If you’re planning to pursue a career in management in India, you’ll need to clear one of the various entrance exams for PGDM programs. PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management) is a two-year program that equips students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the fast-paced business world.
The most popular entrance exam for PGDM programs in India is the Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). This exam is held annually in November, and the registration usually opens in August. CAT scores are accepted by more than 100 management institutes across the country, including the IIMs, the Indian Institute of Technology (IITs), and several other top B-schools.
- Apart from CAT, there are several other entrance exams that you can consider, such as the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), Management Aptitude Test (MAT), NMAT by GMAC, SNAP, and CMAT.
- XAT is conducted by Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur, and is accepted by more than 150 B-schools across India.
- MAT is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is accepted by more than 600 B-schools in India.
- NMAT by GMAC is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council and is accepted by several leading B-schools in India and abroad.
- SNAP is conducted by Symbiosis International University and is accepted by 16 institutes under the Symbiosis umbrella.
- CMAT is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is accepted by more than 1000 B-schools across India.
- Common Admission Test (CAT)
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most popular entrance exams for management programs in India. It is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and is accepted by more than 100 management institutes across the country. The exam is conducted in online mode and consists of multiple-choice questions based on Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability.
- Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is conducted by Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur, and is accepted by more than 150 B-schools across India. The exam is conducted in online mode and consists of multiple-choice questions based on Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge.
- Management Aptitude Test (MAT)
The Management Aptitude Test (MAT) is conducted by the All India Management Association (AIMA) and is accepted by more than 600 B-schools across India. The exam is conducted in both online and offline modes and consists of multiple-choice questions based on Language Comprehension, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, and Indian and Global Environment.
- Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)
The Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is conducted by Symbiosis International University (SIU) and is accepted by more than 15 institutes under SIU. The exam is conducted in online mode and consists of multiple-choice questions based on General English, Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, Analytical & Logical Reasoning, and Current Affairs.
- Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)
The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is accepted by more than 1,000 AICTE-approved management institutes across India. The exam is conducted in online mode and consists of multiple-choice questions based on Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, and General Awareness.
Each of these entrance exams has its own unique format, syllabus, and eligibility criteria, so it’s essential to research each one carefully and choose the one that’s best suited to your strengths and preferences. While preparing for these exams, it’s important to focus on developing your reasoning and analytical skills, as well as your proficiency in quantitative and verbal reasoning. Most exams also include a section on general awareness, so staying updated on current events and business news is crucial.
In conclusion, clearing an entrance exam for PGDM programs is an essential step towards building a successful career in management in India. With the right preparation and a clear understanding of the exam’s format and syllabus, you can increase your chances of cracking the exam and securing a seat in a top B-school.
