questions were from the topic Static GK and Current Affairs.
Topics
Number of questions
Vocabulary
10
Reading Comprehension
4
Grammar
5
Verbal Reasoning
1
General Awareness
There were a total of 20 questions in this section. The level of difficulty in the CMAT 2022 GA section was moderate to difficult.
Topics
Number of questions
Static GK
15
Current Affairs
5
Types of questions involved in this section were:
Slave Dynasty Ruler
Total number of judges in the International Court of Justice
Vehicle Scrapping Policy
Term “Butterfly” is associated with?
1st country, abelled as the “Banana Republic”
Match the sports person and sports
Which of the following dances influenced Persian culture?
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution provides for?
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
There were a total of 20 questions in this section and last year , these questions in this section were made mandatory. The level of difficulty in the CMAT 2022 LC section was moderate to difficult. The majority of the questions were based on the candidate’s awareness of Entrepreneurship skills.
Topics
Number of questions
Current Affairs
10%
Static Affairs
90%
Types of questions involved in this section were:
Brands and Punchlines
Beta version
Term that refers to the attractive idea that an entrepreneur invests in?
CEOs and Names of Companies
CGTMSE
Having more than one customer segment
CMAT Score Accepting Colleges
According to CMAT scores, the following Business college admissions usually close at these percentiles:
MAT stands for Management Aptitude Test, and it is a national-level entrance examination that is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) to screen candidates for admission to MBA and other management programs in various B-Schools across India. The MAT exam is conducted four times a year – in February, May, September, and December. The exam is conducted in pen-paper based, internet-based, computer-based test modes. The exam pattern for both modes is almost similar, except for the mode of answering the questions.
The MAT exam by AIMA consists of five major sections, namely Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, and Indian and Global Environment. Each section comprises 40 questions, making it a total of 200 questions.
The exam duration is 2.5 hours. Each question carries one mark, and for every incorrect answer, 0.25 marks are deducted as a negative marking. The exam is conducted in English, and the difficulty level of the questions ranges from moderate to difficult. MAT scores are accepted by more than 600 B-schools across India, and the candidates can choose up to five B-schools during the application process.
MAT Exam Pattern 2023: Important Highlights
Here are the key points on the MAT Exam Pattern.
Highlight
Detail
Full-Form
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
Conducted By
All India Management Association (AIMA)
Exam Level
National Level
Job Category
MBA and other management programs
Frequency
Conducted 4 times a year (February, May, September, and December)
Mode of Exam
Paper-Based Test (PBT), Internet-Based Test (IBT), and Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Exam Type
Objective
Exam Duration
2.5 hours
Language
English
Selection Procedure
Scores and cutoffs used by B-Schools for admission
Official Website
mat.aima.in
MAT Exam Pattern 2023
Number of Questions: Each section comprises 40 questions, making it a total of 200 questions.
Type of Questions: All questions are multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with four answer choices.
Marking Scheme: Each correct answer is awarded one mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer. Unanswered questions are not marked.
Duration of Exam: The total time duration of the MAT exam is 2.5 hours (150 minutes).
Medium of Exam: The exam is conducted in the English language only.
Here’s a table with the MAT exam pattern details:
Section
Number of Questions
Total Marks
Language Comprehension
40
40
Mathematical Skills
40
40
Data Analysis and Sufficiency
40
40
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
40
40
Indian and Global Environment
40
40
Total
200
200
MAT Exam Pattern 2023: Marking Scheme
The MAT (Management Aptitude Test) exam has a specific marking scheme that candidates need to be aware of. Here are the key points to note:
Number of Questions: MAT consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), divided into five sections of 40 questions each.
Marking Scheme: Each correct answer is awarded one mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
Unanswered Questions: Unanswered questions do not carry any negative marks.
Total Marks: The maximum mark that can be obtained in the MAT exam is 200.
Calculation of Scores: The final score is calculated based on the number of correct answers minus 0.25 times the number of incorrect answers.
The formula for calculating the score of the MAT exam is as follows: Score = (Number of Correct Answers x 1) – (Number of Incorrect Answers x 0.25)
MAT Exam Pattern 2023: Sectional Time Duration
The MAT (Management Aptitude Test) exam does not have any sectional time limit. Candidates are given a total of 2.5 hours (150 minutes) to attempt all five sections of the exam. Candidates are free to attempt any section in any order they wish within the given time frame. However, candidates need to manage their time effectively during the exam to ensure that they can attempt all questions.
