MAT, the Management Aptitude Test, is run by the All India Management Association (AIMA) for admission to MBA and PGDM programmes across India. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a working professional, a clear coaching plan can make your preparation far more efficient. Here is an honest guide.
MAT at a glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Conducting body | All India Management Association (AIMA) |
| Level | National |
| Sessions | Four a year — February, May, September, December |
| Modes | Paper-based, computer-based and internet-based |
| Duration | About two and a half hours |
| Sections | Language Comprehension, Data Analysis and Sufficiency, Mathematical Skills, Intelligence and Critical Reasoning, and Indian and Global Environment |
| Score | A composite score out of 800 |
MAT registration fees and session dates are set by AIMA and revised each cycle. Check the current figures and the September 2026 schedule on mat.aima.in before you register.
Do you need coaching?
Self-study can work if you are disciplined and already strong in quant and English. Coaching helps when you want a set structure, expert doubt-clearing, and regular mocks that show you exactly where you stand. Think about your own habits and the time you have before you decide.
What good coaching gives you
- A clear study plan that covers the whole syllabus in order, so nothing is left to the last week.
- Experienced teachers who show you shortcuts and the traps to avoid.
- Regular mocks that copy the real exam, plus analysis of your weak sections.
- Time-management practice so you finish each section calmly.
Looking for structured MAT coaching?
Learn Crew runs online-only live MAT classes four evenings a week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Batches run four months, every class is recorded, and you can join from anywhere in India. Fees are ₹14,000 live and ₹5,000 recorded.
A simple preparation routine
- Fix a daily study slot and hold it for the whole batch.
- Read a newspaper each day to build your language and general awareness.
- Spend real time on your basic maths, since speed there lifts your whole score.
- Start with your strongest section, then give more time to the harder ones.
- Attempt at least twenty full mocks and review every one.
Reading concepts is not enough. You improve by attempting mocks, checking your mistakes, and fixing them before the next test. Consistent, reviewed practice is the single biggest lever on your MAT score.
Online or offline?
Both can work. Online live classes save travel time, let you rewatch recordings, and let you learn from anywhere. If you focus better in a fixed classroom and prefer to be in a room with others, offline may suit you. Pick the format that matches your schedule and how you learn.
The bottom line
Choose a clear plan, practise with real mocks, and keep your routine steady. Our students have reached 771 out of 800, and 9 in 10 cross 600. You can buy MAT mocks and e-books on elearning.learncrew.org or our Books and Mocks hub, see our full MAT coaching, and check the results page.
MAT books, e-books and mock tests
The MAT book set covers Logical, English, Mathematics and Data Interpretation, printed A4 and couriered across India. The e-book and the scored mock series are on the same store, so you can pick print, digital, or both.