Martha Divakar · September 16, 2025 
Introduction
Dreaming of an MBA but anxious about the intense competition of exams like CAT or XAT? The Management Aptitude Test (MAT), conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA), offers a practical alternative. Recognized by over 600 B-schools across India, MAT is conducted four times a year in multiple modes, making it one of the most flexible national-level entrance tests.
But here’s the truth: not every “top” MAT college guarantees the kind of placements and ROI you expect. That’s why this blog gives you a reality-checked, data-backed guide to MBA colleges through MAT in 2025, cutting through the hype and focusing on facts.
Understanding MAT 2025: More Than Just an Exam
Before evaluating colleges, let’s quickly understand why MAT is unique:
- Frequency: Conducted four times a year – February, May, September, and December.
- Modes: Paper-Based Test (PBT), Computer-Based Test (CBT), and Remote Proctored Internet-Based Test (IBT).
- Scoring: Composite score out of 800 + percentile ranking. Most colleges shortlist using composite scores.
- Acceptance: Recognized by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and widely accepted by Tier-2 and Tier-3 institutes.
MAT assesses skills across Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, and Indian & Global Environment—all core competencies for management studies.
Why Choose MAT in 2025? The Strategic Edge
MAT isn’t just a backup exam; it offers real advantages:
- Wider Accessibility: Easier difficulty level compared to CAT/XAT, with fair competition.
- Multiple Attempts: Four opportunities in a year to improve scores.
- Diverse College Options: From legacy institutions to fast-rising B-schools across India.
- Focused Syllabus: Covers aptitude essentials, making preparation manageable.
- Gateway to Specializations: Many MAT colleges excel in niche fields like HR, Analytics, Retail, and Finance.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting MAT Scores in 2025
- Christ (Deemed to be University), Bangalore
- Fees:-₹1,040,000(Karnataka domicile)
- Fees:-₹1,060,000(Other Indian States )
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹9.5 LPA | Highest ₹19.5 LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 600+ composite (~85 percentile)
- Verdict: Top choice with brand value, but highly competitive.
- For more details, [Click here
2. KJ Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai
- Fees: ₹2,232,300(Total)
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹12.3 LPA | Highest ₹30+ LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 90+ percentile (limited acceptance for MAT)
- Verdict: One of the best in the MAT pool, but very tough to crack.
- For more details, [Click here]
3. IFIM Business School (JAGSOM), Bangalore
- Fees: ₹16 Lakhs
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹10.5 LPA | Highest ₹20+ LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 600+ composite
- Verdict: Tech-driven curriculum with strong analytics & consulting exposure.
- For more details, [Click here]
4. Jaipuria Institute of Management (Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur, Indore)
- Fees: ₹15,75,000(Total)
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹8–9 LPA | Highest ₹20+ LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 500+ composite (~75 percentile)
- Verdict: Strong regional presence, especially in Noida and Lucknow.
- For more details, [Click here]
5. Pune Institute of Business Management (PIBM), Pune
- Fees: ₹875,000
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹8.8 LPA | Highest ₹21 LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 500+ composite (~75 percentile)
- Verdict: Growing institute with solid Pune industry connections.
- For more details, [Click here]
6. VIT Business School, Vellore
- Fees: ₹7 Lakhs
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹7.5 LPA | Highest ₹16 LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 500+ composite (~75 percentile)
- Verdict: Affordable and backed by VIT’s strong brand name.
- For more details, [Click here]
7. Amity Business School, Noida
- Fees:(One Semester)
- Non Sponsored-Fee 3.95 Lacs
- Sponsored-Fee 5.925 Lacs
- Placements 2023: Avg. ₹7.2 LPA | Highest ₹30+ LPA
- Cutoff (Expected): 500+ composite (~75 percentile)
- Verdict: Wide network and infrastructure, placements are more volume-driven.
- For more details, [Click here]
Quick Comparison Table (2025)
| College | Fees (₹ Lakhs) Approx |
Avg. Placement | Highest Placement | ROI Verdict |
| Christ University, Bangalore | 9.5 | 9.5 LPA | 19.5 LPA | Excellent ROI |
| KJ Somaiya, Mumbai | 18 | 12.3 LPA | 30+ LPA | Strong, but tough entry |
| BIMTECH, Greater Noida | 14.5 | 9.8 LPA | 24.5 LPA | Balanced ROI |
| IFIM (JAGSOM), Bangalore | 15 | 10.5 LPA | 20+ LPA | Good for tech/consulting |
| Jaipuria, Lucknow/Noida | 10–12 | 8–9 LPA | 20 LPA | High ROI, regional strength |
| PIBM, Pune | 12 | 8.8 LPA | 21 LPA | Good ROI |
| VIT Business School, Vellore | 7.5 | 7.5 LPA | 16 LPA | Best value for money |
| Amity, Noida | 15–17 | 7.2 LPA | 30+ LPA | Wide reach, average ROI |
The MAT Admission Process 2025
- Register for MAT on the AIMA website for your preferred test date and mode.
- Take MAT and secure your best score.
- Research & Shortlist Colleges – check official websites for criteria, placements, fees, and deadlines.
- Apply separately to the shortlisted institutes.
- Participate in Selection Rounds (GD/PI/WAT).
- Receive Admission Offers based on score + profile.
- Confirm Enrollment by paying acceptance fees.
How Career Plan B Can Help You
At Career Plan B, our goal is to empower MBA aspirants to make informed, confident choices. Here’s how we help:
- Personalized Career Counselling: Understand your strengths and align them with the right MBA program.
- Psycheintel & Career Assessment Tests: Identify your personality fit and career direction.
- Admission & Academic Profile Guidance: From application strategy to interviews, we guide you step by step.
- Career Roadmapping: Beyond admissions, we help you plan your long-term growth in management careers.
With our mentoring, you can choose the right MAT college with the best ROI, ensuring that your MBA investment pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which are some of the best colleges accepting MAT scores for MBA/PGDM programs?
Ans. Some of the best MBA/PGDM colleges accepting MAT scores include Christ University Bangalore, KJ Somaiya Mumbai, BIMTECH Greater Noida, IFIM (JAGSOM) Bangalore, and Jaipuria Institute of Management, known for strong ROI and industry exposure.
Q2. What is the Mat exam?
Ans. The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by AIMA to assess candidates’ aptitude in language, reasoning, data analysis, and quantitative skills for admission into MBA/PGDM programs across 600+ B-schools in India.
Q3. What is the easiest way to crack the MAT exam?
Ans. The easiest way to crack MAT is by focusing on the basics of Quant, Data Interpretation, and Reasoning, practicing previous year papers, and taking multiple mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Q4. How much time does it take to prepare for the MAT exam?
Ans. On average, 2–3 months of focused preparation with daily practice of Quant, Reasoning, and mock tests is sufficient to score well in the MAT exam.
Q5. Is it possible to crack the MAT exam without coaching?
Ans. Yes, it is possible to crack MAT without coaching by self-studying with standard books, online resources, and regular mock tests, provided you stay disciplined and consistent.
Conclusion
Securing admission to top MBA colleges through MAT in 2025 requires much more than just a high score. Pay close attention to placements, faculty, specialization, campus location, and real outcome data before making a decision. Use only verified sources and consult experts for career planning. For holistic guidance and up-to-date admission support, choose Career Plan B—your partner in strategic MBA planning.