Since there is no sectional time limit, candidates can spend more time on sections they are more comfortable with and then move on to the sections that they find challenging. However, candidates need to attempt all sections and try to maximize their scores in each section to increase their chances of getting shortlisted by B-schools. Overall, candidates should strategize their time management effectively to ensure that they can attempt all questions within the given time frame and maximize their overall score in the MAT exam.
MAT Exam Pattern 2023: Section-wise Details
The MAT question paper comprises five sections: Language Comprehension, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, and Indian & Global Environment. In contrast to other MBA entrance exams, the Data Interpretation section is separate and not clubbed with either Quantitative Ability or Logical Reasoning.
The Language Comprehension section includes Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. It encompasses a wide range of topics such as Vocabulary, Idioms/Phrases, Sentence Correction, and Reading Comprehension.
The Intelligence & Critical Reasoning section of the MAT exam includes questions from Analytical and Logical Reasoning topics such as Family Trees, Course of Action, Arrangement, and Puzzles, Syllogisms, Graphs, and Visual Reasoning.
The Data Analysis & Data Sufficiency section is divided into two parts, Data Analysis, and Data Sufficiency. It includes questions from Line Graphs, Bar graph, Caselet, Pie charts, Data Comparison, Quantitative Comparisons, and Data Sufficiency.
The Mathematical Skills section includes questions on Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, and Modern Maths, and is similar to the Quantitative Aptitude section in other MBA entrance exams.
The Indian & Global Environment or GK section includes questions on Current Affairs and Static GK and carries 40 marks. However, it is not taken into consideration to determine the candidate’s MAT score and percentile.
MAT Exam Pattern 2023: Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of the MAT (Management Aptitude Test) exam can vary from moderate to difficult, depending on the candidate’s preparation level and aptitude. Based on a review of several previous MAT exam sessions, we have provided below the section-by-section difficulty level and the number of successful attempts:
MAT Sections
Number of Good Attempts
Level of Difficulty
Data Analysis and Sufficiency
16-18
Easy to Moderate
Intelligence and Critical Reasoning
22-25
Moderate
Language Comprehension
23-25
Easy to Moderate
Mathematical Skills
21-23
Moderate to Difficult
Indian and Global Environment
15-20
Easy to Moderate
MAT Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. What is MAT? Ans. MAT stands for Management Aptitude Test, which is a national-level MBA entrance exam conducted four times a year by the All India Management Association (AIMA).
Ques. What is the frequency of the MAT exam? Ans. The MAT exam is conducted four times a year in February, May, September, and December.
Ques. What is the mode of the MAT exam? Ans. The MAT exam can be taken in two modes – Computer Based Test (CBT) and Internet-Based Test (IBT).
Ques. What is the syllabus for the MAT exam? Ans. The MAT exam syllabus includes five sections – Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, and Indian and Global Environment.
Ques. What is the duration of the MAT exam? Ans. The MAT exam duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Ques. Is there any negative marking in the MAT exam? Ans. Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer in the MAT exam.
Ques. What are the eligibility criteria for the MAT exam? Ans. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university to be eligible for the MAT exam.
Ques. What is the MAT score used for? Ans. The MAT score is used by various B-schools in India for admission to their MBA programs.
Ques. Is the MAT exam difficult? Ans. The difficulty level of the MAT exam is considered moderate. With proper preparation and practice, candidates can score well in the exam.
CAT, or the Common Admission Test, is a computer-based entrance examination that is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to their postgraduate management programs. The exam is usually held in November last week every year.
The CAT exam pattern consists of three different sections – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam is conducted in English and consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and some non-MCQs.
The VARC section tests a candidate’s ability to comprehend and analyze written passages, while the DILR section tests their ability to interpret data and draw logical conclusions. The QA section tests a candidate’s mathematical skills, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
The CAT exam is considered to be one of the most competitive and challenging management entrance exams in India, and thousands of students appear for it every year. The scores obtained in the CAT exam are used by several prestigious business schools in India, including the IIMs, to shortlist candidates for their management programs.
