NMAT 2025–26 scores are currently being utilized by top B-schools for the 2026 MBA intake. As the main testing window has concluded, premier institutes like NMIMS, KJ Somaiya, and TAPMI have shifted their focus to shortlisting candidates. Aspirants are tracking sectional cutoffs and preparing for the upcoming competency tests and personal interviews.

While the primary testing window for the NMAT by GMAC concluded in late December, the utility of the 2025–26 scores is currently reaching its peak across the management education sector. As of today, the scores obtained during the recent testing cycle remain the primary criteria for the ongoing intake process at some of India's most prestigious business schools. Candidates who appeared for the exam are now actively submitting these results to various participating institutions to move forward in the 2026-28 admission cycle.

NMIMS Shortlisting and the New Selection Model

The Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) remains the most significant destination for NMAT takers. For the 2026 intake, NMIMS has recently issued notifications regarding its revised selection weightage, which notably reduces the reliance on the raw NMAT score. The institute is currently transitioning into "Stage 2," where the focus shifts toward a comprehensive Competency Test and Personal Interview (PI) round, scheduled to commence in February.

• Score Weightage: The NMAT score now accounts for only 20% of the final merit calculation at NMIMS.
• Competency Test: A major 50% weightage is allocated to this new assessment, which evaluates candidates on situational judgment and analytical thinking.
• NMIMS Cutoffs: The standardized cutoff has been maintained at 209 for core programs, with sectional requirements of 62 across all three segments.
• Attempt Policy: It is critical to note that NMIMS continues to consider only the first attempt from the 2025–26 cycle for its final shortlisting.

Broad Acceptance Across Private Universities

Beyond the flagship NMIMS campuses, the NMAT score is being utilized by over 50 other institutions nationwide. Schools such as K J Somaiya Institute of Management, TAPMI, and Great Lakes have integrated these scores into their multi-stage selection criteria. Unlike NMIMS, many of these private universities allow candidates to submit the best of their three attempts from the recent testing window, providing a distinct advantage to those who opted for retakes in December.

• K J Somaiya: Currently accepting applications with a deadline of January 20 and an expected cutoff of 220+.
• TAPMI Manipal: Utilizing NMAT scores alongside other national tests for its specialized MBA programs.
• SDA Bocconi Asia Center: The Mumbai-based center is in its second round of admissions, utilizing NMAT scores for its International Master in Business (IMB) program.
• Global Reach: Several institutions in South Africa, Nigeria, and the Philippines are also in the midst of their 2026 processing using these specific scores.

Comparison of NMAT Accepting B-Schools and Fees

The following table highlights the current application status and estimated tuition for top-tier schools utilizing the NMAT 2025–26 scores for their current 2026 admission cycles.

Conclusion

As the 2026 selection season enters its most intensive phase, the 2025–26 NMAT scores serve as the gateway for a diverse range of management programs. Aspirants are now focused on the post-exam requirements, such as the digital intake forms and the preparation for specialized interview rounds. With many deadlines fast approaching in the coming weeks, candidates are encouraged to verify the specific attempt-acceptance policy of each of the institutions to which they are applying.

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