The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially opened the registration process for CMAT 2026. Aspirants seeking admission to MBA/PGDM programmes in more than 1,000+ participating colleges across India can apply via the official website.
Why this matter?
CMAT is a national-level entrance test for management aspirants, and beginning the application early ensures you don’t miss out on preferred test cities, centres and deadlines. Because seats are filled based on CMAT score + institute selection, timely registration is key.
Table of Contents
Important Dates (Tentative & Confirmed)
Here’s a breakdown of the important milestones for CMAT 2026 registration:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification release | November 2025 (expected) |
| Registration begins | November 2025 (some sources specify 14 Nov 2025) |
| Last date to apply | December 2025 (estimates vary) |
| Application fee payment last date | December 2025 |
| Exam date | January 2026 (to be confirmed) |
Note: Always check the official website (exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT or cmat.nta.nic.in) for the latest official schedule and any updates or revisions.
Eligibility Criteria: Who can apply?
Understanding eligibility is crucial before you begin registration. Some of the key criteria are:
You must have graduated (i.e., a bachelor’s degree in any discipline) from a recognized university. Final year students may often apply, subject to fulfilling passing certificate requirements at the time of admission.
There is no minimum percentage universally required to register for CMAT; however, colleges may specify minimum graduation percentages for entry.
The exam is a computer-based test (CBT) mode only.
Make sure you check the detailed information bulletin once released, as any special conditions (e.g., reservation, age, backlog) will be listed there.
Application Fee & Payment Details
Knowing the fee upfront is important to complete the registration without last-minute hiccups. According to current information:
| Category | Fee (Male) | Fee (Female / Reserved / Transgender) |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) – Male | ₹ 2,500 | ₹ 1,250 |
| Gen-EWS / OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD – Male | ₹ 1,250 | ₹ 1,250 |
Note: Fee is non-refundable once paid. Make payments through online modes only (debit/credit card, net banking, UPI) as prescribed by NTA.
How to Register: Step-by-Step
Here’s a typical process to apply for CMAT 2026:
Visit the official website: exams.nta.ac.in/CMAT
Click on ‘New Registration’ (or ‘Registration for CMAT 2026’ when active)
Fill in your basic details (name, date of birth, mobile number, email) and generate a login ID and password.
Log in using the credentials, fill the application form, providing personal, academic, contact details, choice of test cities (usually up to 4) and other details.
Upload scanned photograph and signature in the prescribed format (size, dimension, format as per latest instructions).
Pay the application fee online. After payment, download/print the confirmation page.
Keep a copy of your application number and confirmation for future reference.
Important Points & Tips for Applicants
Test city preferences: Choose your first preference wisely (around your residence or feasible commute) — changing later may not be possible.
Photo & signature guidelines: Ensure you follow the size and format rules exactly (e.g., jpg/jpeg, specific kb size) else uploads may get rejected.
Accuracy of details: Once submitted, corrections may be limited or not allowed. Double-check all fields (especially name, DOB, category, academic credentials).
Save application number: Without this, you cannot download admit card later.
Document readiness: Keep scanned copies of your degree certificate, ID proofs, reservation certificate (if applicable) ready before form filling.
Start early: Because there might be server slowdowns or payment gateway issues towards deadlines, apply early.
Keep track of announcements: NTA may release a correction window or city slip in later stages — monitor the official site for updates.
What’s After Registration?
Once your registration is confirmed, here’s what to expect:
You will receive an Admit Card / Hall Ticket ahead of the exam, which must be downloaded and printed by the candidate.
After the exam, a provisional answer key may be released, followed by final answer key. You may get an opportunity to challenge the answer key if permitted.
Scorecards will be issued, and participating institutes will use your CMAT score to shortlist for GD/PI rounds, and final admission.
Remember: Scoring well in CMAT improves your options, but each college may set its own cut-offs and selection criteria.
FAQs — CMAT 2026 Registration & Exam
Q1. Has CMAT 2026 registration started?
Yes — the registration process has commenced (or is scheduled to commence in November 2025) on the NTA’s official CMAT website.
Q2. What is the application fee for CMAT 2026?
General male applicants: ₹ 2,500. Female/reserved category/transgender: ₹ 1,250.
Q3. Can I fill the form offline?
No. The entire registration including fee payment is online only via the official website. (No paper forms / demand drafts accepted)
Q4. How many test cities can I choose?
Typically up to four test city preferences are allowed. Choose carefully because changes later may be limited.