CAT Exam Pattern Highlights
Here are some of the key highlights of the CAT exam in India presented in table form-
Particulars
Details
Exam Name
Common Admission Test (CAT)
Conducting Authority
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Exam Level
National
Exam Mode
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Sections
VARC, DILR, & QA
Total Questions
66
Duration
120 minutes (2 hours)
Marking Scheme
+3 for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer (except for non-MCQs)
Negative Marking
Yes
Difficulty Level
High
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates)
Exam Frequency
Once a year
Score Validity
1 year
CAT Exam Pattern Section Wise
The CAT exam pattern consists of three sections – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section is separately timed, and the candidates cannot switch between sections during the exam. The following table summarizes the CAT exam pattern section wise –
Sections of Exam
No of questions
Multiple Choice Questions
Non – MCQs
Time Limit
VARC
24
19
5
40 mins
QA
22
14
8
40 mins
DILR
20
15
5
40 mins
Total
66
48
18
120 mins
CAT Exam Pattern Syllabus
the CAT exam syllabus is designed to test a candidate’s overall aptitude and problem-solving skills. It is important for candidates to have a strong foundation in basic concepts and their applications in order to perform well in the exam. The CAT exam syllabus is not defined by any specific textbook or curriculum. The topics mentioned below are only indicative, and candidates are expected to have a sound understanding of the basic concepts and their applications in real-world scenarios.
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):
The VARC section of the CAT exam is designed to test a candidate’s English language proficiency and comprehension skills. It consists of questions related to reading comprehension passages, grammar and usage, vocabulary, para-jumbles, para-summary, and verbal reasoning. The reading comprehension passages are typically 500-700 words long, and candidates are expected to read and comprehend them within a limited time frame. The other questions in this section may include identifying errors in sentences, completing sentences, sentence correction, and identifying the main idea of a passage.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):-
Reading Comprehension: Candidates may be tested on their ability to comprehend and analyze written passages.
Vocabulary: Candidates may be tested on their knowledge of words, synonyms, antonyms, idioms, and phrases.
Grammar and Usage: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of basic grammar rules, including parts of speech, tenses, sentence structure, and punctuation.
Para-jumbles: Candidates may be tested on their ability to rearrange sentences in a logical sequence.
Para-summary: Candidates may be tested on their ability to summarize a passage in a few sentences.
Verbal Reasoning: Candidates may be tested on their ability to analyze and evaluate arguments.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):
The DILR section of the CAT exam is designed to test a candidate’s ability to interpret data and analyze logical reasoning. It consists of questions related to data interpretation, data sufficiency, logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and puzzles. Data interpretation questions may involve analyzing and interpreting data presented in the form of tables, charts, and graphs. Logical reasoning questions may involve identifying patterns, completing sequences, and solving problems based on logical deductions. Analytical reasoning questions may involve analyzing and deducing conclusions from complex problems. Puzzles may involve solving problems based on logic, reasoning, and deduction.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):
Data Interpretation: Candidates may be tested on their ability to analyze and interpret data presented in the form of tables, charts, and graphs.
Data Sufficiency: Candidates may be tested on their ability to determine whether the given data is sufficient to answer a particular question.
Logical Reasoning: Candidates may be tested on their ability to identify patterns, complete sequences, and solve problems based on logical deductions.
Analytical Reasoning: Candidates may be tested on their ability to analyze and deduce conclusions from complex problems.
Puzzles: Candidates may be tested on their ability to solve problems based on logic, reasoning, and deduction.
Quantitative Ability (QA):
The QA section of the CAT exam is designed to test a candidate’s mathematical skills, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. It consists of questions related to number systems, ratio and proportion, percentages, time and work, time, speed and distance, algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, and probability. The questions in this section may involve basic arithmetic operations, algebraic equations, geometric formulas, and trigonometric functions. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of basic mathematical concepts and their applications in real-world scenarios.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Quantitative Ability (QA):
Number Systems: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of number systems and their properties.
Ratio and Proportion: Candidates may be tested on their ability to apply ratio and proportion concepts in real-world scenarios.
Percentages: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of percentages and their applications.
Time and Work: Candidates may be tested on their ability to solve problems related to time and work.
Time, Speed and Distance: Candidates may be tested on their ability to solve problems related to time, speed, and distance.
Algebra: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of algebraic concepts and equations.
Geometry: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of geometric concepts and formulas.
Mensuration: Candidates may be tested on their ability to solve problems related to mensuration.
Trigonometry: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of trigonometric concepts and functions.
Probability: Candidates may be tested on their understanding of probability concepts and their applications.
