Planning to pursue an MBA in 2026? Then knowing the MBA Entrance Exam Calendar 2026 is the first and most important step. Whether you’re targeting top IIMs, JBIMS, FMS, SPJIMR, or top private B-schools, this complete guide covers all important MBA entrance exams, tentative dates, and a preparation strategy to help you crack them.

If you’re preparing seriously, bookmark this page for regular updates.

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📌 Why You Must Track the MBA Exam Calendar 2026

• Avoid missing application deadlines
• Plan mock tests strategically
• Apply to multiple exams confidently
• Manage college applications smoothly

Many students miss top colleges not because of low scores—but because they miss deadlines.

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📅 MBA Entrance Exam Calendar 2026 (Tentative Schedule)

Below is the expected timeline based on previous years’ trends:

Exam Name	Exam Date (Tentative)	Registration Period	Conducting Body
CAT 2026	November 29, 2026	Aug – Sept 2026	IIMs
XAT 2026	January 4, 2026	July – Dec 2025	XLRI
CMAT 2026	January 25 2026	Nov – Dec 2025	NTA
MAH MBA CET 2026	8 & 9 April & 9m May 2026	Feb 25 2026	CET Cell Maharashtra
SNAP 2026	December 2026	Aug – Nov 2026	SIU
NMAT 2026	Oct – Dec 2026	Aug – Oct 2025	GMAC
MAT 2026	Multiple sessions	Ongoing	AIMA
IBSAT 2026	December 2026	July – Dec 2026	IBS

⚠️ Note: Dates are tentative and based on previous year trends. Official notifications are usually released 3–4 months before the exam.

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🏆 Top Colleges Accepting These Exams

• Indian Institutes of Management – CAT
• XLRI – Xavier School of Management – XAT
• JBIMS – MAH MBA CET
• SPJIMR – CAT/XAT
• FMS Delhi – CAT
• NMIMS – NMAT
• Symbiosis International University – SNAP

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📖 MBA 2026 Preparation Plan (Month-by-Month Strategy)

🔹 Phase 1: Foundation Building (March – June 2026)

• Complete basic concepts of QA, LRDI, and VARC
• Focus on arithmetic & algebra
• Read editorials daily for RC improvement
• Start sectional practice

🔹 Phase 2: Intensive Practice (July – September 2026)

• Start full-length mocks (1 per week)
• Analyze each mock deeply
• Improve speed & accuracy
• Start exam-specific strategy (CAT vs CET vs XAT)

🔹 Phase 3: Advanced Strategy (October – November 2026)

• 2–3 mocks per week
• Focus on weak areas
• Revise formulas & shortcuts
• Practice previous year papers

🔹 Phase 4: OMET Season (Dec 2026 – March 2027)

• SNAP/NMAT/XAT focus
• CET logical reasoning practice
• Time management drills
• GD-PI preparation alongside

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🎯 Which Exam Should You Target?

If You Want	Target Exams
IIMs	CAT
JBIMS	MAH MBA CET
XLRI	XAT
NMIMS	NMAT
Symbiosis	SNAP
Multiple Tier-2 Colleges	CMAT / MAT

Smart strategy: Prepare for CAT + 2–3 OMETs to maximize chances.

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🧠 Expert Tips to Crack MBA Entrance Exams 2026

✔ Start preparation at least 12–15 months before CAT
✔ Take 40+ full-length mocks
✔ Focus on accuracy first, then speed
✔ Keep backup options (CMAT/CET/MAT)
✔ Prepare for GD-PI from September onwards

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When should I start preparing for MBA 2026?

Ideally by March–April 2025.

2. Can I prepare for CAT and CET together?

Yes. Quant basics are common. CET needs extra focus on Logical Reasoning.

3. How many MBA entrance exams should I attempt?

At least 3–4 exams to maximize admission chances.

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📌 Final Words

The MBA Entrance Exam Calendar 2026 is your roadmap to a top B-school. Planning early gives you a competitive advantage. Choose your target exams wisely, follow a structured preparation plan, and stay consistent.

If you need structured mentorship, mock analysis, and strategy guidance, connect with ASK MBA for expert-led preparation programs.