Top MBA Exams 2024 other than CAT in India
Top 10 MBA Exam Other Than CAT in India: Studying MBA in premier B-Schools is the dream of many graduates in India. Most graduates aim to crack CAT to get admission in IIMs. However, CAT or IIMs are not the only gateway for world-class MBA education. CAT is a highly competitive exam, and there are some other MBA exams similar to CAT, i.e. XAT, CMAT, MAT, and SNAP, which are some of the exams candidates should consider.
There are many other top MBA exam other than CAT for studying MBA courses in renowned B-Schools. In fact, institutes like IIFT, MICA, and XIM offer one-of-a-kind MBA courses that are valued on par, sometimes more than IIM PGDM programmes.
MBA Exam Other than CAT: Exam Dates
Candidates can get familiar with the tentative month in which these MBA national-level entrance exams are conducted. Along with it, we have also provided the list of institutes accepting the respective exams other that CAT for MBA. The provided list is CAT-like exams Check below:
Exam Name | MBA Exam Dates (Tentative) | Top Accepting Colleges |
First Week of January | ||
First week of April | ||
2 selected test dates within 75-day test window between October-December | NMIMS, K J Somaiya, VIT Vellore, SD Bacconi Asia Centre, XUB, Amity, LPU | |
| ||
First week of December (NOTE: Last year, IIFT admission is based on CAT exam) | ||
MICAT I & MICAT II, respectively, in first week of December and last week of January | ||
Four times a year in February, May, September, and December | ||
Last week of February | ||
Last week of December | IBS B-Schools | |
Throughout the year, on the published dates | SPJIMR, XIMB, TAPMI, LBSIM, GIM Goa, FORE, IMI, and IMT | |
| ATMA | Four times a year in February 18, May 11, June 23, and July 21, 2024 | MDI Gurgaon, IPE Hyderabad, JIMS Rohini Delhi, IMS Ghaziabad, etc |
Exam preparation for top MBA entrance exams like CAT requires 9–12 months of dedicated studies, which means the candidate will be able to join an MBA institute only after a year, while in case of admission via other MBA exams beyond CAT, the candidate can start the MBA course immediately after graduation. Though the placements differ when it comes to IIMs and other colleges,. However, wasting a year and ROI is much better than getting an MBA from other colleges too.
MBA Application Form Fee
Here we have listed in detail category wise MBA form fee for Non CAT exam. Check out the details:
Exam Name | Application Fee (General Category)* | Application Fee (Reserved Category)* |
XAT | Rs 1800 | Rs 1800 |
CMAT | Rs 2000 | Rs 1000 |
NMAT | Rs 2300 | Rs 2300 |
SNAP | Rs 1950 | Rs 1950 |
IIFT | Rs 2500 | Rs 1000 |
MICAT | Rs 2100 | Rs 2100 |
MAT | Rs 1950 | Rs 3100 |
TISSNET | Rs 1030 per course | Rs 260 per course |
IBSAT | Rs 1800 | Rs 1800 |
GMAT exam form fees |
|
|
*The fee is subject to change as per the current exam session.
MBA Admissions: Entrance exams other than CAT to take
Read below to know which MBA exams at national level, which are also CAT equivalent exams, you can take in the coming months, their registration process, eligibility, fees, syllabus, pattern and preparation strategy. This information will help you decide which MBA entrance exams you can take this year and which MBA colleges you can apply to.
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
XAT is the second most popular MBA entrance exam other than CAT. Over 1 lakh candidates take the test. The exam-conducting body is the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI) in India, including XLRI. XLRI stands at 8 in the NIRF rankings, only next to IIMs. The exam notification is tentatively released in the month of August every year. Usually, XLRI conducts the XAT entrance test on the first or second Sunday of January every year.
Over 1000 MBA colleges in India accept XAT scores. It is a computer-based test with a 3-hour, 10-minute duration. The XAT syllabus is similar to CAT except additional sections of decision-making, General Awareness and essay writing.