CAT Exam Pattern Things to Remember
Here are some key things to remember about the CAT 2023 exam pattern:
The CAT 2023 exam will be conducted in three slots, each lasting two hours. The exam will have three sections – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability – with 40 minutes allotted for each section.
The CAT 2023 exam will be a computer-based test. Candidates will be required to answer the questions on a computer screen and will not be allowed to switch between sections.
The CAT 2023 exam will be for a total of 198 marks.
A non-scientific and on-screen calculator will be provided to the candidates for calculations during the exam. However, no other electronic devices will be allowed inside the test room.
An on-screen timer will be present on the computer screen, which will show the remaining time for each section.
There is a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer. It is recommended that candidates attempt only those questions that they are confident about, to avoid negative marking.
It is essential to practice mock tests regularly to get a feel for the exam pattern and develop time management skills. It is recommended that candidates take at least one mock test every week leading up to the exam.
Candidates should carry their admit card, photo identity proof, and a recent passport-size photograph to the exam center. It is recommended to reach the exam center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to avoid any last-minute rush.
Candidates should focus on maintaining accuracy while attempting questions and also work on their time management skills. They should aim to attempt all the questions they are confident about within the allotted time for each section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques – What is the exam pattern for CAT 2023?
Ans – The exam pattern for CAT 2023 is not yet announced. However, based on previous years’ patterns, the CAT exam is a computer-based test consisting of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes (2 hours), and each section has a time limit of 40 minutes. The total number of questions is usually around 66.
Ques – How many times is the CAT exam held each year?
Ans – The Common Admission Test (CAT) exam is held once a year, and it typically takes place on the last Sunday of November. This means that candidates who plan to take the exam have to wait for an entire year to take it again if they miss the opportunity or are unable to secure a satisfactory score. In 2022, the CAT exam was held on November 27. It is important to note that the official announcement of the CAT 2023 exam date will be made on July 31, following which the registration process will commence. Therefore, candidates need to keep themselves updated with the latest information about the exam dates and registration process to avoid missing out on this critical opportunity.
Ques – Is there any negative marking in the CAT exam pattern?
Ans – Yes, there is negative marking in the CAT exam pattern. For each incorrect answer, there is a penalty of one mark. This means that for every wrong answer, one mark is deducted from the total score. However, it is important to note that there is no negative marking for unattempted questions or non-MCQs. Therefore, candidates should carefully choose the questions they want to attempt and only answer the ones they are confident about to avoid negative markings. It is advisable to leave questions that one is unsure about rather than risk losing marks through incorrect answers.
Ques – Are students permitted to bring a calculator to the CAT exam?
Ans – No, A calculator or any electronic device is strictly prohibited inside the CAT exam centre. However, candidates can use the onscreen calculator available on their computer system during the exam. It is advised to improve mental calculation skills to avoid relying too much on the calculator, which may consume valuable time during the test.
Ques – Can students take the CAT Exam on any computer?
Ans – No, The CAT exam must be taken by the candidates only at the designated examination center mentioned on their admit card. It is mandatory for the candidates to appear for the exam at the allotted center. The details of the exam center will be mentioned on the CAT admit card, which the candidates can download from the official website. It is advisable for the candidates to reach the exam center well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card to avoid any last-minute hassle. Candidates must carry their admit card and a valid photo ID proof to the exam center for verification purposes.
Ques – How does the computer-based format differ from the paper-based (PBT) format?
Ans – The computer-based format and paper-based (PBT) format of the CAT exam differ in their mode of answering. In computer-based mode, candidates read the questions on a computer screen and choose the correct answer from the given options or type the answer where no options are available. The computer screen displays a timer to indicate the remaining time to complete the current question. On the other hand, in PBT mode, candidates need to read the questions from a paper booklet and darken the ovals in an answer sheet using a pencil.
Ques – What is the difficulty level of the CAT exam?
Ans – The CAT exam is known for its high difficulty level. However, the difficulty level of the exam can vary from year to year. The exam is designed to test the candidate’s analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ques – During the CAT exam, can students choose how they want to answer each question?
Ans – A: There is no negative marking for unattempted questions in CAT 2023. Only incorrect answers are penalized with a deduction of 1 mark. Therefore, candidates can avoid the risk of negative marking by leaving questions that they are not sure about or cannot answer confidently. It is better to focus on attempting the questions that can be answered accurately within the allotted time.
