By February 2, 2026, the focus for NMAT by GMAC test-takers has shifted entirely to the institutional selection rounds. Leading business schools that accept the 2025–26 scores have commenced their individual Shortlisting phases, inviting candidates for the second stage of the admission cycle. While the primary examination window concluded in December, the Official NMAT by GMAC Portal remains the central hub for candidates to download the final version of their Scorecard for verification.

NMIMS Mumbai and Regional Campus Shortlisting

The Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) has reached a critical milestone in its 2026 intake. The institute recently released its Shortlisting results, transitioning candidates into the mandatory "Stage 2" evaluation which prioritizes holistic traits over raw entrance marks.

• Standardized Cutoffs: Most MBA programs at NMIMS, including the Mumbai flagship, have set a qualifying bar at 209 marks.
• Attempt Policy: It is vital to remember that NMIMS only considers the first Scorecard generated during the 2025–26 testing window.
• Competency Assessment: Shortlisted candidates are now registering for the virtual Competency Test, which carries a significant 60% weightage in the final merit list.
• Personal Interview (PI): The PI rounds are scheduled to take place between late January and February 26, 2026.
• Document Upload: Candidates must upload a digital copy of their Scorecard to the NMIMS Dashboard to confirm their interview slots.

Selection Criteria and Weightage at Participating Colleges

Unlike previous years where entrance scores dominated the selection, the 2026 cycle across participating institutes shows a shift toward profile-based Shortlisting. The weightage assigned to the NMAT Scorecard has been adjusted to allow for a more balanced evaluation of work experience and academic consistency.

• For institutes like K J Somaiya and TAPMI, Shortlisting is currently ongoing with application deadlines extending into early February for specific cycles.
• Many private universities allow candidates to submit the best of their three attempts as reflected on their final Scorecard.
• Profile-based calls are being issued to candidates with exceptional professional backgrounds, even if they fall slightly below the traditional 90th percentile.
• Verified academic transcripts from 10th, 12th, and Graduation are being screened as part of the 2026 Shortlisting process.

Important Steps for Shortlisted Candidates

As the Shortlisting status updates across different university portals, aspirants are advised to act promptly to secure their preferred interview dates. Managing the administrative requirements for each Scorecard submission is essential for a smooth transition to the final merit list.

• Slot Booking: Interview and competency test slots are often allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.
• SOP Submission: Several institutes require a Statement of Purpose (SOP) to be submitted within 48 hours of receiving a shortlist invite.
• Transcripts: Ensure all semester-wise mark sheets are scanned and ready for the  Great Lakes Admissions Portal and other similar platforms.
• Email Alerts: Regularly check registered email IDs for automated alerts from GMAC regarding the sharing of your Scorecard with chosen schools.
• Interview Prep: Focus on situational judgment questions, as these now carry the highest weightage in the 2026 selection model.

Conclusion

The NMAT 2025–26 shortlisting phase is currently at its peak, providing a clear roadmap for candidates targeting premier management programs in India and abroad. With NMIMS leading the way by releasing its calls in late January, other participating institutes are rapidly following suit to finalize their interview schedules for the 2026-28 batch. This year's emphasis on competency assessments and personal interviews marks a significant evolution in how management talent is identified and nurtured. Aspirants should remain proactive in checking their dashboard status and ensuring that their official scorecard is correctly linked to every application to capitalize on this critical admission window.