NTA Releases CMAT Exam Centres 2026 – Check Available Cities Now
Organization / Board / Department: National Testing Agency (NTA)
Year / Session: 2026
Official Website / Portal: [https://cmat.nta.nic.in](https://cmat.nta.nic.in)
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is a gateway for admission to management programs in AICTE-approved institutions across India. If you are planning to appear for CMAT 2026, knowing the exam centres is crucial for your preparation and travel plans.
This article provides a complete list of CMAT 2026 exam centres, state-wise test cities, important dates, and key guidelines. It will help you choose your preferred exam city and understand the selection process.
Overview of the Notification / Result / Job:
As per official information, CMAT 2026 will be held in 131 cities across India. The National Testing Agency (NTA) releases the list of exam centres along with the official notification. Candidates can select up to four preferred cities during the application process.
The exam is scheduled for January 25, 2026, in two shifts:
- Shift 1: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Shift 2: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
The final allotment of the exam centre depends on availability and administrative decisions. Candidates are advised to check the official website for updates.
Important Dates & Timeline:
Here are the key dates for CMAT 2026 as per the official notification:
| CMAT Events | CMAT 2026 Dates |
|---|---|
| CMAT 2026 admit card release | 3-4 days before the exam |
| CMAT 2026 exam date | January 25, 2026 |
| Response sheet release | First week of February 2026 (Tentative) |
| CMAT 2026 result date | Last week of February 2026 (Tentative) |
Note: Dates are subject to change. Students are advised to check the official website for updates.
Eligibility Criteria:
Before applying for CMAT 2026, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian citizens and foreign nationals can apply. |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. |
| Final Year Students | Candidates appearing for the final year of their bachelor’s degree can also apply. |
| Age Limit | No age limit for appearing in CMAT. |
Note: Eligibility rules may change. Always refer to the official notification for the latest updates.
Application / Checking Process (Step-by-Step):
During the application process, you can choose your preferred exam cities. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to [https://cmat.nta.nic.in]
- Register: Click on “New Registration” and fill in your basic details.
- Fill Application Form: Log in with your credentials and complete the application form.
- Select Exam Centres: Choose up to four cities in order of preference.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature.
- Pay Application Fee: Complete the payment process.
- Submit Form: Review your details and submit the form.
- Download Confirmation Page: Save and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Note: The final allotment of the exam centre depends on availability. NTA does not guarantee your first choice.
Selection Process / Evaluation Method:
CMAT 2026 is a computer-based test (CBT) with the following pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation | 20 | 4 | 80 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 | 4 | 80 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 | 4 | 80 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 4 | 80 |
| Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Optional) | 20 | 4 | 80 |
- Total Questions: 100 (125 if optional section is attempted)
- Total Marks: 400 (500 if optional section is attempted)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Negative Marking: 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer
Documents Required:
Here is the list of documents you need for CMAT 2026:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Admit Card | Must be downloaded from the official website. |
| Photo ID Proof | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License. |
| Photograph | Same as uploaded in the application form. |
| PwD Certificate (if applicable) | For candidates with disabilities. |
Note: Carry original and photocopy of the ID proof. Electronic copies are not accepted.
Exam District Details:
| State / UT | Exam Districts |
|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Agra, Prayagraj, Bareilly, Gorakhpur, Kanpur, Lucknow, Meerut, Varanasi |
| Bihar | Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Patna, Begusarai |
| Uttarakhand | Haldwani, Roorkee, Dehradun |
| Rajasthan | Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Udaipur |
| Madhya Pradesh | Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Sagar |
| Delhi | Delhi / NCR |
| Haryana | Faridabad, Gurugram, Kurukshetra |
Important Rules & Guidelines:
Exam Centre Selection:
– You can choose up to four cities in order of preference.
– NTA will try to allot your first choice, but it is not guaranteed.
– No changes are allowed after the admit card is issued.
Reporting Time:
– Arrive at the exam centre at least 2 hours before the exam starts.
– Latecomers will not be allowed to enter the exam hall.
Prohibited Items:
– Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, or any electronic devices.
– Study material, notes, or any printed paper.
– Food items (except for diabetic candidates with prior permission).
Dress Code:
– Avoid wearing jewellery, caps, or clothes with large buttons.
– Wear simple and comfortable clothes.
COVID-19 Guidelines (if applicable):
– Follow social distancing norms.
– Wear a mask at all times inside the exam centre.
– Carry a personal hand sanitiser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Choosing Wrong Exam Centres:
– Do not select cities you are not familiar with. Choose cities where you can easily travel.
Ignoring Admit Card Instructions:
– Read the admit card carefully. It contains important details like reporting time and exam centre address.
Not Carrying Required Documents:
– Forgetting the admit card or ID proof will disqualify you from taking the exam.
Late Arrival:
– Reach the exam centre early to avoid last-minute stress.
Not Checking Official Updates:
– Always check the official website for any changes in exam dates or centres.
Who Should Apply / Check This?
This article is helpful for:
- MBA Aspirants: Students planning to pursue MBA or PGDM courses in AICTE-approved colleges.
- Final Year Students: Those appearing for their bachelor’s degree final exams.
- Working Professionals: Individuals looking to upgrade their career with an MBA.
- Parents & Guardians: Helping their children prepare for CMAT 2026.
FAQs:
How many exam cities can candidates select for CMAT?
Candidates are allowed to select up to four exam cities while filling out the CMAT application form. These cities must be chosen in order of preference.
Is it possible to change the CMAT exam centre after admit card release?
No. Once the CMAT admit card is issued, the exam centre cannot be changed under any circumstances.
What if my preferred CMAT exam city is not allotted?
If a preferred city is unavailable, NTA will automatically allot the nearest or next available exam centre based on your choices.
Does CMAT have negative marking?
Yes. One mark is deducted for every incorrect answer in the CMAT examination.
Are calculators or electronic gadgets allowed in the CMAT exam hall?
No. Calculators, mobile phones, smartwatches, or any electronic devices are strictly prohibited during the exam.
When is the CMAT admit card usually released?
The CMAT admit card is generally released 3 to 4 days before the exam date on the official NTA website.
What is the total duration of the CMAT exam?
The CMAT exam is conducted for a total duration of 3 hours (180 minutes).
Is it compulsory to attempt all sections in CMAT?
No. Attempting all sections is optional, and candidates may choose which sections to attempt.
Official Links & Verification:
For the latest updates, always refer to the official CMAT website:
- Official Website: [https://cmat.nta.nic.in]
- Notification PDF: [Download Here] (Link may change; check the official website)
- Helpline Number: 011-40759000 (NTA Helpdesk)
- Visit [https://cmat.nta.nic.in]
- Click on “Candidate Activity” for updates on admit cards, results, and exam centres.
- Use the “Public Notice” section for official announcements.
- For queries, use the “Contact Us” section.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and updated information, details may change. Always refer to the official CMAT website for the latest updates.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) holds the right to modify exam dates, centres, or guidelines. Students are advised to verify all information before making any decisions.
This article provides a clear, student-friendly, and accurate guide to CMAT 2026 exam centres. Bookmark this page for future reference and share it with fellow aspirants!
