The MAT exam is conducted into three different modes, but students often ponder over which mode to choose and which MAT test mode would be easier- PBT, CBT, or IBT? All the modes have the same syllabus and exam pattern to go through.
The MAT Exam is conducted in three different modes- PBT (Paper-Based Test), CBT (Computer-Based Test), and IBT (Internet-Based Test). Candidates willing to sit for the MAT exam 2025 can opt for any or all of the test modes. The registration date and exam date are different for all of them.
However, candidates often ponder over which of the MAT test modes is easier- PBT, CBT, or IBT? One must note that the exam pattern and syllabus for all the test modes are the same and students need not cover different chapters for it. The details of the MAT test modes and their difficulty level are shared below. To understand the difficulty level of each of the modes, the candidates must be aware of What are PBT, CBT, and IBT Modes in the MAT Exam?
MAT PBT Mode (Paper-Based Test)
The MAT PBT is a paper-based test. Here, the candidates are supposed to attempt the examination in offline mode with pen and paper. The MAT test centre for this must be chosen by the candidates while filling out the application form. The test centres are determined by the All India Management Association (AIMA). There are around 50+ test centres allotted for the MAT PBT Exam.
The MAT exam pattern and syllabus are the same as the other modes, i.e., CBT and IBT.
MAT CBT Mode (Computer-Based Test)
The MAT CBT is a computer-based test. Here, the candidates are supposed to attempt the examination in offline-online mode. That is, the candidates must appear at the allotted test centre and give the exam in online mode through the computer. The MAT test centre for this must be again chosen by the candidates while filling out the application form. Same as MAT PBT, there are around 50+ test centres for the MAT CBT exam.
The MAT CBT exam pattern and syllabus are the same as the other modes, i.e., PBT and IBT.
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MAT IBT Mode (Internet-Based Test)
The MAT IBT is an internet-based test. Here, the candidates are supposed to attempt the examination in the comfort of their residence or any preferred location as per their choice. The exam will be held in online mode to be connected through a link provided for the same. The candidates will not be required to appear at any exam location, nor will the candidate be required to worry about printing out their admit cards or other relevant documents.
The MAT IBT exam pattern and syllabus remain the same as the other modes- i.e., PBT and CBT.
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Which MAT Test Mode is the Easier?
Since the MAT exam syllabus and exam pattern are the same for all the modes, there is no huge difference between the test modes. However, the MAT IBT mode is the most highly preferred test mode by candidates as they are free to attempt the examination in the comfort of their homes, offices, or any other place. The candidates will only be required to log in through the given link at the scheduled time.
The candidates will not be required to physically appear at any exam hall, or provide hard copies of their admit card or any other relevant document. Thus, the candidates mostly choose MAT IBT as their preferred test mode. Candidates looking forward to applying for the MAT Exam are advised to pick the MAT test modes as per their comfort and accommodation.
NOTE: The MAT IBT mode has been eliminated for the MAT December session 2025.
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MAT Exam Preparation Tips
There are various tips and tricks that the candidates can opt for to prepare well for the examination. Some of the best MAT topper preparation tips for the MAT exam are shared below:
- Start Early- No matter which test mode the candidate chooses, the preparation for this must begin with a good time in hand. The preferred duration to start the MAT Exam preparation is 4-5 months before the scheduled exam month. The candidates get enough time to complete and revise the syllabus at least three times before the exam.
- Refer to the Previous Year Papers- The MAT previous year question papers are of great help. They will help the candidates understand the paper pattern well. The candidates can also judge the difficulty level of each section. Students attempting the exam are advised to go through at least 10-12 years of previous papers.
- Get Feedback- Only completing the syllabus and previous papers isn't enough. The candidates need to reflect on their preparation. Thus, attempt MAT mock tests and online test series which are designed as per the actual exam to test the candidates' preparation.
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