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Key Dates for Major MBA Entrance Exams: CAT, XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and MAT

Candidates preparing for MBA admissions should take note of the important dates for major entrance exams including CAT, XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and MAT. With application deadlines and exam schedules now available, aspirants can strategically plan their preparations. This article outlines the key dates for each exam, including registration deadlines and admit card release dates, ensuring candidates are well-informed to maximize their chances of admission into their preferred business schools. Explore the details to make the best choices for your MBA journey.
By Ambika Singh Sep 8, 2026, 13:02 IST

Important Information for MBA Aspirants



Students gearing up for significant management entrance tests such as CAT, XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and MAT should be aware of the application deadlines and exam dates.


Details regarding the registration and schedules for the leading management entrance exams have been announced for those preparing for MBA admissions. It is crucial for candidates to note the deadlines and exam dates for tests like CAT, XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and MAT, as the scores from these assessments will be utilized for admission into various management institutions. Candidates can select the exam that best fits their target business schools.


The Common Admission Test (CAT) for 2026 will be organized by IIM Indore, taking place on November 26, 2026. The application deadline for CAT 2026 is set for 5:00 PM on September 15, 2026, with the admit card available from November 4, 2026.


The XAT 2027 will be held by XLRI Jamshedpur on January 3, 2027, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Applications for XAT must be submitted by December 6, 2026, and admit cards will be issued on December 20, 2026.


SNAP 2026, conducted by Symbiosis International, will offer candidates three exam dates: December 13, 19, and 26, 2026. The registration deadline for SNAP is November 25, 2026. Additionally, NMAT 2026, managed by GMAC, will have a testing window from November 2 to December 20, 2026, with registration open until October 10, 2026. This computer-based test consists of 108 questions, and candidates will have 120 minutes to complete it.


For the MAT (September 2026) organized by AIMA, candidates can choose between a paper-based test (PBT) or a computer-based test (CBT). The registration for the PBT closes today, September 7, with the exam on September 13. The CBT application deadline is September 14, and the exam is scheduled for September 20, 2026.


Before submitting applications for any entrance exam, MBA candidates should confirm which exam scores are accepted by their desired business schools. This information will help them choose the appropriate exam. Moreover, candidates have the option to take multiple management entrance exams, thereby broadening their chances for MBA admission.


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