NMAT 2020: What’s New and Different This Year

Becoming a part of a recognised B-school is the Indian dream, often made possible with numerous tests that help achieve that dream. NMAT 2020 (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test) is considered one such test that helps candidates in India get into reputed B-schools. This national-level MBA entrance test to NMIS Universities allows MBA aspirants to choose their test date, self-schedule the test and head to a test centre closest to them. With the COVID-19 pandemic, while the process for registration and scheduling remains the same, there have been significant changes to the dates, timelines and scorings. 

We have collated a list of everything that’s different about NMAT this year, as updated in the official NMAT website. Take a look: 

  • Short registration window

Unlike the previous year, this year’s NMAT registration has only a 60+ days window. Aspirants can complete their NMAT 2020 Application process between September 14 and November 30, 2020. However, completing the NMAT exam application process after the last date of November 20, 2020 will include a late fee for registration.

  • Longer testing window

While late registrations come with a fine, the testing window this year has increased from 75 days to 88 days. An applicant can now take the test and retake the exam 3 times (15-days gap each time) between November 4, 2020 and January 30, 2021. 

  • Introduction of 2 testing modes

Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) which conducts GMAT exam in the world, will conduct NMAT 2020 in two testing modes – Online computer-based test (CBT) at exam centres and an internet-based (IBT) proctored online test from home. Applicants can appear in either of the two exams. Applicants can choose from 52 testing centres located across 62 Indian cities and 4 international centres, all of which are following social distancing norms. However, it’s recommended that the applicant completes their application early as most of these test centres are allotted on a first-come-first-serve basis. 

  • Reduced number of questions

GMAC has revised the exam pattern, reducing the number of questions from 120 to 108 this year. The test-takers need to solve 108 MCQs in 120 minutes. There is a sectional time limit, with the exam divided into three sections – Language Skills, Quantitative Skills and Logical Reasoning. All these 3 sections have equal weightage, with no negative markings included.

  • Better scoring pattern
    Every year, the scoring range for each section has varied. However, this year, the NMAT scoring patterns are streamlined to ensure there’s equal weightage given to all sections. In addition to this update, applicants can now preview their scores instantly within 48 hours. 

With changes made keeping an aspirant’s convenience in mind, prepare and register early and walk away with a score that will open the doors to your dream B-school. Do remember to carefully monitor your form before submission as an incomplete form can be a setback and prevent you from taking the test on time. Now that several private B-schools in the country have started accepting applications for their flagship 2-year MBA programme, it’s recommended that you complete your NMAT much before the closing window.

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