IPMAT Indore 2026 scheduled for 4 May; registration window likely to launch in February 2026

IIM Indore has officially announced the IPMAT 2026 exam date for its prestigious five-year Integrated Programme in Management (IPM). The exam is scheduled for May 4, 2026. Aspirants should note that the online registration window is likely to open in February 2026, kickstarting the application process for one of India's most sought-after management programs after class 12. This news provides a clear timeline for candidates to intensify their preparation, focusing on Quantitative Ability and Verbal Ability. Get ready to embark on a journey towards a dual-degree: BA (Foundations of Management) and MBA from a top-tier IIM.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore, a beacon of management education, has released the key date for its entrance examination for the highly acclaimed Integrated Programme in Management (IPM). This five-year, dual-degree program, which culminates in a Bachelor of Arts (Foundations of Management) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), is a game-changer for high school graduates aspiring to a career in management. The announcement of the exam date, nearly five months in advance, is a crucial signal for every serious aspirant to streamline their study plan immediately.

• Official Exam Date: The IPM Aptitude Test (AT) 2026 is officially scheduled for Sunday, May 4, 2026. This single date marks the gateway for admission into IIM Indore's flagship IPM course.
• Registration Launch: The online application process for IPMAT 2026 is tentatively slated to commence in the second week of February 2026. Candidates are advised to keep a close watch on the official IIM Indore website for the exact notification and application link.
• Expected Application Window: The registration window is anticipated to remain open for approximately a month, likely concluding by the end of March or early April 2026. Given the program's popularity, early application is highly recommended to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
• Admit Card and Result: The Admit Card is expected to be released approximately a week before the exam date, while the IPMAT 2026 result is generally declared in June 2026, followed by the Personal Interview (PI) shortlisting and round in July 2026.

Understanding the IPMAT 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The IPMAT is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) designed to assess the intellectual and mental makeup of young candidates for a rigorous management curriculum. A deep understanding of the exam structure is the first step toward a winning preparation strategy. The test is typically divided into three sections with a total duration of 120 minutes (two hours).

• Quantitative Ability (MCQ): This section tests fundamental mathematical skills, covering topics up to the 10th and 12th standard, including Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Number Systems. It has a time limit of 40 minutes. The questions are Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), carrying negative marking for incorrect responses.
• Quantitative Ability (Short Answer – SA): This unique section also focuses on quantitative skills but requires candidates to enter the answer numerically, rather than selecting from options. It also has a time limit of 40 minutes. Crucially, this section usually does not have negative marking, which impacts the test-taking strategy significantly.
• Verbal Ability (MCQ): This section, also limited to 40 minutes, evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in English usage, comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. It primarily consists of MCQs, including Reading Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Vocabulary-based questions, and Para Jumbles, with negative marking.

Key Preparation Pointers:

• Focus on Fundamentals: Given the diverse nature of the questions, a strong foundation in high-school level mathematics is non-negotiable for the Quantitative sections.
• Develop Speed and Accuracy: With strict sectional time limits of 40 minutes each, practicing with a timer is essential. The negative marking scheme for the MCQ sections makes accuracy vital.
• Holistic English Preparation: Beyond typical grammar rules, aspirants must develop a robust vocabulary and strong reading comprehension skills, which are best honed through consistent reading of high-quality news and editorial pieces.

Eligibility and Selection Process

The IPM is tailored for exceptionally bright and motivated students, and the eligibility and selection process reflects the high standards set by IIM Indore. Candidates must meticulously ensure they meet all the criteria before applying.

• Age Criterion: The candidate should typically have been born on or after August 01, 2006 (with a relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/PwD candidates).
• Academic Qualification:
  • Candidates must have passed Standard XII/HSC or equivalent examination in 2024, 2025, or appearing in 2026.
  • A minimum of 60% marks in Standard X/SSC and Standard XII/HSC (55% for SC/ST/PwD category) is generally required. Note: The minimum percentage is based on previous year's criteria and is subject to official IIM Indore notification.
• The Two-Stage Selection:
  • Stage 1: Aptitude Test (IPMAT) Score: Candidates are first shortlisted based on their IPMAT score, with sectional cut-offs in place.
  • Stage 2: Personal Interview (PI): Shortlisted candidates proceed to the Personal Interview, which evaluates general awareness, communication skills, academic proficiency, and general suitability for the program.
• Final Merit List: The final selection is based on a composite score derived from the IPMAT score, the performance in the Personal Interview, and the candidate's academic profile (10th and 12th standard marks).

Dateline 19 December 2025

The official IPMAT 2026 exam date provides the perfect target for your next few months of intensive preparation. With the application process opening in February 2026, now is the time to finalize your study materials, start taking full-length mock tests, and work on both your academic skills and communication abilities for the interview stage. This dual-degree program offers a guaranteed pathway to an MBA from a top-tier IIM right after high school, making it an opportunity that demands your utmost focus. Start structuring your study plan today and leverage the remaining time to maximize your performance on May 4, 2026, to secure your seat in IIM Indore.

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