Management aspirants note future state exam schedules (Jan–Apr 2026) for additional admission opportunities

Stay ahead with the latest management exam schedules for 2026. This comprehensive guide covers key dates for CMAT and MAH-MBA CET, including application timelines and exam shifts. Learn about the new two-attempt format for Maharashtra's premier entrance test and vital preparation strategies. Ensure your admission success by tracking official portals and maintaining a rigorous study schedule for the January to April 2026 cycle.

As the 2025 calendar draws to a close, management aspirants must pivot their focus toward the critical window of January to April 2026. This period marks a high-stakes phase for those seeking admission into premier B-schools via national and state-level entrance tests. With the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) and the Maharashtra MBA Common Entrance Test (MAH-MBA CET) serving as primary gateways, understanding the shifting timelines is essential for a strategic application process.

CMAT 2026: National-Level Opportunities in January

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has firmed up the schedule for CMAT 2026, positioning it as the first major hurdle of the new year. This exam is vital for students targeting AICTE-approved institutions across India.

• Exam Date: The CMAT 2026 is officially scheduled for January 25, 2026, conducted in a computer-based test (CBT) format.
• Shift Timings: Candidates will be assigned to one of two shifts: Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) or Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM).
• Preparation Focus: Aspirants should emphasize the 'Innovation & Entrepreneurship' section, which remains a unique and mandatory component of this 400-mark paper.
• Admit Card Updates: City intimation slips are expected in early January, followed by hall tickets on the official NTA portal.

MAH-MBA CET 2026: A New Two-Attempt Advantage

In a significant move for 2026, the Maharashtra State CET Cell has introduced additional flexibility for candidates. For the first time, aspirants can leverage two distinct attempts to secure their best possible score for top-tier institutes like JBIMS and SIMSREE.

Comparison of Key Exam Timelines

• Registration Window: The portal for MAH-MBA CET 2026 is expected to remain active from late December 2025 through February 2026.
• Scoring Policy: Candidates can use the better of two scores for the Centralized Admission Process (CAP) rounds.
• Exam Pattern: The test remains a 200-question speed-based challenge with no negative marking, emphasizing Logical and Abstract Reasoning.

Strategic Roadmap for Jan–Apr 2026

Success in these upcoming months requires more than just subject knowledge; it demands rigorous time management and administrative vigilance.

• Mock Integration: Use the weeks leading up to January 25 for full-length CMAT mocks to adjust to the three-hour duration.
• Document Readiness: Ensure all category certificates (OBC-NCL, EWS, etc.) are updated for the 2025–26 financial year before the CAP rounds begin.
• Speed Drills: For the April CET, transition from accuracy-based practice to speed-based drills to tackle 200 questions in 150 minutes.

The upcoming months are a marathon that defines your academic trajectory for the next two years. Aspirants must strictly monitor the official State CET Cell and NTA websites to ensure they do not miss critical updates regarding admit cards or shift changes.