Also read: XAT eligibility criteria
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
CMAT is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is one of the standard exams for MBA other than CAT in the country. Over 75,000 candidates apply for the test every year. Unlike other MBA entrances, CMAT usually happens in the month of March, making it easy for students to prepare. CMAT scores are accepted by over 1300 government and private AICTE approved MBA colleges in India. The CMAT exam pattern follows questions from Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language, Comprehension, General Awareness, Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
Also Read: CMAT Eligibility criteria
Narsee Monjee Aptitude Test (NMAT)
NMAT or NMIMS Management Test, is used by various B-Schools in India and abroad for their MBA admissions. From 2015, GMAC has been conducting the exam along with GMAT. NMAT is a preferred MBA exam other than CAT as it offers flexibility to choose our own date and venue over a 75-day window in October–December. Since COVID, GMAC has also opened a remote-proctored mode of examination. A two-hour exam with 108 MCQs, NMAT syllabus comprises Quantitative Skills, Logical Reasoning, and Language skills. Candidates can take the exam 3 times within the window period, with a 15-day gap between 2 successive attempts. The best score will be considered for further admission.
Also read: NMAT Eligibility Criteria
Symbiosis National Aptitutde Test (SNAP)
Symbiosis International University (SIU), Pune, convenes the SNAP exam notification, conducting SNAP every year. It admits students into PGDM courses offered by SIU and 14-affiliated institutions across the country. SNAP always stands among the highest-ranked MBA entrance exams other than CAT for the variety of MBA specialisations it offers including executive MBA and PGDM. The average package for SIBM, Pune MBA graduates is 20 LPA. It is a one hour online exam conducted three times, tentatively in the month of December. Maximum two attempts are allowed out of which, the best score will be considered.
There will be 60 questions from General English, Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, Analytical & Logical Reasoning subjects. The exam is conducted in the month of December following CAT.
Also Read: How to prepare for SNAP
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
MAT (Management Aptitude Test), just like CMAT, is a common national-level MBA entrance in India. Over 600 MBA colleges in India accept MAT scores. It is one of the best management exams other than CAT for quality MBA education at affordable costs. Candidates can take the test four times a year (February, May, September and December) by AIMA (All India Management Association). There are 200 questions with a 150 minute duration. The exam is conducted 4 times a year in February, May, September and December in all three modes– CBT, IBT, PBT. Registration windows for respective tests will be open in the given months.
- How to check MAT Exam Pattern
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)
IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade) is the most sought-after MBA exams other than CAT for its flagship MBA programmes in International trade and business. But, last year, IIFT admission for MBA programme is based on CAT scores. Students who specialise in nation’s trade management gain exposure into international bodies such as WTO and UNCTAD.
NTA conducts the IIFT exam in the month of December for admissions to IIFT Delhi, Kolkata, Kakinada. The IIFT exam pattern follows an objective question paper with 110 MCQs and 2 hr duration. The syllabus of IIFT MBA entrance comprises Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, LIDR, and General Knowledge. Foreign nationals can also undertake this exam if they fulfil IIFT eligibility criteria. With a difficulty level comparable to the CAT, the average packages for successful MBA graduates stand at 25-30 LPA.
- Check IIFT Application Form for MBA (IB) exam
Mudra Institute of Communications Admissions Test (MICAT)
MICAT is a premier MBA entrance exam other than CAT in India. MICA stands for Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad. MICA MBA course in Strategic Marketing and Communications is a flagship program. Over 5000 students take the test for 180 seats. Candidates must have a valid score in CAT, XAT or GMAT to be eligible for MICAT. MICAT exam dates are conducted twice a year (December and February) as MICAT I & MICAT II. Candidates can take both to improve scores. In the case of writing two tests, the best score will be considered for the admissions.
The MICAT exam syllabus is unique with both objective and descriptive type assessment. Subjects include Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, Convergent & Divergent Thinking along with a Descriptive Test, and Psychometric Test.
- Check MICAT Exam Dates
Tata Institute of Social Sciences National Entrance Test (TISSNET)
Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) is one of the oldest universities in India that offers M.A programmes in HRM considered equivalent to MBA. TISS-NET (National Entrance Test) leads admission to its School of Management and Labour Studies, Mumbai. The MBA equivalent courses offered by TISS are unique courses with affordable fees. Career prospects are also bright with students bagging average packages of 20-25 LPA from world-renowned firms. TISS-NET exam pattern follows an online test of 100 minute duration conducted in February. The syllabus is similar to the CAT. However, TISSNET is generally less difficult compared to the CAT.
