CMAT 2026 Exam Dates & Application Process: A Complete Guide

Are you aiming for admission into top MBA programs across India? The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a crucial national-level entrance exam that can open doors to numerous B-schools. To ensure a smooth journey, understanding the CMAT 2026 exam dates and the application process is your first critical step.

At Headache Tutorials, we're here to guide you through every stage of your CMAT preparation. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information regarding CMAT 2026, from key dates and eligibility to a step-by-step application process and fee details. Let's get started!

CMAT 2026 exam

CMAT 2026: An Overview

The CMAT is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is accepted by over 1000 AICTE-approved B-schools across India. It's a single-window entrance exam designed to evaluate a candidate's aptitude in various areas crucial for management studies.

CMAT 2026 Key Dates & Timeline (Expected)

While the official dates for CMAT 2026 will be released by the NTA, based on previous years' trends, here's an expected timeline to help you plan your preparation:

Event	Expected Dates (Tentative)
CMAT 2026 Notification Release	Last week of October 2025
CMAT 2026 Online Application Starts	Last week of October 2025
CMAT 2026 Application Deadline	Last week of November 2025
CMAT 2026 Application Correction Window	First week of December 2025
CMAT 2026 Admit Card Release	Second week of February 2026
CMAT 2026 Exam Date	Last week of February 2026 / First week of March 2026
CMAT 2026 Result Declaration	Third week of March 2026

Please note: These dates are tentative and based on historical patterns. Always refer to the official NTA CMAT website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

CMAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before you proceed with the CMAT application process, ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Nationality: The candidate must be a citizen of India.

• Educational Qualification:

  • You must hold a Bachelor's Degree in any discipline from a recognized University or equivalent.

  • Candidates appearing for the final year of their Bachelor's Degree, or whose result is awaited, are also eligible to apply. However, they must complete all requirements for their Bachelor's Degree by the start of the admission process for the academic year 2026-28.

• Minimum Marks: There is generally no minimum percentage requirement to appear for CMAT set by NTA. However, individual colleges accepting CMAT scores might have their own minimum percentage criteria for graduation.

• Age Limit: There is no age restriction for appearing in CMAT.

CMAT 2026 Exam Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The CMAT application process is entirely online. Here's a detailed guide to help you fill out the form accurately:

1. Visit the Official NTA CMAT Website: Go to the official website of NTA CMAT (URL will be provided in the official notification).

2. New Registration:

   • Click on the "New Registration" or "Apply Online" link.

   • Read the instructions carefully, then proceed to register by providing your personal details (name, date of birth, mobile number, email ID).

   • You will receive a system-generated Application Number and Password. Keep these safe for future logins.

3. Fill the Application Form:

   • Log in using your Application Number and Password.

   • Fill in all mandatory details, including personal information, academic qualifications (Class 10, 12, and Graduation details), contact information, and preferred exam cities.

   • Be meticulous and double-check all entries to avoid errors.

4. Upload Documents:

   • You will need to upload scanned images of your passport-size photograph and signature as per the specified format and size.

   • Ensure the images are clear and meet the NTA guidelines.

5. Pay Application Fees:

   • The CMAT application fees can be paid online using Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.

   • The fee varies by category (refer to the "CMAT 2026 Application Fees" section below).

   • Once the payment is successful, a confirmation page will be generated.

6. Print Confirmation Page:

   • After successful submission and payment, download and print the confirmation page. This serves as proof of your application.

   • Keep at least two printouts for your records.

CMAT 2026 Application Fees (Expected)

The application fees for CMAT 2026 exam are likely to be similar to previous years, with variations based on gender and category.

Category	Expected Fee (Tentative)
General (Male)	₹2000
General (Female)	₹1000
OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD / Transgender	₹1000

These fees are subject to change as per NTA's official notification.

Important Tips for CMAT Application

• Read Instructions Carefully: Before starting, thoroughly read the official information bulletin.

• Keep Documents Ready: Have all necessary documents (mark sheets, ID proof, scanned photo, signature) ready before you begin filling the form.

• Valid Contact Details: Ensure your mobile number and email ID are active and correct, as all communication from NTA will be sent there.

• Choose Exam Cities Wisely: Select your preferred exam cities carefully. Once submitted, changes might not be possible or could incur additional charges.

• Review Before Submission: Double-check every detail before final submission. Use the correction window if needed, but it's best to avoid errors from the start.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CMAT 2026

• Q1: When does CMAT 2026 registration start?

  • Based on past trends, CMAT 2026 registration is expected to start in the last week of October 2025. Always check the official NTA CMAT website for precise dates.

• Q2: What is the last date to apply for CMAT 2026?

  • The application deadline is usually around the last week of November 2025, but this is tentative.

• Q3: Can I edit my CMAT application form after submission?

  • Yes, NTA usually provides a short correction window after the application period closes. However, it's best to fill the form accurately the first time.

• Q4: Is there an age limit for CMAT 2026?

  • No, there is no upper age limit to appear for the CMAT exam.

• Q5: What documents are required for CMAT application?

  • You'll need academic mark sheets (10th, 12th, Graduation), a valid photo ID, and scanned images of your passport-size photograph and signature.

Understanding the CMAT 2026 exam dates and the application process is crucial for a stress-free start to your preparation. Mark your calendars, gather your documents, and apply well within the deadlines.

Once your application is complete, it's time to focus on mastering the exam! Ready to boost your CMAT score? Explore our comprehensive CMAT coaching programs at Headache Tutorials and get expert guidance for CMAT 2026!