Ques – Can students choose their preferred test slot for the CAT 2023 exam?
Ans – No, the exam authorities will allot the CAT 2023 exam slots to candidates based on a first-come, first-served basis. Candidates must appear for the CAT 2023 exam only at the designated exam centre and at the allotted test slot. The test slot and exam centre details will be mentioned on the CAT 2023 admit card, which candidates can download after registering for the exam.
XAT stands for Xavier Aptitude Test, which is a national-level management entrance exam conducted by Xavier School of Management (XLRI) on behalf of Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI). It is a popular entrance exam for admission to management programs in various institutes across India.
The XAT exam tests candidates on various sections such as Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. The exam is usually held in the month of January every year, and the application process starts in the month of August.
The XAT Exam is divided into three parts and consists of a total of 105 questions, out of which 101 are MCQs. The MCQ questions are asked in four sections: Decision making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. The Essay Writing section has one subjective question. It is important for candidates to have a comprehensive understanding of the updated XAT Exam Pattern 2023 and prepare accordingly in order to score well and clear the cutoffs for XAT Exam 2023.
XAT Exam Pattern Highlights
XLRI has made some modifications to the XAT Exam Pattern this year. Here are some key highlights of the XAT Paper Pattern 2023-
XAT Exam Structure
XAT Exam Details
Number of sections
5 (Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation and General Knowledge and Essay Writing)
Number of questions
105
Total marks
105
Language of paper
English
Duration of exam
3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of answer choices
Five
Mode of examination
Online
XAT marking scheme
+1 mark for correct answer- 0.25 marks for incorrect answer- 0.10 marks for more than 8 un-attempted consecutive questionsNo negative marking in GK section
XAT Exam Pattern Section Wise
The XAT Exam has a varied distribution of questions across its sections, meaning that one section may have more questions than another. Here is the section wise break-up of the XAT 2023 exam-
XAT Sections
Number of Questions
Total Marks
Decision Making
22
22
Verbal and Logical Ability
26
26
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
28
28
General Knowledge
25
25
Essay (250 words)
1 (candidates can choose 1 topic from 3 options)
To be evaluated upon shortlisting
XAT Exam Pattern Marking Pattern
The XAT 2023 Exam Pattern also includes information about the marking scheme, which is important for the candidates to understand. Understanding the marking scheme of XAT 2023 Exam Pattern is crucial for the candidates to strategize and attempt the questions carefully.
For every correct answer provided, one mark will be awarded, while for every wrong or incorrect answer, 0.25 marks will be deducted.
It’s essential to keep in mind that unanswered questions could also result in negative marking.
If more than eight consecutive questions are unanswered, 0.10 marks will be deducted for each unanswered question after the eighth question.
General Knowledge section is an exception to the marking scheme. There is no negative marking for wrong or unanswered questions in this section.
The scores obtained in the General Knowledge section will not be considered for calculating the overall XAT score. Therefore, it’s important for the candidates to focus on attempting the General Knowledge section without any fear of negative marking.
XAT Exam Pattern Syllabus
The XAT Exam Pattern for 2023 consists of a total of 6 sections, including MCQ questions from 4 sections: Decision Making, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, Verbal & Logical Ability, and General Knowledge. The Essay Writing Part requires candidates to write an essay of 300 words on a given topic. To score well in the upcoming exam, candidates must be well-versed in the section-wise XAT Exam Pattern 2023, important topics, and other details. They should also check the previous year’s XAT Cut Off to understand the trends of qualifying marks.
Below are the details of the subject-wise XAT Paper Pattern for the upcoming exam:
XAT Exam Pattern Verbal and Logical Ability 2023
This section consists of 26 MCQ-type questions, including grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning questions of moderate difficulty level. Important sections include – Para Jumbles, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Para Completion, Critical Reasoning, Analogy, Para Completion, Statements and Assumptions
XAT 2023 Exam Pattern for Decision Making:
This section consists of 22 MCQ questions of moderate difficulty level. Important topics include Analytical Reasoning, Short Caselets, Data Arrangement Sets, Situational sets, and Business Decision-Making.
XAT Exam Pattern Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation 2023
This section has a relatively high difficulty level and includes a total of 28 questions in the form of Tables, Charts, graphs, and Caselets. QA questions will most probably be framed from Algebra, Geometry, Arithmetic, Number Systems, and Mensuration.
