Anisha has done MBA in Marketing from NMIMS And Executive Management(PMNO) from Harvard Business School. She has been instrumental in growing CATKing Digital with her experience with Marico and Henkel in the past.
The NMAT by GMAC is a popular MBA entrance exam that opens doors to top B-schools like NMIMS, XIMB, and K J Somaiya. Many aspirants think coaching is necessary, but the truth is: you can crack NMAT with self-study if you follow the right preparation strategy.
In this guide, we’ll cover the exam pattern, detailed study plan, section-wise tips, recommended books, time management strategies, and last-minute preparation techniques—all designed to help you succeed through self-preparation.
NMAT Exam Pattern at a Glance
Here’s the latest exam structure you should know before starting your preparation:
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Limit (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Language Skills | 36 | 28 |
| Quantitative Skills | 36 | 52 |
| Logical Reasoning | 36 | 40 |
| Total | 108 | 120 |
✅ Key Features:
- No negative marking – attempt every question
- Adaptive test – difficulty changes as per your performance
- Three attempts allowed in one exam window
Key Dates and Registration Details
Registration Start Date: 1st August. Early registration is crucial as it allows candidates to choose preferred exam dates and test centers. Registration can be completed online through the official NMAT website.
NMAT Registrations Start from 1st Aug, Know More-
| Feature | Dates |
|---|---|
| Exam Registration | 1 August – 10 October 2025 |
| Exam Scheduling | 1 August – 14 October 2025 |
| Retake Registration | 6 November – 16 December 2025 |
| Retake Scheduling | 6 November – 16 December 2025 |
| Exam Delivery Window | 5 November – 19 December 2025 |
| Result Announcement | Immediately after the exam |
NMAT Self-Study Plan (3 Months)
Here’s a sample 90-day study plan you can follow:
| Time Frame | Focus Area | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | Concept Building | Revise basics of arithmetic, algebra, grammar, and reasoning. Make formula & vocab notebook. |
| Month 2 | Practice | Solve topic-wise questions daily. Attempt mini-mocks for each section. |
| Month 3 | Mocks + Revision | Take 2–3 full-length mocks per week. Analyze mistakes and revise weak topics. Work on speed & accuracy. |
| Last 15 Days | Final Boost | Revise shortcuts, formulas, and grammar rules. Focus only on mocks and weak areas. |
👉 Even 2–3 hours daily of focused study is enough if you stay consistent.
Section-Wise NMAT Self-Study Strategy
🔹 Language Skills (36 Questions | 28 Minutes)
- Read newspapers, blogs, and editorials to improve comprehension.
- Revise grammar rules (tenses, prepositions, subject-verb agreement).
- Solve para jumbles, RC passages, synonyms-antonyms daily.
Quick Tips:
- Skim the RC passages, don’t read line by line.
- Learn 10 new words daily and revise regularly.
🔹 Quantitative Skills (36 Questions | 52 Minutes)
- Focus on arithmetic (percentages, ratios, averages, profit & loss, speed-time-distance).
- Revise formulas and keep a notebook handy.
- Practice DI sets (tables, bar graphs, line charts).
Quick Tips:
- Use mental math tricks to save time.
- Don’t waste time on lengthy questions; move ahead.
🔹 Logical Reasoning (36 Questions | 40 Minutes)
- Practice puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations, coding-decoding.
- Solve both analytical & critical reasoning questions.
- Work on decision-making and assumption-based questions.
Quick Tips:
- Start with easier sets to build momentum.
- Use elimination for tricky reasoning questions.
Importance of Mock Tests
Mocks help you simulate the real exam. Here’s how to use them effectively:
| What to Do | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Attempt 2–3 mocks weekly | Builds exam stamina |
| Analyze mistakes in detail | Identifies weak areas |
| Track time spent per question | Improves speed |
| Revise incorrect answers | Ensures you don’t repeat mistakes |
👉 Analysis is more important than the mock itself.
Time Management Tips for NMAT
- Attempt your strongest section first for confidence.
- Don’t spend more than 90 seconds on a question.
- Use the elimination method for tough MCQs.
- Try to complete all 108 questions since there’s no negative marking.
Last 15 Days Strategy for NMAT
- Revise formulas, shortcuts, and grammar rules daily.
- Focus on Reading Comprehension and Data Interpretation sets.
- Take at least 4–5 mocks to practice speed.
- Sleep well before exam day – a fresh mind performs better.
FAQs on NMAT Self-Study
Q1. Can NMAT be cleared without coaching?
Yes! With the right self-study plan, quality books, and regular mocks, you can easily crack NMAT without coaching.
Q2. How many months are enough for NMAT preparation?
On average, 3–4 months of focused self-study is sufficient for most aspirants.
Q3. How many hours should I study daily for NMAT?
If you’re consistent, 2–3 hours daily is enough to cover all sections effectively.
Q4. Is NMAT easier than CAT?
Yes, NMAT is generally considered easier than CAT, but speed and time management are crucial since NMAT has tight time limits.
Conclusion
Cracking NMAT with self-study is possible. With a clear study plan, the right resources, a section-wise strategy, regular mock practice, and proper time management, you can ace the exam without coaching.
Remember: Consistency > Intensity. Even short, regular study sessions are more effective than long but irregular ones.
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