The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026 is being held today, by the National Testing Agency across 124 cities in India. This computer-based test is a critical milestone for MBA aspirants seeking admission into AICTE-approved management programs for the 2026-27 session. Candidates must adhere to strict shift timings, including the mandatory reporting time and gate closing protocols at their assigned test centres. Ensure you carry your printed admit card and valid identification for seamless entry into the examination hall.

The National Testing Agency has successfully initiated the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026 today across a vast network of examination facilities. As a high-stakes national-level entrance test, the examination is being held in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format to ensure a standardized and fair assessment environment. Thousands of management aspirants are appearing for the test today to secure eligibility for MBA and PGDM programs in top business schools. The NTA has deployed advanced surveillance and jammers at every examination site to prevent any malpractice and maintain the test's integrity.

• Mode of Test: Purely Online Computer-Based Test (CBT).
• Sections Covered: Quantitative Techniques, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
• Marking Scheme: Each correct answer earns 4 marks, while a negative marking of 1 mark is applied for incorrect responses.
• Participating Institutes: Scores are accepted by over 1,300 AICTE-approved institutions across India.

Shift Timings and Mandatory Reporting Protocols

The CMAT 2026 is being conducted in two distinct sessions to accommodate the large volume of candidates effectively. For the morning shift, the test is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while the afternoon session runs from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Candidates are required to reach the venue well before the gate closing time specified for their respective shift. Those who arrive after the deadline will not be permitted to enter, as the biometric registration process must be completed before the start of the paper.

• Biometric Entry: Candidates must undergo Aadhaar-based biometric verification during their designated shift.
• Duration: The total time allotted for the paper is 180 minutes (3 hours) with no sectional time limits.

Essential Documentation and Prohibited Items

Every candidate entering the test center today must present a clear, printed copy of the CMAT 2026 Admit Card along with a valid photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or Voter ID. Additionally, each candidate must bring one passport-size photograph to be pasted on the attendance sheet inside the hall. Electronic devices, stationary items like geometry boxes, and personal belongings like bags or wallets are strictly prohibited inside the testing area to ensure the security of the digital platform.

• Identity Proof: The name on the ID must match the name on the admit card exactly for the candidate.
• Rough Work: A4 size sheets for calculations are provided at the desk and must be returned after the test.
• Transparent Items: Only a transparent water bottle and a simple ballpoint pen are allowed at the seat of the candidate.
• PWD Provisions: Candidates requiring a scribe must have already submitted the necessary certificates to the center superintendent.

Conclusion

The conduct of CMAT 2026 today marks the culmination of months of preparation for management hopefuls across the country. By following the NTA's strictly defined shift protocols and ensuring all documentation is in order, students can navigate the examination day with minimal stress. As the CBT mode ensures immediate data capture, the preliminary answer keys and response sheets are expected to be released on the official NTA website within a week. We wish all participants the best of luck in achieving their target percentiles and securing admissions to their dream management colleges.