MBA entrance exams beyond CAT 2025: Check MAT, CMAT, SNAP, XAT registration deadlines and schedule here

The CAT 2025 exam is just around the corner, scheduled for November 30, and MBA aspirants across the country are in the final stretch of preparation. But here’s a tip for students: CAT isn’t your only ticket to a good B-school.

If you’re looking to keep your options open or simply want a second shot at your dream MBA college, there are several other major entrance exams worth registering for — including MAT, CMAT, SNAP, and XAT. Each of these has its own schedule, eligibility rules, and list of participating institutes. Let’s take a quick look at what they’re about and when you need to apply.
Management Aptitude Test (MAT)MAT is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is one of the most popular MBA entrance exams after CAT. Over 600 B-schools across India accept MAT scores.

The AIMA MAT December 2025 session offers both Paper Based Test (PBT) and Computer Based Test (CBT) modes, giving candidates the flexibility to choose their preferred format. Here’s the complete schedule:


Application link: mat.aima.in

If you’re still preparing for CAT, MAT is a great second option — the December session gives you a chance to take the test right after CAT (scheduled for November 30), keeping your MBA admission timeline on track.
Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)CMAT is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is accepted by AICTE-approved institutions and university departments across India.

It’s a great backup if you’re looking beyond the IIMs but still want to get into reputed MBA or PGDM programmes. The paper is known to be moderately challenging and tests your general aptitude, reasoning, and language skills.

Registration deadline: For the CMAT 2026 exam, the last date to apply is November 17, 2025 at cmat.nta.nic.in.

Exam date (tentative): Expected to be held in early January 2026.

Since CMAT happens once a year, make sure you don’t miss the registration deadline. It’s especially useful for students targeting Tier-1 and Tier-2 management institutes.
Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)Conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University), SNAP is the gateway to MBA and PGDM courses at Symbiosis institutes across India — including SIBM Pune, SCMHRD, and SIIB.

SNAP is a shorter, speed-based test and can be attempted up to three times, with the best score considered for admission.

Registration deadline: The last date to register is November 20, 2025 at snaptest.org.

Exam dates: SNAP 2025 will be held in multiple slots — on November 28, December 8, and December 15.

Since SNAP takes place after CAT, it’s a solid option for students who want another chance to improve their performance or target a specific set of institutes.
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)XAT is organised by XLRI Jamshedpur, one of India’s top B-schools, and its score is accepted by more than 150 management institutes, including several prestigious ones like SPJIMR and XIMB.

XAT has a reputation for being slightly tougher than CAT as it includes a Decision-Making section and General Knowledge questions. However, it’s also one of the most respected MBA entrance exams in India.

Registration deadline: Applications for XAT 2026 close on December 5, 2025 at xatonline.in.

Exam date: The test will be conducted on January 4, 2026.

Since XAT comes right after the CAT and SNAP window, it’s a great follow-up exam for students who want another shot at a top-tier B-school.
TakeawayWhile CAT 2025 remains the most sought-after exam for MBA aspirants, MAT, CMAT, SNAP, and XAT open equally strong doors for management education. Each exam has a unique mix of colleges, testing patterns, and timelines — and smart students often attempt two or more to maximise their chances.

So as you polish your CAT prep this month, take a few minutes to check the registration deadlines for these alternate exams too. Your future B-school journey might just start from one of them.