XAT Paper Pattern 2023 for GK:
The XAT GK Questions are dynamic, and there is no defined set of questions that can be asked. The syllabus is vast, and the candidates need rigorous preparation. The marks obtained in this section will not be considered for the final score calculation.
XAT Exam Pattern 2023 for Essay Writing:
This section has been reintroduced in 2022 and is clubbed with GK in Part B. Candidates must choose and write 1 short essay (not more than 300 words) out of 3 questions.
XAT Exam Pattern Time Pattern
The XAT 2023 exam duration is 3 hours and 30 minutes, and it is divided into two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A contains three sections: Verbal and Logical Ability, Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation, and Decision Making. Part B contains two sections: General Knowledge and Essay Writing. The table below provides an overview of the time limit for each section and part as per the official XAT Exam Pattern 2023. Please note that the time limit for PWD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates is slightly longer-
Part
Section
Exam Duration
Exam Duration for PWD Candidates
A
Verbal & Logical Ability
No sectional time limit
No sectional time limit
Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation
No sectional time limit
No sectional time limit
Decision Making
No sectional time limit
No sectional time limit
Overall Part 1
175 minutes
175 minutes to 240 minutes
B
Mock Keyboard Testing
5 minutes
–
B
General Knowledge
No sectional time limit
No sectional time limit
Essay Writing
No sectional time limit
No sectional time limit
Overall Part 2
30 minutes
30 minutes to 40 minutes
XAT Exam Pattern Year Wise Pattern
In the last six years, the XAT question paper has remained largely consistent, with the exception of the removal of the Essay Writing section in 2018 and its subsequent reintroduction in 2022. The number of questions on the exam has remained within the range of 97-114 during this period. Below is a table comparing the XAT exam patterns and difficulty levels of questions from 2017 to 2023-
Exam Year
Total Number of Questions
Section-wise Number of Questions
XAT Marking Scheme
XAT Exam Pattern 2023
105
VA & LR – 26 Decision Making- 22 QA & DI- 28 GK- 25 Essay: 1 to be answered out of 3 questions (to be evaluated upon shortlisting) 5 minutes mock keyboard testing round is also included this year
Correct Answer: +1 Incorrect Answer: -0.25 More than 8 Unanswered Questions: -0.10
XAT 2022
100
VA & LR – 26 Decision Making- 21 QA & DI- 28 GK- 25 Essay: 1 (to be evaluated upon shortlisting)
Correct Answer: +1 Incorrect Answer: -0.25 More than 8 Unanswered Questions: -0.10
XAT Exam Pattern 2021 & 2020
100
VA & LR – 26 Decision Making- 21 QA & DI- 28 GK- 25
Correct Answer: +1 Incorrect Answer: -0.25 More than 8 Unanswered Questions: -0.10
XAT Exam Pattern 2019
99
VA & LR – 26 Decision Making- 21 QA & DI- 27 GK- 25
Correct Answer: +1 Incorrect Answer: -0.25 More than 8 Unanswered Questions: -0.5
XAT Paper Pattern 2018 – 2017
97
VA & LR – 24 Decision Making- 21 QA & DI- 27 GK- 25 One Essay
Correct Answer: +1 Incorrect Answer: -0.25 More than 12 Unanswered Questions: -0.5
Note: VA = Verbal Ability, LR = Logical Reasoning, QA = Quantitative Ability, DI = Data Interpretation, GK = General Knowledge.
XAT Exam Pattern Points to Remember
After completing Part A, which consists of three sections, candidates can move on to the Part B GK Section.
The total duration for Part A is 165 minutes, and for Part B, it is 30 minutes.
There is no sectional time limit for Part A, which means candidates can attempt any section within the initial 165 minutes.
Candidates will get 15 minutes to solve the XAT GK Section.
The XAT Exam Pattern includes one descriptive part in which candidates have to write an essay of 250 words in 10 minutes.
PwD candidates will get an extra 20 minutes per hour, which means 55 minutes for Part A and 5 minutes for Part B.
As per official updates, the essay section will only be assessed if candidates qualify for the interview round.
Candidates can download XAT Books PDF to get the best study materials.
There is no negative marking for unanswered questions up to 8 questions, after which it is -0.10 for each unanswered question.