- Check TISSNET Exam Pattern
ICFAI Business Studies Aptitude Test (IBSAT)
ICFAI Business Schools are the premier B-Schools in the country for industry-oriented MBA programmes. IBS Hyderabad received 19th rank among private colleges in IIRF Ranking. IBSAT is the only gateway for ICFAI B-Schools (IBS). It is conducted in online mode at the candidate's own location once a year in the month of December. IBSAT requires valid scores in the CAT, GMAT, or NMAT of the last two years.
Unlike CAT and other MBA entrance exams, the IBSAT exam pattern gives more weightage to Verbal Ability & Reading comprehension. It is a two hour test with 140 MCQs from Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Data Adequacy & Sufficiency. The maximum marks are 140, with no negative marking. The exam is conducted in the month of December within the MBA exam season.
- How to do IBSAT Preparation
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
GMAT is a globally recognised management entrance conducted by the GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council). It is a widely accepted MBA entrance exam other than the CAT. GMAT scores are accepted by IIMs for their 1 year MBA programmes. The GMAT is a highly candidate-friendly exam. Candidates can take the exam throughout the year, and registrations are allowed up to 24 hrs before the exam. GMAT is a gateway for studying MBA at global universities as well. The GMAT exam syllabus is based on Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment.
Learn more about the various state-level and private MBA entrance exams in India, along with the top MBA colleges in the country.
Also Read: GMAT Exam Pattern
AIMS Test for Management Admissions (ATMA)
ATMA is a national-level entrance exam conducted by Association of Indian Management School (AIMS). ATMA is a single-window test held for admission to various post-graduate programmes like MBA, MMS, PGDM, etc. The ATMA exam will be conducted multiple times in a year, i.e., in February, May, June, and July. The ATMA exam will be conducted in computer-based test mode. The duration of the ATMA is 180 minutes (3 hours). The exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) carrying one mark each.
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Questions related to MBA
Hello
Yes , you are eligible .
Completing a 2 years Agriculture Diploma course makes you eligible for an MBA in Agriculture Business Management , as many programs accept students with backgrounds in agriculture or related fields . You likely need to meet additional requirements like entrance exams like such as CAT , MAT or other . specific institution or universities may have their own eligibility criteria .
For more details check link given below :
https://www.careers360.com/courses/mba-in-agri-business-management
Thank you
Hello,
If you are currently in your final year and have not yet completed your bachelor’s degree, then selecting “appeared for bachelor’s” is the correct option. This option typically indicates that you have not yet graduated but are in the process of completing your degree.
The “bachelor degree” option would be appropriate only if you had already completed and been awarded your degree. Since you are still pursuing your final year, your initial selection of “appeared for bachelor’s” is accurate for your situation.
To get more information related to SNAP exam, visit : https://bschool.careers360.com/articles/snap-2024
Hope it helps !
Hello aspirant,
MBA 1st year subjects are as follows:
- Organizational Behaviour
- Quantitative Methods
- Managerial Economics
- Financial Accounting
- Marketing Management
- Human Resource Management
- Business Communication
- Information Technology Management
- Organization Effectiveness and Change
- Management Science
- Economic Environment of Business
- Financial Management
- Management Accounting
- Production and Operation Management
Thank you
Hope it helps you
The student cannot join the postgraduate MA program directly in the second year of the MA after completing the MBA.
Universities generally expect students to begin the first year of a masters' program even though they had qualifications at the level of a bachelor's degree. The university's curriculum along with the courses are planned to give an in-depth knowledge of the subjects.
But you could opt for:
Postgraduate Studies:
Research Career: In case research interests you, then you can pursue a Ph.D. in your specific interest.
Specialized Master's Programs: Find any specific master's course that supports the career goal.
Professional Certifications:
Make a professional certification in CFA, CA, or FRM to enhance the professional skills and better opportunities in the career field.
