Essential Entrance Exams for Hotel Management After 12th Grade

Considering a career in hotel management after 12th grade? This article outlines key entrance exams, including NCHM-JEE, IHM-A, and more, detailing eligibility criteria, application timelines, and exam formats. Explore the opportunities in the hospitality sector and prepare for a rewarding career filled with travel and cultural experiences. Read on to find out more about each exam and how to apply.

By Ambika Singh Feb 2, 2026, 11:05 IST

Exploring Hotel Management as a Career

If you're looking to pursue a career in the hotel and hospitality sector after completing your 12th grade, Hotel Management is a fantastic choice. This industry not only presents numerous job opportunities but also allows for travel and cultural experiences across the globe. To secure admission, students must take an entrance examination that evaluates their knowledge, skills, and interest in hospitality. The exam typically covers general knowledge, English, reasoning, and sometimes hospitality-related subjects. Successful candidates can then enroll in BHMCET or other hotel management programs.

Key Entrance Exams for Hotel Management

NCHM-JEE (NCHM Joint Entrance Exam)

This exam is designed for those seeking admission to the B.Sc. in Hospitality and Hotel Administration. It tests reasoning, English, general knowledge, and service sector knowledge. Applications are available starting in February, with the exam scheduled for May. Eligibility requires completion of 10+2.

IHM-A

Affiliated with the Taj Group of Hotels, IHM-A's selection process includes a profiling assessment, statement of purpose, group discussion, and personal interview. Application forms are released in early January, with the deadline in early April, and the exam takes place in April-May. The application fee is Rs. 1500.

STEP (Systematic Training & Education Program)

STEP offers admission to a 3-year Bachelor of Tourism Studies at the Oberoi Group of Hotels. Applications open in February, closing in April. The selection process involves an assessment and interview, with the exam held in April-May. Eligibility is 10+2 from any stream, and there is no application fee.

BHMCT-CET (127) (Common Entrance Test)

This test is for admission to a 3-year hotel management course at colleges affiliated with Indraprastha University, Delhi. The online exam lasts 150 minutes and covers numerical aptitude, reasoning, verbal ability, and reading comprehension. Forms will be available from the third week of March, with the exam in mid-June.

MAH-BHMCT-CET (Common Entrance Test)

Conducted in Maharashtra, this exam is for a 3-year Hotel Management program. It is a computer-based test covering English, Logical Reasoning, and General Knowledge, with a total of 100 marks and a duration of 90 minutes. Forms are available in late March and must be submitted by early April, with the exam in the third week of April. The fee is Rs. 800, and eligibility is 10+2 in any stream.

EAT (Eligibility Assessment Test)

The EAT is for admission to the 3-year Hotel and Culinary Arts program at Symbiosis School of Culinary Arts. This online test is followed by a Written Ability Test (WAT) and a Personal Interview (PI). Forms are available from late January until late June, with a fee of Rs. 1250.

BU-MAT (Undergraduate Management Aptitude Test)

BU-MAT is for the 4-year BHMCT and 3-year B.Sc. (H&HA) programs, covering Logical Reasoning, Numerical Ability, Scientific Knowledge, General Knowledge, and English Language. The online exam lasts 120 minutes. Forms are available in March, with submissions until the third week of July, and the exam occurs in the last week of July. The fee is Rs. 1500.

UGAT (Under Graduate Aptitude Test)

UGAT is conducted for admission to a three-year Hotel Management program, including sections on English, Arithmetic and Data Analysis, Logical Reasoning, General Knowledge, Service, and Scientific Aptitude. The offline exam lasts 180 minutes, with a fee of Rs. 750.

JMI-ET (JMI Entrance Test)

The JMI-ET is for admission to the BTTM and BHM programs, covering Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, English, and General Awareness. This online exam lasts 90 minutes, followed by an interview, with an exam fee of ₹700.

NMIMS-NPAT (National Test For Programs After 12th)

The NMIMS-NPAT is for admission to the BBA in Hospitality Operations and Management program, covering General Knowledge, Logical Reasoning, and English. The online exam lasts about 50 minutes, followed by an interview, with an exam fee of ₹1500. Students from any stream in 10+2 can apply for all three exams. Dates for applications and exams vary, with a typical marking scheme of +1/-0.25.