1. What is NMAT?
The NMAT (Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test) is one of India’s leading management entrance exams, conducted by GMAC for admission to top B-schools like NMIMS, SPJIMR, ISB (Advanced Management Program), and many international universities.
Unlike other MBA entrance tests, NMAT allows flexibility — you can choose your exam date, location, and even reattempt the test up to three times to improve your score.
To crack it, you must clearly understand the NMAT exam syllabus and structure — that’s exactly what we’ll explore below.
2. NMAT Exam Format
Before diving into the syllabus, let’s decode the NMAT exam format. The test consists of three sections, each timed separately.
Section | Number of Questions | Time Limit | Score Range |
Language Skills | 36 | 28 minutes | 12–120 |
Quantitative Skills | 36 | 52 minutes | 12–120 |
Logical Reasoning | 36 | 40 minutes | 12–120 |
Total | 108 | 120 minutes (2 hours) | 36–360 |
✅ Key Features of NMAT Exam Format
- Computer-based test with adaptive difficulty.
- No negative marking.
- You can choose the order of sections.
- Equal weightage for all sections.
The test is designed to measure your language proficiency, analytical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude — the three pillars of management aptitude.
3. NMAT Exam Syllabus Overview
The NMAT exam syllabus focuses on core skills rather than rote learning. It is divided into three sections:
- Language Skills (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension)
- Quantitative Skills (Math & Data Interpretation)
- Logical Reasoning (Analytical & Critical Thinking)
Each section tests your grasp of concepts taught in school but in a time-pressured, application-based context.
4. Section-wise Breakdown of NMAT Syllabus
🔹 Language Skills
This section assesses your verbal ability, grammar, and comprehension.
Topics Covered:
- Reading Comprehension (2–3 passages)
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Sentence Correction
- Fill in the Blanks
- Para Jumbles
- Error Detection
- Vocabulary Usage
- Analogies
Tips:
- Focus on vocabulary and reading daily editorials.
- Practice timed RC passages to improve speed and accuracy.
🔹 Quantitative Skills
This section covers mathematical reasoning, arithmetic, and data handling.
Topics Covered:
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Ratio, Averages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance)
- Algebra (Equations, Inequalities, Progressions)
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Number Systems
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts)
- Modern Math (Permutation, Combination, Probability)
- Data Sufficiency
Tips:
- Strengthen basics from Class 8–10 level math.
- Practice 20–25 quant questions daily.
🔹 Logical Reasoning
This is the most analytical section, checking your ability to reason, analyze patterns, and draw logical conclusions.
Topics Covered:
- Series & Sequences
- Syllogisms
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Input-Output
- Direction Sense
- Analytical Puzzles
- Critical Reasoning (Assumptions, Conclusions, Strengthen/Weaken Arguments)
Tips:
- Solve puzzle books and logical reasoning sets regularly.
- Practice under time pressure — 40 minutes for 36 questions means speed with precision is key.
5. NMAT Marking Scheme & Test Structure
- Each question carries 3 marks.
- No negative marking — making NMAT a student-friendly test.
- Adaptive Scoring: Questions adjust in difficulty as you progress, ensuring fair assessment.
- The NMAT syllabus and exam pattern emphasize consistency across all three sections — so you can’t afford to ignore any one area.
6. Best Preparation Tips for NMAT
- Understand the NMAT Exam Format:
Knowing the time limit and number of questions per section helps you plan your strategy. - Take Mock Tests Regularly:
Career Managers’ NMAT mock series closely simulates the real test, helping students track progress. - Focus on Weak Areas:
Analyze your mock test results to identify patterns and improve systematically. - Time Management:
With a total of 108 questions in 120 minutes, every second counts. Learn to switch quickly between questions. - Use Official NMAT Guide by GMAC:
It’s the most reliable resource for real exam-style questions. - Stay Consistent:
Daily practice of quant sets, RCs, and reasoning puzzles builds lasting confidence.
7. Recommended Books & Resources
Section | Book Name | Author/Publisher |
Quantitative Skills | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma |
Logical Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
Language Skills | Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
All Sections | NMAT by GMAC Official Guide | GMAC |
8. How Career Managers Helps You Succeed
Career Managers, based in Borivali-West, Mumbai, is known for helping MBA aspirants achieve top scores in exams like NMAT, CAT, SNAP, and XAT.
Our expert faculty with 10+ years of experience provides:
- Personalized NMAT preparation plans
- Sectional and full-length mock tests
- One-on-one mentoring sessions
- Concept clarity classes and shortcut techniques
📍 Address: Near Old MHB Colony, Gorai Road, Borivali-West, Mumbai
📞 Phone: +91 8976055508
📧 Email: info@careermanagers.in
🌐 Website: www.careermanagers.in
9. FAQs
Q1. Has the NMAT exam syllabus changed?
Q2. Is NMAT easier than CAT?
Q3. What is a good NMAT score?
Q4. Can I skip sections or go back to previous questions?
Q5. How many times can I attempt NMAT?
Helpful Enhancements
- ✅ Free NMAT Strategy Session: Book a counseling session with Career Managers experts to build your 60-day NMAT study plan.
- ✅ Downloadable NMAT Syllabus PDF: A concise, printable NMAT syllabus to help structure your prep week by week.
- ✅ NMAT Mock Test Access: Enroll for mock tests modeled on the latest NMAT exam pattern.
Author & Review Box
Author: Team Career Managers
With 10+ years of experience in MBA test prep, Career Managers has guided 1,000+ students to leading B-schools across India.
Reviewed by: Senior NMAT Faculty – Career Managers, Mumbai