For every incorrect answer, 0.25 marks will be deducted, and for every correct answer, one mark will be awarded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques – Does XAT have an offline mode of examination?
Ans – No, XAT is not conducted in an offline or pen and paper mode. Since 2018, the exam is exclusively conducted in an online mode. Candidates have to take the exam on the computer system at designated exam centers located in over 70 cities across India.
Ques – What are the different sections included in the XAT exam paper?
Ans – The XAT exam paper consists of four main sections, namely Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. However, starting from the year 2022, an additional section of Essay writing has been reintroduced, making it a total of five sections.
Ques – Does the XAT exam have any negative scoring?
Ans – In the XAT exam, negative marking is present as a provision where 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer. However, it is only applicable for the 76 questions in Part 1 of the paper which comprises sections such as Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, and Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation. It is important to note that the GK section does not have any negative marking, hence candidates can attempt all the questions in this section without the fear of losing marks due to wrong answers.
Ques – What is the length of the XAT Exam in total?
Ans – The duration of the XAT Exam is 210 minutes or 3 hours and 30 minutes. The exam is divided into three parts, Part A, Part B, and Part C, each having a different time limit. Part A, consisting of three sections, Decision Making, Verbal and Logical Ability, and Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, has a total time limit of 175 minutes, with no sectional time limit between the sections. Part B, the General Knowledge section, has a time limit of 5 minutes, and Part C, the Essay Writing section, has a time limit of 30 minutes.
Ques – What is the XAT Question Pattern for Part B?
Ans – The XAT Question Pattern for Part B includes a new round called the keyboard testing round, which has been introduced for the first time in 2023. However, as there is no clarity on this section yet, the exact pattern for this section is not available. After the exam, the XAT Exam Pattern for this section will be shared.
Ques – Which section of the XAT 2023 exam has the most questions?
Ans – In the XAT 2023 exam paper, the section with the highest number of questions was Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, comprising 28 questions. Verbal and Logical Ability followed with 26 questions, while the General Knowledge section had 25 questions, and Decision Making had 22 questions. It is important for candidates to be aware of the number of questions and the distribution of topics to effectively prepare for the exam
Ques – Has the XAT exam pattern undergone any changes from the previous year?
Ans – Yes, the XAT exam pattern has undergone changes for the current year. The exam paper now consists of five sections, which include Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, GK, and Essay Writing. Additionally, candidates will now have a total of 210 minutes to solve all the questions, as opposed to 190 minutes in the previous year.
Ques – Is there a sectional time limit in the XAT exam?
Ans – No, there is no sectional time limit in the XAT exam. Candidates can attempt the questions in any order they prefer within the given overall time duration.
Ques – What is the difficulty level of the XAT exam?
Ans – The XAT exam is known to be one of the toughest MBA entrance exams in India. It is designed to assess a candidate’s aptitude, analytical and decision-making skills, and general awareness. The difficulty level of the questions varies from moderate to high, making it a challenging exam. However, with consistent preparation and practice, candidates can crack the XAT exam.
Ques – What is the marking scheme for the XAT essay writing section?
Ans – The essay writing section is an important part of the XAT exam. However, it is not given any marks. The essay is evaluated by the participating institutes during the selection process. The purpose of the essay is to assess the candidate’s writing ability, clarity of thought, and analytical skills. The essay topic is usually related to current affairs or a social issue, and candidates are required to write an essay of 250 words in 10 minutes.
Ques – How important is the General Knowledge section in the XAT exam?
Ans – The General Knowledge section plays an important role in the selection process of certain participating institutes. The purpose of the GK section is to assess the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, business, economics, politics, and other related topics. The section consists of 25 questions, and candidates are given 15 minutes to answer them. To prepare for the GK section, candidates should read newspapers, business magazines, and other relevant publications regularly.
CMAT 2023 syllabus has been revised to include Section 5 on Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The total number of questions has shrunk to 100 from the previous 125.
Each section has 20 MCQ type questions, each correct answer will carry 4 Marks.
The syllabus for each of the five sections of the CMAT exam is the same as other MBA entrance exams. Neither AICTE nor the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the CMAT 2023 exam, has strictly pre-defined the syllabus for the CMAT
Although the National Testing Agency (NTA) has not officially released the CMAT Syllabus 2023 document, the PDF version of CMAT Syllabus 2023 compiled by India’s top CMAT experts and past CMAT experts will be available online.
