MBA Entrance Exams: CAT, SNAP, and CMAT Schedules for 2026-27

Preparations for the 2026-27 MBA admission cycle in India are underway, with several national-level entrance exams approaching. The Common Admission Test (CAT), which is managed by IIM Indore for the 2026 cycle, is a primary gateway for admission to 22 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools. The CAT application window is open from August 3 to September 15, 2026, with the exam scheduled for November 26, 2026.

Other significant examinations include the Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP), conducted by Symbiosis International University for its 17 institutes, with exam dates set for December 13, 19, and 26, 2026. The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT), recognized by AICTE, is expected to open registrations in October 2026.

Educational guidance for these exams emphasizes that success in the CAT requires aptitude development and logical judgment rather than rote learning. Experts suggest that candidates should focus on understanding underlying concepts and problem-solving quality rather than the sheer volume of practice questions to better handle unfamiliar exam formats.