The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to conduct the CMAT 2026 entrance exam on January 25. Candidates are currently in the final phase of their preparation as the city intimation slip and admit cards are expected shortly. Registered aspirants must visit the official portal to download mandatory documents before the computer-based test begins.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially confirmed that the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026 will be held on January 25. As of January 16, 2026, the exam cycle has reached a critical juncture with the City Intimation Slip expected to be released today or tomorrow. This national-level screening test remains a vital gateway for aspirants seeking admission into various MBA and PGDM programs across AICTE-approved institutions for the 2026-27 academic session.

Strategic Revision and Exam Day Logistics

With less than ten days remaining for the examination, aspirants have transitioned from comprehensive study to targeted revision. The CMAT is unique for its inclusion of the "Innovation and Entrepreneurship" section, which requires specific focus during this final window. NTA has organized the test in two shifts to accommodate the high volume of candidates across more than 120 cities.

• Shift Timings: The first session will run from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while the second session is scheduled for 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
• Document Verification: Candidates must ensure they have a valid government ID ready to accompany their printed admit card.
• Reporting Protocol: It is mandatory for aspirants to reach the center at least 60 minutes before the commencement of the exam for biometric registration.
• Prohibited Items: Digital watches, mobile phones, and any electronic communication devices are strictly banned within the testing hall.

Exam Pattern and Scoring Analysis

The 2026 CMAT pattern continues to follow the established structure of five distinct sections. Each section carries equal weightage, meaning aspirants must balance their time effectively to maintain a high percentile. The total duration for the computer-based test is 180 minutes, providing three hours of focused testing time.

• Marking Scheme: Each correct answer earns 4 marks, while a negative marking of 1 mark is applied for every incorrect response.
• No Sectional Limit: Unlike other management tests, there is no individual time limit for sections, giving aspirants the freedom to navigate between questions.
• Total Score: The paper consists of 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) for a maximum total of 400 marks.
• Syllabus Focus: Final revisions are currently centered on General Awareness and current business events from the last six months.

Admit Card and City Intimation Updates

The NTA portal is the primary hub for all official updates regarding the release of hall tickets. According to the current 2026 schedule, the city intimation slip—which informs candidates of their allotted exam city—is due between January 15 and 17. This preliminary information allows aspirants to finalize their travel arrangements well in advance of the January 25 test date.

• Admit Card Release: The official hall tickets are expected to be available for download starting January 20, 2026.
• Download Process: Candidates will need their application number and date of birth to log into the cmat.nta.nic.in website.
• Verification: Aspirants are advised to check their name, photograph, and assigned shift details immediately upon downloading the document.
• Helpline Support: In case of any discrepancies in the admit card, students should contact the NTA helpdesk before January 22.

Conclusion

As the CMAT 2026 exam date of January 25 approaches, the pressure on management aspirants is palpable. The release of the city intimation slip marks the start of the final logistical countdown. With the admit cards arriving next week, the focus remains on maintaining accuracy while navigating the 100-question paper. Success in this session will pave the way for admissions into some of the most prestigious business schools in the country for the upcoming academic year.