CMAT 2023 Exam Pattern
CMAT has 5 sections:
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation,
Logical Reasoning,
Language Comprehension,
General Awareness
Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Number of Sections
Five
Total Number of Marks
400
Total Number of Questions
100
Subject Wise Weightage
20 * 5
Mode of Exam
Online
Type of Question
MCQ
Medium of Language
English
CMAT 2023 Marking Scheme
For Every Correct Answer
+4 Marks
For Every Incorrect Answer
-1 Marks
For Unattempted Question
No Marks Deduction
CMAT 2023 Subject Wise Weightage
Subject
Total Number of Questions
Total Number of Marks
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation.
20
80
Logical Reasoning
20
80
Language Comprehension,
20
80
General Awareness
20
80
Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
20
80
Total
100
400
CMAT 2023 Syllabus
Below are some of the most important topics from the five sections of the CMAT syllabus.
Subject
Important Topics
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation.
Arithmetic-Ratio, mixtures, work, average, percentage, Time & speed, Profit and loss, interest, basic statistics Number properties Probability Counting principles Geometry Algebra Derivatives ( Maxima-Minima)
Usage of Articles Non-finites Dangling Modifiers Usage on Nouns & Pronouns, Adjectives, Adverbs, Prepositions –regular and followed, Verbs, Syntax, Subject-verb Agreement, Simple, continuous, Perfect tenses and Conditional-unreal past. Jumbled paragraphs.
General Awareness
Conventional GK-available in booksCurrent GK- based on current reading of newspapers and periodicals; Business & Economics GK -for example changes in Fiscal and monetary policy, CRR, Repo Rate,Devaluation and up valuation of Rupee. Business, National and International eventsWho’s whoConstitutional of India,Currency and Capitals of the countriesStates of IndiaInternational OrganizationsMonetary and fiscal toolsEmblemIdentification of personalities, companies among others.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Government publications, policies and practices on innovation and entrepreneurship, such as that published by the Economic Survey of India; Publishing of magazines; Procedure for sale of assets of a bankrupt company Starting new business ventures with new ideas like – Who founded the first payment bank in India; Who launched Paytm, RuPay, UPI based app Tez etc. Terminologies such as runway, auctioneer, liquidator, mixed economy, resilience, neuroticism, environmental scanning, innovation management, startups, overtrading, different owners, partnership, private companies and corporations; Marketable Product, Patent, Trademark, Profit Score Latest Who’s Who, Places, Books in the News: For example – Which city in India is among the five fastest growing startup cities in the world; JRD Tata Biography Title; Which country is first in terms of ease of doing business in the last 5 years Process and Steps of Starting a Business: You should know the basics of the process such as business viability; preparation of a business plan; Key areas that help to understand the profitability of the company.
CMAT 2023 Best Books for Preparation
The book includes detailed explanations, solved examples, and practice questions with solutions for each section of the exam. Additionally, it provides mock tests and previous years’ question papers for practice, which can help you get familiar with the exam pattern and difficulty level.
CMAT Entrance Guide by Disha Experts
The Complete Reference Manual for CMAT by S. K. Sinha
CMAT: Common Management Admission Test by GKP
The Pearson Guide to CMAT by Pearson India
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT/ XAT/ IIFT/ CMAT/ MAT/ NMAT/ SNAP by Nishit K Sinha
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R. S. Aggarwal
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha
The Mega Yearbook 2022: Current Affairs & General Knowledge for Competitive Exams by Disha Experts
Changes in CMAT 2022 vs 2021
CMAT 2023 Exam Pattern FAQs
Ques. Is there any sectional cutoff in the CMAT exam?
Ans. No, there is no sectional cutoff in the CMAT exam. However, candidates need to score an overall cutoff to qualify for admission.
Ques. What is the duration of the CMAT exam?
Ans. The duration of the CMAT exam is three hours.
Ques. What is the marking scheme of the CMAT exam?
Ans. The marking scheme of the CMAT exam is +4 for each correct answer and -1 for each incorrect answer. There is no negative marking for unanswered questions.
Ques. Can I switch between sections during the CMAT exam?
Ans. Yes, you can switch between sections during the CMAT exam. However, you cannot go back to a section once you have moved on to the next one.
Ques. Can I take the CMAT exam multiple times?
Ans. Yes, you can take the CMAT exam multiple times. However, the best score among all attempts will be considered for admission.