Job Entry via MBA
After gaining an MBA from a renowned institution, it's possible to get entry into the corporate world where the diversity in the career field is assured.
In the end, it would depend on what you would like and what you are particularly interested in. It will be better if you take a suggestion from your academic advisor or career counselor.
Top MBA/PGDM colleges in Hyderabad are as below:
Tier 1
Indian School of Business, Hyderabad: Global orientation and an intensive curriculum
Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE) Hyderabad: Specialized programs in public policy and management
Tier 1
Institute of Management Technology (IMT) Hyderabad: Interface with industry along with an applied approach to teaching management.
VJIM: Some academic rigors integrated by the right industry exposure
University of Hyderabad: A research-oriented, quality academic institution
Tier 2
Malla Reddy Engineering College: Offers a range of different management programs
Osmania University: Old but still a good university
Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad: Offers MBA through affiliated colleges
Key selection criteria for a college
Curriculum: Relevance and intensity of the curriculum
Faculty: Quality and experience of faculties
Infrastructure: Access to state-of-the-art facilities, such as libraries, labs, and classrooms
Placements: Record of the college in placements, with regard to the type of companies that recruit students from the college.
Fees: The program fee, including tuition and other expenses.
Location: The location of the college, considering its proximity to major industries and companies.
https://bschool.careers360.com/colleges/list-of-pgdm-colleges-in-hyderabad
https://bschool.careers360.com/colleges/list-of-mba-colleges-in-hyderabad
Explore Career Options (By Industry)
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Business Development Executive
A Business Development Executive (BDE) is a professional responsible for identifying growth opportunities and fostering strategic partnerships to enhance a company's market position. Typically, a BDE conducts market research, analyses industry trends, and identifies potential clients or business prospects. He or she plays a crucial role in developing and implementing sales strategies to achieve revenue targets.
A BDE often collaborates with cross-functional teams, including marketing and product development, to align business objectives. Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills are essential for success in this role. BDE strives to expand the company's customer base, drive sales, and contribute to overall organisational growth in a dynamic and competitive business environment.
Content Marketing Specialist
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Sales Manager
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The Sales Manager work also includes hiring and laying off sales personnel after evaluating his or her work performance. In bigger entities, sales quotas and plans are usually set at the executive level. He or she is responsible for overseeing the set target or quotas met by salespeople or upholding any policy. He or she guides his or her fellow salespeople and allows them to sell.
Business Analyst
Individuals who opt for a career as a business analyst look at how a company operates. He or she conducts research and analyses data to improve his or her knowledge about the company. This is required so that an individual can suggest the company strategies for improving their operations and processes.
In a business analyst job role a lot of analysis is done, things are learned from past mistakes and the successful strategies are enhanced further. A business analyst goes through real-world data in order to provide the most feasible solutions to an organisation. Students can pursue Business Analytics to become Business Analysts.
Marketing Manager
A marketing manager is a person who oversees a company or product marketing. He or she can be in charge of multiple programmes or goods or can be in charge of one product. He or she is enthusiastic, organised, and very diligent in meeting financial constraints. He or she works with other team members to produce advertising campaigns and decides if a new product or service is marketable.
A Marketing manager plans and executes marketing initiatives to create demand for goods and services and increase consumer awareness of them. A marketing manager prevents unauthorised statements and informs the public that the business is doing everything to investigate and fix the line of products. Students can pursue an MBA in Marketing Management courses to become marketing managers.
SEO Analyst
An SEO Analyst is a web professional who is proficient in the implementation of SEO strategies to target more keywords to improve the reach of the content on search engines. He or she provides support to acquire the goals and success of the client’s campaigns.
Digital Marketing Executive
Digital marketing is growing, diverse, and is covering a wide variety of career paths. Each job function aids in the development of effective digital marketing strategies and techniques. The aims and objectives of the individuals who opt for a career as a digital marketing executive are similar to those of a marketing professional: to build brand awareness, promote company services or products, and increase conversions. Individuals who opt for a career as Digital Marketing Executives, unlike traditional marketing companies, communicate effectively through suitable technology platforms.